Thursday, July 31, 2008
Richard Stewart is running for Mayor of Coquitlam
Not really the Victoria area, but I got to know Richard when he was an MLA from 2001-2005. I have met many MLAs over the last 25 years but very few have been as on the ball about the job as Richard was. It was a bad night for BC when he lost in May 2005.
He has been on Coquitlam council for a term and is now running for mayor. I hope he wins. I plan on sending him a few $$$ since I can not campaign for him over there.
If you know anyone over in those parts, encourage them to vote for Richard, there are few people who will work as hard as he will for his community.
He has been on Coquitlam council for a term and is now running for mayor. I hope he wins. I plan on sending him a few $$$ since I can not campaign for him over there.
If you know anyone over in those parts, encourage them to vote for Richard, there are few people who will work as hard as he will for his community.
Slates and the Local Elections
Time is running out for groups to organize slates for the local elections. They need to be in existence with at least 50 members by the first week of August to be able to get their name on the ballot. I know of no group from the centre right that has managed this. I am not certain anything happened with the NDP side of the spectrum.
The only group I know of that has managed to get things in place for a slate are the Greens. As far as I understand it, they will be able to have Green Party on the ballot in most of Greater Victoria if they want to.
I am curious to see how much having a party affiliation on the ballot will effect the SD 61 election, I can see the Greens winning most of the seats if they have their name on the ballot. We saw how well it worked in the city of Victoria in 2005 for the Greens, I suspect if there are obvious Greens on the ballot in Saanich, the Greens will be able to win there.
The only other group I know of is Gregory Hartnell's Concerned Citizens Coalition. I am not sure they have the member numbers needed, but if they do it should boost their chances if they spend some money and campaign hard.
The only other group out there is the Saanich Civic League. I wonder if the people behind it here in Victoria are interested in making a civic NDP. After all their publicity in relation to the first meeting, there has been nothing to be heard from them. The Saanich Civic League may also just be a still born child.
I wish political affiliations would come to local elections in Victoria. We need them to boost the voter turn out and make the elections competitive. But alas this will not happen in 2008, we will have to wait till 2011....
The only group I know of that has managed to get things in place for a slate are the Greens. As far as I understand it, they will be able to have Green Party on the ballot in most of Greater Victoria if they want to.
I am curious to see how much having a party affiliation on the ballot will effect the SD 61 election, I can see the Greens winning most of the seats if they have their name on the ballot. We saw how well it worked in the city of Victoria in 2005 for the Greens, I suspect if there are obvious Greens on the ballot in Saanich, the Greens will be able to win there.
The only other group I know of is Gregory Hartnell's Concerned Citizens Coalition. I am not sure they have the member numbers needed, but if they do it should boost their chances if they spend some money and campaign hard.
The only other group out there is the Saanich Civic League. I wonder if the people behind it here in Victoria are interested in making a civic NDP. After all their publicity in relation to the first meeting, there has been nothing to be heard from them. The Saanich Civic League may also just be a still born child.
I wish political affiliations would come to local elections in Victoria. We need them to boost the voter turn out and make the elections competitive. But alas this will not happen in 2008, we will have to wait till 2011....
Back from the Interior
I was gone to the interior for my niece's wedding in Coldstream. We staying in Salmon Arm, a new Okanagan/Shuswap place for me to be located out of. In my youth it was all around Penticton. Then in 1986 Beatrice moved to Vernon and then in 1989 I married Catherine in Kelowna. Sheila's family is from Salmon Arm, so there is a new end of the valley that will see me several times a year.
We took our time driving up and stopped at some interesting spots along the way.
So, what is happening in Victoria and local elections? Nothing. Very quiet out there. There was an editorial in the Victoria News about the lack of people coming out of the wood work to run for office. I will likely publish very little about the local elections till after my Sayward Lakes trip with the 3rd Douglas Sea Scouts.
There is one small thing to mention - people are not going to be allowed to chain their chairs to the railings for the Symphony Splash days and days ahead. I like this change. Each year I go down with the kids to the performance and we end up on the lawn of the legislature and can see nothing. I would be nice to have a chance to get some seats where you can see something. I would be nice to have fairness for everyone to get the chance to sit on the causeway. I would love a lottery for the location, this would be a way for the Splash to raise some money.
We took our time driving up and stopped at some interesting spots along the way.
So, what is happening in Victoria and local elections? Nothing. Very quiet out there. There was an editorial in the Victoria News about the lack of people coming out of the wood work to run for office. I will likely publish very little about the local elections till after my Sayward Lakes trip with the 3rd Douglas Sea Scouts.
There is one small thing to mention - people are not going to be allowed to chain their chairs to the railings for the Symphony Splash days and days ahead. I like this change. Each year I go down with the kids to the performance and we end up on the lawn of the legislature and can see nothing. I would be nice to have a chance to get some seats where you can see something. I would be nice to have fairness for everyone to get the chance to sit on the causeway. I would love a lottery for the location, this would be a way for the Splash to raise some money.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Mike Hicks running for Juan de Fuca CRD director
Mike Hicks has put his name forward to run for the CRD Juan de Fuca director. He is a Port Renfrew business owner operating the Swiftsure Fishing Lodge.
He is concerned about Port Renfrew, but also concerned about the zoning downgrade of the rural properties in the Juan de Fuca electoral area.
He is concerned about Port Renfrew, but also concerned about the zoning downgrade of the rural properties in the Juan de Fuca electoral area.
Henderson Bike Route
Finally the bike route along Henderson has been approved by Oak Bay and it will be in place for the fall. This is a vital and important extension of the route through to UVic.
UVic is the highest cyclist destination in greater Victoria, it has always been that and will likely always remain so.
There need to be more routes servicing UVic - there needs to be more and better access to the campus.
We also need to see more and better bike storage in and around the whole city.
And finally, I need to replace my bike - it was broken and is now missing
UVic is the highest cyclist destination in greater Victoria, it has always been that and will likely always remain so.
There need to be more routes servicing UVic - there needs to be more and better access to the campus.
We also need to see more and better bike storage in and around the whole city.
And finally, I need to replace my bike - it was broken and is now missing
Electric Car Approved for use in Oak Bay
It seems that after August 19th you will be able to operate slower electric vehicles in Oak Bay.
While adding more options for people to be able to get around the city, I am not sure that there will be the sort of demand for electric cars as people seem to think.
Another problem/issue with electric cars is that they are fed by power from the grid. Until we have a lot more power coming into the gird, every incremental increase in demand at the moment means we have to buy power from places like Aberta and the States. In both cases this power is not very green.
One aspect I think that will work well for these cars is that they will tend to be recharged over night, a time when use of power in BC is low and this is ultimately a good redistribution of the load on the grid.
Ultimately I do not see that these cars will ever be anything more than a curiosity to be purchased by the rich. Most of us are not going to be owning different cars for different uses. What I do see is more and more cars being sold based around he hybrid technology. As the technology gets better and the batteries lighter, these cars will displace the current cars on the road.
While adding more options for people to be able to get around the city, I am not sure that there will be the sort of demand for electric cars as people seem to think.
Another problem/issue with electric cars is that they are fed by power from the grid. Until we have a lot more power coming into the gird, every incremental increase in demand at the moment means we have to buy power from places like Aberta and the States. In both cases this power is not very green.
One aspect I think that will work well for these cars is that they will tend to be recharged over night, a time when use of power in BC is low and this is ultimately a good redistribution of the load on the grid.
Ultimately I do not see that these cars will ever be anything more than a curiosity to be purchased by the rich. Most of us are not going to be owning different cars for different uses. What I do see is more and more cars being sold based around he hybrid technology. As the technology gets better and the batteries lighter, these cars will displace the current cars on the road.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Herbicides being used on the E and N
The E and N rail line carries basically nothing in freight or passengers. The line is badly maintained and plants are encroaching on the line. The answer - spray with herbicides.
I am getting more and more frustrated with this polyannish love affair with rail in this region to the exclusion of the simple realities of life and economics. The E and N is an archaic remnant that has no viable future.
I love trains and train travel, but I do not love it enough to beggar the government and force a rise in taxes. Rail is simply no longer a functional solution to any of the issues we are facing.
I am more bemused than upset by the use of herbicides on the line. I admit to use some round up against morning glory - though I am interested in non chemical solutions to this invasive weed but I do not have unlimited time to deal with the plant.
