Letters

Democracy is when people take an active interest in their communities – and vote.

A new era has begun in Langford, one of the fastest-growing communities in the country with its share of urban and governance challenges.

The average single-family detached house in Greater Victoria cost $1.24 million in 2021, while Oak Bay’s average was $1.96 million (Victoria Real Estate Board, Jan. 1, 2022.) The $720,000 difference is due to Oak Bay’s land prices. No council zoning regulations can change this. Oak Bay’s contribution to the “missing middle” challenge will be negligible.

It is sad and tragic that Langford’s Stew Young could not accept his resounding mayoral (and council’s) defeat with any glimmer of dignity and grace.

I served as regional director for 13 years and loved almost every minute. More than anything, it allowed me to help my neighbours and build much-needed infrastructure and services throughout the region.

The municipal voter turnout in Sooke was only 29 per cent, compared to 42 per cent in the previous election.

For the third time since living on Heron Street, I find myself next door to a construction site. I have endured loaded cranes passing overhead and been forced to breathe clouds of dust. Workers without permission have used my outside water taps. The beautiful cedar hedge which I cared for over many years has been brutally chopped down. The promised replacement is not to be.

I felt sick today strolling past a block of new development on Kings at Quadra, which apparently requires the entire row of big old shade trees lining the street to be removed. The volume and pace of loss of big trees for development is devastating, and for generations to come.

Increasing expenses across the board are impacting our older citizens in many ways. It would be great if everyone could stay in their homes for their entire lives, but it just isn’t feasible for all seniors. The lack of an affordable alternative for seniors in need of daily living support will eventually have them end up prematurely in resource-intensive long-term care.

Our kids are safe. Their futures? Not so much.