October 2026 - OPA 61 Council Direction

On October 19, 2026, Council deferred adoption of OPA 61 until after the 2027 spring freshet to allow for the incorporation of appropriate floodplain policies and mapping into the amendment. See the Resolution at this link.

Why did Council defer adoption?

On September 24, 2026, the Joint Community and Planning Services and Health Services Committee removed the floodplain policies from OPA 61 and staff were directed to revisit the amendments following the spring freshet with consideration of any feedback received from the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). The Province requires Councils and municipal staff to confirm that proposed amendments are consistent with Provincial policy. Additionally, the Province directed the District to consolidate all components into one amendment.

As a result, concerns were raised regarding the conformity of the existing policies with the Provincial Planning Statement and with Provincial direction on submission. Council therefore decided to defer adoption of OPA 61 until the floodplain policies and mapping could be reviewed and these concerns addressed.

What happens next?

Staff will review the floodplain policies and mapping following the 2027 spring freshet, taking into account any updates received from the MNR. Staff will then bring recommendations back to Committee before OPA 61 is considered for adoption.

Stay tuned for more on OPA 61 in 2027!