Protecting What Matters means making room for people, pets and nature.
Saanich’s People, Pets & Parks (PPP) strategy was intended to help its parks work for everyone. After several years of implementation, Council should take a fresh look at what is working, what is not, and what residents are experiencing.
My perspective is informed by more than 15 years of advocating for the protection of Panama Flats and working with Saanich, residents, community associations and environmental groups to find practical ways for people to enjoy Saanich parks while protecting sensitive ecosystems.
As a councillor, I would:
- Hear from the people who use our parks: Bring residents, dog owners, environmental and stewardship groups, and other park users into the conversation, and pair that experience with evidence-based information on park use, compliance, complaints and environmental impacts.
- Put nature first where it needs protection: Safeguard sensitive habitats, wildlife and biodiversity while recognizing that parks provide important places for recreation and connection.
- Create room for responsible dog access: Support appropriate off-leash opportunities, clear expectations, education and enforcement where needed.
- Make every taxpayer dollar count: Review planned PPP spending before committing to major new expenditures, while maintaining the parks, trails, fencing and essential services park users already rely on.
- Change course when the facts warrant it: If a rule, restriction or investment is not achieving its intended result, Council should be prepared to reconsider it.
My approach is straightforward: listen carefully, protect what matters, spend responsibly, and work with the community to find solutions that allow people and pets to safely enjoy Saanich’s parks while protecting the natural areas that make them special.