LOCAL AGRI-FOOD SYSTEMS AS A MUNICIPAL PRIORITY: CONSIDERING THE ROLE, APPROACH AND CAPACITY OF MUNICIPAL PLANNING DEPARTMENTS

Abstract

In a context of increasing volatility and instability, agriculture and local agri-food systems are critical to local and regional resilience. In Canada, agriculture is both a federal and provincial responsibility, however municipalities are the most local level of government responsible for land use decisions. While some guidance is provided by the provincial government, municipal planning departments play a critical role in creating, implementing, and enforcing policies, programs, and initiatives related to agriculture and agri-food systems. Municipalities are also responsible for implementing provincial guidance and directives, and are key players in ensuring consistency and farm viability across the province. However, little is known about the capacity of municipal planning departments and their role and approach to supporting agriculture. This paper looks to examine the role and approach of municipal planning departments in agri-food systems in Ontario. Academic literature on the topic was coded for 10 possible roles adopted from earlier publications looking at the intersection of planning and food systems. Findings are interwoven with interview and survey data regarding the capacity of municipal planning departments in Ontario's Greenbelt region to support agri-food systems. While this paper provides insight into the role of municipal planning departments in agri-food systems in Ontario, further research should investigate the capacity of municipal planning departments to carry out these roles.