Chemicals, when used properly, are a legitimate avenue to deal with problems. However, in the case of the E and N, why do this when the line is not used by any of us in the region? No one is signing on to ride the trains as passengers and no businesses are pushing to use the freight aspect. Vancouver Islanders are voting against the E and N with their pocket books, we do not really want the line. So why bother maintaining something that has no value to use any longer?
I am getting more and more frustrated with this polyannish love affair with rail in this region to the exclusion of the simple realities of life and economics. The E and N is an archaic remnant that has no viable future.
I love trains and train travel, but I do not love it enough to beggar the government and force a rise in taxes. Rail is simply no longer a functional solution to any of the issues we are facing.
I am more bemused than upset by the use of herbicides on the line. I admit to use some round up against morning glory - though I am interested in non chemical solutions to this invasive weed but I do not have unlimited time to deal with the plant.
Chemicals, when used properly, are a legitimate avenue to deal with problems. However, in the case of the E and N, why do this when the line is not used by any of us in the region? No one is signing on to ride the trains as passengers and no businesses are pushing to use the freight aspect. Vancouver Islanders are voting against the E and N with their pocket books, we do not really want the line. So why bother maintaining something that has no value to use any longer?
Bad News on Amalgamation
I had hoped that a strong candidate would run for council in Oak Bay, Esquimalt and Saanich with the one goal of amalgamation. Seems that the linchpin needed for this to happen will not run for council this time around in his municipality.
Amalgamation is going to remain off the main radar of the campaigns in most areas this time around, hopefully something can be put together for 2011 that will change this.
Amalgamation is going to remain off the main radar of the campaigns in most areas this time around, hopefully something can be put together for 2011 that will change this.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Victoria News - Esquimalt mayor seeks re-election
Victoria News
Esquimalt mayor seeks re-election
By Rebecca Aldous - Victoria News
Published: July 18, 2008 11:00 AM
Updated: July 18, 2008 11:35 AM
Not only is Esquimalt Mayor Chris Clement putting his name in the hat for the 2008 mayoral race, but if elected he’s also aiming for the Capital Regional District’s top job.
The veteran politician, running in his eighth municipal election, said it’s important for Esquimalt to chair the CRD board, something the municipality has never done.
Last year, Clement lost the race for the CRD chairmanship to Langford councillor Denise Blackwell, but he’s confident he would win the appointment if re-elected to the political arena.
Clement serves on the CRD board, as well as the district’s core area liquid waste management, planning and protective services and finance and corporate services committees.
Back on Clement’s municipal turf, no newcomers have entered the mayoral race set between him and Coun. Barbara Desjardins.
Clement said he is going to stand on his record and the huge leaps forward Esquimalt has made toward becoming environmentally focused and sustainable.
“I think we are moving in the right direction,” he said.
Both candidates agreed major election topics will be how Esquimalt fits into the CRD’s sewage treatment plan and ongoing policing issues around the amalgamated Esquimalt and Victoria forces.
But Desjardins said it’s time for change.
If elected Desjardins promises to address issues in a quicker proactive manner. She wants to continue to ensure the public is included in municipal processes, such as the Esquimalt Village Project.
“All through the term I stood up for public input, public consultation and at times I feel we haven’t done enough of that,” said the first-term councillor.
The municipality relies too heavily on property and business taxes, she said, it needs to research alternative income, such as development cost charges.
Desjardins added she is proud to have voted in favour of keeping the Archie Browning Sport centre during her three-year term.
Both candidates welcome the inevitable shift in council as four seats are slated to be open this election. Anybody who runs for council wants to work for the good of the community, Clement said, the key is to check one’s personal issues at the door.
Desjardins hopes to see some younger people join the municipal race.
raldous@vicnews.com
Esquimalt mayor seeks re-election
By Rebecca Aldous - Victoria News
Published: July 18, 2008 11:00 AM
Updated: July 18, 2008 11:35 AM
Not only is Esquimalt Mayor Chris Clement putting his name in the hat for the 2008 mayoral race, but if elected he’s also aiming for the Capital Regional District’s top job.
The veteran politician, running in his eighth municipal election, said it’s important for Esquimalt to chair the CRD board, something the municipality has never done.
Last year, Clement lost the race for the CRD chairmanship to Langford councillor Denise Blackwell, but he’s confident he would win the appointment if re-elected to the political arena.
Clement serves on the CRD board, as well as the district’s core area liquid waste management, planning and protective services and finance and corporate services committees.
Back on Clement’s municipal turf, no newcomers have entered the mayoral race set between him and Coun. Barbara Desjardins.
Clement said he is going to stand on his record and the huge leaps forward Esquimalt has made toward becoming environmentally focused and sustainable.
“I think we are moving in the right direction,” he said.
Both candidates agreed major election topics will be how Esquimalt fits into the CRD’s sewage treatment plan and ongoing policing issues around the amalgamated Esquimalt and Victoria forces.
But Desjardins said it’s time for change.
If elected Desjardins promises to address issues in a quicker proactive manner. She wants to continue to ensure the public is included in municipal processes, such as the Esquimalt Village Project.
“All through the term I stood up for public input, public consultation and at times I feel we haven’t done enough of that,” said the first-term councillor.
The municipality relies too heavily on property and business taxes, she said, it needs to research alternative income, such as development cost charges.
Desjardins added she is proud to have voted in favour of keeping the Archie Browning Sport centre during her three-year term.
Both candidates welcome the inevitable shift in council as four seats are slated to be open this election. Anybody who runs for council wants to work for the good of the community, Clement said, the key is to check one’s personal issues at the door.
Desjardins hopes to see some younger people join the municipal race.
raldous@vicnews.com
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Community groups back police amalgamation
Another interesting article - though this only coming from groups in the city of Victoria and not from Oak Bay or Saanich where it needs to come from
_______________________________________________________________________
Victoria News
Community groups back police amalgamation
By Keith Vass - Victoria News
Published: July 15, 2008 10:00 AM
Victoria’s 11 neighbourhood associations are putting their support behind regional police amalgamation in the form of a letter to be sent to B.C. Solicitor General John Van Dongen.
The idea came up after an annual meeting between neighbourhood association leaders and the Victoria Police Board this spring.
John Weaver, a member of the Rockland Neighbourhood Association, volunteered to write a first draft, which was amended after being circulated once among the associations. A revised version should be sent to Van Dongen’s office this week after the final two signatures are received.
“We are paying police for a region of 350,000 where most of the crime is committed in the downtown area,” said Weaver.
“And as a result we pay more taxes and yet we don’t get the community policing as somewhere like Oak Bay gets, where they can rescue your cat from a tree and deal with a beach party.”
Downtown Residents’ Association chairman Robert Randall said the issue goes beyond making more officers available for downtown duty.
“I think the cheap solution is just more cops on the beat,” he said.
“I think if we really want to get a hold of some of these issues that are troubling us it’s more sophisticated than that, looking at things like undercover cops. I’m hearing they’re so much more efficient at getting criminals off the street than a beat cop is.”
Backing the letter’s principles wasn’t even a question for the Victoria West Community Association, when president JoAnn Youmans presented it at a recent meeting. The association endorsed signing it without any debate.
“There was some discussion around whether it would actually matter in the scheme of things whether this went forward, who’s going to listen to the community associations,” said Youmans.
James Bay Neighbourhood Association chairman Tim Van Alstine said he signed the letter before even taking it to a JBNA meeting, already convinced it reflected members’ beliefs.
Van Alstine wasn’t sure what effect the letter would have, but said the tax burden being carried by city residents is unsustainable and Victoria officers are facing mounting stress.
“It’s just another effort. Hopefully the Solicitor General will take up the courage to say (amalgamation) can happen.”
kvass@vicnews.com
_______________________________________________________________________
Victoria News
Community groups back police amalgamation
By Keith Vass - Victoria News
Published: July 15, 2008 10:00 AM
Victoria’s 11 neighbourhood associations are putting their support behind regional police amalgamation in the form of a letter to be sent to B.C. Solicitor General John Van Dongen.
The idea came up after an annual meeting between neighbourhood association leaders and the Victoria Police Board this spring.
John Weaver, a member of the Rockland Neighbourhood Association, volunteered to write a first draft, which was amended after being circulated once among the associations. A revised version should be sent to Van Dongen’s office this week after the final two signatures are received.
