Double Trouble - Single Tier County Official Plans and Delegated Authority

The relationships between counties and lower-tier municipalities vary across the province. In extreme cases, attachment to local autonomy creates barriers among municipalities, cutting off opportunities for efficiencies that may be gained through joint service delivery. This session will share experiences from the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry (SDG). Located in the eastern portion of Ontario along the St. Lawrence River south of Ottawa, SDG strives to achieve consensus among six local municipalities and conservation authorities. Presenters will highlight recent planning achievements and will offer insight into the benefits of a single-tier official plan, how to maintain positive relationships and how to overcome conflict. 

 

Learning Objectives:

• Gaining knowledge about tools for consensus building.

• Understanding the importance of consensus in planning.

• Understanding the importance of working with different levels of government.