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STUFF TO NOTE [details] :
- SEAPARC pool re-opens (after scheduled maintenance), Saturday July 2
- Municipal Tax Deadline, Monday July 4
- Canada Post labour strike (no mail starting as early as July 4, pending official strike notice)
- SEAPARC Golf Course official opening, Tuesday July 5[/column]
Back to: FRONT PAGE NEWS | BC & NATIONAL | WEST SHORE | SOOKE | Sooke Area Events
CURRENT SOOKE HEADLINES:
Friday, July 1 ~ SOOKE. Although the weather was a bit cool and misty, there was no rain or blazing sun. People came down to Sooke Flats to enjoy the Canada Day Sooke festivities.
The official opening ceremony included short speeches by VIPs: Sooke Mayor Maja Tait, Juan de Fuca Director Mike Hicks, and Juan de Fuca MLA John Horgan. The opening blessing was given by Shirley Alphonse of T’Sou-ke Nation (see photo by Linda Gordon).
The popular annual fireworks display was set up early in the day by a team of volunteer Sooke firefighters (see photo by Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen).
Live bands included The Kicks and Virual Elvis in the afternoon, and then The British Invasion: The Backbeat Band in the evening.
The District of Sooke contributes funding to the Sooke Lions for this event. The Sooke Lions took over organizing the annual community get-together a few years ago. The original Sooke Canada Day was started by Judithe-Ann Gatto many years ago, as July 1 is also her own birthday.
Thursday, June 30 ~ SOOKE. Canada Day celebrations will be held at Sooke Flats tomorrow, July 1.
Gates open at 12 noon. The official opening ceremony will include speeches by Sooke Mayor Maja Tait, Juan de Fuca Electoral Area Director Mike Hicks, and Juan de Fuca MLA John Horgan. The emcee again this year is Sooke Councillor Brenda Parkinson.
The national anthem will be sung by Janet McTavish. We’ll have to wait and see if she sings the new neutral-gender version that replaces “in all thy sons command” with “in all of us command”. The change was made by Parliament earlier this month.
Canada Day will be celebrated at Sooke Flats again this year, on July 1 of course. Being a Friday, that makes for a 3-day long weekend. The big community party starts at 12 noon when the gates open at the Sooke River Campground (Sooke Flats), with the opening ceremony at 1 pm. Kids activities and other events start at 2 pm as well as live music. More live music at 8pm.
Fireworks now confirmed! Starting at 10:15 pm but good to get there early, just in case.
During the day, parking and shuttle bus service to Sooke Flats will be available from EMCS, SEAPARC and Evergreen Mall. See the www.canadadaysooke.ca website for details.
Canada Post will be closed on July 1 as a federal holiday. But a Canada Post labour strike is also possibly in the offing for next week.
Thursday, June 30 ~ SOOKE. School’s out and summer has begun! Congratulations to all the grads who start their new journey, and best wishes to the families who support them.
In SD62 there will be two new Assistant Superintendents starting for the 2016-2017 academic year — one has already been appointed, and that’s Paul Block who is shifting from his role as principal at Westshore Centre for Learning & Training.
Departing after several years in the job of SD62 Assistant Superintendent are both Dave Betts (who focussed on middle/secondary and aboriginal) and Roberta Kubik (who focussed on elementary, and also health initiatives).
Dave Betts is fully retiring (see article on pg3 in the May 27, 2016 issue of West Shore Voice News, though after a summer vacation may take on new employment ventures. Roberta Kubik is taking on a new job as Superintendent of School in a region of Nova Scotia that for her is home (see article on pg3 in the June 17, 2016 issue of West Shore Voice News).
SD62 Superintendent Jim Cambridge says the vacancy left by Roberta Kubik’s departure will be filled soon; the position starts August 1.
Wednesday, June 29 ~ SOOKE. This is the last day of school, and a short work week, as Canada Day is coming up this Friday, July 1st! High school report cards can be picked up at EMCS in Sooke today, June 29.
Canada Day will be celebrated at Sooke Flats again this year, on July 1 of course. Being a Friday, that makes for a 3-day long weekend. The big community party starts at 12 noon when the gates open at the Sooke River Campground (Sooke Flats), with the opening ceremony at 1 pm. Kids activities and other events start at 2 pm as well as live music. More live music at 8pm.
Fireworks now confirmed! Starting at 10:15 pm but good to get there early, just in case.
During the day, parking and shuttle bus service to Sooke Flats will be available from EMCS, SEAPARC and Evergreen Mall. See the www.canadadaysooke.ca website for details.
Canada Post will be closed on July 1 as a federal holiday. But a Canada Post labour strike is also possibly in the offing for next week.
Tuesday, June 28 ~ SOOKE. Last night at Sooke Council, Mayor Maja Tait opened the June 27 Regular Council meeting with a terse statement about zero tolerance over harassment of District staff. She said that “untrue or rude public attacks on officers, staff and volunteers” would not be tolerated.
No background was given publicly as to the reason for this statement. Mayor Tait made the statement ahead of the published agenda. While the message was obviously important to the Mayor, it set a negative tone in the room for those who were present in the audience at the start of the meeting.
West Shore Voice News has inquired with the District for further background on this matter. “Due to protection of privacy for all individuals concerned, I cannot provide further detail,” says District of Sooke CAO Teresa Sullivan. “What I can tell you is that we received a formal complaint and that under WorkSafe BC legislation, we are bound to prevent bullying and harassment in the workplace. Mayor and Council will take every step necessary to address this issue with the support of the CAO.”
Tuesday, June 28 ~ SOOKE. The Fire Danger Rating is set at HIGH in Sooke. “I would expect we will be at the Extreme rating in the not to distant future if this weather continues,” says Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen.
“We are definitely concerned about the fire risk. While campfires are still permitted we would like people to make sure that they are fully extinguished before turning in for the night,”:says Sorensen.
The Sooke Fire Chief also reminds those who smoke cigarettes to properly dispose of the cigarette butts. The roadside and bark mulch used for landscaping are not ash trays, and can quickly catch on fire.
Tuesday, June 28 ~ SOOKE. The main driver for additional on-street security around Sooke is a fear expressed by Council last night, June 27, that a disbanded Victoria tent city would see an influx of the homeless to Sooke. There was not even a mention of how these people ended up homeless in a tent city in the first place, or how to help them stabilize into employment and regular housing again.
The private security firm Shadow West Security would work in full cooperation with Sooke RCMP if the District of Sooke plan goes ahead to increase on-street policing at night.
Policing would be for local parks and District properties (such as municipal hall), with cruising through residential areas ‘by default’ as the service provider does the primary assigned routes.
Council directed staff to prepare a report on how the paid service would roll out, while at the same time preparing a report based on a meeting of District of Sooke CAO Teresa Sullivan, Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander S/Sgt Jeff McArthur, and Shadow Security’s primary operator David Babbage.
Sooke Councillor Bev Berger had concerns about which neighbours would get benefit of the surveillance service and which would not. The entire area of Sooke is not being covered.
There was no debate at Council as to issues of privacy of Sooke residents vs the apparently desired increase for security. This is a small town where people come, in part, to ‘get away from it all’, and now the world of big-city security is creeping in.
At the June 13 Council meeting, S/Sgt McArthur did express a willingness to work cooperatively with a private service, but Mayor Maja Tait said at Council last night that in her assessment McArthur expressed some degree of wanting to move ahead slowly with this.
Tuesday, June 28 ~ VICTORIA. Today the BC Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations has announced that In response to low rainfall and record high temperatures across southern and eastern Vancouver Island, the Province is putting residents on the highest drought alert and closing most streams and rivers to angling.
Government staff have upgraded the drought in the region to Level 4 – extremely dry – and are urging all water users – including residents, industry, farmers and municipalities – to reduce water consumption as much as possible. The area covered by Level 4 extends from north of Campbell River and the Discovery Islands down the east coast of Vancouver Island, and include Victoria, Sooke and Port Renfrew.
Areas north of Campbell River and along the west coast of Vancouver Island remain at a Level 3 drought rating, which means the conditions are very dry and water users should continue to limit their water use.
Meanwhile, the drought has lowered water levels and reduced flow in rivers and streams which is prompting the Province to close down the freshwater sports fishery across much of the southern island starting July 1, 2016.
Big Qualicum, Puntledge and Quinsam Rivers will remain open, along with Campbell River and all streams north of the City of Campbell River and Bamfield.
The fishing closures will remain in place until drought conditions improve significantly.
BC has four levels of drought, with level 4 being the driest. Water restrictions such as sprinkling bylaws are usually put in place by the local municipal government, based on local water supply and provincial drought guidelines.
- See a map of the drought-affected areas at: http://ow.ly/Dr9I301zeTd
- Find a map of angling closure at: https://www.flickr.com/gp/bcgovphotos/277rWy
- To find out about water restrictions in your area, visit your local municipal government website.
- Find learn about drought and water conservation in BC go to: http://arcg.is/1W9SMZv
Monday, June 27. There will be a District of Sooke Regular Council Meeting tonight in council chambers, 7 pm. Webcast and agenda at www.sooke.ca
Delegations include one from the EMCS Student Art Bus Shelter Project and also from the Welcome to Sooke Gateway Project.
Public input will be received on the District of Sooke 2015 annual report.
Shadow West Securities will be making a report to council. Staff is recommending that Council commit to security patrols for public properties by this private contractor. Monthly cost would be $700 to $1,050.
The Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce submitted a letter to Mayor and Council with a petition in support of constructing a sidewalk on Edward Milne Road, where a vehicle incident in 2015 saw two students hospitalized. See signatures in the agenda package at www.sooke.ca
Sunday, June 26. About 300 people turned out for the annual Open House & Salmon Barbecue at the Sooke Region Museum today. Admission was free, but of course the salmon dinner (with salad and a bun) at $14 per person was a fundraiser. Especially this year, as the salmon was donated by the supplier at no cost!
Other items on the menu were strawberry shortcake and hamburgers at $5 each, and hot dogs for $4. Coffee and tea by donation.
Sooke Region Museum director Lee Boyko was pleased with the turnout. District of Sooke Councillors Rick Kasper and Brenda Parkinson were there for lunch and meet both long-time Sooke residents and tourists.
The salmon was cooked by volunteers the old-fashioned way. All the food was prepared by volunteers.
Representatives from Telus had a booth to promote their Optik TV and Telus Fiber services. If you stopped to chat at the Telus booth, you got a free ice cream treat!
The weather was warm under sunny skies.
Saturday, June 25. Just one more sleep until the annual Sooke Region Museum Open House & Salmon Barbecue! So popular, get there early! Open 12 noon to 3 pm on the grounds of the museum, on Sunday June 26. A good opportunity to meet and mingle.
Also that day — the opening of the exhibit about local food production. In the upstairs gallery inside the museum. “Growing Local: Been There, Doing That! Put together in large part by Brianna Shambrook at the museum — sure to be a hit!