“We are paying police for a region of 350,000 where most of the crime is committed in the downtown area,” said Weaver.
“And as a result we pay more taxes and yet we don’t get the community policing as somewhere like Oak Bay gets, where they can rescue your cat from a tree and deal with a beach party.”
Downtown Residents’ Association chairman Robert Randall said the issue goes beyond making more officers available for downtown duty.
“I think the cheap solution is just more cops on the beat,” he said.
“I think if we really want to get a hold of some of these issues that are troubling us it’s more sophisticated than that, looking at things like undercover cops. I’m hearing they’re so much more efficient at getting criminals off the street than a beat cop is.”
Backing the letter’s principles wasn’t even a question for the Victoria West Community Association, when president JoAnn Youmans presented it at a recent meeting. The association endorsed signing it without any debate.
“There was some discussion around whether it would actually matter in the scheme of things whether this went forward, who’s going to listen to the community associations,” said Youmans.
James Bay Neighbourhood Association chairman Tim Van Alstine said he signed the letter before even taking it to a JBNA meeting, already convinced it reflected members’ beliefs.
Van Alstine wasn’t sure what effect the letter would have, but said the tax burden being carried by city residents is unsustainable and Victoria officers are facing mounting stress.
“It’s just another effort. Hopefully the Solicitor General will take up the courage to say (amalgamation) can happen.”
kvass@vicnews.com
NDP in favour of commuter rail to the Westshore
There is an article in the Goldstream News Gazette this week about the NDP supporting the development of commuter rail from the Westshore to downtown.
Here is my prediction, the NDP will come out against the idea when they figure out how fundamentally expensive it will be operate this line. The cost per year to operate a simple barebones system will cost a fortune per rider.
Realistically it is going to cost hundreds of millions to make the E and N line even possibly functional for use from Langford to downtown. As I have said before, the high capital costs involved are a problem, but not the main one that concerns me.
The big problem is the ongoing operating costs - I fail to see how it could be operated for less than $6 000 000 per year. This to move a total of only about 500 000 passenger trips in a year - though I suspect that would not be reached as the line does not actually go to where people work - the terminus at the Johnson street bridge is too far away from where the offices are downtown to attract riders.
Rail operations for the most basic service would take in 8% of BC Transit's local budget but only bring in about 2% of the revenue if you can achieve the 500 000 passenger trips (which I think is high). BC Transit would have to find four to five million from the existing system to run the trains. Either the province gives more money or buses get cut.
______________________________________________________________
NDP calls for renewed push on rail
By Amy Dove - Goldstream News Gazette
Published: July 15, 2008 1:00 PM
With new taxes on fuel now is the time to push for light rail on the south Island, says B.C. NDP leader Carole James.
The carbon tax, which saw fuel jump 2.4 cents a litre July 1, punishes individuals while doing nothing to combat large-scale emitters of greenhouse gases, James says. All carbon tax revenue will be returned to people in the form of reductions to income and business taxes. More directly, however, the tax impacts people filling their tanks and putting food on the table, she says.
Also doled out this month, the $100 climate action dividend cheque was an insult to many and provided little for those looking for alternative transportation, she says. People are looking for a way to get out of their cars and light rail transit is the most viable option, she says.
“The public was doing their part for climate change way before Gordon Campbell came to this,” she says. “The public is ready. The missing partner is the government.”
A fraction of the money doled out for the provincial government’s climate action dividend program could have paid for the necessary improvements to the E&N rail bed, notes John Horgan, MLA Malahat-Juan De Fuca. As it stands, a feasibility report commissioned by Communities For Commuter Rail (C4CR) stated the rail line could be brought up to working condition for $16 million and cost less than $2 million to operate.
C4CR is comprised of local politicians from View Royal, Langford, Colwood, Esquimalt, Victoria and Sooke. There are also representatives from BC Transit, Capital Regional District, Island Corridor Foundations and Southern Railway of Vancouver Island Limited.
The Ministry of Transportation didn’t take that report as adequate proof that the project should be funded however. The ministry won’t consider funding such a project without a proper business case, says spokesperson Jeff Knight.
“It has to be a full business case … that was not a full business case,” Knight says.
Local politicians aren’t giving up however. With municipal elections coming up it’s up to those running for office and residents hoping for rail transit to push the issue, James says.
Rail transit is an integral part of sustainable transit for the Island, Horgan adds, noting the provincial government doesn’t even seem to know the possibility is there.
reporter@goldstreamgazette.com
Here is my prediction, the NDP will come out against the idea when they figure out how fundamentally expensive it will be operate this line. The cost per year to operate a simple barebones system will cost a fortune per rider.
Realistically it is going to cost hundreds of millions to make the E and N line even possibly functional for use from Langford to downtown. As I have said before, the high capital costs involved are a problem, but not the main one that concerns me.
The big problem is the ongoing operating costs - I fail to see how it could be operated for less than $6 000 000 per year. This to move a total of only about 500 000 passenger trips in a year - though I suspect that would not be reached as the line does not actually go to where people work - the terminus at the Johnson street bridge is too far away from where the offices are downtown to attract riders.
Rail operations for the most basic service would take in 8% of BC Transit's local budget but only bring in about 2% of the revenue if you can achieve the 500 000 passenger trips (which I think is high). BC Transit would have to find four to five million from the existing system to run the trains. Either the province gives more money or buses get cut.
______________________________________________________________
NDP calls for renewed push on rail
By Amy Dove - Goldstream News Gazette
Published: July 15, 2008 1:00 PM
With new taxes on fuel now is the time to push for light rail on the south Island, says B.C. NDP leader Carole James.
The carbon tax, which saw fuel jump 2.4 cents a litre July 1, punishes individuals while doing nothing to combat large-scale emitters of greenhouse gases, James says. All carbon tax revenue will be returned to people in the form of reductions to income and business taxes. More directly, however, the tax impacts people filling their tanks and putting food on the table, she says.
Also doled out this month, the $100 climate action dividend cheque was an insult to many and provided little for those looking for alternative transportation, she says. People are looking for a way to get out of their cars and light rail transit is the most viable option, she says.
“The public was doing their part for climate change way before Gordon Campbell came to this,” she says. “The public is ready. The missing partner is the government.”
A fraction of the money doled out for the provincial government’s climate action dividend program could have paid for the necessary improvements to the E&N rail bed, notes John Horgan, MLA Malahat-Juan De Fuca. As it stands, a feasibility report commissioned by Communities For Commuter Rail (C4CR) stated the rail line could be brought up to working condition for $16 million and cost less than $2 million to operate.
C4CR is comprised of local politicians from View Royal, Langford, Colwood, Esquimalt, Victoria and Sooke. There are also representatives from BC Transit, Capital Regional District, Island Corridor Foundations and Southern Railway of Vancouver Island Limited.
The Ministry of Transportation didn’t take that report as adequate proof that the project should be funded however. The ministry won’t consider funding such a project without a proper business case, says spokesperson Jeff Knight.
“It has to be a full business case … that was not a full business case,” Knight says.
Local politicians aren’t giving up however. With municipal elections coming up it’s up to those running for office and residents hoping for rail transit to push the issue, James says.
Rail transit is an integral part of sustainable transit for the Island, Horgan adds, noting the provincial government doesn’t even seem to know the possibility is there.
reporter@goldstreamgazette.com
Larry Cross running for Sidney Mayor
Peninsula News Review
Larry Cross declares mayoral candidacy
By Laura Lavin - Peninsula News Review
Published: July 15, 2008 1:00 PM
Updated: July 16, 2008 1:27 PM
Larry Cross, coming to the end of his first term as Sidney councillor, has announced his intention to run for the Mayor’s seat this fall.
“The simple explanation is that people have asked me to,” said Cross, of his decision to run. “I decided a month and a half ago, but felt I wanted to get through the spring and commitments with several functions.”
Sidney Mayor Don Amos indicated he would not run again in the fall, on July 2.
“I have a huge respect for Don,” said Cross. “We don’t always agree on things, but I have a huge amount of respect for him … I have a lot of respect for him as a leader and as the mayor.”
