Thanks Jack Layton for making Canada just a little bit kinder.
TRIBUTE TO JACK LAYTON
Whether you agreed or not with his politics, you must admit that Jack Layton was a class act to the end of his life. He leaves a legacy of unbelievable energy, dedication and courage as a person and as a politician. He restored integrity and honesty to politics and had that "common touch" when it came to reaching out to Canadians from all walks of life. He was a scholar too who brought to the national stage issues of poverty and homelessness.
HOW SMART ARE SMART METERS?
I spent an hour and a half yesterday with two spokespersons, one of whom is North Saanich resident Donna Robinson. She and her colleagues are advocating against BC Hydro's new Smart Meters. They will be making a presentation to our August 22 Council meeting and I urge you to attend to hear them.
They raise a variety of issues of which we should be aware about the installation and use of these meters and, more importantly, about the lack of public input and debate on the merits of this BC Hydro initiative and the meters' potential for invasion of privacy. I have to admit that before my meeting with them, I did not know a lot about these meters, other than I understand that they are purported by Hydro to be, among other things, a cost-savings to the Corporation and to streamline power consumption and billing processes. But are they a cost savings for customers?
The Tyee online newspaper is also carrying a story on the skinny behind Smart Meters which is informative but also controversial. I urge you to visit their website for another take on this issue (you will find their website on the right hand side of this blog).
As you may know, pursuant to provisions of the Community Charter, local governments are responsible for safeguarding community health. Mrs. Robinson and her colleagues are presenting to all municipal governments in the CRD, urging that they send letters to the Province requesting a moratorium on installation until more is known about Smart Meters and their impacts on human health and privacy.
SUPPORT FOR THE CRD AND REGIONAL GROWTH STRATEGY
It's clear that since Ted Daly's comment in the August 2, 2011 edition of the Times Colonist (TC) criticizing in part the Capital Regional District Board (CRD) and Regional Growth Strategy (RGS), other writers have responded in the TC as I did, arguing their support for the Board's role in providing oversight to regional land use planning through the RGS. Protecting rural, agricultural and green spaces from urban sprawl is fundamental to the Strategy, to regional planning and, in my view, reflects the majority opinion of elected municipal politicians who currently sit at the CRD Board table. And, now, sustainability, both locally and regionally, is on the lips of citizens, planning experts, environmental groups and many of us elected to public office who believe in a regional planning model.
The sustainability conversation for me begs some of the following questions: In the face of growth and demographics, how do we conserve and expand the resources we have such as water, energy and local food? How do we protect and enhance green spaces to address issues of climate change and accessible recreation? How do we undertake transportation planning to move workers to jobs and people to services? How do we address the tax burden and shrinking municipal revenues against needs to fund upgrades to infrastructure?
Instead of questioning the role of the CRD Board and Regional Growth Strategy, how about supporting a regional model that continues to bring everyone together to find answers to some of these questions, for the benefit of the region and the people who live here?
COMBINED MEETINGS FOR JULY 18, 2011
Committee of the Whole Meeting:
- The meeting opened with CRD Corporate Services General Manager D. Lokken who gave a brief presentation to Council on 2011 requisitions and invoices for North Saanich and provided a detailed spreadsheet for all CRD municipalities that I found helpful. It is noteworthy that of all three Saanich Peninsula municipalities, North Saanich pays the least amount to CREST (a good thing) which may have something to do with the voluntary nature of our emergency services, however, I will follow this up with Chief Gary Wilton.
- A bylaw for cost recovery for illegal grow-ops was approved, making it possible for the municipality to recover its administrative costs when required to respond to local authorities and deal with health and safety issues where an illegal operation is reported.
- A detailed proposed work plan to support and implement the Whole Agricultural Strategy was approved and referred to the Agricultural Advisory Commission for comments.
- Staff and Agricultural Advisory Commission amendments to the existing signage bylaw were approved to make it easier for local growers and farmers to advertise and market using signage. It was noted that the existing bylaw was restrictive and limited what local farms and growers could do about signage to attract custom to their location or farm.
Council Meeting:
- Council approved a future presentation of the CRD's Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan (PCMP) which provides an opportunity to explain the Plan in some detail.
- In response to two provincial organizations that sent letters to municipalities throughout the province calling for an end to MSP premiums for seniors, Council agreed to reply to the letters by sharing with the writers similar AVICC resolutions approved at the annual convention this past April. It is worth noting that BC appears to be one of the only provinces in Canada that requires MSP premiums.
- A project that demonstrates the importance of our relationship with the Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) was highlighted when the Heritage Advisory Commission submitted a request to Council to approve a $16,000 budget to complete the Hospital Hill heritage site restoration. The best part is that the VAA will pick up the entire tab for this project as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting local improvements. Congratulations to the Heritage Advisory Commission and to North Saanich planning staff for such a great collaboration and a huge THANK YOU to the VAA.
- Councilor Browne gave a report on CREST, during which he underscored his concerns about what he believes are high costs to North Saanich for being part of this service. I couldn't agree more, given that many of us for years have been concerned about the cost of CREST and its service delivery challenges.
- Council approved the appointment of North Saanich Manager of Corporate Services Curt Kingsley as Chief Election Officer and CAO Rob Buchan and Admin. Secretary Jackie Gretchen as Deputy Chief Election Officers, positions to be served during the November municipal general election.
- A lengthy debate followed a staff report that recommended approval of a development permit application for a waterfront property on Madrona Drive. I supported the staff recommendation, as did most of Council, however, Councilor Chandler had difficulty and concerns with what he believed were zoning issues involving a proposed set of stairs leading from the foreshore. The Mayor eventually suggested separating the motion into two parts, leaving the issue of the stairway to be addressed on its own. This would enable the applicants to proceed with most of the work on re-developing the property. As well, it was noted that the stairway will require approval from the Province of BC, adding oversight to any possible impacts on the foreshore. I also believe that the applicants demonstrated due diligence and completed a lot of preliminary professional work on the property before bringing the application forward. The entire application was finally approved in two motions and staff agreed to confirm zoning details.
NOTE: The next meeting(s) is Monday, August 22, 2011 at 7:00 P.M. Enjoy the summer, if I can call it that.
Regional Growth Strategy
... CAN WE LIVE UP TO ITS VALUES?
I read with great interest the Times-Colonist article by reporter Kim Westad about the CRD Board's recent decision to support Saanich Councilor Vic Derman's motion to re-examine a variety of development projects in Central Saanich, suggesting that recent Council land use decisions may contravene the provisions of the Regional Growth Strategy. As you know, I have always supported the Strategy, believing that it is one of the few tools we have to contain urban sprawl from creeping into rural and agricultural lands. In my opinion, the Strategy has helped, among other things, to protect rural communities such as North Saanich from ad hoc, shortsighted land use that demonstrates little regard for long term negative impacts on such factors as costs to taxpayers of providing more services, more resources and more infrastructure to support urban-style development.
I have heard the arguments time and again from those who want more development and less land use oversight -- "...development will increase our tax base, provide "affordable" housing and improve local economies..." "...it's not our business to meddle in the affairs of other municipalities or communities..." "the Strategy threatens property rights..." and so on. In response, I can only say that in my experience, wherever there has been large scale development that is either unplanned or poorly planned, individual residential property taxes have not necessarily decreased, adequate "affordable" housing has, more often than not, failed to materialize and improvement to local economies has been difficult to quantify. If all the arguments to support unchecked large scale development lined up, then I must ask why residential property taxes on average are higher in communities where development has been a primary driver?
Regional sustainability should concern all of us, whether we happen to live in Metchosin, North Saanich or Victoria. I believe that without a framework such as the Strategy, protection of our natural resources and green/blue spaces, transportation, climate change, local agriculture, food security and other quality of life issues and needs become much more difficult to manage and address. Whether you agree or disagree with Councilor Derman's motion and the decision of the CRD Board, it is evident to me that ad hoc land use planning on a regional basis poses challenges for all of us living here; nor do land use decisions and their implications necessarily respect municipal boundaries -- our communities simply do not exist in isolation of one another. Just ask North Saanich residents living on the municipal border next door to the proposed Vantreight development.
