Re: Public hearing looms for Central Saanich affordable housing project. The Hovey Road development application that is before Central Saanich council has truly become a "David vs Goliath" battle.
On the one hand, you have the "David" – a group of seniors who are fighting to save half of their well-established neighbourhood from being demolished to pave the way for two high-density buildings – in violation of the official community plan.
On the other hand, you have the Goliath – provincial Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon openly pressuring the municipality, the developer placing full-page ads in local newspapers, including a threatening statement, and the latest, MP Elizabeth May writing council on her official letterhead to support this development.
It is hard enough for citizens to fight a wealthy developer and a municipal council, one of whom works for a large development company, never mind having a provincial and now federal politician interfering.
These are completely unacceptable pressure tactics and for Elizabeth May, an inappropriate use of her office.
As an interesting contrast, Ms. May refused to get involved last year with the Sidney Island deer slaughter by Parks Canada using helicopters and high-powered guns, that was both unnecessary, inhumane and cost taxpayers $6 million – and was well within her federal jurisdiction. Yet she is now stepping, uninvited, into municipal matters.
If you care about the future of Central Saanich and feel you – not developers – are the most important voice, please attend the public hearing on Wednesday, March 5, at 6 p.m. at the Saanich Fairgrounds. Sign the petition at centralsaanich-citizenvoices.org.
Sharon Glynn
Central Saanich