Friday, June 24. The deadline for paying District of Sooke property taxes is coming up on Monday, July 4. The municipal office will be open late to 8 pm two evenings next week, for taxpayer convenience: Tuesday June 28 and Thursday, June 30. Regular open hours at Sooke municipal hall are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Property taxes went up 0.85% on average in Sooke this year, as outlined in the Property Tax Notice insert sent out by the District of Sooke earlier this month. The Council also authorized $456,313 to be put into reserves for future use.
Of the property taxes levied by the District of Sooke, 41% is applied directly to municipal services. The rest is passed on to other agencies including the local school board SD62 (29%), Capital Regional District (18%), BC Transit (4%), Capital Regional Hospital Board (4%), Vancouver Island Regional Library (3%), BC Assessment (1%), and Municipal Finance Authority (under 1%).
The District says it has invested in “a number of exciting capital projects” with revitalization of the town centre as a top priority including completion of the Sooke Road roundabout in town centre, along with pedestrian safety and traffic flow improvements. Additional funding has been added to the 2016 budget for sidewalks and sidewalk improvements “throughout Sooke with an emphasis on Town Centre”, says the District in their statement.
Friday, June 24. The Communities in Bloom (CiB) initiative is gearing up again for 2016. As reported in West Shore Voice News several weeks ago, the judges will be in Sooke July 21 to 23, with the actual judging around town happening on Friday, July 22.
The Communities in Bloom effort has been under the guiding hand of District of Sooke Councillor Brenda Parkinson, and is being executed overall by the Sooke Program of the Arts (SPA) Committee this year under SPA Chair Drew Johnston. The judges will be toured around town by Councillor Rick Kasper.
Sooke achieved a top rating of five ‘blooms’ in 2014, when the provincial CiB judges were last in Sooke. In 2015, Sooke took a year off from the program due to the visual and practical interruption that was happening due to construction of the Hwy 14 roundabout in Sooke town centre.
The 5-bloom rating was achieved with an 84% grade. If it’s higher than that this year or next, then Sooke can hope to compete in the national Communities in Bloom effort.
The CiB program is not just about pretty flowers and tidied up store frontages. It covers all aspects of attractiveness and livability of a community including landscaping, signage, traffic flow, building styles, and more.
Homeowners and businesses are asked to tidy up their frontages and landscaping, ahead of the July 22 tour date.
Thursday, June 23 ~ SOOKE. A homeless man – long of Sooke – died today, his body found riddled with advanced cancer. For 12 years Gregory Wood was without a home, but was watched over by various people in the local community. This letter of remembrance has been submitted by long-time Sooke resident Herb Haldane:
“I write this letter to somehow remind myself what friendship truly means and how we an take for granted some seemingly insignificant experiences. My friend, Gregory Wood, has died today and all the years he has been part of life are now gone with him. Greg was a real friend but I can’t help but wish that I had talked more or done more. You see, Greg was homeless for the 12 years I knew him. And as much as he had struggles or disappointments, he was happy and kind to everyone around him. He lived in vans and tents as well as conditions impossible to describe because words are not enough. Greg helped me understand the human condition of homelessness firsthand and how to appreciate and tolerate people from his humble position in life. To put it simply, I miss him dearly already and can’t begin to explain the profound effects he had in my life. All I can do now is to say: “Goodbye my friend, I am much better off in this life having known you.” ~ Herb Haldane, June 23, 2016
Thursday, June 23 ~ SOOKE. Josh Nickolas LaFleur (age 25) and Damien James Medwedrich (age 21) have been charged with two counts of attempted murder, said Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander Jeff McArthur this afternoon.
These charges are regarding a drive-by shooting which occurred on Ella Road in Sooke on Tuesday evening, June 14, 2016 (see various news entries (below, on this page, June 14 to 21). The two accused appeared in Provincial Court in Colwood today June 23, in jail clothing and shackles. They will remain in custody until their next court hearing on July 21.
Dustin David BROWN, who was arrested earlier last week, is also charged with two counts of attempted murder in relation to this matter, says McArthur. Brown is scheduled to next appear in Colwood Provincial Court on July 5, 2016.
Thursday, June 23 ~ SOOKE. The Sooke Fall Fair group is gearing up for their Show & Shine, Swap & Shop car show. They are taking entries of cars for the show and shine, as well as orders for fresh baked pies!
Volunteers still needed, says organizer Ellen Lewers. To register fort he show or be a volunteer visit www.sookefallfair.ca
The car show will be held on Saturday, July 16 at Sooke River Campground, from 10 am to 2pm.
Thursday, June 23 ~ SOOKE. Canada Day festivities at Sooke Flats will be on Friday, July 1. Gates open at 12 noon. Free admission.
The official opening ceremony is scheduled for 1 pm (though last year it was suddenly shifted to about 12:20 pm, so arrive early if you want to catch that). Live music starts at 2 pm, as well as kids activities for the afternoon. Another live band at 8pm.
Fireworks at dusk (usually just before 10 pm) are dependent on weather not being too dry, says Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen. But with some rain in recent days, the prospect of Canada Day fireworks is looking good. In 2015 the drought conditions in the Sooke area (and throughout Vancouver Island and BC) led to the cancellation of Canada Day fireworks, which instead were fired off on Halloweeen night to a viewing crowd of over 1,000 people.
Free shuttle bus service is available from the EMCS parking lot and from Evergreen mall.
It’s a no-drugs, no-alcohol event. No pets allowed on site.
Wednesday, June 22 ~ SOOKE. Reports of gunfire led RCMP to the Otter Point area last night, June 21 after someone reported hearing “automatic” weapon fire around 9 pm.
Three men and two women were arrested and were to face charges later today. While approaching the area to investigate, RCMP spotted a “suspicious car driving away” and stopped it to investigate. A search of the vehicle turned up a 12-gauge shotgun, a semi-automatic SKS rifle, magazines and ammunition, said Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander S/Sgt Jeff McArthur.
Police also seized bear spray, knives, several cell phones and what they suspect is methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and marijuana.
All of the men are known to police, and one has a lifetime firearms prohibition from previous convictions, while another is currently subject to bail conditions which include an order not to possess weapons, said McArthur. “While we are still investigating, it appears that the group were target-shooting in the area and honing their firearms skills,” said McArthur.
The incident is not considered to have any connection to the shooting of two men on June 14 in Sooke (for which there was an arrest of three men last weekend).
Tuesday, June 21 ~ SOOKE. The unpaved lot where the Sooke Country Market is held seasonally on Saturdays is about to come under a lease between the land owner and the District of Sooke — for public parking.
“It will be a 2-year lease,” says long-time Sooke resident Richard Phillips who owns the land with his brother Eric. Apparently set at fair-market value, the lease will authorize the District of Sooke to utilize the prime location in Sooke town centre for vehicle parking.
The lot is located on Otter Point Road, just north of the PetroCan Station, across from Eustace Road.
Although the lot has been an open and fully accessible area for many years, In the latter part of 2012 Phillips put up new signage that said unauthorized vehicles would be towed. He was aiming to curtail use of the lot by visitors to the building at 2050 Townsend Road and the building that housed the former Salvation Army and other businesses under lease with Cornerstone Properties. The blockaded entry to Townsend Road from Sooke Road (no left turns put in place in fall 2011 at the direction of the BC Ministry of Transportation and ICBC) created an embargo to businesses and residents on Townsend Road. The parking lot on Otter Point Road was a bit of a reprieve for shoppers and others doing business in Sooke town centre, until things tightened up for parking in the lot.
At District of Sooke council last Monday June 13, Council discussed the need for more parking to support events that take place in the town core area. One in particular that is coming up in September is the Sooke Fall Fair which draws a large crowd over two to three days.
District of Sooke CAO Teresa Sullivan has confirmed that the lease is being sorted out, and is indeed at fair market value — not discounted or at a level that could be considered a donation. It is unknown whether this parking area which comes at a cost will offer paid-parking or free parking.
The lease is being handled by the Hallgren & Faulkner legal firm in Sooke.
The Sooke Country Market will still be allowed use of the lot for their vendors on Saturdays (the market is generally held weekly between May and early October each year). However, that might get a bit tight for space if other vehicles are allowed to use the lot. Reportedly the Sooke Country Market may be considering another location, perhaps the land at Mariner’s Village (Church Road and Sooke Road).
A portion of the parking lot area that is immediately adjacent to the building where Sooke Buy and Sell operates, is normally used by Sooke Country Market vendors. However, Phillips says that portion of the lot may get fenced off from the larger section, for continued use by Sooke Buy and Sell.
Tuesday, June 21 ~ SOOKE. Josh Nickolas LaFleur (age 25) and Damien James Medwedrich (age 21) have been charged with two counts of attempted murder, said Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander Jeff McArthur this afternoon.
These charges are regarding a drive-by shooting which occurred on Ella Road in Sooke on Tuesday evening, June 14, 2016 (see various news entries (below, on this page, June 14 to 21). The two accused are scheduled to appear again in Provincial Court in Colwood on June 23, 2016.
Dustin David BROWN, who was arrested earlier last week, is also charged with two counts of attempted murder in relation to this matter, says McArthur. Brown is scheduled to next appear in Colwood Provincial Court on July 5, 2016.
Tuesday, June 21 ~ SOOKE. A UVic research project involving drones will be flying some of their airborne equipment over part of Whiffin Spit in the morning on Wednesday, June 22.
Most of the activity will take place over the lagoon portion of the spit (see map) from about 8:30 am to 10:30 am.
Tuesday, June 21 ~ VICTORIA. British Columbians have a tight window of about one week (deadline June 30, 2016) to share their thoughts with the BC Government on proposed requirements for spill planning and preparedness. Comments may be submitted at http://engage.gov.bc.ca/spillresponse . This public input opportunity was announced alongside a spill response exercise today in East Sooke.
Environmental emergency response officers (EEROs) from the Ministry of Environment took part in a spill response exercise today at the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue Training Centre in East Sooke as part of a week-long annual training session.
The exercise included two scenarios simulating fuel spills and provided an opportunity for EEROs to practice water boom deployment techniques both on the water and on the shoreline.
In today’s exercise, training was led by Western Canada Marine Response Corporation – the Transport Canada certified response organization for Canada’s West Coast. If a real spill were to occur in this area, EEROs would work collaboratively with local government, First Nations and other provincial and federal agencies.
The recent amendments to the Environmental Management Act will allow the ministry to put regulations in place with requirements for responder training and participation in drills and exercises. First Nations and local governments will also have opportunities to play a larger role in spill response preparedness through this legislation.
Regulations to support this legislation are currently being developed as engagement continues with the general public, stakeholders and First Nations.
Tuesday, June 21 ~ SOOKE. Sooke RCMP, BC Ambulance Service and the Shirley Volunteer Fire Department responded to a single vehicle motor vehicle accident last night, June 20, at 7 pm.
