A Community Improvement Plan (CIP) is a planning tool that designates an area where the municipality will provide incentives to encourage private investment and redevelopment. CIP incentives may include property tax reductions or grants, development charge reductions, design grants, or streamlined approvals. Areas designated for CIPs typically face challenges like deteriorating buildings, brownfield contamination, or economic decline that discourage private investment without public support. CIPs help focus revitalization efforts, signalling municipal commitment while providing concrete financial assistance. The planning process involves identifying community improvement areas, determining appropriate incentives, and establishing criteria for incentive eligibility.