Whatever the outcome for Central Saanich, let's hope that the Regional Growth Strategy and its values can prevail -- after all, our future depends on it.
I read with great interest the Times-Colonist article by reporter Kim Westad about the CRD Board's recent decision to support Saanich Councilor Vic Derman's motion to re-examine a variety of development projects in Central Saanich, suggesting that recent Council land use decisions may contravene the provisions of the Regional Growth Strategy. As you know, I have always supported the Strategy, believing that it is one of the few tools we have to contain urban sprawl from creeping into rural and agricultural lands. In my opinion, the Strategy has helped, among other things, to protect rural communities such as North Saanich from ad hoc, shortsighted land use that demonstrates little regard for long term negative impacts on such factors as costs to taxpayers of providing more services, more resources and more infrastructure to support urban-style development.
I have heard the arguments time and again from those who want more development and less land use oversight -- "...development will increase our tax base, provide "affordable" housing and improve local economies..." "...it's not our business to meddle in the affairs of other municipalities or communities..." "the Strategy threatens property rights..." and so on. In response, I can only say that in my experience, wherever there has been large scale development that is either unplanned or poorly planned, individual residential property taxes have not necessarily decreased, adequate "affordable" housing has, more often than not, failed to materialize and improvement to local economies has been difficult to quantify. If all the arguments to support unchecked large scale development lined up, then I must ask why residential property taxes on average are higher in communities where development has been a primary driver?
Regional sustainability should concern all of us, whether we happen to live in Metchosin, North Saanich or Victoria. I believe that without a framework such as the Strategy, protection of our natural resources and green/blue spaces, transportation, climate change, local agriculture, food security and other quality of life issues and needs become much more difficult to manage and address. Whether you agree or disagree with Councilor Derman's motion and the decision of the CRD Board, it is evident to me that ad hoc land use planning on a regional basis poses challenges for all of us living here; nor do land use decisions and their implications necessarily respect municipal boundaries -- our communities simply do not exist in isolation of one another. Just ask North Saanich residents living on the municipal border next door to the proposed Vantreight development.
Whatever the outcome for Central Saanich, let's hope that the Regional Growth Strategy and its values can prevail -- after all, our future depends on it.
Sandown Property - Public Engagement Meeting
SMALL COMMUNITY STANDS TO MAKE HUGE CONTRIBUTION
If the North Saanich community chooses to embrace the idea of the current Sandown application and proposal, we stand to make a significant contribution to the Region with the acquisition of the Sandown property. Our first public Town Hall meeting saw about 100 people attend to hear about the latest application and proposal for the property. Moderated by Chief Administrative Officer Rob Buchan and Mayor Alice Finall, the meeting included Council members who listened with the public to a presentation that laid out the general proposal. That proposal would see about 83 acres preserved for agricultural use and gifted to the North Saanich community by the current owners, a Vancouver-based family. This is the first proposal of its kind in North Saanich history and if it succeeds, could be a model to boost regional food security and enhance local farming.
Of course there were the usual nay-sayers at the meeting but, in general, what I heard was an audience majority who seemed to support the concept (some even congratulated us on our innovation), provided a clear and detailed business plan is developed that addresses issues of cost to taxpayers of environmentally remediating the property, servicing the commercial aspects of the proposal (12 acres on McDonald Park Rd.), dealing with drainage and water and assessing long term benefits of additional tax revenue to the Municipality. My notes from audience questions include the following:
• Should the current owner be given commercial zoning?
• What will be the cost of fire and other services to the property?
• How will you define "farming use?"
• What are the staff costs to the District of working on this proposal?
• Should the municipality be engaged in "land development?"
• What are the costs of cleaning up the property and demolishing existing buildings?
• What happens if the cost of maintaining the property exceeds commercial tax revenue?
• Who would own the land? (12 acres would be owned by current owner and District of North Saanich would own 83 acres of ALR)
• What is the business plan for this proposal?
• What about affordable housing on the site? (Agricultural Land Commission regulations prohibit housing developments on ALR)
• Will there be a tax increase for North Saanich residents?
• Will there be further public consultation? (Absolutely)
• What are the revenue, terms and length of two existing leases on Sandown property? (Great Canadian Gaming Corporation and a cell tower)
• Should this go to referendum in the next Municipal general election?
In the end, I believe North Saanich and the current owner of the property could be on the brink of seizing a precedent-setting opportunity to establish a public legacy that could make a positive and ever-lasting difference to agricultural land use locally, across the Saanich Peninsula and in the Region. Once the Municipality has completed its due diligence, I just hope that the majority of North Saanich residents agrees.
My thanks to everyone who took the time to attend and participate in the meeting.
If the North Saanich community chooses to embrace the idea of the current Sandown application and proposal, we stand to make a significant contribution to the Region with the acquisition of the Sandown property. Our first public Town Hall meeting saw about 100 people attend to hear about the latest application and proposal for the property. Moderated by Chief Administrative Officer Rob Buchan and Mayor Alice Finall, the meeting included Council members who listened with the public to a presentation that laid out the general proposal. That proposal would see about 83 acres preserved for agricultural use and gifted to the North Saanich community by the current owners, a Vancouver-based family. This is the first proposal of its kind in North Saanich history and if it succeeds, could be a model to boost regional food security and enhance local farming.
Of course there were the usual nay-sayers at the meeting but, in general, what I heard was an audience majority who seemed to support the concept (some even congratulated us on our innovation), provided a clear and detailed business plan is developed that addresses issues of cost to taxpayers of environmentally remediating the property, servicing the commercial aspects of the proposal (12 acres on McDonald Park Rd.), dealing with drainage and water and assessing long term benefits of additional tax revenue to the Municipality. My notes from audience questions include the following:
• Should the current owner be given commercial zoning?
• What will be the cost of fire and other services to the property?
• How will you define "farming use?"
• What are the staff costs to the District of working on this proposal?
• Should the municipality be engaged in "land development?"
• What are the costs of cleaning up the property and demolishing existing buildings?
• What happens if the cost of maintaining the property exceeds commercial tax revenue?
• Who would own the land? (12 acres would be owned by current owner and District of North Saanich would own 83 acres of ALR)
• What is the business plan for this proposal?
• What about affordable housing on the site? (Agricultural Land Commission regulations prohibit housing developments on ALR)
• Will there be a tax increase for North Saanich residents?
• Will there be further public consultation? (Absolutely)
• What are the revenue, terms and length of two existing leases on Sandown property? (Great Canadian Gaming Corporation and a cell tower)
• Should this go to referendum in the next Municipal general election?
In the end, I believe North Saanich and the current owner of the property could be on the brink of seizing a precedent-setting opportunity to establish a public legacy that could make a positive and ever-lasting difference to agricultural land use locally, across the Saanich Peninsula and in the Region. Once the Municipality has completed its due diligence, I just hope that the majority of North Saanich residents agrees.
My thanks to everyone who took the time to attend and participate in the meeting.
Webcasting Comes to NS Council
STAYING CONNECTED IN NORTH SAANICH
Thanks to Times Colonist reporter Kim Westad for the terrific front page coverage in Sunday's edition, headlining our new web casting project. As you know, this is a ground breaker for North Saanich as the only local government doing this in the CRD. My only regret is that we could not find a local service provider for the technology, forcing us to go outside the local business community. I am hopeful therefore that a local Island-based tech company will recognize a niche market for this service and pick up the challenge to provide the technology at a competitive price to local governments in the region.
We have been talking about this initiative for a long time, first entertaining the idea early last year. We recognized that we needed to better connect residents to local government and reach those who do not attend meetings due to time pressures and other factors. The Mayor also remembered the valuable public service Shaw Cable provided during the 1990s when meetings were carried live on the local cable channel. But once Shaw Cable abandoned this market, there were few options available to small communities like ours, until now. Although initially cost prohibitive, our IT Director John Carnell continued to explore the market until he found the provider that had a track record with other small communities and could best serve our needs at a reasonable and competitive cost.