The vehicle, a compact Toyota – was going eastbound in the 9600 block of West Coast Road – just past the Shirley town site – when it crossed the road, crashing into the bank on the opposite side of the road where it came to rest, says Sooke RCMP. The driver and two passengers in the vehicle sustained minor injuries. The rear seat passenger, due to the extensive damage to the car, had to be extricated by members of the Shirley Fire Department.
“After being safely removed from the vehicle, the rear passenger went into full cardiac arrest. Members of BC Ambulance Service and the Shirley Volunteer Fire Department went to work, and brought the man back to life,” says Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander Jeff McArthur. The man was transported from an area near French Beach by Air Ambulance to Victoria General Hospital where (as of 11 am today) remains in stable condition.
Sooke RCMP are actively investigating the cause of this accident. “Speed is considered to be the main contributing factor,” says McArthur.
Monday, June 20 ~ SOOKE. The Sooke and Electoral Area Park and Recreation Commission (SEAPARC) is celebrating the grand re-opening of the DeMamiel Creek Golf Course on July 5 with a community celebration. Community members are invited to a complimentary BBQ at 12 noon that day.
Those interested in golfing on July 5 are required to book and pay for tee times by phoning SEAPARC Reception at 250.642.8000, or visiting SEAPARC Leisure Complex at 2168 Phillips Road.
Located just 35 minutes from Victoria, the DeMamiel Creek Golf Course is a nine-hole Executive Par 3 Course for all skills and abilities. Situated in a quiet tree-lined setting, the course will provide a challenge for beginners and the more experienced golfer.
On April 30, 2016 residents of the District of Sooke and the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area voted in favour of the $999,000 purchase of the land for the future development and enhancement of recreation services. SEAPARC says they decided to open to golf course will open for this season to benefit the community and region.
Monday, June 20 ~ SOOKE. The suspected shooter in the June 14 drive-by shooting on Ella Road in Sooke has been taken into custody. Josh LaFleur and the third man involved in the shooting incident were arrested last night. See news summary of the shooting on page 1 of the June 17, 2016 West Shore Voice News.
The two men are in police custody and expected to appear in provincial court, this morning, Monday June 20. A second involved party was arrested last week.
On Sunday June 19, around 1 pm, Sooke RCMP officers attended a residence on Kirby Road in Sooke, following up on information received that the remaining two suspects in the recent shooting may be hiding out there, said the BC RCMP early this morning. Kirby Road is off of Sooke River Road, near the Galloping Goose trail.
“The officers promptly determined that suspects were hiding in the home. Reinforcements were called in and the area was locked down until the arrival of the Vancouver Island Emergency Response Team,” says Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander Jeff McArthur.
At approximately 10:30 pm Sunday evening, and with the assistance of a police service dog, suspect Josh LaFleur, 25, and the third suspect, a 21-year-old man from Sooke, were located, hiding in a crawl space inside the home.
No shots were fired during the take-down, says McArthur.
File Photo of S/Sgt Jeff McArthur at the Sooke Detachment (Dec 2014). Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News
Sunday, June 19 ~ VANCOUVER. “Lottery players in BC should be checking their numbers today!” says the BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC). A single winning ticket worth $12.8 million for yesterday’s Lotto 6/49 jackpot was purchased in Coquitlam. On the same draw, a winning ticket for the Extra worth $500,000 was purchased in Vancouver.
This marks the second big win out of Coquitlam this month, says BCLC. Dennis and Janet Howlett of Coquitlam won a $1 Million Maxmillions prize on the June 10, 2016 Lotto Max draw.
Winners have one year from the draw date printed on the ticket to claim their prize and will join a growing list of British Columbians who have struck it rich with Lotto 6/49. The specific retail location where a winning lottery ticket was purchased and the winner’s name will be announced after they come forward to claim their prize.
There is in fact a June 17 Lotto Max winner with a ticket that was purchased in Sooke for matching 6/7 numbers plus the bonus, as confirmed today by BCLC. The winning ticket is worth $337,266.90.
Prize breakdown: http://lotto.bclc.com/winning-numbers/lotto-max-and-extra.html
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Sunday, June 19. There are some one-day tasty specials at Mom’s Cafe for Father’s Day today, Sunday June 19.
Continuing at the Sooke Flats today is the Sooke River Bluegrass Festival. Third of three days.
Dog-walkers might enjoy the Purina Dog Walk fundraiser at Whiffin Spit. Register at 10:30 am, walk at 11 am.
This afternoon at 2 pm there is a members meeting of the Sheringham Point Lighthouse Preservation Society, at SEAPARC. New members welcome! The lighthouse is now a heritage site, and the organizers are pretty excited about it!
Saturday, June 18 ~ SOOKE. This is a super-busy weekend, with many events on Saturday and Sunday in the Sooke area.
Today, Saturday, June 18 get some composting info at Sooke Country Market, donate pet food out front of Village Food Markets, go to the Sooke Bike Club yard sale at SEAPARC, and more! See EVENTS page.
On Sunday, June 19 it’s Father’s Day. The Sooke River Bluegrass Festival continues at Sooke Flats, there’s a Purina Dog Walk at Whiffin Spit in the morning, and a Sheringham Point Lighthouse Preservation Society meeting in the afternoon. And you can catch several Father’s Day specials at Mom’s Cafe in Sooke. See EVENTS page.
Saturday, June 18 ~ SOOKE. On June 17, Westshore RCMP were conducting inquiries at a local residence in an attempt to locate the two outstanding suspects involved in the shooting on Ella Road — a remote roadway in Sooke — on Tuesday evening, June 14.
While at a residence, two individuals believed to be the suspects ran from the property and a large scale search was conducted, says West Shore RCMP. Due to the large wooded rural area near Thetis Lake, the search was unsuccessful.
Josh LaFleur is still wanted in connection with the Sooke-area shooting. Police urge the public to call 911 if seen. “Do not approach him,” says Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander Jeff McArthur. The second suspect’s name is still being withheld pending charges.
Anyone having information about the shooting or the suspect’s whereabouts are urged to contact the Sooke RCMP Detachment at 250-642-5241 or if you wish to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
CRD announced on Friday afternoon, June 17, that their Thetis Lake Regional Park will be closed to the public until further notice at the request of Westshore RCMP. The CRD will provide an update when the park is reopened. [Park access was open again later today, June 17.]
See earlier news stories on this SOOKE page — below (June 14, 15, 16).
Photo of Ella Road in Sooke ~ Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News
Friday, June 17 ~ SOOKE. Picking up momentum for the season … last night was the third Thursday-night Sooke Night Market of the 2016 summer season. It was bustling with activity, energy and relaxing fun!
This year over 35 vendors (that’s up from about 28 last year), offer food, produce, art and crafts, clothing, books and other items for sale.
Sooke Region Museum director Lee Boyko is quite pleased with the increased level of success this year. He says that vendor booth fees mainly produce a break-even operation with the summer-long once-a-week night market. The museum operates the activity as a community activity and tourism attraction.
Vehicle parking for the event is available along Phillips Road, in a parking adjacent to the museum grounds, and across the street at the corner of Phillips Road and Sooke Road.
The Thursday night market will run weekly to September 1.
Thursday, June 16 ~ SOOKE. The vehicle involved in the Ella Road shooting in Sooke was located in Langford on June 15 and was seized by the RCMP, said a BC RCMP release today.
During a separate vehicle stop, one person was arrested and is believed to be one of the three individuals associated to the shooting, say RCMP. The RCMP searched a residence in the Langford area later that evening, however, no one of interest was located.
Today June 16, Sooke RCMP in conjunction with the Island District General Investigation Section (IDGIS) and the Westshore RCMP, continue to focus their efforts on locating their primary suspect — Josh LaFleur of Sooke/Langford (as shown in photo that was provided by RCMP). The second suspect was arrested yesterday and was in custody today, to go before a Judicial Justice of the Peace later today.
A third person has been identified, but is not in police custody. Names are being withheld pending charges being sworn.
The suspected shooter, Josh LaFleur, is still outstanding and should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone seeing LaFleur should not approach, but call 911. Anyone having information relating to Josh LAFLEUR should contact the Sooke RCMP Detachment at 250-642-5241 or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
See initial story posting below (June 14 – night of the shooting), and yesterday’s followup story below (June 15).
Thursday, June 16. A new parking lot on Maple Avenue South has been set up to help service users of the boat launch that is located at the foot of the Prestige Oceanfront Resort driveway.
“The Mayor and Council of the District of Sooke have been concerned about public safety when members of the public launch their boats at the public boat launch and park their trucks and trailers on the narrow edge of West Coast Road,” it was stated in a news release from the District of Sooke today. They say it leaves “little room for pedestrians to safely maneuver around them”
In order to address this issue, Mayor Maja Tait and Council directed staff to negotiate an affordable lease option to provide off road parking at the bottom of Maple Avenue South.
Brian Butler, the owner of the property, was pleased to accommodate the District’s request. The area of the parking lot is 210 x 80 meters with parking for approximately 12 to 15 trucks and trailers (size-dependent). There is a 212-meter gravel walk way (1.5 meters wide) that provides a scenic walk from the parking area to a point on West Coast Road, approximately 100 meters east of the boat launch access road.
“We are thrilled to be in a position to address this public safety issue”, said Mayor Tait.
Hours of operation are dawn to dusk with no overnight parking allowed. The parking area will be monitored by District staff to ensure no overnight camping or lengthy stays occur, in an effort to provide fair and equitable access for everyone. Parking on West Coast Road will be prohibited in this area and vehicle/trailer owners who park on West Coast Road near the public boat launch will be subject to towing, the District said in their release.
Thursday, June 16. A simple gadget could save your entire house from fire. A simple sprinkler unit that hooks onto the roof of your house (and would be attached to your garden hose), is recommended for attachment to the gutter of your roof if a fire is present in the area.
This was part of a presentation on home protection in the event of a wildfire, given by Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen at Sooke municipal hall and several volunteer firefighters on Wednesday evening.
Embers that spark off of larger fires can start fires in adjacent or nearby locations. An extreme example is how embers produced and carried by fire-generated heat and winds ‘jumped’ a 1-km wide river at Fort McMurray, much to the surprise of experienced firefighters.
Soaking the roof of your house is a good way to prevent any embers or sparks from catching fire on your house. Other tips included keeping the lawn green in the immediate area around your house, and not storing firewood near your porch or house. Debris should not be up against and around your house.
In the Sooke area there is forest-interface areas all around. Particularly areas that are not serviced by municipal water, said Sorensen.
Although the High/Extreme danger rating season started a bit early this year, there has been a bit more precipitation in May/June of 2016 compared than last year. Therefore, the land and ‘fire fuel’ on the forest floor is not as dry as at this time last year, Sorensen explained.
Wednesday, June 15. Today Sooke RCMP have identified Sooke/Langford area resident Joshua Lafleur (in photo), age 25, as their suspect in connection with the June 14 evening shooting of two men on Ella Road in Sooke (see story below, June 14 entry).
RCMP describe Lafleur as six feet tall, 190 pounds with brown hair and green eyes.
