As a Saanich councillor, 100% not development funded and unaffiliated with any political party or lobby group, I’m committed to safe, respectful dialogue. While I welcome input from all, including Homes for Living, my priority is Saanich’s residents – present and future.
I echo statements supporting community-driven planning that protects our unique environment, affordability, and livability. The July 7 Saanich council meeting on the Quadra-McKenzie Plan revealed deep passion for these values, though tensions ran high. I regret any discomfort felt; aggressive behaviour is unacceptable, and safety in our chambers is paramount. However, the frustration expressed reflects residents’ commitment to preserving Saanich’s character.
Saanich is extraordinary. Our Urban Containment Boundary, championed by past residents and councils, preserves 50% of Saanich as rural, with policies safeguarding greenbelts and parks. Yet, recent provincial legislation and decoupled Local Area Plans (LAPs) threaten these protections, risking trees, biodiversity, and affordability.
I share the Stewards of Saanich’s concerns about “attainability” replacing true affordability. Last term, despite subsidies, no affordable housing was built. The density-is-affordability model has failed elsewhere, like Vancouver. Saanich residents aren’t a piggy bank for unchecked development. Our 700,000 trees, vital for climate resilience, are at risk without stronger protections. Slim boulevards and non-native trees can’t replace our Garry oak ecosystems or mitigate “heat island effects”.
Jack Sandor’s critique of public engagement resonates, but his solution – relying solely on elections or surveys – overlooks the value of direct community input, flawed as it may be. The Quadra-McKenzie Plan, called a “train wreck” by Coun. Colin Plant, needs revision to reflect council’s direction and residents’ values. Engagement must evolve to be inclusive, not dismissive of those who show up to protect what they love.
We must balance housing with ecosystem preservation, affordability, and fiscal responsibility, especially with rising climate disaster costs. Let’s protect Saanich’s spirit through thoughtful, community-led planning.
Nathalie Chambers
Saanich councillor