Cross, along with the rest of council, and the mayor was acclaimed in Sidney in 2005. He has lived in the community since 1996; prior to that, he and his wife Dianne lived in North Saanich. “I’ve enjoyed it thoroughly,” he said of his first term as a politician. “I’ve learned that the municipal organization and structure is quite different from the school board and I’ve learned to appreciate the importance of the Official Community Plan and zoning bylaws for guidance. One thing I’d like to work on for the municipality is to shape a strategic plan for the town — where we’re going, what stage we are at. It’s important people have a filter, a moral social compass to go by.”
Cross grew up in Victoria and graduated from the University of Victoria with a Bachelor of Education. He followed that up with graduate studies in English literature at the University of BC.
He was a teacher in Fernie, Sooke and Saanich prior to taking a position as curriculum co-ordinator for the Saanich School District. Later he became the vice principal of Parkland secondary and principal at North Saanich middle school. He was also director of instruction for the Saanich School District, where he managed a budget of $38 million.
“I have a passion for the town,” said Cross. “This town is a very special town in my opinion. I’ve lived in other towns and visited many others. This one has a physical ambiance and vibrant attitude. Sidney has a very special main street that terminates in the gorgeous waterfront; not many town have that particular feature.”
Cross has been involved with the community on several different levels. As a member of the North Saanich Environmental Commission, the Friends of Pat Bay, chair of the Friends of the Sidney North Saanich Regional Library, chair of the Memorial Park Society and a member of the Mary Winspear Centre management committee to name a few.
“I’m concerned that the volunteers, in a sense, are tired. I’ve personally seen it in the Arts Council and in Peninsula Celebrations Society. Town leaders need to take an active role to ensure our volunteers feel supported in a positive way — not to take over — but to support the volunteers so that people are ready to step forward and participate in the leadership.
“I would like to see the volunteer committees brought together to talk, plan and look ahead. The Local Area Plan did the same sort of thing. I’d like to set up a meeting and invite community leaders from all sectors to talk about community issues. Get people to talk out of their silos. Somehow we’ve got to get people to look at the community in a broader sense, and how we as a community can get together and produce the synergy and energy that people together can do — there are all sorts of issues to deal with,” said Cross.
He says he wants to maintain and enhance the “special qualities” of Sidney and improve them with careful planning. “Concerning development, my concerns are larger than economic development, although that’s a key point. It involves the whole health of the community. We have to look after spiritual, aesthetic, physical, emotional health of our people and the town, we have to keep these things going.
“This is a real town. In Carmel and other American places, the main streets there are not real. They’re built for tourists with luxurious, high-end galleries and really touristy places, the life of the town is out in the mall. Sidney, on the other hand, is a real town with a hardware store, drug store, bakery, all the stuff people need to live; cafes and shops suited to the residents — people who live here.”
Cross is the second councillor to announce he will be running for the position of Mayor of Sidney; councillor Peter Wainwright announced he would be running for the position last March.
“I think I bring skills and a background that is different from Peter. People can look at both of us and make a decision,” Cross said.
editor@peninsulanewsreview.com
Larry Cross declares mayoral candidacy
By Laura Lavin - Peninsula News Review
Published: July 15, 2008 1:00 PM
Updated: July 16, 2008 1:27 PM
Larry Cross, coming to the end of his first term as Sidney councillor, has announced his intention to run for the Mayor’s seat this fall.
“The simple explanation is that people have asked me to,” said Cross, of his decision to run. “I decided a month and a half ago, but felt I wanted to get through the spring and commitments with several functions.”
Sidney Mayor Don Amos indicated he would not run again in the fall, on July 2.
“I have a huge respect for Don,” said Cross. “We don’t always agree on things, but I have a huge amount of respect for him … I have a lot of respect for him as a leader and as the mayor.”
Cross, along with the rest of council, and the mayor was acclaimed in Sidney in 2005. He has lived in the community since 1996; prior to that, he and his wife Dianne lived in North Saanich. “I’ve enjoyed it thoroughly,” he said of his first term as a politician. “I’ve learned that the municipal organization and structure is quite different from the school board and I’ve learned to appreciate the importance of the Official Community Plan and zoning bylaws for guidance. One thing I’d like to work on for the municipality is to shape a strategic plan for the town — where we’re going, what stage we are at. It’s important people have a filter, a moral social compass to go by.”
Cross grew up in Victoria and graduated from the University of Victoria with a Bachelor of Education. He followed that up with graduate studies in English literature at the University of BC.
He was a teacher in Fernie, Sooke and Saanich prior to taking a position as curriculum co-ordinator for the Saanich School District. Later he became the vice principal of Parkland secondary and principal at North Saanich middle school. He was also director of instruction for the Saanich School District, where he managed a budget of $38 million.
“I have a passion for the town,” said Cross. “This town is a very special town in my opinion. I’ve lived in other towns and visited many others. This one has a physical ambiance and vibrant attitude. Sidney has a very special main street that terminates in the gorgeous waterfront; not many town have that particular feature.”
Cross has been involved with the community on several different levels. As a member of the North Saanich Environmental Commission, the Friends of Pat Bay, chair of the Friends of the Sidney North Saanich Regional Library, chair of the Memorial Park Society and a member of the Mary Winspear Centre management committee to name a few.
“I’m concerned that the volunteers, in a sense, are tired. I’ve personally seen it in the Arts Council and in Peninsula Celebrations Society. Town leaders need to take an active role to ensure our volunteers feel supported in a positive way — not to take over — but to support the volunteers so that people are ready to step forward and participate in the leadership.
“I would like to see the volunteer committees brought together to talk, plan and look ahead. The Local Area Plan did the same sort of thing. I’d like to set up a meeting and invite community leaders from all sectors to talk about community issues. Get people to talk out of their silos. Somehow we’ve got to get people to look at the community in a broader sense, and how we as a community can get together and produce the synergy and energy that people together can do — there are all sorts of issues to deal with,” said Cross.
He says he wants to maintain and enhance the “special qualities” of Sidney and improve them with careful planning. “Concerning development, my concerns are larger than economic development, although that’s a key point. It involves the whole health of the community. We have to look after spiritual, aesthetic, physical, emotional health of our people and the town, we have to keep these things going.
“This is a real town. In Carmel and other American places, the main streets there are not real. They’re built for tourists with luxurious, high-end galleries and really touristy places, the life of the town is out in the mall. Sidney, on the other hand, is a real town with a hardware store, drug store, bakery, all the stuff people need to live; cafes and shops suited to the residents — people who live here.”
Cross is the second councillor to announce he will be running for the position of Mayor of Sidney; councillor Peter Wainwright announced he would be running for the position last March.
“I think I bring skills and a background that is different from Peter. People can look at both of us and make a decision,” Cross said.
editor@peninsulanewsreview.com
Victoria News on the Esquimalt Election
Big change expected on Esquimalt council
By Rebecca Aldous - Victoria News
Published: July 15, 2008 3:00 PM
Updated: July 15, 2008 3:30 PM
Half of the faces on Esquimalt municipal council will be new after this fall’s civic election.
With the untimely death of former councillor Basil Boulton late last year, the declaration of Coun. Barbara Desjardins as a mayoral candidate against Mayor Chris Clement and the bowing out of Coun. Jane Sterk and Hy Freedman, at least four of the six councillor seats are up for grabs.
Sterk is grateful for her term on council, but said it’s time to focus on her role as leader of the B.C. Green Party.
Sterk has been leader of the party since last October. She ran federally for the Green party in 2004 and provincially in 2005.
“I think I have gained a willingness to push buttons where I feel they need to be pushed,” she said of her time serving on Esquimalt council.
The position has opened her eyes to the realities of budgeting and the slow pace of government, Sterk said. The experience taught her how to get initiatives rolling and passed, she added.
Coun. Hy Freedman won’t be seeking a third term. After devoting six years to municipal politics, Freedman said it’s time to focus on his family and three new grandsons.
He is pleased with the work he was able to achieve while on council, which includes upgrade projects to Esquimalt Recreation Centre and Esquimalt and Craigflower roads.
Freedman was also instrumental in turning the Capital Region Emergency Service Telecommunications around. Freedman sat as chairman on the CREST board and helped implement multiple improvements to the radio system.
Coun. Lynda Hundleby will be seeking a third term. She said there are many projects she had a hand in starting that she wants to continue pushing through, such as the Esquimalt Village Project.
Esquimalt is facing an exciting time with important issues, like sewage treatment, she said.