If this person is seen, Sooke RCMP S/Sgt Jeff McArthur asks that 911 be called and that the person not be approached. Anyone with information on this crime is asked to contact the Sooke RCMP at 250-642-5241 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Two Sooke-area men in their 20’s were injured by the suspect. As of this evening, one of the two injured men in last night’s incident has been released from hospital.
Wednesday, June 15. Catching up with some good news about Fort McMurray recovery –– the local firefighters of Sooke and East Sooke washed enough cars, SUVs and trucks to raise donations of $1,600. This amount will be added to the ‘collection boot’ that has been set up at the Sooke fire hall since the Fort McMurray fire happened in early May.
Wednesday, June 15 – The Sooke Fire Dept has had to contend with several brush fires over recent years due to cigarette butts discarded in bark mulch and park areas. However, Sooke Mayor Maja Tait made a point of saying at Council on Monday night, June 13, that smoking is allowed in Sooke’s own parks (as distinct from the CRD no-smoking ban for parks).
Meanwhile, Capital Regional District (CRD) Bylaw Enforcement Officers are conducting patrols again this summer to ensure that regional parks and trails remain safe and enjoyable for everyone. Patrols will be deployed on hot, sunny days at popular beaches and swimming areas in regional parks including Elk/Beaver Lake, Island View Beach, Matheson Lake, Mount Work (Durrance Lake), Sooke Potholes, Thetis Lake and Witty’s Lagoon. Also watch for bike patrols on the Galloping Goose, Lochside and E&N Rail Trail.
“Regional parks and trails receive more than 6.5 million visits each year and the majority of people are respectful of others and the natural areas. We appreciate the public’s assistance in keeping our parks safe and clean” said Mike Walton, Senior Manager of CRD Regional Parks.
“The CRD also works closely with RCMP detachments and other agencies to increase the enforcement presence in regional parks and this strategy has helped to reduce bylaw violations and alcohol use in regional parks,” says Walton.
The CRD reminds the public that smoking, alcohol and fires are prohibited in regional parks. From June 1 to September 15, dogs must be on a leash when passing through designated beach and picnic areas and are not allowed to stay. If you see a park violation, please report it to CRD Regional Parks at 250.478.3344, or email crdparks@crd.bc.ca . For serious incidents, call 911.
Tuesday, June 14 (updated 2:25 am, June 15). Two people have been shot in the Sooke area tonight. The 911 call came in to police around 9:20 pm this evening. The shooting reportedly happened near the end of Ella Road in Sooke.
Ella Road is effectively the ‘extension’ of Grant Road West, running behind nearby John Muir Elementary School, down to the oceanfront at Ella Beach. The incident happened near the end of the road, in front of the residence of the locally well-known Butler family; the Butlers reportedly called in to 911.
Sooke RCMP reports that they received a complaint of shots fired on Ella Road in Sooke. On arrival by the RCMP, two men were discovered at roadside – both with gunshot wounds — one to the chest and the other in the arm. “The two residents of Sooke were transported to Victoria General Hospital, where they remain at the time of this release,” says Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander S/Sgt Jeff McArthur.
It is not known whether the injured men were known to the suspects. It is not known whether the injured men were in a vehicle, or camping or at the roadside.
S/Sgt McArthur says witnesses reported that three suspects in a sedan fled the scene. Police are looking for the following vehicle which has been reported stolen from Langford – a 2003 KIA Magentis 4 door sedan, grey in colour, Saskatchewan plates 404 JZB.
Sooke RCMP are asking the public to be on the look out for this vehicle. If seen, please call 911, and do not approach the subjects. Anyone with information on this crime is asked to contact the Sooke RCMP at 250-642-5241 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Investigators are presently working to establish descriptions of the suspects in this shooting.
Tuesday, June 14. COUNCIL REPORT. Some new housing will be built on Grant Road west near the corner of Firwood Road in Sooke, and a new floating dock was approved for the Silver Spray development — these were among the zoning bylaw decisions by District of Sooke Council last night at their June 13 council meeting.
The 2016 District of Sooke Annual report was presented in the agenda (see the agenda at www.sooke.ca – page 159). There will be an opportunity for public comment during the District’s June 27 Regular Council Meeting.
A quarterly report by Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander Jeff McArthur — for the period January through March 2016 — included his comment that “person’s violent crime” is up 10% over the the first quarter of last year. Property crime is up 4% due to an increase in auto theft, theft from vehicle, and break-and-enter. Break-and-enter incidents at businesses are down significantly (71.43%) while theft of bicycles is up 33.33% and auto theft was up 100%.
Council said they are working on a detailed Communications Strategy. Councillor Rick Kasper mentioned an easy part of the solution might be an online ‘News Room’ (a standard corporate practice) where all media can attain the same information — in this case, about the District of Sooke.
A Committee of the Whole meeting was held prior to the council meeting, at which Council heard about changes to the governance structure of the Agricultural Land Commission. Only 10% of the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) is in ‘Zone 1’ which includes Vancouver Island, the South Coast, and the Okanagan. Of the entire ALR, 2% is on Vancouver Island, the presenters said.
Council also participated in a discussion/presentation by two former politicians of provincial scope. George Abbott and Dale Wall of Circle Square Solutions engaged Council in a preliminary discussion about a “framework for Capital Integrated Services and Governance Initiative”. It’s a fresh approach to the discussion of municipal amalgamation. After meeting with municipalities throughout the Greater Victoria area, the consultants will provide an interim report in September 2016 and intend to produce a final report by November 2016.
Monday, June 13. Sooke Council meeting tonight at 7 pm, in council chambers. Agenda and webcasting: www.sooke.ca
Thursday, June 9. The Sooke School District (SD62) In their capital plan, has asked the BC Government for an additional four elementary schools on the Westshore and one in Sooke.
“We have land for two of the schools already (one on the Westshore and one in Sooke), so we would need land as well as the schools for the remaining three,” says SD62 communication rep Lindsay Vogan. The land for the additional elementary school in the immediate Sooke area is within Sunriver Estates, and has been on the books since about 2007.
An additional 400 student spaces have been requested for Royal Bay Secondary, which just opened last year and is already full to capacity with 800 students. Royal Bay was apparently designed for an “easy addition” as a requirement for expansion was anticipated, says SD62. Four portables will be set up and ready for use at Royal Bay Secondary come September. The site is currently being prepared for them now.
SD62 serves students and families through much of the west side of southern Vancouver Island, including in Langford, Colwood, Metchosin, Sooke and up to Port Renfrew. Bussing of students to and within Langford, Colwood and Sooke has become more costly over the years. For 2016-2017 families are being asked to pay $50 more per rider.
A local housing boom is bringing more families to the west side of the island, where housing prices are relatively more affordable than in the Greater Victoria core area. About 500 more students are expected in the SD62 school district this fall compared to last year, said SD62 Superintendent Jim Cambridge at the May 24 SD62 public board meeting.
Thursday, June 9. [Updated 6 pm] Today it was quite a sight! A local fundraiser for the BC Heart & Stroke Foundation that has already raised $3,140 through dinners and other events, did a 30-person ‘Big Bike’ bicycle ride in Sooke town centre today, June 9.
Organized by District of Sooke Councillor Brenda Parkinson, the event is an effort to experience some camaraderie in town, for a good cause. Four sponsorship groups geared up to ride the multi-person bicycles. Parkinson says “it will be quite an effort” to get everyone coordinated in the same direction for the short ride!
The riders started from the kiosk out front of Evergreen Shopping Centre, along Sooke Road to Shields Road, turning right and heading past Mom’s Cafe and then past the Sooke Legion on Eustace, then heading back along Otter Point Road and Sooke Road to the kiosk again.
The four sponsorship groups were: Village Foods (1pm start), HUB Insurance (1:45 pm), ‘Groovy Girls and Guys’ (in photo) headed up by Brenda Parkinson with her co-captain Debby Greenhough Davies (4pm), and RBC (5:30 pm).
Tuesday, June 7. Sooke is a destination for weddings! Lovely weather, lovely scenery, lovely memories.
At the Prestige Oceanfront Resort their rooms are booked all summer long, and many of those are for weddings, says hotel manager Jacob Cramp.
This summer 2016 at the Prestige there are 30 weddings booked at the 122-room oceanfront hotel from June to September, says Convention and Catering Manager Nichola Warner. Weddings parties customize their event, including use of the oceanfront gazebo and the patio level ballroom.
Local marriage commissioner Brenda Parkinson will be performing 50 weddings this summer. Sometimes three in one day! Locations vary for the weddings… including outdoors in various parks as well as at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort, Sooke Harbour House, the Sooke Legion, Salty Towers, Sooke River Campground, private homes, Point No Point, French Beach, Point of View B&B, Aylard Farm, Sea Cider Farm, and Deep Cove Chalet.
Tuesday, June 7. About 40 people showed up for the official opening of the Sooke Horseshoe Pitch on Saturday, June 4. And of those, 12 people signed up as members! Horseshoe lessons were provided, and refreshments.
“There was lots of support,” says Councillor Brenda Parkinson, who attended on behalf of Mayor Maja Tait. “Many people volunteered their service — creating the property, getting things in order, and making it ready as a sport venue for people to enjoy,” said Parkinson.
In future, school groups may be able to attend the Sooke Horseshoe Pitch for sport and exercise.
Monday, June 6. TRAFFIC ADVISORY – Lindholm Road at the Kangaroo Road Intersection will be closed today from 7am, reopening Wednesday, June 8 at 6pm. A large culvert replacement is being done. No access to Lindholm Road from Kangaroo Road, says MainRoad. All traffic will have to access from Happy Valley Road side of Lindholm Road.
Monday, June 6. The Sooke Fire Department will be offering a free workshop on how to Fire Smart your home to protect it from wildfire incidents. “Following what happened in Fort McMurray there seems to be lot of interest in this topic all of a sudden,” says Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen.
“We will also be doing a demonstration on how to set up a wildland sprinkler system to protect your home and will have special homeowner sprinkler kits available for purchase if anyone is interested.” The info session will be held on Wednesday, June 15 from 7 to 8 pm at the Sooke fire hall and upstairs in Council Chambers.
Meanwhile, the firefighters will be hosting a fundraising car wash for Fort McMurray. That will be on Saturday, June 11 (10 am to 2 pm) at Edward Milne Community School. By donation. The popular bouncy house will be set up for the kids to play in while the family vehicle is being cleaned.
Saturday, June 4. “Women in Sooke are not living to the average age of women in BC,” says Island Health’s Chief Medical Health Officer Dr Richard Stanwick.
“There’s something better for men in Sooke,” he said in his attention-grabbing opening remarks at the 2016 Sooke Region Health Summit on May 28 at Sooke Community Hall.
Addressing an audience of about 100 people for his 30-minute talk, Dr Stanwick said that preventative health is more important than ever, as health care budgets are stretched to the limit with increasing demands for acute care needs. Older people who comprise the bulk of the population often have multiple health conditions, requiring more attentive and time-consuming care. “We will break the system if we don’t shift to an emphasis on preventive care,” he said.
