Public hearings in the City of Courtenay are going virtual because of COVID-19.
The city is giving you several options to have your say on proposed bylaws, for topics such as zoning changes and amendments to the Official Community Plan.
You can choose to use a Zoom webinar or phone conferencing and watching the live-streamed public hearing via the City of Courtenay’s YouTube channel.
Written comments may be submitted by email to [email protected] or mailed to Development Services, 830 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay B.C. V9N 2J7.
Written submissions must be received by 2:00pm on the day of the public hearing to be considered.
“Public hearings are an important part of the democratic process for local governments,” Courtenay Mayor Bob Wells said.
“They’re an opportunity for those who would be affected by a proposed change to share their views with the council so we can make well-rounded decisions with the best possible information. We’ve adapted our usual process to offer these virtually so we can keep the public hearing process inclusive and accessible while keeping participants and our staff safe during the pandemic.”
The first virtual public hearings are happening Dec. 14th and 16th at 5:00pm for a number of proposed bylaws.
Click here for more information, including webinar and phone conferencing details.
The city says anyone who believes they are affected by a proposed bylaw must have a reasonable opportunity to be heard.
Upcoming virtual public hearings are posted in advance in different ways, including on the City of Courtenay website, social media, and through notices mailed to surrounding property owners and occupants.
The typical in-person public hearing process at City Hall was suspended in the spring because of the virus.
For more information click here.
