Michelle F. Lewis

The City of Maple Ridge's Accessibility and Inclusiveness Strategy aims to create an accessible and inclusive community by identifying, removing, and preventing physical and social barriers across various aspects of city life. The strategy is guided by principles of inclusion, adaptability, diversity, collaboration, self-determination, and universal design. Key focus areas include the built environment, civic participation and programming, education and awareness, employment and volunteerism, communication and technology, and governance and policy design, all aligned with the Council's Strategic Plan.

The Council workshop meetings covered several key topics including Integrated Stormwater Management Plans, a Building Department update, and a report on the Agri-Food Hub. Discussions were held regarding backyard hen options, Pitt Meadows Airport bylaw revisions, and the award of a contract for sports court renovations at Garibaldi Secondary School. Additionally, the Council addressed provincial support for libraries, engaged in consultations regarding the Yennadon Lands, and submitted resolutions to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities. Updates on public consultation phases for the Lougheed Transit Corridor Study were also reviewed.

The Bring to Market Industrial Land Study, prepared for the City of Maple Ridge, evaluates planning, servicing, economic, and market considerations to facilitate and attract industrial users. This study provides a strategic framework to enhance the long-term supply and optimal use of industrial lands in the community, including areas within Kwantlen First Nation territories. Key areas of focus include addressing geographical constraints, improving infrastructure (water, sanitary, transportation), proposing new zoning classifications, and aligning land use designations with regional growth strategies like Metro 2050. The goal is to accommodate industrial uses through development, redevelopment, and densification to support regional economic growth.

The City of Maple Ridge Heritage Plan 2024-2034 provides a strategic roadmap for managing, maintaining, and conserving the community's valuable heritage resources. It outlines a vision to respect the past by recognizing and celebrating diverse legacies, including indigenous presence, historic communities, and natural and cultural landscapes. The plan is structured around five overarching goals: Advance Reconciliation, Celebrate the City's Diverse Heritage, Enhance Heritage Management, Support Community Conservation, and Support Heritage Education and Awareness. These goals are supported by 50 implementation actions designed to broaden heritage conservation efforts, foster community participation, and integrate sustainability principles.

This vision document outlines a framework for an age-inclusive Maple Ridge Town Centre, aiming to ensure older adults remain safe, independent, and connected. It proposes a 'carescape' approach through a layered care framework that considers physical infrastructure (hardware), policies and programs (software), and relationships/networks (heartware). The plan is structured around four main Pillars of Care: Housing & Land-Use, Mobility & Accessibility, Public Space & Urban Form, and Community Programming & Social Services, with the goal of creating a supportive and caring community environment for all age groups.