“You want to achieve the maximum health your body is capable of,” said Dr Stanwick. “But we can’t promise ‘dying less early’ for future generations under current conditions,” he said, as the room fell silent on that point. Stanwick said that 39% of Canadians will die by age 75. “We should be able to do better in a wonderful country like Canada.”
He said that economic challenges for individuals and families are one of the biggest stressors on maintaining good health. “Young people in particular are educated to know about nutrition food choices but often don’t have the financial means to buy the healthiest foods.”
After Dr Stanwick’s keynote address, the room broke out into four round table discussions, with time for each person to take part in two groups. Topics for the four round tables were: healthy food accessibility (led by Mark Ziegler), special populations (led by Margot Swinburnson), medical services infrastructure (led by Mary Dunn), and social and physical activities (led by Jeff Bateman).
The 3-hour event was hosted by Sooke Mayor Maja Tait. In her opening remarks, Mayor Tait outlines some of the health and well-being achievements of the Sooke area in recent years including two new beds opening at Sooke Hospice this fall, ongoing funding secured for pre-natal services in Sooke, fourth printing of the ‘Where to Find Health’ brochure, opening of the Sooke Family Resource Society thrift shop, progress with parks and trails, and new land acquired by SEAPARC for future recreational opportunities.
Friday, June 3. The Sooke horseshoe pitches — long-awaited by some — will be officially opened on Saturday, June 4 with an all-welcome public event.
From 10:30 am to 2 pm people can drop in and learn to play horseshoes and take tour of how the property is set up. There will be some refreshments.
The pitching setup is at 2250 Sooke River Road, across from the ball park.
Friday, June 3. The local Juan de Fuca Forest Watch group will be holding an open public meeting on Saturday, June 4. They plan to discuss urgent forestry issues and “the most promising avenues for dynamic community action”.
All interested and concerned citizens invited to attend. 2 to 5 pm at Sooke Yoga & Wellness, 202-6750 West Coast Rd, Sooke (in the Hope Centre, 2nd floor). Tea/coffee will be provided, and they ask that participants bring a snack to share.
The Juan de Fuca Forest Watch group was founded earlier this year with a mission to renegotiate the terms of regional forestry with “long overdue respect for and recognition of the intrinsic, deep-rooted value of our forests,” says JdF Forest Watch member Darren Alexander. “We finally have some figures, so we can begin to compare to other deforestation crises in the world,” says Alexander. “What we’re finding is almost hard to believe. It would appear we are at pace with the worst rates and volumes of deforestation in the world.” More info on the group’s Facebook page.
Thursday, June 2. Starting June 1, 2016 a first-time distracted driving ticket in BC now carries a fine of $543 (i.e. $368 fine and four demerit points of $175). If more than three points are collected on a driving record in 12 months, ICBC charges a Driver Penalty Point (DPP) premium. A second distracted driving ticket within 12 months will require payment of $368, totaling $888 dollars. A third offence would cost a driver more than $3,000.
“Residents of Sooke and area need to be aware of the consequences of Distracted Driving,” says Sooke RCMP Commander Jeff McArthur. “Sooke RCMP, the Integrated Road Safety Unit and Vancouver Island Traffic Units will be looking for distracted driving offences, a daily cause of death, injuries and accidents in BC,” McArthur said. Sooke RCMP says over 50 charges and warnings issued for Distracted Driving in the District of Sooke since January 2015.
• Starting June 1, 2016 a driver found using a hand-held electronic device while driving in BC may face $543 in financial penalties for a first offence. That increases to $888 for a second offence, and penalties keep increasing each offence.
• Distracted driving contributed to the deaths of 66 people on BC roads in 2014, and seriously injured 630 more people. (BC Govt media release May 31, 2016)
• There are no messages or conversations that are so important that you need to endanger yourself or others.
• Roadways are very dynamic environments with situations and circumstances that can change quickly. By taking your eyes off of the road for even a moment you increase the chance of a collision or accident.
• Distracted driving and inattention is a top contributing factor to motor vehicle crashes, along with drug- or alcohol-affected driving, and speeding.
• Over the past three years, approximately 50,000 distracted driving tickets have been issued annually in BC. (Prov. of BC media release May 9, 2016)
• If drivers need to make a phone call on a cellular phone or check email, they are advised to use a hands-free device, or pull their vehicle over.
• The RCMP conducts enforcement blitzes for distracted driving year round. That’s because distracted driving is one of the top dangerous driving behaviours in BC.
• During enforcement checks police look for any driver behaviour that takes their attention from the road. That includes: texting while driving, talking on a hand-held cell phone while driving, putting on makeup while driving, and reading a newspaper or book while driving.
• As per an exemption in the Motor Vehicle Act, police officers and emergency responders carrying out their powers, duties or functions are permitted to use electronic devices while driving.
Wednesday, June 1 ~ VICTORIA –With municipal and rural property tax deadlines just around the corner, home owners can look into several provincial programs that may help with some of the financial pressures of home ownership.
Municipalities set the deadline for payment of municipal property taxes. In Sooke, the deadline is on Monday, July 4 at 4:30 pm (that’s when the Sooke municipal hall closes for the day). Tax notices were mailed in Sooke today, June 1. Rural property taxes are due July 4, 2016. After July 4, a 5% penalty is applied to unpaid rural property taxes, including any unclaimed home owner grant. www.gov.bc.ca/homeownergrant
Home owner grant: Home owners can apply for the home owner grant when paying property tax. “This grant helps keep residential property taxes affordable for British Columbians by returning almost $800 million to families every year,” says the BC Government. British Columbians who own homes valued up to $1.2 million may be eligible to receive a full home owner grant this year. For properties assessed above this threshold, the grant is reduced by $5 for every $1,000 of assessed value in excess of the threshold. There are two types of home owner grants:
- The basic grant can reduce residential property taxes on an owner’s principal residence by up to $570, or if the home is located in a northern and rural area, up to $770.
- The additional grant can reduce residential property taxes on an owner’s principal residence by up to up to $845 or, if the home is located in a northern and rural area, up to $1,045. The additional grant is available to home owners who are 65 years or older, who qualify under the persons with disabilities category, or who are the surviving spouse of a veteran who received certain war-veteran allowances.
Low-income grant supplement: Low-income home owners who would have received the additional home owner
grant can apply for a low-income supplement, which replaces any reduction in the grant caused by having a property valued over the threshold. The low-income supplement is available to seniors, certain veterans or their surviving spouse and persons with disabilities.
Property tax deferment program: The property tax deferment program provides low-interest loans that allow qualifying home owners to defer their property taxes until they sell or transfer ownership of their home, or it becomes part of an estate. Taxes can be deferred for any year the home owner lives in the home and continues to qualify for the program. Accumulated deferred taxes and interest must be paid when the home is sold or transferred. There are two categories under the property tax deferment program as explained atwww.gov.bc.ca/propertytaxdeferment :
- The regular program is for owners age 55+, surviving spouses of any age and people with disabilities. The interest rate under the regular program is currently 0.7%. The rate is set equal to prime lending rate, minus 2%.
- The families with children program is for parents, step-parents or those who are financially supporting children, and was created to help families during the years when household costs are often highest. The interest rate under the families with children program is currently 2.7%. The rate is set equal to the prime lending rate.
In 2016, 91% of BC homes are below the home owner grant threshold and, if eligible, their owners would receive the full grant amount. The home owner grant is available to Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada who live in B.C. The Province reimburses municipalities for the full cost of the home owner grant to ensure municipal revenues are not affected. The northern and rural benefit was introduced as part of carbon-tax recycling to recognize the challenges residence in some parts of BC face in minimizing their carbon footprint. As of April 2016, almost 40,000 BC households have benefitted from property tax deferment programs.
For information about other programs that support housing affordability, visit:https://news.gov.bc.ca/factsheets/factsheet-supporting-housing-affordability-in-bc
Tuesday, May 31. The BC government says they are “redirecting $25 million in administrative savings from school districts back into frontline services for students,” it was announced today by the BC Ministry of Education. These are not cheques being issued, but rather a non-collection of funds that school boards were asked to find in their budgets for 2016-2017.
Education Minister Mike Bernier said: “Districts can use the funding any way they see fit – for hiring new teachers, for programs, or for maintaining schools despite falling enrolment in certain regions”. He continued: “Our government is committed to ensuring that maximum education dollars go into services for students,” Bernier said. “Districts worked hard to reduce their administrative costs and we are pleased to be able to direct that $25 million back to programs and initiatives that will directly benefit the kids of BC.”
“Districts made real efforts to reduce spending on their administration costs – and those efforts have made it possible to help flow those resources into classrooms and services for students. The amount of money being left with districts is equal to the Year 2 of Administrative savings districts were asked to find,” Bernier said.
“The BC School Trustees Association is pleased that the Ministry of Education and government have been responsive to our ongoing advocacy,” said BC School Trustees Association president Teresa Rezansoff. “We thank them for engaging in open dialogue with us regarding the funding concerns of school districts. Local autonomy to allocate the money based on local priorities is important.”
School districts have been informed that they will not have to pay their share of $25 million worth of provincial charges this year, and instead can redirect that money into frontline services for students.
“We are giving districts the ability to invest in their individual priorities,” Bernier added. “This provides a great opportunity for each district to spend the money in a way that will best meet the needs of the students of that district.”
Local focus: The Victoria school board (SD61) will receive back $$827,353; Sooke (SD62) will get $450,041; Saanich (SD63) will get $329,692; and the Gulf Islands (SD64) will receive $99,976.
See details of cutbacks in Sooke School District 62 (which serves Langford, Colwood & Sooke) in the May 13, 2016 edition (page 2) and May 27, 2016 edition (pages 1 & 2, including EDITORIAL – ‘How much strain will produce needed action’) of West Shore Voice News. For SD62, $450,041 will now not have to be ‘cut’ from staffing and administration.
Monday, May 30. As announced in the May 20 edition of West Shore Voice News, the new Sooke library is underway for an October 2018 completion date. There will be public consultation this fall, and “shovels in the ground” in 2017, with a branch opening by October 2018″, said Sooke CAO Teresa Sullivan last week.
This week: “We’re pleased to announce that we have confirmed land for a new library in the community of Sooke,” says Councillor Kerrie Reay after it was discussed at the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board of Trustees regular meeting on May 28 in Nanaimo. Reay sits as Trustee for the District of Sooke. “Councillor Reay shared that District of Sooke Council was excited with the agreement and acknowledged the collaborative work between VIRL Executive Staff and District of Sooke Chief Administrative Officer, Teresa Sullivan, in moving the project forward,” said VIRL in a news release on May 30.