As they say, the rest is history. We launch the service on May 2 and on May 3, you will be able to download video, audio or both, as well as clicking to specific agenda items in the event you don't want everything -- the site is conveniently indexed to make it easier for residents to listen to or watch a discussion on a particular topic of interest. So, we hope it is a big hit with residents over the next year during the trial period. My thanks goes to IT Director John Carnell and his staff as well as to Lisa Coburn for helping to make all of this possible. Lights, camera, action!
Thanks to Times Colonist reporter Kim Westad for the terrific front page coverage in Sunday's edition, headlining our new web casting project. As you know, this is a ground breaker for North Saanich as the only local government doing this in the CRD. My only regret is that we could not find a local service provider for the technology, forcing us to go outside the local business community. I am hopeful therefore that a local Island-based tech company will recognize a niche market for this service and pick up the challenge to provide the technology at a competitive price to local governments in the region.
We have been talking about this initiative for a long time, first entertaining the idea early last year. We recognized that we needed to better connect residents to local government and reach those who do not attend meetings due to time pressures and other factors. The Mayor also remembered the valuable public service Shaw Cable provided during the 1990s when meetings were carried live on the local cable channel. But once Shaw Cable abandoned this market, there were few options available to small communities like ours, until now. Although initially cost prohibitive, our IT Director John Carnell continued to explore the market until he found the provider that had a track record with other small communities and could best serve our needs at a reasonable and competitive cost.
As they say, the rest is history. We launch the service on May 2 and on May 3, you will be able to download video, audio or both, as well as clicking to specific agenda items in the event you don't want everything -- the site is conveniently indexed to make it easier for residents to listen to or watch a discussion on a particular topic of interest. So, we hope it is a big hit with residents over the next year during the trial period. My thanks goes to IT Director John Carnell and his staff as well as to Lisa Coburn for helping to make all of this possible. Lights, camera, action!
March 24, 2011 Editorial - Take Big Money Out of Politics
The following is my letter to the T/C Editor regarding campaign spending in politics and municipal elections:
RE: March 24, 2011 Editorial - Take Big Money Out of Politics
Your editorial on campaign spending in politics and municipal elections is timely and I couldn't agree more. I made one of the 131 submissions last year to the provincial Elections Reform Committee, calling for municipal campaign spending/donation limits and greater public oversight by Elections BC. Good people to whom I refer as "grass roots candidates" who simply want to serve their community in local government, may be discouraged to get involved if running an expensive campaign is the key measure of success at the polls. Access to our political system should be open to everyone.
The level of campaign funding should not determine the level of election support. But some municipal election campaigns in recent years have been more about expensive marketing strategies than about the candidate's real skills, ability and genuine desire to serve. And the higher the political stakes, the greater the amount of money available to candidates it seems, given that the primary role of local governments is making decisions about land use. And with land values on the South Island some of the highest in the country, there is often keen interest in the outcome of local elections by those who may have the most to gain.
But one of the greatest weapons against the influence of big money in politics is a well informed voter. It is vitally important for voters to prepare for the next election by attending local Council meetings, talking or meeting with local candidates one-on-one or in group settings, joining or starting up a community association; whatever it takes to critically assess candidates and their campaigns beyond big signs and glossy brochures. Voters need to know details about a candidate's background, experience and commitment to public service and to the community. Local media also have an important role to play in providing the public with responsible, objective and well researched story material on local issues and local candidates.
Apart from tightening up campaign funding rules and bringing greater public scrutiny to the election process through legislation, the next best thing to safeguarding our democratic system is an aware and informed voting public because it's true, information is power.
RE: March 24, 2011 Editorial - Take Big Money Out of Politics
Your editorial on campaign spending in politics and municipal elections is timely and I couldn't agree more. I made one of the 131 submissions last year to the provincial Elections Reform Committee, calling for municipal campaign spending/donation limits and greater public oversight by Elections BC. Good people to whom I refer as "grass roots candidates" who simply want to serve their community in local government, may be discouraged to get involved if running an expensive campaign is the key measure of success at the polls. Access to our political system should be open to everyone.
The level of campaign funding should not determine the level of election support. But some municipal election campaigns in recent years have been more about expensive marketing strategies than about the candidate's real skills, ability and genuine desire to serve. And the higher the political stakes, the greater the amount of money available to candidates it seems, given that the primary role of local governments is making decisions about land use. And with land values on the South Island some of the highest in the country, there is often keen interest in the outcome of local elections by those who may have the most to gain.
But one of the greatest weapons against the influence of big money in politics is a well informed voter. It is vitally important for voters to prepare for the next election by attending local Council meetings, talking or meeting with local candidates one-on-one or in group settings, joining or starting up a community association; whatever it takes to critically assess candidates and their campaigns beyond big signs and glossy brochures. Voters need to know details about a candidate's background, experience and commitment to public service and to the community. Local media also have an important role to play in providing the public with responsible, objective and well researched story material on local issues and local candidates.
Apart from tightening up campaign funding rules and bringing greater public scrutiny to the election process through legislation, the next best thing to safeguarding our democratic system is an aware and informed voting public because it's true, information is power.
Housing Affordability in the Capital Region
HOUSING AFFORDABILITY A BIGGER DISCUSSION
Please visit the following Times Colonist link to read a very good editorial on housing affordability across the Capital Region. It goes right back to my earlier comments about how challenging this problem is, a problem that is definitely regional and not unique to North Saanich. The message in the editorial is also clear -- there are a variety of factors that contribute to housing affordability, not the least of which is employment status and current salary to mortgage ratios. The editorial supports my views about how challenging and complex the issue is and that looking solely to local governments to provide solutions is not realistic. I understand that the TC will do another article(s) on possible solutions to housing affordability in this region so please watch for it: http://www.timescolonist.com/business/Editorial+Cost+housing+hurting+region/4454728/story.html
Please visit the following Times Colonist link to read a very good editorial on housing affordability across the Capital Region. It goes right back to my earlier comments about how challenging this problem is, a problem that is definitely regional and not unique to North Saanich. The message in the editorial is also clear -- there are a variety of factors that contribute to housing affordability, not the least of which is employment status and current salary to mortgage ratios. The editorial supports my views about how challenging and complex the issue is and that looking solely to local governments to provide solutions is not realistic. I understand that the TC will do another article(s) on possible solutions to housing affordability in this region so please watch for it: http://www.timescolonist.com/business/Editorial+Cost+housing+hurting+region/4454728/story.html
Be Prepared Now More Than Ever!
I encourage you to learn more about what you can do to prepare at home for an emergency. Our Fire Chief Gary Wilton is part of a regional emergency planning process and his office can provide more details about just what you can do in the event of a similar disaster. One of the most important items is to pack an emergency kit (I have used a large tupperware container) and keep it where you will be able to access it quickly. The kit can contain such items as:
water
canned and dried food
prescription medications if applicable
food and supplies for infants and children if applicable
food and supplies for pets, if applicable
extra clothing and shoes, including coats/jackets
wind up radio and flashlight
blankets/sleeping bags
crowbar (for removing debris)
matches/batteries
first aid kit
There are other items too that can be life-saving during a natural disaster and you can decide on what other special items should be included in your kit. Check the kit every few months to ensure that water and food items remain current.
I encourage you to also have a plan for loved ones if they do not live with you at home. How will you contact one another, where will you gather and what will you need for a few days if services and communications are otherwise severed? Local, regional and provincial governments have emergency planning in place and North Saanich is part of that network. I encourage you to learn more by contacting the District at 250-656-0781.
water
canned and dried food
prescription medications if applicable
food and supplies for infants and children if applicable
food and supplies for pets, if applicable
extra clothing and shoes, including coats/jackets
wind up radio and flashlight
blankets/sleeping bags
crowbar (for removing debris)
matches/batteries
first aid kit
There are other items too that can be life-saving during a natural disaster and you can decide on what other special items should be included in your kit. Check the kit every few months to ensure that water and food items remain current.
I encourage you to also have a plan for loved ones if they do not live with you at home. How will you contact one another, where will you gather and what will you need for a few days if services and communications are otherwise severed? Local, regional and provincial governments have emergency planning in place and North Saanich is part of that network. I encourage you to learn more by contacting the District at 250-656-0781.
