Building attainable, affordable housing and protecting mature trees and environmentally sensitive areas are not competing priorities. They are complementary responsibilities. That will be the framework from which I advocate for the environment to be a key consideration in Saanich policies, decisions and staff direction.
In 2011, I joined my local community association’s board with a goal of protecting Panama Flats, which Saanich had purchased that year for $2.4 million. Following three years of public consultation, the initial 2014 report surprisingly focused on agriculture.
After the pandemic, Panama Flats returned to Council as proposals were brought forward to expand the Agricultural Land Reserve for a second time and later through the Farmland Trust initiative. As President of the Carey Area Residents Association (CARA), protecting the Flats became a priority, unanimously supported by our membership.
During the pandemic, nature’s healing hands were evident as the Flats flourished. CARA championed Council to direct staff to update the Panama Flats Concept Plan. The response from residents and others was incredible, and a pivotal moment came when non-government organizations and community stakeholders, including CARA, came together to provide Saanich with a partnered perspective for the new Concept Plan.
I tell this story because it illustrates what can happen when a community comes together to champion a positive outcome. One voice is all it takes to start the process. But someone must be listening.
That is the kind of councillor I intend to be—someone who listens, brings people together, asks the difficult questions, and works to Protect What Matters.
Once again, great conversation with John. Thank you