The current Sooke library branch at 2065 Anna Marie Road, is approximately one-third the recommended size according to VIRL facility standards, says VIRL. The branch now serves a population of 17,000 and growing, which suggests that the minimum library size should be 10,000 to 12,000 square feet. In 2015, the Sooke library had 85,000 visitors and saw 146,000 physical items through its doors (up 15% from 2014 alone). The current branch is 3,900 square feet.
The new library’s location is confirmed as part of a 5-acre parcel of land purchased by the District (as announced by the District of Sooke on February 29, 2016). The parcel of land is located north of Sooke town centre between Townsend Road and Anna Marie Road. The conditions for the land had to lend toward budget, zoning and access considerations (including parking and easy access for those with disabilities).
“The Sooke library branch is a destination for young families, seniors and teens and everyone in between,” says Rosemary Bonanno, Executive Director, VIRL. “The community makes excellent use of their library, from digital services like public computer stations and online movie databases, to participation in community-enriching programs.”
In 2015, 4,122 people participated in the programs put on by the library which range from adult learning opportunities to children’s literacy-building programs. Since 2014, program participation is up 10% and the number is steadily growing from year after year.
“We’re extremely excited to build on what’s been developed at our branch on Anna Marie road. We’re imagining what we can do with the space and resources that will allow our staff to even better serve the community,” says Adrienne Wass, Library Manager, Sooke branch.
Monday, May 30 ~ VICTORIA. The Capital Regional District (CRD) Board has announced plans to purchase two lots totaling 16 acres (6.47 hectares) for park purposes on Sooke River Road in the District of Sooke. The two riverfront lots at 2540 and 2548 Sooke River Road will be purchased through the CRD Regional Parks Land Acquisition Fund for $1,199,000.
“These properties provide the only access to the Sooke River’s “Pemberton Pool” which has provided the Chinook and Coho brood stock for the Sooke Salmon Enhancement Society,” said Mike Hicks, CRD Regional Parks Committee Chair. “The CRD directors felt that it was imperative to secure this property for the future of the salmon stocks, Sooke River, T’Sou-ke Nation and South Island residents. I am extremely proud to be part of this historic purchase.”
“In addition to salmon enhancement, the property is situated close to the Galloping Goose Trail, has an incredible old growth forest and will make a beautiful addition to our Regional Parks system,” said Barbara Desjardins, CRD Board Chair.
The CRD anticipates the land acquisition will be completed in August 2016. The CRD will then develop a plan for future use of the site.
The CRD acquires land through the Regional Parks Land Acquisition Fund. The fund levy rate is $20 per average residential household assessment. It generates approximately $3.7 million each year. Since 2000, CRD Regional Parks, with its partners, has purchased 4,491 hectares of land totaling $49 million. The acquisitions are guided by the CRD Regional Parks Land Acquisition Strategy 2015-2017.
Saturday, May 28 ~ SOOKE. So many events on in Sooke today! CRD irrigation workshop, Sooke Health Summit, fundraiser for Hannah, and much more! Check out the Sooke Events Page.
Thursday, May 26 ~ SOOKE. Get those gardens ready for long-awaited rain! The Weather Network forecast shows a 90% chance of precipitation for Saturday, May 28.
Coincidentally, there is also a Micro/Drip Irrigation workshop by CRD in Sooke that same day. The May 28 free workshop is an introductory session for residential homeowners. From 2 to 5 pm. For details and to register, contact the CRD at 250-474-9684.
Wednesday, May 25 ~ SOOKE. A Sooke Region Health Summit will be held this weekend. It’s on Saturday, May 28 at Sooke Community Hall, 1 to 4pm. Hosted by Sooke Mayor Maja Tait, the keynote speaker will be Dr Richard Stanwick, Chief Medical Health officer with Island Health.
Four roundtable discussions are open to anyone who wishes to attend. The overall goal is to discuss how to improve health and well-being services in the Sooke region “through our own initiatives”, says Mayor Tait.
Some of of the specific topics include helping ourselves and helping each other, medical services and infrastructure, and community advocacy and engagement. Even further specifics will include xray, seniors issues, youth and child mental health, and community spaces.
Full article on page 4 in the May 20, 2016 issue of West Shore Voice News.
Wednesday, May 25 ~ WEST SHORE. About 30 parents and educational stakeholder reps showed up to the Sooke School District (SD62) board meeting last night for the SD62 May 24 public board meeting, expressing frustration about school board expenditure cuts.
With details from SD62 Superintendent Jim Cambridge and SD62 Treasurer Harold Cull, the board explained to parents and reps of CUPE and teachers that in having to produce a balanced budget to $110,036,802 there needed to be cuts. Their deficit calculation was almost $1.7 million. That is due, they said, to inadequate revenues. Most of the revenues of the school district come from the BC Government by way of per-pupil funding formula (presently about $7,160 per full-time student). Other revenues are achieved through facility rental, International student programs, and bussing fees.
The 2016-2017 operating budget is $94,775,109 which is up 6% from the 2015-2016 operating budget of $89,334,524. Of the operating budget, $75.7 million or about 85% is spent on instruction, with $8.5 million (9%) on facilities, $3.1 million (4%) on administration, and $2.1 million (2%) on transportation.
In 2016-2017, SD62 will provide educational delivery for a projected 9,804 students (perhaps reaching 10,000, according to Cambridge last night). That’s up from 9,515 students in 2015-2016. SD62 serves students and families primarily in the areas of Langford, Colwood and Sooke (and also Highlands, Metchosin and Port Renfrew). More school space is needed, but for now portables will be relocated around the school district as required to accommodate the influx of more students this fall.
This year’s cuts of about $918,000 are seen almost entirely in staffing — administrative, support, and instructional. This is largely in response to the BC Ministry of Education’s directive to find ‘savings’ in administrative budget areas. Parents present at the board meeting last night were primarily concerned about cuts to programs that require specialized teachers who deliver support to students who require more one-on-one attention outside the larger classroom framework.
Superintendent Cambridge did point out that 12 new classroom teachers are being hire for 2016-2017 to help with expansion of the student numbers in SD62. But non-enrolling support staff numbers are being cut back. “When something right happens (as in increased funding from the government), we can add back in the educational assistants and classroom support mid-year,” said Cambridge. “If money comes in we have a place to spend it right way. We know where our cuts are.” Cambridge said that a per-pupil funding formula is inadequate in particular for school districts with expanding student populations, such as Sooke.
The board passed a motion to send a letter to the BC Ministry of Education to outline the hardship on students and the learning environment by having to balance a budget that the see as inadequate on the revenue side. Notably, having to pay BC Hydro increases, MSP increases and a portion of the province-wide Internet network expansion were considered as onerous to the school district. The teacher’s union and CUPE, the SPEAC parents organization, and other stakeholders will be invited to sign the letter.
Board Chair Bob Phillips and Trustee Ravi Parmar were particularly vocal at the board table about the downloading of costs such as BC Hydro increases and MSP premium increases onto the local school board budget. While all board members seemed to favour the $50 per rider bus fee increase for 2016-2017, Trustee Wendy Hobbs made it clear she felt that there were too many waivers for families who claim they cannot pay, and asked for more accountability in that regard.
The board passed increases in fees for the Academies programs including rugby and lacrosse.
Some new course offerings in SD62 will now include Entertainment (11), Entrepreneurship (11), Lifesaving (10, 11 and 12), Outdoor Education (11 and 12), and Multi-Sport (10, 11 and 12).
Tuesday, May 24 ~ SOOKE. Edward Milne Community School (EMCS) is holding a large fair for Hannah Day and her family this coming Saturday, May 28 (11am to 4 pm).
It will be a carnival-type event with games and activities for children. The “One Day at a Time” event will raise money for Hannah and her family during her ongoing cancer treatments.
Tuesday, May 24 ~ SOOKE. Tonight’s District of Sooke Regular Council Meeting will deal with a number of items.
The May 24 public council meeting will be at 7 pm in the upstairs Sooke council chambers, 2225 Otter Point Rd. The meeting will be webcasted. Note: the 6pm Committee of the Whole meeting for tonight has been cancelled.
Agenda items include recommendations to approve $31,500 in community grants, a recommendation to bring parks maintenance contracts in-house, and a discussion about whether Sooke supports a second casino in the Greater Victoria area. See more details about these items, on page 4 in the May 20, 2016 edition of West Shore Voice News.
Mayor and Council usually give verbal reports, as well as the CAO.
Agenda and webcasting at: www.sooke.ca
Tuesday, May 24 ~ WEST SHORE. The Sooke School District (SD62) that provides educational delivery for students and families primarily in the areas of Langford, Colwood and Sooke, will aim for final approval of their 2016-2017 budget tonight, Tuesday May 24.
The public board meeting is at 8 pm at the SD62 board office, 3143 Jacklin Rd. Meetings are not webcasted.
Over the long weekend a few parents have written to the BC Minister of Education, Mike Bernier, regarding the frustrations for families, the SD62 board, and in fact all school boards, over having to pass balanced budgets, when clearly there are not enough funds to go around. One of those letters has been published on the West Shore Voice News LETTERS PAGE.
Providing education is costly, and is a labour-intensive enterprise. In previous years, cuts were made to classroom services and supplies. Corners have been cut in many places. This year, reductions were made in various areas of administration (including principal / vice-principal positions) and support staffing, but a few also in teaching position opportunities. Ultimately this of course affects the function and performance of classrooms and educational goals.
Information about the SD62 budget process has been made available throughout the last few months, online at www.sd62.bc.ca
Sunday, May 22 ~ SOOKE. Today there is quite the big shakeup in Sooke! About 120 people per hour have been experiencing a ‘ride’ in the Shake Zone earthquake simulator. The event continues until 4 pm today. It’s bright and sunny out there, and the bouncy house is set up for kids. Refreshments include hot dogs. [Update on Sunday evening: about 500 people came out to try the Shake Zone simulator!]
There are information tables about emergency preparedness. Both Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen and Juan de Fuca Emergency Preparedness coordinator Jeri Grant feel that people are more aware about emergency preparedness. But perhaps not enough action has been taken by people to actually be prepared.
In the semi-rural Sooke area, it would be a while … perhaps even weeks … until supplies would be fully available again after a major earthquake. That would be due to disruptions in road transport of food and other supplies, and behind that disruptions in ports for receiving goods by ferry or transport vessels.
Attending the event in Sooke today were many of the emergency preparedness personnel who serve the local Sooke community (including fire department and emergency services), a few District of Sooke councillors (including Brenda Parkinson and Rick Kasper this morning). and lots of families with children and even their dogs.
Children may participate in the simulator. Everyone who wants to experience the simulator needs to sign a waiver. The equipment can be run to simulate an 8.0 Magnitude quake. But the operator can adjust the intensity of the shaking, making it slower for children and young families, or older people who may have difficulty holding onto the seat handles. People should sit far back in the seat to avoid too much body shaking.
The US-based company that tours the simulator around the USA and Canada is called Safe-T-Proof. Their website is at www.Safe-T-Proof.com . One of the operators here from California today, said he is impressed with the beauty of the Sooke area, and the quaintness of the town.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada is one of the sponsors. www.ibc.ca
Lots of info about preparedness here: www.prepareyourself.ca . And follow @jdfemerg on Twitter.
