A Community Improvement Plan (CIP) is a policy tool used by municipalities to facilitate the redevelopment, rehabilitation, and/or revitalization of selected areas in a municipality. They typically address key issues such as main street upgrades, tourism site redevelopment, accessibility or affordable housing provision within a priority area, known as a Community Improvement Project Area (CIPA).
A CIP is a strategy that guides redevelopment and improvements within a defined area of need. To achieve the strategy, CIPs allow a municipality to take actions such as:
One of the most common functions of a CIP is the provision of financial incentives specifically tailored to encourage property owners or tenants to undertake improvement projects that are aligned with the vision of the plan. Examples include facade improvements, accessible access or energy-efficient windows.
Without a CIP, municipalities are prohibited from offering financial assistance to the private sector in any way.
In 2020 the Economic Development Committee initiated a study to build a foundation of a Community Development Plan for Dutton Dunwich. Through this process it found that an area of focus should be on a thriving down. The downtown is the heart of the community, the centre of commercial activity, events and central to a community's tourism activity. It identified that efforts should build upon the appeal of the quaint small-town features and unique retail and services offerings and that businesses should be encouraged to improve the appearance and accessibility of their buildings.
Public Notices and Events |
Notice of Open Houses Proposed Community Improvement Plan (CIP) |
Step | Work Plan | Estimated date |
---|---|---|
1 | Research, Background and Data | July 2023 |
2 | Identify the Study Area | July 2023 |
3 | Confirm Scope of Work | July 2023 |
4 | Identify Key Stakeholders | August 2023 |
5 | Marketing and Promotion | August 2023 |
6 | Public Engagement | September-November 2023 |
7 | Review Public Comments and Feedback | December 2023 |
8 | Draft CIP Document | January 2024 |
9 | Public Meeting | February 2024 |
10 | Final CIP Document | February 2024 |
11 | By-law Passed by Council | March 2024 |
12 | Fund Allocations | April 2024 |
13 | Program Actions and Implementation | April 2024 |