Hundleby said she has enjoyed serving on the “yes” side of council this term when it comes to moving forward and hopes to offer her experience for three more years.
As council is sure to look different after the election, Hundleby said it is important for some continuity to remain at city hall.
Coun. Don Linge will also be seeking another term. The veteran councillor said there are many projects he would like to complete, too.
There is speculation that Esquimalt resident Ali Gaul will put her name in the election pool. Gaul is an active member of the Esquimalt Residents Association and a staunch supporter of saving Archie Browning Sports Centre.
Gaul expects to make a decision by the end of the month.
raldous@vicnews.com
By Rebecca Aldous - Victoria News
Published: July 15, 2008 3:00 PM
Updated: July 15, 2008 3:30 PM
Half of the faces on Esquimalt municipal council will be new after this fall’s civic election.
With the untimely death of former councillor Basil Boulton late last year, the declaration of Coun. Barbara Desjardins as a mayoral candidate against Mayor Chris Clement and the bowing out of Coun. Jane Sterk and Hy Freedman, at least four of the six councillor seats are up for grabs.
Sterk is grateful for her term on council, but said it’s time to focus on her role as leader of the B.C. Green Party.
Sterk has been leader of the party since last October. She ran federally for the Green party in 2004 and provincially in 2005.
“I think I have gained a willingness to push buttons where I feel they need to be pushed,” she said of her time serving on Esquimalt council.
The position has opened her eyes to the realities of budgeting and the slow pace of government, Sterk said. The experience taught her how to get initiatives rolling and passed, she added.
Coun. Hy Freedman won’t be seeking a third term. After devoting six years to municipal politics, Freedman said it’s time to focus on his family and three new grandsons.
He is pleased with the work he was able to achieve while on council, which includes upgrade projects to Esquimalt Recreation Centre and Esquimalt and Craigflower roads.
Freedman was also instrumental in turning the Capital Region Emergency Service Telecommunications around. Freedman sat as chairman on the CREST board and helped implement multiple improvements to the radio system.
Coun. Lynda Hundleby will be seeking a third term. She said there are many projects she had a hand in starting that she wants to continue pushing through, such as the Esquimalt Village Project.
Esquimalt is facing an exciting time with important issues, like sewage treatment, she said.
Hundleby said she has enjoyed serving on the “yes” side of council this term when it comes to moving forward and hopes to offer her experience for three more years.
As council is sure to look different after the election, Hundleby said it is important for some continuity to remain at city hall.
Coun. Don Linge will also be seeking another term. The veteran councillor said there are many projects he would like to complete, too.
There is speculation that Esquimalt resident Ali Gaul will put her name in the election pool. Gaul is an active member of the Esquimalt Residents Association and a staunch supporter of saving Archie Browning Sports Centre.
Gaul expects to make a decision by the end of the month.
raldous@vicnews.com
Jody Patterson for Mayor?
I am not thrilled by the choices for mayor of Victoria. I have been hoping to see Chris Coleman put his name forward for mayor, but he has said yes or no as of this time. If Chris runs, I will back Chris. The big loss if Chris Coleman runs for mayor is that we lose one the best councilors the city has seen.
I have been thinking about the idea of who would be a good person to have as mayor of Victoria since Alan Lowe announced he would not be running. I approached some people I thought would be good as mayor, but no one was very interested in the job. Today a name came to me - Jody Patterson.
Jody has the full set of skills needed for someone to be a good mayor. She is politically unattached to the left or right, she is pragmatic, she can work with people across the spectrum, she brings people together that are divided, she knows the issues of the city better than anyone I can think of, she can be tough when it is needed but has more compassion than most, and finally she is a very good communicator.
This is one post I am curious to see what the reaction will be.
I have been thinking about the idea of who would be a good person to have as mayor of Victoria since Alan Lowe announced he would not be running. I approached some people I thought would be good as mayor, but no one was very interested in the job. Today a name came to me - Jody Patterson.
Jody has the full set of skills needed for someone to be a good mayor. She is politically unattached to the left or right, she is pragmatic, she can work with people across the spectrum, she brings people together that are divided, she knows the issues of the city better than anyone I can think of, she can be tough when it is needed but has more compassion than most, and finally she is a very good communicator.
This is one post I am curious to see what the reaction will be.
City of Victoria Election
It is mid July and we have three confirmed vacancies on Victoria City Council. These three openings, and the self destruction of the VCE, means that we have a fairly open race for council.
In 2005 there were two open positions on council from the move of Denise Savoie to Ottawa and Rob Flemming in the legislature. Both of them were VCE councilors and the VCE should have been able to retain those two spots last time, but due to a very weak and lack luster campaign, the VCE did not retain their spots and went as far as to decline into death.
The one impact of the VCE in the 2005 election was that by running six candidates they sucked up a lot of votes. The majority of people in municipal elections vote a full complement and chose not to plump their ballot so with six candidates the VCE tied up a large block of votes. With only one person identifiable as VCE running for council in 2008 - Pam Madoff - there are a lot of votes being released for others to attract, especially anyone on the left or the Greens.
Along with the loss of the NDP farm team in Victoria(part of the larger decline and fall of the NDP across BC), there will only be a maximum of five incumbents running for office. This will free up even more votes. Helen Hughes and Bea Holland have a high name recognition and a following from across the spectrum.
2008 marks the most open election in a long time for the city of Victoria. This is the election to run if you want to get elected because it is not going to be this easy for a very, very long time if ever again.
If you are interested in getting elected, you need to put your name for this election.
As to those that ask me from time to time if I will run, the answer is no. I can not afford to sit on city council for the small amount of pay involved.
Getting elected in Victoria is all about some sort of name recognition in the absence of any party identifier on the ballot, this is why incumbents are almost impossible to defeat. I suspect the Greens will be the only party name on the ballot and I predict that the they will manage to elect 2 or 3 people council. A result like that should push the NDP to re-form locally and should push the business community to create an NPA equivalent here in Victoria.
In 2005 there were two open positions on council from the move of Denise Savoie to Ottawa and Rob Flemming in the legislature. Both of them were VCE councilors and the VCE should have been able to retain those two spots last time, but due to a very weak and lack luster campaign, the VCE did not retain their spots and went as far as to decline into death.
The one impact of the VCE in the 2005 election was that by running six candidates they sucked up a lot of votes. The majority of people in municipal elections vote a full complement and chose not to plump their ballot so with six candidates the VCE tied up a large block of votes. With only one person identifiable as VCE running for council in 2008 - Pam Madoff - there are a lot of votes being released for others to attract, especially anyone on the left or the Greens.
Along with the loss of the NDP farm team in Victoria(part of the larger decline and fall of the NDP across BC), there will only be a maximum of five incumbents running for office. This will free up even more votes. Helen Hughes and Bea Holland have a high name recognition and a following from across the spectrum.
2008 marks the most open election in a long time for the city of Victoria. This is the election to run if you want to get elected because it is not going to be this easy for a very, very long time if ever again.
If you are interested in getting elected, you need to put your name for this election.
As to those that ask me from time to time if I will run, the answer is no. I can not afford to sit on city council for the small amount of pay involved.
Getting elected in Victoria is all about some sort of name recognition in the absence of any party identifier on the ballot, this is why incumbents are almost impossible to defeat. I suspect the Greens will be the only party name on the ballot and I predict that the they will manage to elect 2 or 3 people council. A result like that should push the NDP to re-form locally and should push the business community to create an NPA equivalent here in Victoria.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
So who else will be running for mayor in Central Saanich?
I got an email of the Sean McNulty press release from his facebook today. Seems he has knocked on 1000 doors.
That is a reasonably impressive number of doors to have knocked on, and this early in the campaign. In theory this means he has reached about one sixth of the population. This guy is clearly going gung ho on the retail politics.
___________________________________________________
PRESS RELEASE - Sean McNulty’s Mayoral Campaign in Central Saanich knocks on the doors of over 100
To members of Sean McNulty for Mayor of Central Saanich
Sean McNulty’s quest to be the youngest Mayor in Canadian History hit a huge milestone on Friday, July 11th with the 1000th door knocked. Sean has committed to knocking on all 6000 houses in the district, a first for municipal politics.
“It’s been a fantastic, educational experience.” Sean said, “I recommend anyone who’s thinking of getting into municipal politics to get out there, knock on as many doors as possible and find out how you can best serve the shareholders of your municipality”.