Sunday, May 22 ~ SOOKE. Today tere will be a big shakeup in Sooke! The Quake Cottage earthquake simulator will be set up at the Sooke Fire Hall on Sunday for people to experience what an 8.0 Magnitude quake would feel like.
The shake-up experience is free, and will last about one minute. About 600 people can be accommodated in the six-hour period that the simulator will be set up (from 10am to 4pm) at the fire hall, which is at 2225 Otter Point Road.
The simulator will have been at Esquimalt Town Square on May 19, at VGH on May 20, and at Mayfair Mall on May 21. Sooke is the last stop of the Quake Cottage tour, on Sunday May 22. Parking is available in the Sooke municipal hall parking lot.
Anyone who wishes to try out the simulator will need to sign a waiver, and wear a seat belt inside the unit. Persons who are physically frail or in poor health may wish to avoid the simulator experience. Questions may be directed to Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen: ssorensen@sooke.ca
“It’s a good experience, a reminder to be prepared for an emergency,” says Juan de Fuca Emergency Preparedness coordinator Jeri Grant. “The most basic step is to have an emergency kit ready — for home, car and place of work,” she says. @jdfemerg #ShakeZone
Saturday, May 21 ~ SOOKE. Access to the parking lot at Sombrio Beach has been temporarily restricted for safety measures over the May long weekend to discourage illegal activities, such as parties and vandalism, which have occurred in past years.
The 2.5 km gravel access road leading from Highway 14 to the parking lot at Sombrio Beach trailhead will be closed to vehicle access from Friday, May 20 at 7 a.m. to Monday, May 23 at 12 midnight.
BC Parks will be closing vehicle access to Sombrio Beach with the support of the Conservation Officer Service and the RCMP. Unauthorized activities within the park can impact the social, economic, cultural and ecological sustainability of both the park and the local communities.
All locations within Juan de Fuca Park, including the designated campsites and access trail at Sombrio Beach and the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, remain open to the public. The three remaining trailheads to the Juan de Fuca at China Beach, Parkinson Creek and Botanical Beach are still accessible by vehicles.
BC Parks wants all visitors to peacefully and safely enjoy recreational activities at the park such as hiking, camping and day use at Sombrio Beach and in the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park.
Friday, May 20 ~ SOOKE. Looks like a nice weather forecast for the Sooke area for this upcoming May long weekend. During May 21 to 23 temperatures are predicted by The Weather Network to be spring-time moderate, with the possible chance of rain.
Monday, May 23 is a statutory holiday in BC. The May long weekend (aka Victoria Day, or May 24th weekend) is celebrated across Canada by different names and with varying traditions.
Overall, the May long weekend is seen each year as the first week of ‘summer’, in that people take getaway trips or just time off in the garden or doing activities.
In Sooke, the regular CRD blue box recycling pick up day *will* happen on Monday, May 23.
Friday, May 20 ~ SOOKE. There will be a big shakeup in Sooke this long weekend! The Quake Cottage earthquake simulator will be set up at the Sooke Fire Hall on Sunday for people to experience what an 8.0 Magnitude quake would feel like.
The shake-up experience is free, and will last about one minute. About 600 people can be accommodated in the six-hour period that the simulator will be set up (from 10am to 4pm) at the fire hall, which is at 2225 Otter Point Road.
The simulator will have been at Esquimalt Town Square on May 19, at VGH on May 20, and at Mayfair Mall on May 21. Sooke is the last stop of the Quake Cottage tour — on Sunday May 22. Parking is available in the Sooke municipal hall parking lot.
Anyone who wishes to try out the simulator will need to sign a waiver, and wear a seat belt inside the unit. Persons who are physically frail or in poor health may wish to avoid the simulator experience. Questions may be directed to Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen: ssorensen@sooke.ca
“It’s a good experience, a reminder to be prepared for an emergency,” says Juan de Fuca Emergency Preparedness coordinator Jeri Grant. “The most basic step is to have an emergency kit ready — for home, car and place of work,” she says. @jdfemerg #ShakeZone
Thursday, May 19 – VICTORIA. BC will invest $45 million in school facility upgrades this year. “We’re calling it our ‘fix it fund’,: said BC Education Mike Bernier in an announcement at the BC Legislature today. There will be 80 projects in 124 schools throughout the province.
“We have a strong economy in BC, and have the opportunity of making investments like this,” Bernier said. The work will include 21 roof replacements; the upgrading of heating and ventilation systems; windows, lighting and electrical system upgrades; and fire protection safety enhancements.
Districts applied to the Ministry of Education in spring 2016 and successful projects were chosen based on need, priority and supporting student learning. Another requirement was that projects had to cost more than $100,000.
Joining Minister Bernier for the announcement was Greater Victoria School Board (SD61) Superintendent Piet Langstraat. “Today’s announcement is about investing in buildings,” said Langstraat. “But it’s much more than that. It’s about investing in safety. And more than that … about investing in the lives of these young students. Not only for today, for for the years to come.”
Also speaking today was SD62 Board Chair Bob Phillips, a long-time trustee in Sooke School District 62 (SD62). Phillips announced that the only high school out in the town area of Sooke — Edward Milne Community School (EMCS) — will be getting almost $465,000 for roof repair and envelope upgrade.
EMCS will soon be celebrating its 20th anniversary. The present school building first opened in 1996. It is the only high school in the immediate Sooke area. The other two high schools in SD62 are Belmont Secondary in Langford and Royal Bay Secondary in Colwood.
“We are very excited and very grateful to be receiving this support from the ministry for the replacement of our roof,” says EMCS Principal Pat Swinburnson. “It is the 20th anniversary of our building next year so the timing couldn’t be better,” he said today. “For a number of years now our school district facilities staff have worked very hard through the rainy season trying to keep us drying with multiple patchwork efforts. So it’s a great relief to all of us that this much needed roof replacement is going ahead,” Swinburnson said.
Wednesday, May 18 ~ SOOKE: The Welcome to Sooke sign that was erected on a rock a few years ago, looks lovely in the spring sunshine. It is positioned just ahead of the Sooke Road & Phillips Road intersection, as westbound drivers approach Sooke.
Just a few meters ahead of that is an LED signboard that displays events and other announcements. And immediately across the street on the west side of Phillips Road is the old lighthouse with plenty of other signage around it. We are well-signed in Sooke!
Wednesday, May 18 ~ VICTORIA [UDPATED May 19, 2016]: A new digital sign will provide drivers travelling west on Highway 14 with up-to-date information on road conditions, lane closures and commuting delays, it was announced today by BC Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) Minister Todd Stone. MOTI will also begin a study to identify future priorities for Highway 14 improvements.
“The Highway 14 corridor is a critical link on southern Vancouver Island that serves a wide variety of people including commuters, commercial drivers, tourists and cyclists,” said Stone. “In response to discussions with local community leaders, we will be looking at ways to improve this route and the new overhead sign is an important first step.”
The overhead changeable message sign will be located near Awsworth Road, approximately 500 metres west of the future connection to the new West Shore Parkway extension on Highway 14, and will face drivers heading westbound toward Sooke.
Work is already underway on the nearby Glenshire Business Park, a project by Keycorp Developments of Langford. Easily visible as one travels on Sooke Road, the commercial/industrial park will offer lots from 1 to 20 acres in size.
Work on the roadside changeable message sign will begin in late May 2016, and is expected to be finished during the summer. The sign will cost approximately $250,000, and will provide timely information regarding delays, road closures and current road conditions to the approximately 7,000 vehicles travelling from Langford to Sooke each day. Information will be provided from the DriveBC traveller information system, which is also available online at: www.DriveBC.ca
Work will begin in late May 2016, and is expected to be finished during the summer. The sign will cost approximately $250,000, and will provide timely information regarding delays, road closures and current road conditions to the approximately 7,000 vehicles travelling from Langford to Sooke each day. Information will be provided from the DriveBC traveller information system, which is also available online at: www.DriveBC.ca
CHM2M Hill has been awarded the $130,000 contract to assess possible future improvements to Highway 14 between Langford and Sooke. This technical study will review the current condition and performance of the highway, examine potential upgrades for both the short and long term, and examine ways to promote greater transit use and to encourage cycling.
The idea of widening Highway 14 to four lanes all the between between Langford and Sooke has not yet been confirmed, despite speculation in other media. But Langford Mayor Stew Young says that if in fact Highway 14 were to be widened to four lanes, that it would improve traffic flow between Langford and Sooke.
The study will begin during the summer of 2016 and the final report is expected to be available in the spring of 2017, says MOTI.
“The Mayor has been writing letters to Minister Stone every time there has been an accident on Highway 14,” says District of Sooke CAO Teresa Sullivan. “Mayor Tait and I met with MOTI officials last month who informed us they were considering the sign and would be conducting the improvement study this year. Mayor and Council are thrilled this work is moving ahead and look forward to receiving the results of the study in 2017.”
Tuesday, May 17. The quickly-organized Fort Mac fundraiser held by West Coast Grill at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort last Saturday, May 14, raised $800. Funds will be donated to the Canadian Red Cross, toward supporting displaced families of the Fort McMurray fire.
“The support we received from the community and businesses in the area has been overwhelming,” said Tracy Snow, West Coast Grill General Manager. “For an event that was put together with such short notice, we couldn’t be sure what sort of response we would receive. But happily we saw lots of people on the day and were blessed with sponsors who donated supplies, time and energy to help us bring the event together.”
Businesses and people that sponsored the event include Jean Bedard acoustic musician, Little Vienna Bakery, Red Rooster Winery, Vancouver Island Brewery, Sysco Victoria, Village Food Markets, and Freshpoint, as well as local media.
Donations can be made directly at the Red Cross website: www.redcross.ca
Tuesday, May 17. Two public forums on current topics of interest to a broad range of Canadians will be held locally by Randall Garrison, MP (Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke) in the coming days.
On Thursday, May 26 (2-4 pm) will be a Defence Policy Review Discussion, at which Garrison will seek public input on Canada’s future defence policy. He hopes people read up ahead of time before attending. The review discussion paper is at http://tinyurl.com/DefencePolicyDiscussion . The event will be held and co-hosted at the Esquimalt Legion, 622 Admirals Rd.
On Friday, May 27 (7 to 8:30 pm) will be a Climate Change town hall, at which Garrison will seek public input on finding practical solutions to climate change. He hopes people read up ahead of time before attending. The review discussion paper is at http://tinyurl.com/ClimateChangeTownhall . The event will be held at Esquimalt High School Theatre, 847 Colville Rd. 
Garrison was instrumental in having the riding re-named during his first term as MP (2011-2015), to better include the names of the regional areas that the riding covers. It is a broad area from Esquimalt along the west side of south Vancouver Island up as far as the Jordan River, west of Sooke.
Sunday, May 15. Meet four watercolour artists in Sooke today at the Artists Friendship Show.
