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2011 Planning and Development Highlights
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The City’s decrease in Development Cost Charge (DCC) rates for industrial developments was recognized by the
Vancouver Chapter of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties (NAIOP). NAIOP acknowledged the City
with an award for excelling in creating an environment that is positive to business creation.
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As a result of lowering DCC rates for industrial developments, cost reductions for the Development Cost Survey,
distributed to 20 municipalities within Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley decreased by six per cent from previous
survey results in 2009.
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Established Industrial Revitalization Tax Exemption program in which new industrial buildings with a value of construction
in excess of $1 million (or an alteration/addition of an existing industrial building with the same value), can qualify to
save on industrial property taxes for five years with this new industrial incentive. The Program is intended to stimulate
local economy by encouraging industrial capital investment, expanding industrial tax base, creating new permanent
employment opportunities and reducing need for residents to work outside Chilliwack.
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The Agricultural Area Plan project progressed with an extensive stakeholder consultation program and the development
of a draft plan highlighting major issues affecting the future of agriculture in Chilliwack. The Plan outlines goals, policies
and actions to ensure a sustainable agriculture sector over the next 20 years.
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Provincial funding for the Health Contact Centre and a supportive housing project was announced. The funding
establishes a five year coordinated community effort for a one stop access to a range of health and social services, with
on-site supported housing. Key project partners include BC Housing, the Pacific Community Resource Society, Fraser
Health, the City of Chilliwack, plus the many community partners that have worked to establish the original vision. The
Centre is expected to be operating by the end of 2012.
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The City’s zoning bylaw was amended to require 50% of all new apartments to be built to the BC Building Code’s
Adaptable Housing Standards. The amendment supports ‘aging in place’ for seniors who are able to live independently.
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The Downtown Revitalization Task Force completed their examination of factors that affect the viability of a vibrant
downtown core area. They provided a recommended strategy and actions that could accelerate the revitalization and
redevelopment of downtown, in a manner consistent with the Downtown Land Use Plan.
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Work on the Eastern Hillsides Comprehensive Area Plan continued through 2011. The City’s goal is to establish a
sustainable vision for the area. The resulting plan will balance community values with respect to hillside development
and market realities and a development scale that is supported by a servicing strategy and a clear cost recovery model.
Planning & Development
2011 City of Chilliwack Annual Report
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