Town Initiatives/Plans

PDF Version of the 2022-2026 Strategic Plan
Our Vision

Five to ten years from now Princeton is celebrating its rich history, community spirit, and outdoor recreation opportunities. New development has inspired and energized the community, creating a unique and memorable experience for residents and visitors alike. This includes promoting and supporting sustainable development and further enhancing Princeton’s strong regard for heritage and its community, including the individual identity of each neighbourhood in Princeton. Natural resource opportunities contribute to a flourishing economy.

 

The Town Centre is vibrant and attractive. Community activities and businesses are focused in the heart of the Town Centre. People can explore various shops and boutiques and dine at a fine restaurant. New development provides a variety of housing choices.

The Town has experienced new growth and energy, yet still retains its appeal and character as a small town.

 

The Town is thriving as a service centre for the region, providing commercial and industrial business opportunities, recreation and tourism amenities, and stable health care services. These facilities support Princeton as a central meeting place for visitors and advance the economy. Princeton is recognized as a destination for cultural, artistic, and recreational pursuits and is a community of choice to live and visit within the BC Interior.

 

Our Mission

Fostering a Healthy Community.

 Council Strategic Priorities


Corporate

Town Council is dedicated to better governance and better municipal operations



Infrastructure

Town Council is dedicated to improving local infrastructure and ensuring that future generations inherit a functioning community


Parks, Recreation & Community

Town Council understands the need for community recreation and well-developed parks. Council understands and is dedicated to creating community through our public spaces


Economic Development

Town Council is dedicated to the revitalization of the downtown, the growth of tourism, and diversification of the local economy.


Housing

Town Council is dedicated to working on solutions to the housing shortage in the community.





Strategic Priority

Corporate

Town Council has identified the following as key corporate priorities:

 

  • New Zoning Bylaw Post Official Community Plan: We are in the process of creating a new zoning bylaw that aligns with our recently updated Official Community Plan. This bylaw will address the changing needs of our community while preserving our unique heritage and culture.
  • Innovative Funding for Recreation, Arts, Culture, and Heritage: To support and promote our vibrant cultural scene, we are exploring new and innovative ways to increase funding for recreation, arts, culture, and heritage initiatives. Your input will be crucial as we shape these funding strategies to better serve our community.
  • Bylaw Review and Consolidation: We understand the importance of clarity and efficiency in our bylaws. Therefore, we are undergoing a comprehensive review and consolidation process for the Disturbance, Nuisance, Abandoned Vehicles, and Property Maintenance bylaws. This will simplify the regulations, making them more accessible to all residents.
  • Strengthening Relationships with Local First Nations: Recognizing the significance of our local Indigenous communities, we are committed to enhancing our relationship and engagement with them. Through collaboration and mutual respect, we aim to honor and preserve their culture and heritage.
  • Internal Policy Reviews: In an effort to ensure transparency, effectiveness, and alignment with our community's values, we are conducting internal policy reviews across various departments. Your feedback and suggestions are valuable in this process, and we encourage you to participate.
  • Building Permit Time Efficiencies: We understand that a smooth and efficient building permit process is essential for both residents and businesses. We are working towards streamlining and improving this process to reduce wait times and facilitate responsible development.
  • Urban Wildlife Committee: The Urban Wildlife Committee is dedicated to fostering a harmonious coexistence between our community and local wildlife.

Through collaborative efforts, expert insights, and community involvement, we aim to promote the well-being of both humans and animals. One of our key focuses is on addressing negative human-wildlife interactions, particularly those involving deer.


Strategic Priority

Infrastructure

Town Council has identified the following as key infrastructure priorities:

 

