Media Release: Town Adopts New Official Plan

The Town of Smiths Falls has adopted its new Official Plan, a long-term policy document that will guide the growth and development of the community over the coming decades. The new Official Plan reflects extensive public consultation and planning work undertaken over the past two years. It provides a comprehensive vision for managing growth and is focused around the key themes of supporting housing development, supporting downtown revitalization, transportation and connectivity and enhancing community spaces.

"The adoption of this Official Plan is a significant milestone for our community," said Mayor Shawn Pankow. "Smiths Falls has experienced considerable growth in recent years, and this Plan provides a roadmap for how we can continue to welcome new residents and businesses while preserving the character, livability, and strengths that make our community unique. It ensures we are planning responsibly for the future."

The Official Plan establishes policies that will guide future development decisions and help ensure new growth is coordinated with municipal infrastructure and community needs. The Plan was informed by a Land Needs Study that forecast population and job growth over the next 30 years, and the Plan outlines where we expect this development to occur. All development applications and capital projects within the Town must conform to the policies of the Official Plan.

"This document represents a community-driven vision for Smiths Falls," said Karl Grenke, Manager of Development Services. "We know we are going to grow over the next 30 years, and the Plan helps guide what the growth is going to look like and how we want to keep Smiths Falls a great place that works for existing residents, new residents, visitors and businesses. The policies contained within the Official Plan provide clear direction for growth and investment while maintaining flexibility to respond to future opportunities and challenges. It will serve as an important tool for Council, staff, residents, and developers as we plan for the future of our community."

Additional information, including the adopted Official Plan, is available on the Town's website.

-30-

Media Contact
Joanne Plontz
Communications and Marketing Coordinator
77 Beckwith Street N, Box 695
Smiths Falls, ON K7A 2B8
613-283-4124 ext. 1122
Communications@smithsfalls.ca