We are actively engaged in the Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI), a federally funded program aimed at fostering economic development initiatives. This three-year grant program brings together the City and First Nation partners to collaborate on various economic projects. We meet monthly to discuss progress, strategies, and opportunities. Additionally, we participate in workshops twice a year to enhance our knowledge and strengthen relationships.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we extended temporary licenses for patios on City streets to support local businesses. As the need for outdoor dining options persists, we have granted further extensions. However, we have received requests from a few establishments in the City interested in making these patios permanent fixtures. Our staff is diligently working on developing a process to facilitate the transition of these patios from temporary to permanent status.
We are excited to announce the upcoming Child Care Centre project in the vicinity of the Rollin Art Centre. This initiative involves the construction of a state-of-the-art daycare facility, accommodating up to 88 children. To bring this project to fruition, we have secured $4.1 million in grant funding. We are in the process of a lease with a non-profit society to manage and operate the daycare, ensuring high-quality childcare services for our community.
We are pleased to announce that the Development Procedures Bylaw has been officially adopted. This marks a significant milestone in our commitment to streamlining development processes, promoting transparency, and enhancing the overall efficiency of land use within the City.
We are currently working on our new Official Community Plan. This comprehensive plan sets out our community's vision for future growth, development, and land use. It serves as a guiding framework for decision-making and ensures that the City evolves in a sustainable, organized, and cohesive manner, reflecting the needs and aspirations of our residents. We are being supported in this process by Frank Planning and are due to move into the policy engagement phase of the process in early 2024.
We're undertaking an environmental remediation project on the Somass Lands. To support this critical task of clearing a contaminated area, we have received $1 million in grant funding. This significant financial aid is a major step in the clean-up and restoration of these lands, contributing to environmental health and community well-being.
December 12, 2023. The City of Port Alberni is thrilled to announce that Matthews West Developments Ltd. has been selected as the development partner for the redevelopment of the Somass Lands. This significant milestone marks the next step in the transformation of the 43-acre waterfront property. Click here to view the full news release.
