By Gagandeep Ghuman
Published: Feb. 2, 2013
The district has launched a new Land Development Application process, which it claims will simplifying and shorten the process of applying for new projects.
The new simplified process is a result of the Core Service Review recommendations created for the development services department in 2011.
“It’s highly anticipated by developers, and some of them had a direct hand in shaping this new application process,” said Christina Moore.
Moore said the business processing committee found in October a flawed past process characterized by multiple guides, multiple application forms, and information that contradicted itself, resulting in high levels of frustration experienced by developers.
At that time, the staff had promised to come back with a simpler process.
The new application kit includes four simple documents, including: an application guide, pre-application meeting request form, application form, and document checklist.
“This sends a clear message to the development community that Squamish is open for business,” said Mayor Rob Kirkham.
Moore said the development community was engaged throughout the review and has helped shape the new process.
The improved Land Development Application process is just one part of the ‘Continuity Project’, initiated in July 2012.
It is focused on three main Development Service business areas: Land Development, Building Permits, and Business Licences.
Processes and supporting documentation have undergone rigorous reviews in all areas, resulting in both short- and long-term business improvements.
These improvements include: shortened processing times; processing automation; streamlined guides and forms; and easy access to information on the district’s new website, which launched in November.
Here are other forms on the website that developers and citizens can see.
- New Land Development Application Kit
- New Business Licence Forms and streamlined application processing
