For the first time in many years, the City of Trail has hired an in-house planning manager.
Chris Buchan, who most recently worked as a senior planner for the Islands Trust, will also serve as the manager of climate action.
In a news release announcing his appointment, the city called him a “seasoned planner with a strong track record in land use, environmental policy, and climate strategy.”
He’s also worked as a planner in Spallumcheen and Prince Rupert, where he worked on major projects including updating official community plans and shaping climate and housing strategies.
City manager Colin McClure said Buchan’s arrival is a “significant milestone” in the city’s commitment to “thoughtful and strategic growth.”
“His expertise and leadership will help us shape a future where smart planning and climate-conscious decisions contribute to a more livable city,” McClure said.
In his new role, Buchan will lead planning and development initiatives, support climate action programs, and help implement Trail’s updated official community plan and zoning bylaw.
Buchan comes to Trail with his wife and two children and said in an interview that in addition to the professional opportunity, he was attracted by the affordability of the community, its outdoors opportunities, and a slower pace of life.
Buchan just started this week, so he is still catching up on the city’s priorities, but he will be leading committees dedicated to accessibility, downtown revitalization, and the OCP.
“I’d really like to work with the community to streamline development,” he said. “Work out the kinks, maybe some community frustrations. There is lots of updated legislation, and we do have some older bylaws. So there is a great opportunity to review and modernize.
“I look forward to drawing on my diverse planning experience to support the city in navigating evolving challenges and opportunities.”
While there is no requirement that municipalities retain professional planners on staff, many communities smaller than Trail have them. Until now, Trail has either combined planning duties with other roles or sought consultants to do the work.
However, the city said it saw the need for a specialized professional to lead planning and development and support climate action. His role is paid for in part through the Local Government Climate Action Program. City council authorized creating the position in April.
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