A Strong Voice for Rural Saanich

While representing all of Saanich, I will work to ensure that the perspectives, priorities and distinct character of rural Saanich are represented in the decisions and actions of Council.

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As a lifelong Rural Saanich resident and former board member of the Prospect Lake District Community Association, I understand that some of the opportunities and challenges faced by rural communities differ from those of urban neighbourhoods. Policies designed for denser areas do not always translate well to farms, acreages, lakeside communities and properties outside the sewer and municipal water service areas.

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Protect Rural Character and Agriculture

Rural Saanich is defined by agricultural land, significant treed areas, lakes, watersheds, wetlands, riparian zones, wildlife habitat, open space and strong community connections. These assets benefit the entire municipality (and region) and should be protected from inappropriate development and gradual urban encroachment.

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I support maintaining the Urban Containment Boundary, protecting agricultural land and encouraging a viable local food economy. Rural land use decisions should respect environmental limits, water resources, exising agriculture operations and the area’s established character.

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Address Rural Service Needs

Rural residents still depend on safe roads, drainage, emergency response, waste collection and reliable public infrastructure. Council must recognize and be responsive to the challenges posed by narrow roads and limited shoulders, private wells and septic systems, wildlife, wildfire risk and access for emergency vehicles.

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Transportation and safety improvements should reflect rural conditions rather than automatically importing urban designs.

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Strengthen Preparedness and Resilience

Rural Saanich requires practical preparedness for snowstorms, extended power outages, wildfires, drought and flooding. Emergency planning should encompass neighbourhood preparedness and resilience, water supply protection, access for emergency responders and evacuation planning.

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Ensure Meaningful Representation

Community plans, associations and advocacy groups provide essential local knowledge. Residents should be engaged early, receive clear explanations and be able to see how their input affected decisions.

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Representing Rural Saanich does not mean placing it ahead of other communities. It means ensuring that one of Saanich’s defining regions is not overlooked within a large and diverse municipality. Council must serve urban, suburban and rural residents fairly.

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