  • Paving of Laurie Currie Road: We are committed to improving our road infrastructure, and one of our top priorities is the paving of Laurie Currie Road. By investing in road upgrades, we aim to enhance safety and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.
  • Long-Term Plan for the Brown Bridge End of Life: The Brown Bridge is an essential transportation link, and we are developing a comprehensive long-term plan to address its end-of-life concerns. Our resolution involves thorough assessments, consultations, and appropriate actions to ensure the continued functionality and safety of this crucial bridge.
  • Capital Asset Plan and Policies: To maintain and manage our valuable assets effectively, we are implementing a Capital Asset Plan. This plan will outline strategies for asset maintenance, renewal, and replacement, ensuring that our infrastructure remains in good condition and meets the needs of our community.
  • Water and Sewer Capacity Upgrade: Recognizing the importance of reliable water and sewer services, we are undertaking a capacity upgrade project. By increasing the capacity of our water and sewer systems, we can accommodate current and future demands and support community growth.
  • Completion of Infrastructure Upgrade and Preparing for the Next Phase: We are proud to have completed a significant infrastructure upgrade, investing seven million dollars in critical improvements. As we move forward, we are already preparing for the next phase of infrastructure enhancements, ensuring our community's ongoing development.
  • Robust Asset Management Program and Infrastructure Replacement Plan: To ensure the longevity and functionality of our infrastructure, we are implementing a robust asset management program. This program will guide us in identifying infrastructure in need of replacement, prioritizing projects, and allocating resources effectively.
  • Water Conservation Plan: Water conservation is a top priority for our community's sustainability. We are working on a comprehensive water conservation plan that includes education, outreach, and initiatives to reduce water usage, promoting responsible stewardship of this precious resource.
  • Completion of New Drinking Water Wells and Treatment Plant: We are excited about the progress of our new drinking water wells and treatment plant. Upon completion, these facilities will enhance our water supply, ensuring high-quality drinking water for all residents.
  • Sidewalk Replacement Plan and Downtown Boardwalk Plan: To improve pedestrian safety and accessibility, we are developing a sidewalk replacement plan. Additionally, we have an exciting new project in the works - the downtown boardwalk plan - which will create a vibrant, attractive, and pedestrian- friendly area for everyone to enjoy.
  • Bear-Proof Garbage Cans: In our efforts to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts, we are replacing existing garbage cans with bear-proof ones in all areas. By doing so, we aim to promote responsible waste management and protect both residents and wildlife.


Strategic Priority

Parks, Recreation & Community

Town Council has identified the following as key corporate priorities:

 

  • Creation of a New Parks and Recreation Master Plan: We are embarking on the development of a comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan that will guide the future growth and enhancement of our recreational spaces. This plan will outline strategies to meet the diverse needs and interests of our community members.
  • Indoor Pool: New Shelf-Ready Plan for Grants: Aiming to provide year-round aquatic opportunities, we are crafting a new, well-prepared plan for an indoor pool. This plan will position us strongly to secure grants and funding that will enable the realization of this important community facility.
  • New Recreational Facilities and Upgrades: Our commitment to enhancing recreational options includes the creation of new amenities and upgrades to existing ones, such as:
    • New Pickleball Courts
    • Outdoor Lacrosse Box with Outdoor Ice Rink and Pickleball
    • Improvements and Renovations to the Ice Rink
    • Upgrades to Ball Diamonds
    • Enhancements to the Bike Park and Skatepark
  • PXA Business Plan for Year-Round Activities: Create a Business Plan create offerings into a year-round hub of activities. Exploring opportunities for festivals, carnivals, diversifying revenue streams, and ensuring our facilities remain vibrant and engaging throughout all seasons.
  • Improvements to Centennial Pool: Enclosure with Roof: We are exploring options to enhance Centennial Pool by considering the possibility of enclosing it with a roof. This improvement will extend its usability, allowing residents to enjoy aquatic activities even during inclement weather.
  • Integration of Parks and Recreation Master Plan: Leveraging the insights from our newly developed Parks and Recreation Master Plan, we will create an up- to-date recreation plan that aligns with the evolving needs and preferences of our community. This integration ensures that our initiatives are well-informed and future-oriented.
  • Community Centre Funding and Grants: We are actively seeking opportunities and grants to fund the construction of a new community center. This facility will serve as a central hub for gatherings, events, and various community activities, contributing to the overall well-being of our residents.
  • Improvements to Community Parks: Our commitment to enhancing outdoor spaces extends to our community parks. We have plans to improve and beautify these areas, creating inviting and inclusive environments for all members of our community to enjoy.

By prioritizing these initiatives, we are dedicated to creating a vibrant, accessible, and engaging recreational landscape that enhances the quality of life for our residents and fosters a sense of community unity.


Strategic Priority

Economic Development

Town Council has identified the following as key corporate priorities:

 