More on Food Security
Canada's Food Insecurity
Vancouver Sun journalist Stephen Hume asks the right question when he puts it to politicians: "What exactly is Canada's and British Columbia's strategic plan for domestic food security?" Another variation on the same serious theme -- how will we feed ourselves when the availability of global and world food supplies is shrinking? Check out his column at this link,
http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Opinion+Politicians+need+combat+Canada+food+insecurity/4400361/story.html
Vancouver Sun journalist Stephen Hume asks the right question when he puts it to politicians: "What exactly is Canada's and British Columbia's strategic plan for domestic food security?" Another variation on the same serious theme -- how will we feed ourselves when the availability of global and world food supplies is shrinking? Check out his column at this link,
http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Opinion+Politicians+need+combat+Canada+food+insecurity/4400361/story.html
Food News
FOOD FORESHADOWED
What we have been warned about for years by environmentalists, scientists, climatologists and the farming community, that world food supplies are at risk from global events beyond our control, is fast becoming our new reality. Ever increasing population growth and demand in India and China, regional and civil unrest in the Middle East and weather catastrophes in fertile areas around the world, to name just a few, are forces negatively affecting global food supplies. We are also told that these events should be a wake-up call for us in the West.
Even here, recent media announcements are alerting us to imminent price increases of up to 5% in Greater Victoria and other Vancouver Island communities that include dairy products, fresh produce, baked goods, fuel and transportation (the last two have projected increases beyond 5%). These price increases again underscore how problematic it is that we depend so much on outside food sources that require transportation to and from the Island.
Given these recent events, I can't help but see an irony, that local governments such as ours in North Saanich, led by a Mayor and Council majority who made local food and agriculture priorities when we were first elected nearly three years ago, have been criticized or even ridiculed in some circles for our focus on agriculture. I have heard us described as "simplistic" in our approach to local land use, that we are attempting to resurrect an industry that has long since seen its heyday (no pun intended). Yes, I have listened to the critics and skeptics, especially those who seem to believe that food security is when the local grocery store stays open past 6:00 p.m.
Well, I strongly disagree with these nay-sayers, especially given recent food and agricultural movements across North America and public sentiment that reflect a growing concern about food security. As I have mentioned before, of Canadians surveyed last year, nearly 82% cited local food security as their greatest concern overall. So I am proud to be part of this Mayor and Council majority's work that continues to lobby for a thriving, secure and local food supply in North Saanich, on the Peninsula and across the region.
Our recipe for success is threefold -- making agriculture economically viable, raising the profile of local growers/producers and creating a supportive environment for farming and marketing -- a complex and daunting task but one that we cannot afford to ignore.
And while the efforts to date of some local and regional governments may sometimes feel like a drop in the bucket to the local farmer or grower, as a member of North Saanich Council, I am particularly proud of what we have achieved so far, including agricultural area planning and development of a cutting edge draft whole agricultural strategy.
Of course none of these initiatives would be possible without community involvement, the dedication and commitment of local volunteers, engagement by farmers and growers, as well as direct support from North Saanich Municipal staff such as CAO Rob Buchan and many others who provide policy expertise and hands-on help when we host local agricultural workshops and events.
I am also grateful to the work of local, Peninsula and regional organizations and groups, all of whom believe, more than ever before, that growing food close to home is more than just an option -- it is becoming a necessity. But we still have a lot to do and while we cannot solve all the problems related to local agriculture in just three years, together with our community, we can establish policy and practices at the municipal level that will continue to support one of the most important values of all -- the ability of communities like ours to eventually feed themselves.
Stay tuned.
NOTE ON FEBRUARY 28 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING:
Due to illness, I was unable to attend the February 28th Committee of the Whole meeting so I am unable to provide highlights. Please consult the District of North Saanich website for a copy of the meeting minutes which will summarize the Committee of the Whole and Budget meetings for February 28th.
What we have been warned about for years by environmentalists, scientists, climatologists and the farming community, that world food supplies are at risk from global events beyond our control, is fast becoming our new reality. Ever increasing population growth and demand in India and China, regional and civil unrest in the Middle East and weather catastrophes in fertile areas around the world, to name just a few, are forces negatively affecting global food supplies. We are also told that these events should be a wake-up call for us in the West.
Even here, recent media announcements are alerting us to imminent price increases of up to 5% in Greater Victoria and other Vancouver Island communities that include dairy products, fresh produce, baked goods, fuel and transportation (the last two have projected increases beyond 5%). These price increases again underscore how problematic it is that we depend so much on outside food sources that require transportation to and from the Island.
Given these recent events, I can't help but see an irony, that local governments such as ours in North Saanich, led by a Mayor and Council majority who made local food and agriculture priorities when we were first elected nearly three years ago, have been criticized or even ridiculed in some circles for our focus on agriculture. I have heard us described as "simplistic" in our approach to local land use, that we are attempting to resurrect an industry that has long since seen its heyday (no pun intended). Yes, I have listened to the critics and skeptics, especially those who seem to believe that food security is when the local grocery store stays open past 6:00 p.m.
Well, I strongly disagree with these nay-sayers, especially given recent food and agricultural movements across North America and public sentiment that reflect a growing concern about food security. As I have mentioned before, of Canadians surveyed last year, nearly 82% cited local food security as their greatest concern overall. So I am proud to be part of this Mayor and Council majority's work that continues to lobby for a thriving, secure and local food supply in North Saanich, on the Peninsula and across the region.
Our recipe for success is threefold -- making agriculture economically viable, raising the profile of local growers/producers and creating a supportive environment for farming and marketing -- a complex and daunting task but one that we cannot afford to ignore.
And while the efforts to date of some local and regional governments may sometimes feel like a drop in the bucket to the local farmer or grower, as a member of North Saanich Council, I am particularly proud of what we have achieved so far, including agricultural area planning and development of a cutting edge draft whole agricultural strategy.
Of course none of these initiatives would be possible without community involvement, the dedication and commitment of local volunteers, engagement by farmers and growers, as well as direct support from North Saanich Municipal staff such as CAO Rob Buchan and many others who provide policy expertise and hands-on help when we host local agricultural workshops and events.
I am also grateful to the work of local, Peninsula and regional organizations and groups, all of whom believe, more than ever before, that growing food close to home is more than just an option -- it is becoming a necessity. But we still have a lot to do and while we cannot solve all the problems related to local agriculture in just three years, together with our community, we can establish policy and practices at the municipal level that will continue to support one of the most important values of all -- the ability of communities like ours to eventually feed themselves.
Stay tuned.
NOTE ON FEBRUARY 28 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING:
Due to illness, I was unable to attend the February 28th Committee of the Whole meeting so I am unable to provide highlights. Please consult the District of North Saanich website for a copy of the meeting minutes which will summarize the Committee of the Whole and Budget meetings for February 28th.
Councilor Commandeur's Take on Budget Process
Visit Councilor Ruby Commandeur's Website for Her Take on the 2011 Budget Process
Councilor Ruby Commandeur has prepared and posted another "Wise Up Report" dedicated to the current budget process and how property taxes are calculated. As you know, North Saanich Council and staff are currently engaged in budget deliberations for 2011, an important process that happens every year at this time. Please visit her website at: http://rubyc.ca/html/facts-and-fiction.html
The Case for Web-Casting Council Meetings
MY VIEW
I am fully supportive of Council's latest decision to proceed with a proposal for a one-year trial to web-cast all Council meetings. I would have supported this initiative years ago but learned that costs to do so for small municipalities were prohibitive. Until now. So I am very pleased that the District of North Saanich plans to launch this important service this spring.
Why do I believe that this is an important service? Here are some reasons for improved communication with residents:
• Adequate ongoing communication with local residents about how Mayor and Council conduct the public's business during Council meetings is always a challenge for local governments and North Saanich is no different. Apart from our standard agenda package, District website, quarterly newsletter and audio recording, it is difficult if not sometimes impossible, for Council members and staff to reach the public on a weekly basis, especially to those who may never attend regular Council meetings, which is the vast majority.