Sean McNulty is part of operating two Central Saanich Family Businesses in Island View Golf Center, Five Star Paving and on the board of directors at the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. He has been interacting with both the city council and municipal employees since 2005.
“The first thing I noticed when I started going to council meetings was the adversarial attitude Mayor, Council and staff had with the people of Central Saanich” Sean reflects, “I believe Municipal Government ought to work with the people rather than against them and allow bottom up growth to happen within the community.”
Sean launched his campaign in November of 2007 and has been innovating on the political process as he goes. His website, www.seanfomayor.com, boasts 100% transparency, tells the voters in a straightforward fashion what he’s all about and responds to questions right in the public’s eye. The site also offers online video of his campaign platforms and accepts contributions via paypal.
“This campaign is about creating a platform that offers the people of Central Saanich a new direction! It is one that embraces creativity, innovation and individuality and makes a great place an even better place to live.”
That is a reasonably impressive number of doors to have knocked on, and this early in the campaign. In theory this means he has reached about one sixth of the population. This guy is clearly going gung ho on the retail politics.
___________________________________________________
PRESS RELEASE - Sean McNulty’s Mayoral Campaign in Central Saanich knocks on the doors of over 100
To members of Sean McNulty for Mayor of Central Saanich
Sean McNulty’s quest to be the youngest Mayor in Canadian History hit a huge milestone on Friday, July 11th with the 1000th door knocked. Sean has committed to knocking on all 6000 houses in the district, a first for municipal politics.
“It’s been a fantastic, educational experience.” Sean said, “I recommend anyone who’s thinking of getting into municipal politics to get out there, knock on as many doors as possible and find out how you can best serve the shareholders of your municipality”.
Sean McNulty is part of operating two Central Saanich Family Businesses in Island View Golf Center, Five Star Paving and on the board of directors at the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. He has been interacting with both the city council and municipal employees since 2005.
“The first thing I noticed when I started going to council meetings was the adversarial attitude Mayor, Council and staff had with the people of Central Saanich” Sean reflects, “I believe Municipal Government ought to work with the people rather than against them and allow bottom up growth to happen within the community.”
Sean launched his campaign in November of 2007 and has been innovating on the political process as he goes. His website, www.seanfomayor.com, boasts 100% transparency, tells the voters in a straightforward fashion what he’s all about and responds to questions right in the public’s eye. The site also offers online video of his campaign platforms and accepts contributions via paypal.
“This campaign is about creating a platform that offers the people of Central Saanich a new direction! It is one that embraces creativity, innovation and individuality and makes a great place an even better place to live.”
Best discussion forum in Victoria
One of the problems with the internet is that everywhere is available. Trying to find good local online communities is very difficult.
In Greater Victoria the best one I have found is Vibrant Victoria.
Given the sort of debate going on in the forums on this site, I am surprised that only a few people running for local office are taking part.
In Greater Victoria the best one I have found is Vibrant Victoria.
Given the sort of debate going on in the forums on this site, I am surprised that only a few people running for local office are taking part.
Saanich Civic League
It is close to a month since the Saanich Civic League held their meeting at the Grnad Pacific. What do we hear out there? Almost nothing.
I am ready to consider this group to be a non event for the 2008 election. It is too late to build an organization that will be able to have any functional impact on the election. Anything that emerges now can only been seen as a backdoor civic political party to support certain people running for Saanich Council.
I am ready to consider this group to be a non event for the 2008 election. It is too late to build an organization that will be able to have any functional impact on the election. Anything that emerges now can only been seen as a backdoor civic political party to support certain people running for Saanich Council.
Facebook Groups for Local Election
Facebook is the big thing of the moment, I am curious how well anyone is doing in making use of it. Age is an issue with facebook, the younger you are the more likely you are to be using facebook all the time.
In Kelowna Kevin Craig is running for city council and has a facebook group with 243 members. This guy is only 19 and realistically should have no chance of winning. What he does seem to be able to do is use his facebook network.
So how are people doing in Victoria? Badly
Lana Popham Saanich Council - 10 members - though the group was just started last week.
Dean Fortin for mayor - 85 members. Dean, like myself, is middle aged and can be excused because our generation does not get facebook.
Victoria Greens 51 members. The Greens, if they are too matter, should be doing much, much better than this. And one of the group members is me....
Simon Nattrass has nothing on facebook I could find
Judy Brownoff - Saanich Council - has just started a group
In Central Saanich, Sean McNulty - running for mayor - has a healthy 270 members in his facebook group.
I will update what I find on facebook that relates to the elections in the fall.
In Kelowna Kevin Craig is running for city council and has a facebook group with 243 members. This guy is only 19 and realistically should have no chance of winning. What he does seem to be able to do is use his facebook network.
So how are people doing in Victoria? Badly
Lana Popham Saanich Council - 10 members - though the group was just started last week.
Dean Fortin for mayor - 85 members. Dean, like myself, is middle aged and can be excused because our generation does not get facebook.
Victoria Greens 51 members. The Greens, if they are too matter, should be doing much, much better than this. And one of the group members is me....
Simon Nattrass has nothing on facebook I could find
Judy Brownoff - Saanich Council - has just started a group
In Central Saanich, Sean McNulty - running for mayor - has a healthy 270 members in his facebook group.
I will update what I find on facebook that relates to the elections in the fall.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Stroud declares for council
Back in the mid 1980s, I worked with Sue Stroud on issues related to funding higher education and peace issues. I have drifted to being a libertarian and Sue has remained clearly on the conventional left.
Sue has a strong passion for her community and will work hard as a councilor for Central Saanich.
Peninsula News Review
Stroud declares for council
By Christine van Reeuwyk - Peninsula News Review
Published: July 09, 2008 2:00 PM
Updated: July 09, 2008 2:04 PM
A familiar face in the gallery at Central Saanich council meetings has thrown her hat into the ring for the November municipal election. Sue Stroud, who ran for council during the election in 2005, began her official pitch for a position as councillor with advertising in early March. Residents may also recognize her as a regular at Monday night meetings.
“I want to try to understand what’s going on,” said Stroud. “I think it would be a bit odd not to go to council meetings and run for council.”
She knows there would be a learning curve, should her bid for council be successful, but is willing to invest the time.
“If you have time to give you should give it,” Stroud said, noting she has no children to take up her time. “If I’m going to sit around and make comments, I should put my money where my mouth is. Also I think I’m a good ideas person.”
In the way that communities tend to pull together in the face of tragedy, her hope is to see the community pull together around less obvious concerns, such as environment and housing.
“We just need to talk a lot more, meet a lot more and listen a lot more,” Stroud said.
Everybody loves going green these days, she said, but that may mean sacrifices; for example she’d like to see no drive-through’s in the municipality.
“Luckily we do have only one,” she said.
Lobbying for better transit and to get cars off the road are a priority for Stroud. [As a member of the BCGEU, she has helped support the soft-plastics recycling recently implemented in Central Saanich and Wild Arc.]
“I think it’s important for people in the union to see people in the community doing things,” she said. Central Saanich resident John Creviston is the administrator for the wild animal rehabilitation branch of the BC SPCA and McTavish elementary students and staff were the impetus for the soft plastics recycling.
Stroud, who works with BC Housing, sees affordable housing in the district as another challenge. She sees missed opportunities with recent developments not being forced to implement affordable housing. “Other communities are doing that,” she said. “It’s a simple as saying in the OCP that 10 per cent of every new development is affordable housing.”
She clarified that affordable would mean low purchase price and smaller mortgage over longer period with procedures in place to allow a family to sell the property as they move on for a small increase — while not enabling “flipping” for huge profit.
“That gives all those young families a place to start,” she said. “That’s the biggest thing that’s missing.”
As well, she’d like to see more subsidized housing.
“We’ve just totally abandoned single parent families and low income families and not just [in] Central Saanich,” she said.
Stroud, who is also the secretary for the local ratepayers association — a position she will give up during the June AGM — would like to see more community meetings with one-on-one interaction with residents.
“Things where they don’t all sit in a line at the front,” she said. “I just think the council should be a place where people feel welcomed. I’d almost like to have the mayor say that every Monday night, ‘Welcome and thank you for coming’.”
Stroud attends a community gathering each Friday night at 7 p.m. at JJ’s coffee shop in Brentwood Bay.
