A commentary by a former public servant who lives in James Bay.

Someone I know recently described Victoria’s Official Community Plan (OCP) as “landing with a thud.” An apt description for a plan that is deeply flawed and will impart lasting damage.

This plan is the most important document of this administration’s tenure. It will shape Victoria’s future for generations to come. However, this plan promises lasting negative consequences for residents, renters and homeowners alike.

Once passed, the public has no say. Simply put, this plan is bad news.

After just six months of “public engagement,” the city claims the plan reflects “what we heard.” Past OCPs had two years of public consultation and each neighbourhood had its own local area plan (LAP). Now, James Bay, whose LAP is from the 1990s, had a mere two-hour workshop to identify residents’ priorities.

The new plan lumps all neighbourhoods together in a “One City, One Plan” approach, disregarding much of the feedback provided. Many residents who attended open houses and workshops report that the final proposal bears little resemblance to, and in some cases directly contradicts, their input.

The OCP’s proposed upzoning claims to reflect the results of........

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