The small percentage of residents who regularly attend Council meetings is understandable, given that the meetings themselves are not relevant to everyone. I have observed that the majority of those who more regularly attend meetings do so out of general interest, as representatives of a community organization/association, out of concern about a specific issue or topic, because of a public hearing or other bylaw issue, or because they have a land use application that requires Council approval. And sometimes, meetings can be tedious, particularly when the discussion is focused on technical, legal or operational matters. So a communications strategy that effectively reaches a majority of residents, such as web-casting, is a positive step and can only boost public awareness, knowledge and understanding of local government and how it works.
• "A picture is worth a thousand words." Web-casting is a unique method of communicating with the public, bringing greater accountability to local government, especially for elected officials related to attitudes, behaviour and decision-making.
There is to my knowledge no filter on web-casted Council proceedings -- what you see is what you get. Yes, what happens at North Saanich Council meetings is currently reported in a variety of ways, such as through staff minutes, the local press, the District website, those who attend and individuals such as me who use social media and take the time to write and report on issues and subjects deliberated during meetings. But each of these methods is susceptible to interpretation by whomever the individual is who takes the minutes, reports for the local press, manages the website, attends a meeting or writes a blog. A web-cast, on the other hand, is reality, a form of "raw footage" where the only thing left to interpretation will be how each of us assesses and processes what we have seen and heard.
• Information about Council proceedings should be timely, relevant and available to the public at all times.
Council and Committee of the Whole meetings are always open to the public (including North Saanich Commission/Committee meetings), unless topics are designated "in camera." Web-casting Council and Committee of the Whole meetings provides another venue for the public to quickly access information about decisions, issues and topics that are of interest or relevant to them, at a place and time convenient to them. I believe that information fails to "inform" if it is not current or easily accessible -- when the public's ability to access information is limited, then their ability to participate in their local government is also limited. Remember, "information is power" and the best thing that we, as elected officials can do with power and information, is to share them with the people and communities who elect us.
I am fully supportive of Council's latest decision to proceed with a proposal for a one-year trial to web-cast all Council meetings. I would have supported this initiative years ago but learned that costs to do so for small municipalities were prohibitive. Until now. So I am very pleased that the District of North Saanich plans to launch this important service this spring.
Why do I believe that this is an important service? Here are some reasons for improved communication with residents:
• Adequate ongoing communication with local residents about how Mayor and Council conduct the public's business during Council meetings is always a challenge for local governments and North Saanich is no different. Apart from our standard agenda package, District website, quarterly newsletter and audio recording, it is difficult if not sometimes impossible, for Council members and staff to reach the public on a weekly basis, especially to those who may never attend regular Council meetings, which is the vast majority.
The small percentage of residents who regularly attend Council meetings is understandable, given that the meetings themselves are not relevant to everyone. I have observed that the majority of those who more regularly attend meetings do so out of general interest, as representatives of a community organization/association, out of concern about a specific issue or topic, because of a public hearing or other bylaw issue, or because they have a land use application that requires Council approval. And sometimes, meetings can be tedious, particularly when the discussion is focused on technical, legal or operational matters. So a communications strategy that effectively reaches a majority of residents, such as web-casting, is a positive step and can only boost public awareness, knowledge and understanding of local government and how it works.
• "A picture is worth a thousand words." Web-casting is a unique method of communicating with the public, bringing greater accountability to local government, especially for elected officials related to attitudes, behaviour and decision-making.
There is to my knowledge no filter on web-casted Council proceedings -- what you see is what you get. Yes, what happens at North Saanich Council meetings is currently reported in a variety of ways, such as through staff minutes, the local press, the District website, those who attend and individuals such as me who use social media and take the time to write and report on issues and subjects deliberated during meetings. But each of these methods is susceptible to interpretation by whomever the individual is who takes the minutes, reports for the local press, manages the website, attends a meeting or writes a blog. A web-cast, on the other hand, is reality, a form of "raw footage" where the only thing left to interpretation will be how each of us assesses and processes what we have seen and heard.
• Information about Council proceedings should be timely, relevant and available to the public at all times.
Council and Committee of the Whole meetings are always open to the public (including North Saanich Commission/Committee meetings), unless topics are designated "in camera." Web-casting Council and Committee of the Whole meetings provides another venue for the public to quickly access information about decisions, issues and topics that are of interest or relevant to them, at a place and time convenient to them. I believe that information fails to "inform" if it is not current or easily accessible -- when the public's ability to access information is limited, then their ability to participate in their local government is also limited. Remember, "information is power" and the best thing that we, as elected officials can do with power and information, is to share them with the people and communities who elect us.
COMMITTEE/COMMISSION ASSIGNMENTS FOR 2011
Mayor Alice Finall finalized in December, 2010 Council Liaison positions for this new year 2011. These appointments are reviewed by the Mayor at the end of every calendar year. Sometimes, changes are made after consultation with Council members, however, the Mayor has full discretion to make appointments with a view to balance the needs of the municipality, our CRD partners and stakeholders and, finally, individual Council members.
New this Council term has been the request for Council Liaisons to make regular reports to Council about each of the Commissions/Committees they serve. Such reporting, instituted by Mayor Finall at the beginning of the term, provides greater accountability, improves communication and provides important information to North Saanich residents and taxpayers.
My 2011 appointments are as follows:
- Mayor's Alternate Director on the CRD Board
- North Saanich Appointee - Greater Victoria Labour Relations Association (GVLRA)
- Mayor's Alternate to the Peninsula Recreation Commission
- Alternate First Nations Liaison
- Liaison to the Peninsula Agricultural Commission (PAC)
- Liaison to the Regional Housing Trust Fund Commission (RHTF)
- Liaison to North Saanich's Heritage Advisory Commission (HAC)
- Liaison to the Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)
- Liaison to the North Saanich Heritage Advisory Commission
I look forward, on behalf of North Saanich, to continue working with local volunteers and regional colleagues involved in each of these groups. This work helps to broaden our knowledge and perspective about the significance of North Saanich's participation and place in local and regional issues and initiatives. If you have any questions about any of these responsibilities or bodies, please feel free to contact me.
Farmland Threatened
FARMLAND THREATENED
To further illustrate the importance of agriculture in British Columbia, not just on the Saanich Peninsula, I thought you might find the following article by the Tyee of interest. In my view, shared by so many others, this is once again a significant consideration for all jurisdictions as concerned as North Saanich is, about the future of food and its link to community health. http://thetyee.ca/News/2010/11/26/FarmlandsBrink/?utm_source=mondayheadlines&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=291110
Canadian Farmland At Risk
Canadian Farmland at Risk of Being Ploughed Under
In a recent article in the October 19, 2010 edition of Ontario Farmer, written by Canadian agrologist, farm columnist and director of Canada's largest credit union Wendy Holm, she warns about realities facing the Canadian farmer and farming worldwide. Ms. Holm suggests in her article that by mid-century, the world population will grow to about 9 billion from today's 6.9 billion, at a time when the world continues to consume more than it produces (grain reserves for instance were at 111 days just 10 years ago and are now at 54 days). She goes on to say that the World Bank foresees world demand for food increasing by 50 per cent by 2030 and that grain producers will have to double their outputs in the next 40 years to keep up with beef demands by higher income consumers (China now consumes 4 times more beef than it did just 25 years ago).
What is even more alarming, according to Holm's article, is that these increases are occurring when the global ratio of arable land per person has dropped by half since the 1970s, the demand for bio-fuel has tripled and we consume 4% more water than we replenish. So, asks Holm, where will our food come from and according to her information, large investors are looking at food as the "new plastic." She says that the "game plan" on the part of these global investors is that once they control our fertile farmland, they control the future. Holm cites a survey by the World Bank that "reports 45 million hectares of large-scale holdings changed hands in 2009, compared with an average of 4 million hectares changing hands between 1998 and 2008." And, says Holm, "this is only the beginning." She suggests that if Canadians want to retain control of their own food production, then we must find a way to support and invest in our farmers. Holm argues that "farm lenders in Canada should be working together" to help Canadian farmers survive against serious challenges.
The following demographic is the purchaser or investor profile as described in Holm's article:
"In California, foreign buyers are from Spain, Switzerland, China, Egypt and Iran and they also have their sights set on the U.S. Midwest, Texas, Mississippi, Idaho and the Dakotas."