“We’ve talked about everything under the sun and some things that come up at council and lots of things that don’t,” she said. “It’s to get people talking and having ideas.”
Her vision includes better promotion of meetings, citing a large sign in Langford that she saw, inviting residents to discuss the OCP.
“When people don’t know things are going on they think you’re trying to trick them,” she said. That kind of signage may not get more people coming out to comment necessarily, she added, but at least people would trust that the council is doing a good job.
Another concept she likes, is to increase the community events such as extending Brentwood Festival — including shutting down streets — and perhaps moving Music in the Park to various sites throughout the municipality, like Polo Park. Those can go hand in hand with earlier assertions, seeking to get the municipality to go more green by encouraging people to attend events, including the Saanich Fair, by bus.
“We just have to think a little differently I think,” she said. “We manage to do that when there’s a crisis.”
Stroud hosts a blog at centralsaanichnewsviews.blogspot.com.
On Woodwynn
Stroud is a fan of the plan for a therapeutic community at Woodwynn Farm.
“I think it’s unfortunate there seems to be some fear about it and some misinformation,” she said. As an example she said she’s heard people say the farm should go organic, which is what the Richard LeBlanc, CEO of the Creating Homefulness Society has said they plan to do.
“I personally think it’s a wonderful use for that farm,” Stroud said. The existing buildings, she said, should be sufficient for the plan.
Plus those residing on the farm would be “passing through,” she said. “Over time you would need it less because this is part of a process to put an end to homelessness.”
She intends to contribute her $100 carbon tax rebate to Creating Homefulness.
reporter@peninsulanewsreview.com
Sue has a strong passion for her community and will work hard as a councilor for Central Saanich.
Peninsula News Review
Stroud declares for council
By Christine van Reeuwyk - Peninsula News Review
Published: July 09, 2008 2:00 PM
Updated: July 09, 2008 2:04 PM
A familiar face in the gallery at Central Saanich council meetings has thrown her hat into the ring for the November municipal election. Sue Stroud, who ran for council during the election in 2005, began her official pitch for a position as councillor with advertising in early March. Residents may also recognize her as a regular at Monday night meetings.
“I want to try to understand what’s going on,” said Stroud. “I think it would be a bit odd not to go to council meetings and run for council.”
She knows there would be a learning curve, should her bid for council be successful, but is willing to invest the time.
“If you have time to give you should give it,” Stroud said, noting she has no children to take up her time. “If I’m going to sit around and make comments, I should put my money where my mouth is. Also I think I’m a good ideas person.”
In the way that communities tend to pull together in the face of tragedy, her hope is to see the community pull together around less obvious concerns, such as environment and housing.
“We just need to talk a lot more, meet a lot more and listen a lot more,” Stroud said.
Everybody loves going green these days, she said, but that may mean sacrifices; for example she’d like to see no drive-through’s in the municipality.
“Luckily we do have only one,” she said.
Lobbying for better transit and to get cars off the road are a priority for Stroud. [As a member of the BCGEU, she has helped support the soft-plastics recycling recently implemented in Central Saanich and Wild Arc.]
“I think it’s important for people in the union to see people in the community doing things,” she said. Central Saanich resident John Creviston is the administrator for the wild animal rehabilitation branch of the BC SPCA and McTavish elementary students and staff were the impetus for the soft plastics recycling.
Stroud, who works with BC Housing, sees affordable housing in the district as another challenge. She sees missed opportunities with recent developments not being forced to implement affordable housing. “Other communities are doing that,” she said. “It’s a simple as saying in the OCP that 10 per cent of every new development is affordable housing.”
She clarified that affordable would mean low purchase price and smaller mortgage over longer period with procedures in place to allow a family to sell the property as they move on for a small increase — while not enabling “flipping” for huge profit.
“That gives all those young families a place to start,” she said. “That’s the biggest thing that’s missing.”
As well, she’d like to see more subsidized housing.
“We’ve just totally abandoned single parent families and low income families and not just [in] Central Saanich,” she said.
Stroud, who is also the secretary for the local ratepayers association — a position she will give up during the June AGM — would like to see more community meetings with one-on-one interaction with residents.
“Things where they don’t all sit in a line at the front,” she said. “I just think the council should be a place where people feel welcomed. I’d almost like to have the mayor say that every Monday night, ‘Welcome and thank you for coming’.”
Stroud attends a community gathering each Friday night at 7 p.m. at JJ’s coffee shop in Brentwood Bay.
“We’ve talked about everything under the sun and some things that come up at council and lots of things that don’t,” she said. “It’s to get people talking and having ideas.”
Her vision includes better promotion of meetings, citing a large sign in Langford that she saw, inviting residents to discuss the OCP.
“When people don’t know things are going on they think you’re trying to trick them,” she said. That kind of signage may not get more people coming out to comment necessarily, she added, but at least people would trust that the council is doing a good job.
Another concept she likes, is to increase the community events such as extending Brentwood Festival — including shutting down streets — and perhaps moving Music in the Park to various sites throughout the municipality, like Polo Park. Those can go hand in hand with earlier assertions, seeking to get the municipality to go more green by encouraging people to attend events, including the Saanich Fair, by bus.
“We just have to think a little differently I think,” she said. “We manage to do that when there’s a crisis.”
Stroud hosts a blog at centralsaanichnewsviews.blogspot.com.
On Woodwynn
Stroud is a fan of the plan for a therapeutic community at Woodwynn Farm.
“I think it’s unfortunate there seems to be some fear about it and some misinformation,” she said. As an example she said she’s heard people say the farm should go organic, which is what the Richard LeBlanc, CEO of the Creating Homefulness Society has said they plan to do.
“I personally think it’s a wonderful use for that farm,” Stroud said. The existing buildings, she said, should be sufficient for the plan.
Plus those residing on the farm would be “passing through,” she said. “Over time you would need it less because this is part of a process to put an end to homelessness.”
She intends to contribute her $100 carbon tax rebate to Creating Homefulness.
reporter@peninsulanewsreview.com
Former Metchosin councillor tosses hat into electoral race again
Goldstream News Gazette
Former Metchosin councillor tosses hat into electoral race again
By Charla Huber - Goldstream News Gazette
Published: July 10, 2008 1:00 PM
Updated: July 10, 2008 5:31 PM
Former Metchosin councillor Ed Cooper is joining the roster of Metchosin residents keen to get back on council.
First elected to council in 2002, Cooper was the chair of highways and public works committee for three years and if re-elected he would like to regain that responsibility and hopefully hire a roads co-ordinator for the District.
“I liked being on council and getting things done, on budget and on time,” Cooper said. “My No. 1 concern is money. (Council) has to be prudent with someone else’s money.”
Other than dealing with the roads Cooper said he is supportive of secondary suites and “totally opposed” to amalgamating Metchosin and East Sooke.
“When things get bigger, there are more responsibilities and more responsibilities cost more money,” Cooper said.
Cooper ran for re-election in 2005 and was defeated, but not discouraged. Immediately after that election he decided to run again.
“I have been door knocking everyday,” Cooper said. “I discuss all kinds of things with people from amalgamation, secondary suites and the current council.”
Cooper’s door-knocking campaign is not always a solo one. On Mondays he is accompanied by Karen Watson, who is running for mayor.
The pair were on council together from 2002-2005 and Cooper is hoping he can serve Metchosin residents alongside Watson again.
“I think she was a good mayor and her last time on council she didn’t have the support she needed from her council,” Cooper said.
“She is honest and up front and tough but fair.”
Since January Cooper has been driving around the West Shore in his white pickup truck proudly displaying his election sign Elect Ed J. Cooper for Metchosin Council.
Metchosin has been home to Cooper for the past 50 years. He raised his five children in the community and ran his business, Sooke Hills Smoke Chips, for 25 years. He provided smoker chips and barbecue wood chips in Canada, th U.S. and as far away as Japan.
Cooper sold the business two years ago. Now retired he is ready to devote his time to the residents of Metchosin, he said.
“I think Metchosin is a great place and I don’t want to see it change.”
news@goldstreamgazette.com
Former Metchosin councillor tosses hat into electoral race again
By Charla Huber - Goldstream News Gazette
Published: July 10, 2008 1:00 PM
Updated: July 10, 2008 5:31 PM
Former Metchosin councillor Ed Cooper is joining the roster of Metchosin residents keen to get back on council.
