Seasons Greetings!
As 2024 comes to a close, I am proud to reflect on the progress we’ve made together as a community this past year. Through our Strategic Plan, we have seen ideas take shape, with some already becoming a reality and others well underway. None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our hardworking staff, the passion of volunteers, the support of our residents, and the generosity of funding partners who help bring these initiatives to life. From advancing housing projects to protecting our environment to celebrating our unique community, here are some key highlights from this year:
Official Community Plan (OCP) Update
In 2024, we began updating our OCP to adapt to our town’s changing needs and priorities for housing, sustainability, and economic growth. This process kicked off in the spring with a Residents’ Assembly, bringing together 25 diverse community members to learn, exchange ideas and present recommendations.
In October, we expanded public engagement to the wider community with a survey, several pop-up events, and engagement with secondary students. A “What We Heard” report will be published in early 2025, with further engagement planned for the spring. Follow along at Official Community Plan Update
Affordable Housing Progress
In September we celebrated the opening of Shaw Place Affordable Housing, which added 40 much-needed homes for families, seniors, and individuals. This achievement was made possible through a partnership with the Province, the federal government, and the Sunshine Coast Affordable Housing Society.
Phase 2 of this project is expected to be completed in 2026, adding 33 more housing units and a childcare centre with 43 spaces. Additionally, Kiwanis Seniors Housing, which broke ground in 2023, is due to be completed in 2025.
We will continue to advocate and pursue more affordable housing opportunities for Gibsons.
We were able to secure funding to expand the Homeless Outreach Coordinator position to full-time. This vital role provides those experiencing homelessness with mental health and substance abuse support, access to resources and referrals, and more. Our Coordinator goes above and beyond to help our community, and we are so grateful for her dedication to the role.
Pebbles Beach Restoration
We understand the community is eagerly awaiting the opening of Pebbles Beach — and we’re almost there! Construction on the stairs and bank stabilization was completed this fall, with only a few finishing touches remaining, such as the installation of a handrail. With concerns of erosion during the heavy rainfall season, landscaping will be delayed until the weather permits in 2025. Staff are also developing plans for improvements to the park above the slope, which may include picnic tables, benches, and other amenities.
In June, we finalized the Active Transportation Network Plan, which aims to improve walking, cycling, and rolling routes in Gibsons. Through public feedback, we identified priorities and shaped recommendations to meet our community needs. The plan will guide future projects to build a safer, more connected, and accessible transportation network.
White Tower Park Stormwater Pond
Completing this pond is a major milestone in our natural asset management initiatives. This innovative project uses nature-based solutions to reduce flooding risks by collecting, absorbing, and filtering stormwater. In addition to replacing costly human-made infrastructure, the pond enhances our community by increasing green space and recreational opportunities for everyone to enjoy
Council is considering renaming the park. Once decided, new signage will follow.
Urban Forest Plan
This year, we also completed Gibsons’ first-ever Urban Forest Plan, which assessed the condition of our tree canopy and provided a roadmap for long-term urban forest management. Community feedback was a key part of this process, ensuring the plan reflects the value residents place on trees and greenspaces. The final report will be published soon.
Source to Sea Project
This project assessed the condition of Aquifer 560 and its watershed, which includes lands within the traditional territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), Crown Land and the SCRD. The recommendations focus on maintaining these interconnected natural assets and protecting the health of the watershed as a whole. View the final report here.
Improved Accessibility
New crosswalks were installed at Abbs Road, Sargent Road, and Glassford Road to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians. The multi-use path on Venture Way was also extended, with upgrades to pavement and drainage.
Gibsons Featured in UN-Habitat’s Canada SDG Report
Gibsons is proud to lead the way in using natural assets—such as forests, aquifers, and green spaces—to deliver essential municipal services. By relying on these assets instead of costly infrastructure, we’re reducing expenses, promoting sustainability, and creating a model that cities around the world can adopt.
This year, our innovative approach was recognized in the UN-Habitat Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Canada Report, where Gibsons is highlighted as a leader in natural asset management, starting on page 82.
Persephone Restoration Campaign
In October, we launched a fundraising campaign to preserve the iconic Persephone boat from The Beachcombers and create a permanent, sheltered viewing area at the base of Holland Lands. So far, the campaign has raised over $8,000 in personal donations and $25,000 in corporate sponsorships. Additionally, several grant applications are under review, and efforts to secure further funding are ongoing. Thank you for all the support!
I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who organized and participated in community events throughout 2024. Your dedication and hard work have brought us together and enriched our town. From a memorable Canada Day celebration to the lively Music in the Landing series, an impactful marine cleanup, and so much more, these events showcased the spirit of Gibsons at its best.
We also extend our thanks to all residents, community partners, and staff for their ongoing contributions. Together, we’re creating an even better place to live, work, and play.
Wishing you all a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!
Warm regards,
Mayor Silas White, Town of Gibsons