"Hundreds of millions of hectares are being bought in sub-Saharan Africa, Central and Latin America and Eastern Europe, by foreign interests from the Gulf States, China, Japan, South Korea and Western Europe."
More recently, Holm suggests, foreign investment in farmland is also focused on "two other countries that have good infrastructure, government, farmland and relatively low land prices: Canada and Australia." Holm believes that "in two to three years, when interest rates rise, many carrying heavy debt loads will exit the sector. Left standing will be the foreign investors." Finally, Ms. Holm concludes, "There are structural changes occurring in Canada's farm sector. We need to work together to find ways to reduce the impact on farmers and food security, not attack each other in a turf war that no one can win." Innovative partnerships and collaboration, not competition among Canadian lenders, are the keys to the future in farm lending, Ms. Holm says, and can lead to new relationships that can help protect Canada's food security, farmland and farming communities.
To read this article in full and to get more information and news about farming in Canada, please visit ontariofarmer.com
In a recent article in the October 19, 2010 edition of Ontario Farmer, written by Canadian agrologist, farm columnist and director of Canada's largest credit union Wendy Holm, she warns about realities facing the Canadian farmer and farming worldwide. Ms. Holm suggests in her article that by mid-century, the world population will grow to about 9 billion from today's 6.9 billion, at a time when the world continues to consume more than it produces (grain reserves for instance were at 111 days just 10 years ago and are now at 54 days). She goes on to say that the World Bank foresees world demand for food increasing by 50 per cent by 2030 and that grain producers will have to double their outputs in the next 40 years to keep up with beef demands by higher income consumers (China now consumes 4 times more beef than it did just 25 years ago).
What is even more alarming, according to Holm's article, is that these increases are occurring when the global ratio of arable land per person has dropped by half since the 1970s, the demand for bio-fuel has tripled and we consume 4% more water than we replenish. So, asks Holm, where will our food come from and according to her information, large investors are looking at food as the "new plastic." She says that the "game plan" on the part of these global investors is that once they control our fertile farmland, they control the future. Holm cites a survey by the World Bank that "reports 45 million hectares of large-scale holdings changed hands in 2009, compared with an average of 4 million hectares changing hands between 1998 and 2008." And, says Holm, "this is only the beginning." She suggests that if Canadians want to retain control of their own food production, then we must find a way to support and invest in our farmers. Holm argues that "farm lenders in Canada should be working together" to help Canadian farmers survive against serious challenges.
The following demographic is the purchaser or investor profile as described in Holm's article:
"In California, foreign buyers are from Spain, Switzerland, China, Egypt and Iran and they also have their sights set on the U.S. Midwest, Texas, Mississippi, Idaho and the Dakotas."
"Hundreds of millions of hectares are being bought in sub-Saharan Africa, Central and Latin America and Eastern Europe, by foreign interests from the Gulf States, China, Japan, South Korea and Western Europe."
More recently, Holm suggests, foreign investment in farmland is also focused on "two other countries that have good infrastructure, government, farmland and relatively low land prices: Canada and Australia." Holm believes that "in two to three years, when interest rates rise, many carrying heavy debt loads will exit the sector. Left standing will be the foreign investors." Finally, Ms. Holm concludes, "There are structural changes occurring in Canada's farm sector. We need to work together to find ways to reduce the impact on farmers and food security, not attack each other in a turf war that no one can win." Innovative partnerships and collaboration, not competition among Canadian lenders, are the keys to the future in farm lending, Ms. Holm says, and can lead to new relationships that can help protect Canada's food security, farmland and farming communities.
To read this article in full and to get more information and news about farming in Canada, please visit ontariofarmer.com
Vital Signs - Strong or Do We Need a Shot in the Arm?
The Victoria Foundation just released its 2009 Vital Signs Report, an interesting and informative snapshot of quality of life on the South Island and in the Capital Region (in my view, valuable reports of this type further illustrate the need to retain the Stats-Canada long form census).
Vital Signs provides "vital" information to all of us who are working and making decisions on behalf of people, their families, their neighbourhoods and their communities. I appreciate the time, research and commitment the Victoria Foundation demonstrates, not only through its Vital Signs report but also through its various philanthropic projects that make a significant contribution to the well-being of populations living in our region.
I have requested that the Victoria Foundation makes a presentation to North Saanich Council at one of its fall meetings, focusing on the results of the report. Please watch the District website and this blog for the date and time of this presentation.
Report highlights, cited as follows, represent to me some of the most important and interesting data based on the Foundation's census information, data analysis and survey results:
People Profile:
• How Many We Are - total Capital Regional population - 364,108 (2008)
• Where We Live - 67.1% of Greater Victoria residents lived in urban core; 16.9% in the West Shore; 11.7% on Saanich Peninsula; and, 4.3% on Gulf Islands (2006)
• Who We Are - 17.6% of Greater Victoria residents reported non-European ethnic origins, including those from Aboriginal communities, Latin America, Asia, Africa, Australia and Pacific Islands, the Caribbean and Middle East (2006)
• Our Homes - Average house had 2.2 people compared with 2.5 for B.C. (2006)
• Our Houses - 65.4% single family occupation, 2.5% multi-family occupation and 32.1% single person or non-family occupation (2006)
• Living Alone - 32.3% of people over 65 years of age were living alone (2006)
Important Issues Cited by Survey Respondents (listed in descending priority):
• Homelessness - 52.8%
• Cost of Living - 32.2%
• Addictions - 29.2%
• Housing - 27.3%
• Community Planning - 16.2%
• Poverty - 14.1%
• Mental Illness - 13.5%
• Sewage Treatment - 12.7%
• Health Care - 12.4%
• Municipal Integration - 11.8%
What We Do Well In:
• Recycling - 97% recycle (2007)
• Natural Environment - 85.9% satisfaction rate with access to natural environment (2008)
• Museum - 542,596 paid visits (2007/2008)
• Parkland - total of 16,141 hectares of regional, provincial and federal parkland in 2007, up by 2,687 since 2001
• Internet Use - 79.1% of 16 and over residents used internet in their homes for personal use (2007)
What We Need to Improve:
• Rental availability
• Illicit drug use
• Social housing wait list
• Child care spaces
• Rental vacancy
• Affordability index
Young Voices: (46.6% of youth in Greater Victoria are between 15 and 18 years old):
In areas of arts and culture for youth and youth having a voice in elections at a younger age, Greater Victoria was rated as a B and a C respectively. It seems clear from the results that our youth want to be more involved in their community in meaningful ways.
Youth care about their environment, citing need for green transportation such as bus service that meets their needs.
Young people cite cost of living as a "strain" and want a higher minimum wage as well as more affordable housing.
Unemployment among youth increased in 2009, leading to youth wanting safer and better places to assemble that are closer to their own neighbourhoods.
Youth are health conscious, on average eat healthy meals and snacks and understand the need for physical activity and recreation that are accessible.
Youth feel "somewhat connected" to their communities, at 60.4% of those surveyed.
Youth rated the following as "important or essential" areas for community investment:
1. Education - 89.70%
2. Affordable housing - 87.30%
3. Drug/Alcohol Rehabilitation - 79.75%
4. Public Transportation - 77.25%
5. Environmental Action - 75.55%
6. Family Support Services - 70.20%
7. Employment Programs - 67.95%
8. Arts - 55%
9. After School Programs - 53.80%
10. Police and Law Enforcement - 53.40%
Participation in Civic Life (Belonging and Leadership):
• Charitable Giving - in 2007, 28.0% of those who filed tax returns reported that they made charitable donations, down slightly than previous years.
• Sense of Belonging - 68.5% of seniors over 65 reported a "somewhat or very strong sense of belonging to their local community," demonstrating a decrease.
• Voter Turn-Out - the 2008 federal election saw a turn-out of 67.5%, considerably higher than the percentages for B.C. and Canada.
• Employment - in 2009, 63.3% of Greater Victoria residents 15 and older were employed, slightly higher than the averages for B.C. and Canada.
Over 85% of residents surveyed said they "usually or always felt safe" walking after dark.
Greater Victoria consumers paid 1.1% more in March 2009 for services and goods than they did in March 2008.
3.5% of people between 19 and 64 in December 2008 depended on unemployment insurance or basic income assistance.
