LAURIE WEIR
Smiths Falls council has approved the settlement area boundary expansion framework and the preliminary land use planning strategy for four key opportunity areas, marking a significant step in the development of the town’s new Official Plan.
Karl Grenke, the town’s manager of development services, brought two reports to council on March 17 for support and direction.
At a meeting held March 17, council voted to move forward with the proposed expansion and planning framework, as recommended. This decision aligns with the town’s growth strategy and responds to provincial interests, with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing actively engaged in the process to ensure timely approval when necessary.
The approved frameworks will guide land use decisions in key areas identified for future development. These decisions are also closely tied to the objectives outlined in the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, which emphasizes sustainable growth and community development.
The next step will involve sharing the staff reports and technical brief with ministry representatives for further feedback, continuing the collaborative approach with the province. The project is set to play a crucial role in shaping the town’s future development while maintaining alignment with both local and provincial goals.
Official Plan goals
Council also supported Grenke’s report for the vision and strategic directions for the new Official Plan.
The endorsement sets the stage for the development of the new Official Plan, which will replace the 2014 version and guide the town’s growth over the next 25 years. The new plan is designed to accommodate 1,400 new residential units and employment lands, as outlined in the 2023 Land Needs Study.
The plan will focus on five key themes: downtown revitalization, housing, sustainability, transportation, and community spaces. These strategic directions are the result of extensive public consultation and collaboration with staff and consultants.
The draft vision for Smiths Falls, to be included in the Official Plan, envisions the town as a dynamic, inclusive, and thriving community with diverse housing, strong social supports, and vibrant neighborhoods. The vision also emphasizes sustainability and well-connectedness, with an attractive downtown and improved mobility options for all residents.
The plan will be refined in the coming months, with a draft set for public feedback in May 2025.