First elected to council in 2002, Cooper was the chair of highways and public works committee for three years and if re-elected he would like to regain that responsibility and hopefully hire a roads co-ordinator for the District.
“I liked being on council and getting things done, on budget and on time,” Cooper said. “My No. 1 concern is money. (Council) has to be prudent with someone else’s money.”
Other than dealing with the roads Cooper said he is supportive of secondary suites and “totally opposed” to amalgamating Metchosin and East Sooke.
“When things get bigger, there are more responsibilities and more responsibilities cost more money,” Cooper said.
Cooper ran for re-election in 2005 and was defeated, but not discouraged. Immediately after that election he decided to run again.
“I have been door knocking everyday,” Cooper said. “I discuss all kinds of things with people from amalgamation, secondary suites and the current council.”
Cooper’s door-knocking campaign is not always a solo one. On Mondays he is accompanied by Karen Watson, who is running for mayor.
The pair were on council together from 2002-2005 and Cooper is hoping he can serve Metchosin residents alongside Watson again.
“I think she was a good mayor and her last time on council she didn’t have the support she needed from her council,” Cooper said.
“She is honest and up front and tough but fair.”
Since January Cooper has been driving around the West Shore in his white pickup truck proudly displaying his election sign Elect Ed J. Cooper for Metchosin Council.
Metchosin has been home to Cooper for the past 50 years. He raised his five children in the community and ran his business, Sooke Hills Smoke Chips, for 25 years. He provided smoker chips and barbecue wood chips in Canada, th U.S. and as far away as Japan.
Cooper sold the business two years ago. Now retired he is ready to devote his time to the residents of Metchosin, he said.
“I think Metchosin is a great place and I don’t want to see it change.”
news@goldstreamgazette.com
Friday, July 11, 2008
Bea Holland not running
So now there are three confirmed vacancies on Victoria City Council in the up coming election. This makes for a very wide open election for new people to run and get elected to the council.
But where are the people who might want to get elected to Victoria City Council? I have not heard about a lot of people willing to run for office and have a serious campaigns in an attempt to get elected.
Not having the VCE for this election is looking like an even dumber move on the part of the local New Democrats than previously thought. Frankly the VCE would have been well placed to take all three vacant slots on council.
I am expecting to see the Greens run three people for council this time around, Sonya Chandler, Phillipe Lucas and one more.
I expect to see Denise Burrows and Shannon Renault make runs again for council. I heard Denise on CFAX the other day and she sounded like she was gearing up to run. Both of them have reasonable odds of getting elected this time.
This being July, I do not expect to have much happen with respect to people announcing they are running for office.
But where are the people who might want to get elected to Victoria City Council? I have not heard about a lot of people willing to run for office and have a serious campaigns in an attempt to get elected.
Not having the VCE for this election is looking like an even dumber move on the part of the local New Democrats than previously thought. Frankly the VCE would have been well placed to take all three vacant slots on council.
I am expecting to see the Greens run three people for council this time around, Sonya Chandler, Phillipe Lucas and one more.
I expect to see Denise Burrows and Shannon Renault make runs again for council. I heard Denise on CFAX the other day and she sounded like she was gearing up to run. Both of them have reasonable odds of getting elected this time.
This being July, I do not expect to have much happen with respect to people announcing they are running for office.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
2006 Chevrolet Optra for sale
Hello everyone reading this, I am hoping you know of someone that might be interest in buying our car.
Price $10500
Description
32000 km on this Optra 5 hatchback. Burgundy red in colour. Manual 5 speed. 2.0 litre engine.
With the birth of Max and need to buy something bigger so we have to sell our Optra. If it were not for that we would not be selling as it it is a good car. And no, I can not hold onto to it until Daniel starts to drive.
Interior space is more than a Matrix, but the price is much, much lower.
Fuel economy is good, about 600 km per 50 litre tank.
Warranty still good till November of 2009.
GM sells a lot of this car in Australia and Asia but has dropped in Canada to focus on smaller more expensive models.
Your chance to get into a lot of car for not a lot of money.
email me at bernard@shama.ca or call us at 250-298-7501
Price $10500
Description
32000 km on this Optra 5 hatchback. Burgundy red in colour. Manual 5 speed. 2.0 litre engine.
With the birth of Max and need to buy something bigger so we have to sell our Optra. If it were not for that we would not be selling as it it is a good car. And no, I can not hold onto to it until Daniel starts to drive.
Interior space is more than a Matrix, but the price is much, much lower.
Fuel economy is good, about 600 km per 50 litre tank.
Warranty still good till November of 2009.
GM sells a lot of this car in Australia and Asia but has dropped in Canada to focus on smaller more expensive models.
Your chance to get into a lot of car for not a lot of money.
email me at bernard@shama.ca or call us at 250-298-7501
Monday, July 07, 2008
Good Editorial in Today's T-C
We are just four months away from the local elections and people who are serious have to be building their campaign and teams now. The TC had this good editorial on it today. All I hope is that they make more effort to cover to the local elections than what they have done in the past.
Decision time for candidates Times Colonist Published: Monday, July 07, 2008
If you woke up this morning with the notion that you should run for a spot on a municipal council or school board this fall, take a deep breath and think again. Time is running out. For some, it might already be too late.
Yes, the municipal elections are still more than four months away, but that is not as much time as you might think. We raise this issue because so far, not many new people have stepped forward to fill the seats that will be up for grabs on Nov. 15. Holding back is not a good idea; the people who declare themselves to be candidates early will have more time to market themselves to voters.
Running for council is not something that should be done on a whim. To be a successful candidate, a person needs to have name recognition, because voters are not likely to pick a name that is not familiar to them.
Of course, it takes more than just being well-known to be able to make decisions about the future of a municipality. If recognition is the only thing that matters, Pamela Anderson could win a mayor's chair in a flash.
To be qualified for a spot on council, a person should have a strong background in the community and a keen interest in civic or education matters. A basic understanding of the workings of local government, as well as experience on local boards or advisory committees, would be an asset.
If that sounds like a job description, so be it. Think of the voters as a hiring committee and determine how to convince them that you are the best person for the job.
A vision -- some idea of what you would want to accomplish if elected -- would help. You should be able to explain your agenda as you go from door to door looking for support.
All-candidates forums will be vital, and you would need to promote and defend your views in front of a few dozen people. If you are not prepared, a forum could be a stressful, humiliating experience. (And if it's any consolation, it is always worse for the incumbents.)
Many people who decide to run for an elected office don't have a chance. They might have the knowledge required and a keen desire to make things better, but they haven't done the homework needed to make themselves electable. Some of these people would make excellent councillors or trustees, but the failure to win a seat the first time out turns them away from the dream.
The best choice for some would be to look to the next election, not this one, and use the three extra years to build a foundation for an election victory.
So if you're interested in running for a council seat but have not started working on it yet, you might consider running in 2011 instead of 2008.
If you're committed to making a bid for office this year, what's keeping you? The sooner you start your campaign, the sooner the voters will know who you are.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Don Amos not Running in Sidney
Since 1996 Don Amos has been mayor of Sidney, but he is not running again. This leaves the position wide open.
Helen Hughes not running
Helen Hughes is not going to run for re-election to Victoria City Council. This means there will be two open spots on city council and a good chance for people wanting to get elected to council to actually succeed.
Stan Sipos Enters the Race in Victoria
Developer Stan Sipos has said he is running for mayor of Victoria. He has done some nice developments in town, but I honestly know nothing about him. I like his statement about wanting to make this city one of the world's bets, but I still do not know enough.
The questions I have for him are:
1) What experience does he have to be serving as mayor?
2) Can he afford the cut in pay to be mayor?
3) Since he lives in Oak Bay, why not run for Oak Bay council and push to get Oak Bay amalgamated into Victoria ASAP?
4) Where is his website?
5) Who is going to work with him to put his platform together?
As I find out more, I will report more on his campaign.
The questions I have for him are:
1) What experience does he have to be serving as mayor?
2) Can he afford the cut in pay to be mayor?
3) Since he lives in Oak Bay, why not run for Oak Bay council and push to get Oak Bay amalgamated into Victoria ASAP?
4) Where is his website?
5) Who is going to work with him to put his platform together?
As I find out more, I will report more on his campaign.
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