Over 4,600 people were traveling the Malahat to commute to work in 2006 (most of the population lived in Cowichan Valley and Nanaimo areas).
Summary Conclusions from this Report:
The Vital Signs report indicates, based on its data collection and survey information, that Greater Victoria appears to be "moving forward" on issues of property crime, amount of median donations, rental vacancy, commuting methods and income needed for shelter. We appear to remain static on children in care of the provincial government and we appear to be losing ground on issues of unemployment, perceived health, solid waste disposal, tourism revenue, composite learning index, physical activity and charitable giving.
Note: All of the information I have used for this blog post represents data and language taken directly from the Vital Signs Report. For further information and a full copy of the report, please visit the Victoria Foundation at www.victoriafoundation.bc.ca
Vital Signs provides "vital" information to all of us who are working and making decisions on behalf of people, their families, their neighbourhoods and their communities. I appreciate the time, research and commitment the Victoria Foundation demonstrates, not only through its Vital Signs report but also through its various philanthropic projects that make a significant contribution to the well-being of populations living in our region.
I have requested that the Victoria Foundation makes a presentation to North Saanich Council at one of its fall meetings, focusing on the results of the report. Please watch the District website and this blog for the date and time of this presentation.
Report highlights, cited as follows, represent to me some of the most important and interesting data based on the Foundation's census information, data analysis and survey results:
People Profile:
• How Many We Are - total Capital Regional population - 364,108 (2008)
• Where We Live - 67.1% of Greater Victoria residents lived in urban core; 16.9% in the West Shore; 11.7% on Saanich Peninsula; and, 4.3% on Gulf Islands (2006)
• Who We Are - 17.6% of Greater Victoria residents reported non-European ethnic origins, including those from Aboriginal communities, Latin America, Asia, Africa, Australia and Pacific Islands, the Caribbean and Middle East (2006)
• Our Homes - Average house had 2.2 people compared with 2.5 for B.C. (2006)
• Our Houses - 65.4% single family occupation, 2.5% multi-family occupation and 32.1% single person or non-family occupation (2006)
• Living Alone - 32.3% of people over 65 years of age were living alone (2006)
Important Issues Cited by Survey Respondents (listed in descending priority):
• Homelessness - 52.8%
• Cost of Living - 32.2%
• Addictions - 29.2%
• Housing - 27.3%
• Community Planning - 16.2%
• Poverty - 14.1%
• Mental Illness - 13.5%
• Sewage Treatment - 12.7%
• Health Care - 12.4%
• Municipal Integration - 11.8%
What We Do Well In:
• Recycling - 97% recycle (2007)
• Natural Environment - 85.9% satisfaction rate with access to natural environment (2008)
• Museum - 542,596 paid visits (2007/2008)
• Parkland - total of 16,141 hectares of regional, provincial and federal parkland in 2007, up by 2,687 since 2001
• Internet Use - 79.1% of 16 and over residents used internet in their homes for personal use (2007)
What We Need to Improve:
• Rental availability
• Illicit drug use
• Social housing wait list
• Child care spaces
• Rental vacancy
• Affordability index
Young Voices: (46.6% of youth in Greater Victoria are between 15 and 18 years old):
In areas of arts and culture for youth and youth having a voice in elections at a younger age, Greater Victoria was rated as a B and a C respectively. It seems clear from the results that our youth want to be more involved in their community in meaningful ways.
Youth care about their environment, citing need for green transportation such as bus service that meets their needs.
Young people cite cost of living as a "strain" and want a higher minimum wage as well as more affordable housing.
Unemployment among youth increased in 2009, leading to youth wanting safer and better places to assemble that are closer to their own neighbourhoods.
Youth are health conscious, on average eat healthy meals and snacks and understand the need for physical activity and recreation that are accessible.
Youth feel "somewhat connected" to their communities, at 60.4% of those surveyed.
Youth rated the following as "important or essential" areas for community investment:
1. Education - 89.70%
2. Affordable housing - 87.30%
3. Drug/Alcohol Rehabilitation - 79.75%
4. Public Transportation - 77.25%
5. Environmental Action - 75.55%
6. Family Support Services - 70.20%
7. Employment Programs - 67.95%
8. Arts - 55%
9. After School Programs - 53.80%
10. Police and Law Enforcement - 53.40%
Participation in Civic Life (Belonging and Leadership):
• Charitable Giving - in 2007, 28.0% of those who filed tax returns reported that they made charitable donations, down slightly than previous years.
• Sense of Belonging - 68.5% of seniors over 65 reported a "somewhat or very strong sense of belonging to their local community," demonstrating a decrease.
• Voter Turn-Out - the 2008 federal election saw a turn-out of 67.5%, considerably higher than the percentages for B.C. and Canada.
• Employment - in 2009, 63.3% of Greater Victoria residents 15 and older were employed, slightly higher than the averages for B.C. and Canada.
Over 85% of residents surveyed said they "usually or always felt safe" walking after dark.
Greater Victoria consumers paid 1.1% more in March 2009 for services and goods than they did in March 2008.
3.5% of people between 19 and 64 in December 2008 depended on unemployment insurance or basic income assistance.
Over 4,600 people were traveling the Malahat to commute to work in 2006 (most of the population lived in Cowichan Valley and Nanaimo areas).
Summary Conclusions from this Report:
The Vital Signs report indicates, based on its data collection and survey information, that Greater Victoria appears to be "moving forward" on issues of property crime, amount of median donations, rental vacancy, commuting methods and income needed for shelter. We appear to remain static on children in care of the provincial government and we appear to be losing ground on issues of unemployment, perceived health, solid waste disposal, tourism revenue, composite learning index, physical activity and charitable giving.
Note: All of the information I have used for this blog post represents data and language taken directly from the Vital Signs Report. For further information and a full copy of the report, please visit the Victoria Foundation at www.victoriafoundation.bc.ca
Food Safety Message -- Keeping It Local
Food Safety Message and Canadians - Keep It Local
72% of Canadians (up 6% since 2007) cite food safety as a concern, favouring locally grown or produced fare over imported items. So says a recent Ipsos-Reid poll that suggests that a majority of Canadians are "very" or "somewhat" concerned about the food they eat. The poll further indicates that "more than two thirds of Canadians believe Canadian food is safer than imported food." Canadians further agree that importing food all over the world is not good for the environment and while Canadian grown or produced food may be more expensive, they are willing to pay for it. "Another 87% agree that they trust food that comes from Canada more than food that comes from abroad, with 85 % of respondents saying they make an effort to buy locally grown and produced food." This poll was conducted through an online survey of over a thousand respondents, between July 23 and 30, 2010.
These results are not a surprise to the North Saanich Food for the Future Society, instrumental in starting up the first North Saanich Farm Market over 3 years ago, with initial support from the Deep Cove Market and now ongoing help from Janet Silman of St. John's United Church. Attendance at the Market, located behind St. John's on West Saanich Road across from Deep Cove Elementary School, averages about 300 people every Saturday morning during the summer, a significant increase compared with early years. Not only is attendance steady, reports indicate another significant increase in the number of Market vendors offering for sale everything from free range eggs and local lamb to fresh fish, beef, honey, home baking and, of course, fresh produce, most of it organic.
The quality and variety of fresh produce and specialty items is impressive as local growers provide from their gardens large and small. The North Saanich Farm Market is also a local pioneer of winter produce, with the opening of its first winter farm market this past year. The North Saanich Farm Market, with its positive and creative atmosphere, truly reflects a community that embraces local food production and supports North Saanich's strong commitment to agriculture through local farming.
The Market also provides a great venue for the annual Flavour Trail and I hope that residents will attend this weekend's festivities, beginning with the North Saanich Farm Market opening at 9:00 AM. We also know that what keeps farms economically viable, no matter how big or small, is their continued ability to reach consumers. The press coverage for this weekend's events has been terrific and a big thanks goes out to media who have featured the Flavour Trail, including the Times Colonist, Monday Magazine and the CBC morning radio program, "On the Island."
I believe that without support of local media, growers and farmers cannot get their message out as effectively to the people who need to hear it. The success story of the North Saanich Farm Market and the annual Flavour Trail deserves celebration so straw hats off to all those, including local restaurants and wineries, who work so hard to make it happen week after week during the summer growing season and on a periodic basis during the winter.