  • Further Downtown Renovation Support: Our commitment to revitalizing our downtown area remains strong. We will provide continued support for downtown renovations, creating an inviting and vibrant space that fosters economic growth and community pride.
  • Complete Industrial Park Phase 4: We are dedicated to the completion of Industrial Park Phase 4, expanding our business infrastructure to accommodate new opportunities and job creation.
  • Exploration of an Economic Development Corporation: We are considering the establishment of an Economic Development Corporation to find new ways to create economic and financial opportunities for the Town of Princeton to augment taxes.
  • Downtown Beautification and Business Facade Program: Our efforts to enhance downtown extend to beautification projects and the business facade program, creating an attractive and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
  • Boardwalk Test Strips and Sidewalk Replacement Plan: We are initiating boardwalk test strips and developing a comprehensive sidewalk replacement plan, ensuring safe and accessible pedestrian pathways throughout our community.
  • Attracting the Movie Industry: With a focus on economic diversification, we are actively working to attract the movie industry to Princeton, boosting local businesses and creating job opportunities.
  • Industrial Park Marketing and Diverse Business Attraction: Our commitment to industrial growth includes ongoing marketing efforts to attract diverse businesses to our Industrial Park, fostering economic resilience and sustainability.
  • Airport Growth Plan and Commercial Opportunities: We are developing an airport growth plan that includes attracting commercial ventures, harnessing the potential of our transportation infrastructure for economic development.
  • Destination Marketing and Economic Diversity: Continuing our destination marketing initiatives, we aim to draw visitors and promote economic diversity, ensuring a thriving and dynamic local economy.
  • Completion of Bridge Street Plaza: We are dedicated to the completion of the Bridge Street Plaza, creating a central gathering space that contributes to the vibrancy of our community.
  • Tourism Marketing and Economic Diversification: Our tourism marketing plan remains a priority, bolstering our local economy while encouraging a diverse range of opportunities.
  • Bronze Statue Capital Concept: We will continue to pursue the Bronze Statue Capital concept, celebrating our community’s natural beauty through art.
  • Encouraging Commercial Economic Diversity: Our focus on economic diversity extends to the service and retail sector, promoting a varied and resilient business landscape.
  • Collaboration with Schools and Post-Secondary Institutions: We are collaborating with local schools and post-secondary institutions to emphasize the importance of preparing our youth for meaningful positions within our evolving local economy, ensuring a skilled workforce for the future.


Strategic Priority

Housing

Town Council has identified the following as key corporate priorities:

 

  • Attraction of New Housing Projects and Boundary Expansion: Our commitment to housing development remains steadfast. We will continue to attract new housing projects, exploring potential boundary expansion areas and identifying available land for residential growth.
  • Airport Housing Development and Industry Catalyst: We are advancing the Airport Housing Development and are actively working to remove the property from the ALR. This development will serve as a catalyst for potential growth in the airport industry.
  • Advocacy for Low-Income Housing with BC Housing: We are dedicated to advocating with BC Housing to address the need for low-income housing within our community, ensuring affordable housing options for all residents.
  • Collaboration with Nonprofit Organizations for Affordable Housing: By partnering with local nonprofit organizations, we aim to encourage the development of low-income and seniors housing, fostering a supportive and inclusive community.
  • Exploration of Crown Land for Development: We are exploring opportunities for new development areas on Crown land, expanding housing options and contributing to our community's growth.
  • Dwelling Infill in Designated OCP Areas: Our efforts towards housing development include promoting dwelling infill in designated areas outlined in the Official Community Plan (OCP), maximizing land use and supporting sustainable growth.
  • Redesign and Expansion of Local Transit: We are collaborating with BC Transit to redesign and enhance local transit services, providing improved accessibility and convenience for residents.
  • Transfer of Route 50 to Regional Transit Service: In partnership with BC Transit and the Regional District, we are working towards transferring Route 50 from a local to a regional transit service, optimizing transportation options for our community.
  • Completion of the Official Community Plan (OCP): Our commitment to community planning includes the completion of the Official Community Plan (OCP), a comprehensive framework that will guide our development and growth.
  • Focus on In-Progress Projects: We will continue to prioritize and advance projects that are already in progress, ensuring their successful implementation and positive impact on our community.

As we move forward, our dedication to thoughtful and sustainable development will remain at the forefront, ensuring that Princeton continues to evolve into a thriving and inclusive community for all residents.



Our Council stands united in its resolute commitment to perpetuating and enriching the economic and social vibrancy of our community. We firmly believe that a thriving community is one where economic prosperity and social well-being go hand in hand, nurturing an environment that offers boundless opportunities for growth and fulfillment.

Economic vitality is a cornerstone of our strategic goals. Our Council is dedicated to cultivating an atmosphere that attracts businesses, encourages innovation, and fosters entrepreneurship. We are steadfast in our support for local enterprises, working collaboratively to create a robust economic ecosystem that generates employment, drives innovation, and sustains the local economy. Through strategic investments, targeted incentives, and a business-friendly approach, we aim to invigorate our community's economic pulse and ensure its resilience in an ever-changing landscape.

Yet, our commitment transcends financial matters. Social vibrancy is equally essential, and our Council is unwavering in its dedication to creating a harmonious and inclusive society. Our goal to enhance the quality of life for all residents, regardless of background or circumstance. By prioritizing access to essential services, promoting cultural diversity, and nurturing a sense of belonging, we endeavor to build strong social bonds that fortify our community's cohesiveness and resilience.

Looking forward, our Council remains steadfast in its pursuit of a flourishing community. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where economic prosperity is intertwined with the well-being of our residents. By harnessing the collective energy, creativity, and aspirations of our community members, we are confident in our ability to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and ensure that our community's economic and social vibrancy continues to shine brightly for generations to come.