Saanich Coun. Judy Brownoff clearly spells out the need for a new Saanich Operations Centre when she states, "The current facility is outdated and non conforming to building code." Then she goes on to state, "We have staff working out of aging trailers, dealing with rodents and pests."
I would counter that many homeowners across Canada update their homes because that's the cheapest method. They have to stay on budget and set rat traps instead of spending a couple of million for a new home because the kitchen is outdated.
I think that Saanich residents should be aware that one reason for relocating the operations centre could be so that they can develop the property to fit in with Quadra/McKenzie official community plan. Ideas for the site go back to 1998, but the newest is adding "housing and commercial spaces; adding parkland, trail networks and restoring the Public Works Creek and the environment." This fits perfect with the community plan for the area.
The thing that bothers me the most is how unclear council has been about the AAP process. Supposedly it's only 0.85% a year for four years, but that 3.4% gets compounded every year Saanich increases our taxes and it goes on for 30 years. As stated by another letter writer, "Saanich is borrowing $150 million and paying another $135 million for the full cost of the loan." Disingenuous to say the least.
Brian Masuch
Saanich
