This Terms of Reference (TOR) is used by Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation as an invitation to submit a non-binding offer for professional services for the Saugeen First Nation: Capital Planning Study (CPS). This TOR describes the scope of work the Consultant is expected to perform in undertaking this CPS.
The last Capital Planning Study in the First Nation was completed in 1999. Since then, the on-reserve population has grown by more than 160%, a rate significantly higher than projections made in the 1999 Study. The lack of accurate population projections is a barrier for Saugeen First Nation to plan for long-term growth, including land-use planning, future residential and commercial development, and critical infrastructure services such as water and wastewater. In addition, there is an urgent need to develop a long-term, community-wide plan for designing for resiliency against accelerating impacts of climate change. Furthermore, in keeping with their traditional role as stewards of the land and environment, Saugeen First Nation also intends to explore pathways to reduce its carbon emissions. This is intended to complement the federal government's goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050. Saugeen First Nation therefore intends to undertake a Capital Planning Study to assist them with long-term planning, infrastructure development and climate change resiliency.
The purpose of this study is to prepare a community-planning document that Saugeen First Nation can use to guide the future development of their community. This study will assist Saugeen First Nation in identifying their immediate, short-term and long-term goals and objectives regarding land use planning and infrastructure development. The objectives of the study are:
- To work closely with Saugeen First Nation on every aspect of this study and ensure that community residents have ample opportunity to participate in the study. Together with the Project Team, the Consultant shall identify and implement ways to encourage and allow for community participation.
- To identify immediate housing and infrastructure needs and deficiencies. The Consultant shall prepare an inventory of the existing housing and conduct an assessment of the existing infrastructure. These assets will be evaluated against applicable standards, guidelines, regulations and policies, including ISC’s Level of Service Standards (LOSS). Beyond housing, the study should also consider community buildings and buildings to support economic growth within the First Nation.
- To identify the community’s short-term (5-year and 8-year) housing and infrastructure needs and goals. While these needs and goals will be developed in consultation with the First Nation, at a minimum, planning for housing, water, sewer, roads and power will be conducted. The study shall also recommend any phasing of projects for implementation.
- To identify the community’s long-term (10-year and 20-year) housing and infrastructure needs and goals. While these needs and goals will be developed in consultation with the First Nation, at a minimum, planning for housing, water, sewer, roads and power will be conducted. The study shall also recommend any phasing of projects for implementation.
- To propose options, evaluate options, and provide recommendations regarding future residential lot development and infrastructure development (addressing water, sewer, roads and power).
- To develop a Land Use Plan for the 20-year period that will identify: the locations of existing and future residential, institutional and commercial buildings; the locations of existing and future utilities and infrastructure assets (i.e., roads, landfill, airport, etc.); any other community aspects deemed relevant by the Project Team (i.e., archeological or environmentally sensitive areas).
- To complete the study within the approved scope, schedule and cost parameters. This study shall align with all relevant codes, regulations, standards, guidelines, and ISC policies (a list is provided in Appendix III: List of Codes, Standards & Regulations).