"Happy Flavour Trails to you!"
72% of Canadians (up 6% since 2007) cite food safety as a concern, favouring locally grown or produced fare over imported items. So says a recent Ipsos-Reid poll that suggests that a majority of Canadians are "very" or "somewhat" concerned about the food they eat. The poll further indicates that "more than two thirds of Canadians believe Canadian food is safer than imported food." Canadians further agree that importing food all over the world is not good for the environment and while Canadian grown or produced food may be more expensive, they are willing to pay for it. "Another 87% agree that they trust food that comes from Canada more than food that comes from abroad, with 85 % of respondents saying they make an effort to buy locally grown and produced food." This poll was conducted through an online survey of over a thousand respondents, between July 23 and 30, 2010.
These results are not a surprise to the North Saanich Food for the Future Society, instrumental in starting up the first North Saanich Farm Market over 3 years ago, with initial support from the Deep Cove Market and now ongoing help from Janet Silman of St. John's United Church. Attendance at the Market, located behind St. John's on West Saanich Road across from Deep Cove Elementary School, averages about 300 people every Saturday morning during the summer, a significant increase compared with early years. Not only is attendance steady, reports indicate another significant increase in the number of Market vendors offering for sale everything from free range eggs and local lamb to fresh fish, beef, honey, home baking and, of course, fresh produce, most of it organic.
The quality and variety of fresh produce and specialty items is impressive as local growers provide from their gardens large and small. The North Saanich Farm Market is also a local pioneer of winter produce, with the opening of its first winter farm market this past year. The North Saanich Farm Market, with its positive and creative atmosphere, truly reflects a community that embraces local food production and supports North Saanich's strong commitment to agriculture through local farming.
The Market also provides a great venue for the annual Flavour Trail and I hope that residents will attend this weekend's festivities, beginning with the North Saanich Farm Market opening at 9:00 AM. We also know that what keeps farms economically viable, no matter how big or small, is their continued ability to reach consumers. The press coverage for this weekend's events has been terrific and a big thanks goes out to media who have featured the Flavour Trail, including the Times Colonist, Monday Magazine and the CBC morning radio program, "On the Island."
I believe that without support of local media, growers and farmers cannot get their message out as effectively to the people who need to hear it. The success story of the North Saanich Farm Market and the annual Flavour Trail deserves celebration so straw hats off to all those, including local restaurants and wineries, who work so hard to make it happen week after week during the summer growing season and on a periodic basis during the winter.
"Happy Flavour Trails to you!"
Too Liberal with BC's Farmland
A Vancouver Province editorial about a new report by Nathan Pachal, titled "A Snapshot of the Agricultural Land Reserve from 2000-2009 in the south of Fraser," and the report itself reveal that the biggest culprit in the losses of ALR lands, particularly on the Lower Mainland (Delta, Barnston Island, Township and City of Langley and Surrey), is the B.C. Government through its Ministry of Transportation. Research found that "the provincial government is responsible for 72.8% of all the land in this region that has either been excluded from the ALR or paved over for transportation use."
What is equally disturbing to me about this report is that apparently the "hard numbers" and other detailed information could only be accessed through a lengthy freedom of information process. Until the process kicked in, it's alleged that Mr. Pachal's efforts to get more information from the BC government "were met by bureaucratic doors slamming in his face." I understand that Mr. Pachal, co-founder of the Langley-based South Fraser on Trax group, a non-profit that studies regional transportation and highlights related issues, writes that "While it may appear that private development is responsible for the erosion of the ALR in the south of Fraser, it is actually the public sector (that's you and me!) that has removed the most land for future farm use in the last decade."
The sub-region is part of the Metro Vancouver regional district on which Mr. Pachal's report focuses and reportedly "accounts for about 70 per cent of all Metro acreage within the ALR. Metro itself produces 27 per cent of B.C.'s total gross farm receipts from primary crops such as field vegetables, berries, greenhouse vegetables and ornamental plants." According to the Province editorial and the Pachal report, the roughly 73% loss of ALR "compares with just under 23 per cent by the private sector and nearly five per cent by local governments." The report further states that a "total [of] 264 hectares of land [or approximately 650 acres] in the sub-region have been lost to farming over the period and about two-thirds or 175 hectares [approximately 430 acres] was devoted to government transportation projects."
The editorial quotes Mr. Pachal as being surprised by these stats and, frankly, so am I. I also understand that Mr. Pachal "found that, under its legislation, the Agricultural Land Commission doesn't categorize lands these transportation projects occupy as being excluded from the ALR." "Instead," he learned, "they're recorded as 'eliminated from farm use,' which gives the impression of more land being farmed than is the case."
The results of Mr. Pachal's study of the south of Fraser sub-region should concern all North Saanich and Peninsula residents. While some of us had always assumed it was developers and primarily the private sector who pillaged farmland, they are apparently not the major offenders, if Mr. Pachal's findings are correct. This is significant information in light of a recent Ipsos-Reid poll that shows of those Canadians surveyed, over 70 per cent are concerned about their food security.
Why then would the B.C. government put ALR in one of the most fertile areas in the world, the Fraser Basin, at risk by appropriating arable land for transportation projects? Of course we need transportation routes and infrastructure but, as the Province newspaper's editorial concludes, "Certainly pavement is important, but affordable fresh food is fundamental." Perhaps it's true when some farmers, agrologists and environmentalists proclaim that we are in the fight of our lives to save farmland and protect our ability to grow our own food. Shouldn't governments help us to win this battle?
For more details about this issue, please visit blewis@theprovince.com
What is equally disturbing to me about this report is that apparently the "hard numbers" and other detailed information could only be accessed through a lengthy freedom of information process. Until the process kicked in, it's alleged that Mr. Pachal's efforts to get more information from the BC government "were met by bureaucratic doors slamming in his face." I understand that Mr. Pachal, co-founder of the Langley-based South Fraser on Trax group, a non-profit that studies regional transportation and highlights related issues, writes that "While it may appear that private development is responsible for the erosion of the ALR in the south of Fraser, it is actually the public sector (that's you and me!) that has removed the most land for future farm use in the last decade."
The sub-region is part of the Metro Vancouver regional district on which Mr. Pachal's report focuses and reportedly "accounts for about 70 per cent of all Metro acreage within the ALR. Metro itself produces 27 per cent of B.C.'s total gross farm receipts from primary crops such as field vegetables, berries, greenhouse vegetables and ornamental plants." According to the Province editorial and the Pachal report, the roughly 73% loss of ALR "compares with just under 23 per cent by the private sector and nearly five per cent by local governments." The report further states that a "total [of] 264 hectares of land [or approximately 650 acres] in the sub-region have been lost to farming over the period and about two-thirds or 175 hectares [approximately 430 acres] was devoted to government transportation projects."
The editorial quotes Mr. Pachal as being surprised by these stats and, frankly, so am I. I also understand that Mr. Pachal "found that, under its legislation, the Agricultural Land Commission doesn't categorize lands these transportation projects occupy as being excluded from the ALR." "Instead," he learned, "they're recorded as 'eliminated from farm use,' which gives the impression of more land being farmed than is the case."
The results of Mr. Pachal's study of the south of Fraser sub-region should concern all North Saanich and Peninsula residents. While some of us had always assumed it was developers and primarily the private sector who pillaged farmland, they are apparently not the major offenders, if Mr. Pachal's findings are correct. This is significant information in light of a recent Ipsos-Reid poll that shows of those Canadians surveyed, over 70 per cent are concerned about their food security.
Why then would the B.C. government put ALR in one of the most fertile areas in the world, the Fraser Basin, at risk by appropriating arable land for transportation projects? Of course we need transportation routes and infrastructure but, as the Province newspaper's editorial concludes, "Certainly pavement is important, but affordable fresh food is fundamental." Perhaps it's true when some farmers, agrologists and environmentalists proclaim that we are in the fight of our lives to save farmland and protect our ability to grow our own food. Shouldn't governments help us to win this battle?
For more details about this issue, please visit blewis@theprovince.com
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