In addition to their creativity with paint on canvas, these women are also powerful contributors to the Sooke community in many other ways: Linda Anderson, Louise Morin, Brenda Parkinson and Pat Phillips. They are joined by Rae Williamson in this show, with her dimensional glass art & jewelry.
It’s a drop-in event today, Sunday May 15, from noon to 2pm, at the Reading Room Cafe, Evergreen Shopping Centre, Sooke.
Update after the show: Supporters and friends turned out to the Meet the Artist show today. Besides how much these artists like to create, they also sold some pieces! Brenda Parkinson is always excited when one of her pieces sells — one sold day! Louise Morin sold two paintings. Pat Phillips sold three. Linda Anderson (who is an art instructor to the other three) sold a few pieces too. Glass art and jewelry artist Rae Williamson sold two items today.
Art remains on the walls and jewelry in the cabinets at the Reading Room Cafe through June 5.
Friday, May 13 ~ LANGFORD/COLWOOD/SOOKE. Online bus registration interface is still having technical glitches, says Sooke School District 62 (SD62), and that it will be up and running next week.
Bus fees for 2016-2017 have gone up by $50 per rider, to $225 per student (one or two students). Where they are three or more students in a family who attend SD62 schools, there is a fee discount.
This year the SD62 board wrestled, once again, with where to make budget cutbacks. Most of the cutbacks are in the labour costs — administration, support staff and teachers.
The increase in bus fees in fact does not fully cover the cost of providing the bus service. At a recent board meeting, SD62 trustees were reminded that bussing is not a government mandated service.
Friday, May 13 ~ SOOKE. This Sunday is Sooke Bear Day 2016, with a family-friendly event at SEAPARC Leisure Complex, from noon to 3 pm. During the event (from 1 to 2 pm), BC Conservation Officers will provide some insights into the realities of life on the front lines of wildlife management.
Displays, kid-friendly activities and information on bear-smart strategies for homeowners (e.g. electric fencing for backyard chicken coops) is also planned. Refreshments available (by Sooke Harbourside Lions).
Sooke is one of western Canada’s leading black bear hot spots. “Sharing the land with Ursus americanus is both a thrill and a blessing that brings with it responsibilities on our part to practice bear-wise lifestyles ensuring safe co-existence with these magnificent wild creatures,” says Wild Wise Sooke.
Poor household garbage storage is the top reason bears stop their traditional foraging routines and instead seek tastier, quick-fix calorie boosts from trash cans, compost bins, pet-food storage, bird feeders and barbecues.
On Sunday, conservation officers will talk about popular misconceptions about wildlife in Sooke; how and when to report bear and cougar sightings via the RAPP line; local and provincial laws and procedures for wildlife conflicts; safety tips when confronted by wild animals; and the complicated, emotionally charged process of dealing with fully habituated problem bears.
Wild Wise Sooke was launched last year under the auspices of the Sooke Transition Town Society (aka Transition Sooke) with full support from the District of Sooke. Focusing on the Sooke region, it continues the effective work that Read began with the provincial Bear Aware program in 2012 to deal with the disturbingly large number of local garbage-habituated bears. Read regularly speaks with community groups and at Sooke schools while also working with the District’s bylaw enforcement team to curb problems as they arise on a case-by-case basis. www.wildwisesooke.com | www.kitchenscrapssooke.ca
Thursday, May 12 ~ SOOKE. With due consideration, last night $30,500 was quickly spent by the District of Sooke Community Grants Review Committee (pending Council approval). In fact, that amount might go up to $34,700 if Council also wishes (at their upcoming Regular Meeting on May 24) to reconsider the decision to decline two of the eight grant requests that were presented to the grants committee.- Harmony Project Society {$7,000] – to buy musical instruments for use by local Sooke youth
- Rotary Club of Sooke [$3,000] – to support the educational garden at John Muir Elementary
- Scouts Canada – Camp Barnard [$5,000] – to help with completing some winterizing renovations to the dining facility
- Sooke Saltwater Series [$3,500] – to help with marketing their three fishing derbies
- Sooke Region Community Health Network [$7,000] – to help with the cost of improvements to their community garden
- Sooke River Bluegrass Festival [$5,000] – to help with facility costs
Groups that were declined were:
- Communica: Dialogue and Resolution Services [$3,000] – seen as ‘downloading’ of health costs for services that the committee feels should be covered by the provincial government
- Sooke Transition Town Society [$1,200] – the Reskilling project description was considered too vague
The committee is being chaired again this year by District of Sooke Councillor Kerrie Reay. The other Sooke Councillor on the committee is Bev Berger. New committee members are Coleen Heenan and Michelle Stafford. [In photo from left: Coleen Heenan, Councillor Kerrie Reay (Chair), Councillor Bev Berger, Michelle Stratford. Photo Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News]
There as staff support were Director of Financial Services Brent Blackhall, and corporate support Sarah Temple. Attending in the audience was District of Sooke Councillor Brenda Parkinson. The meeting was not webcasted. Media present was West Shore Voice News.
Thursday, May 12 ~ SOOKE. A fundraiser for Fort McMurray evacuees is coming up this Saturday, May 14 at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort in Sooke, 12 noon to 2pm. Live music by Jean Bedard.
Wednesday, May 11 ~ PARKSVILLE. The BC Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations says that effective at noon today Friday, May 13, that Category 2 open fires will be prohibited in most areas of the Coastal Fire Centre.
This is to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety. The prohibition remains in effect until Oct. 21, 2016 or until the public is otherwise notified.
The prohibition covers all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands within the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction, with the exception of the area known as the “Fog Zone” and the Haida Gwaii Forest District.
- The Coastal Fire Centre covers all of the area west of the height of land on the Coast Mountain Range from the US-Canada border at Manning Park, including Tweedsmuir South Provincial Park in the north, the Sunshine Coast, the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and Haida Gwaii [see map].
- The Fog Zone is a strip of land along the outer coast of Vancouver Island, stretching from Owen Point (near Port Renfrew) north to the tip of Vancouver Island and around to the boundary of the District of Port Hardy. This strip extends inland 2km from the high tide point. A map of the Fog Zone is available online.
Specifically, this prohibition applies to:
- The burning of any material (piled or unpiled) smaller than 2m high and 3m wide.
- The burning of stubble or grass fires over an area less than 2,000 sq m.
- The use of fireworks, firecrackers, sky lanterns, or burning barrels or burning cages of any size or description. The use of binary exploding targets (e.g., for rifle target practice).
This prohibition does not apply within the boundaries of a local government that has wildfire prevention bylaws in place and is serviced by a fire department. Before lighting any fire, residents should check with local authorities to see if there are any other fire restrictions in effect. However, recently on south Vancouver Island, open burning has been banned this season by Metchosin, Otter Point and Sooke. A ban by bylaw was already in effect in Langford.
This prohibition does not ban campfires that are a half-metre high by a half-metre wide or smaller, or apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes. People lighting a campfire must maintain a fireguard by removing flammable debris from the campfire area, and they must have a hand tool or at least eight litres of water available nearby to properly extinguish the fire. Campfires must be fully extinguished when not attended.
Any person lighting larger fires (or more than two fires of any size) must comply with open burning regulations and must first obtain a burn registration number by calling 1 888 797-1717.
Anyone who lights, fuels or uses an open fire when a fire prohibition is in place or fails to comply with an open fire prohibition may be issued a ticket for $1,150 or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be subject to a penalty of up to $100,000 and ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free, or *5555 on a cellphone.
For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, go to: www.bcwildfire.ca | Wildifre updates on Twitter | Wildfire updates on Facebook
Wednesday, May 11 ~ SOOKE. In recent days, some local event-promotion signage was placed in the roundabout in Sooke town centre.
Today the BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) said they were unaware of the signs placed in the roundabout.
“We will be working with sign owners to assess if they fit within the ministry’s policy for temporary permitted signs,” says Kate Mukasa, Public Affairs Officer, MOTI.
“As well, the ministry is currently working with the District of Sooke on a landscaping plan for the center of the roundabout which may limit the recurrence of this type of temporary signage in the future,” says Mukasa.
Tuesday, May 10 ~ LANGFORD. Tonight the Sooke School Board (SD62) will look to do first reading on its 2016-2017 budget of $110,877,186.
They need to balance a $1.7 million shortfall. After a few months of deliberation, their cuts will dig into management, support staff and teachers. Over the course of budget deliberations, management shifted to taking a bigger cut, to spare some teaching salaries from even further cuts.
Also, families will be asked to pay $50 more for school bus transit per student in 2016-2017, bringing the per-student bus fee to $225.
The cuts are probably going to look like this, according to information released by SD62 this week:
- Cuts to management in the amount of $456,000. That will include removing one vice principal and one District Principal. There will also be reductions in speech and language pathologist services.
- Cuts to support staff in the amount of $405,000. That will include reducing expenditures on youth & family counsellors, education assistants, IT support, and custodial.
- Cuts to teachers in the amount of $816,000. That will include reductions in curriculum coordination, deaf and hard of hearing support, hospital and home bound, and non-enrolling school-based staff.
Tonight’s special board meeting at 7 pm at Belmont Secondary will be followed by an Education Committee of the Whole meeting at which the public is invited to provide comments. www.sd62.bc.ca
Tuesday, May 10 ~ VICTORIA. The taste and odour of Greater Victoria’s drinking water may be a bit ‘off’ but the water remains safe to drink.
Capital Regional District (CRD) Integrated Water Services has today advised residents of Greater Victoria that an increased level of algae in the Sooke Lake Reservoir (reservoir shown in CRD photo) is causing potential taste and odour in the drinking water.
“In the last few days, higher numbers of a golden-brown algae called Uroglena have been observed in the Sooke Lake Reservoir some distance north of the intake tower,” says Ted Robbins, General Manager, CRD Integrated Water Services. This algae has now moved closer to the intake and is entering the water system. This variety of algae can produce a fishy or metallic taste and odour, however, the Island Health Authority confirms taste and odour are aesthetic parameters only – the water remains safe to drink and the aesthetic taste and odour parameters are not a health concern.
Algae concentrations and locations in Sooke Lake Reservoir change with time but the duration of this current event is predicted to be a few days, according to a CRD news release today. The CRD has adjusted the water intake to a deeper level in the reservoir which is expected to improve the aesthetic water quality. CRD staff are monitoring the quality and safety of the water closely and will keep the public informed of any potential health concerns or changes in water quality.
The Sooke Lake Reservoir supplies most of Greater Victoria. It was at full capacity at April 3, and started declining from 100% full by April 10. As of May 8, the level is down to 95.5% of capacity. There has been little to no rain for the past 10 days or so.
Last year the reservoir supply declined slowly but steadily well into September, even into October, but held its own. Water restrictions did not need to be intensified past Level 1 except for in some rural areas.
Tuesday, May 10 ~ SOOKE. This season’s decisions about grants to community groups will be held on Wednesday, May 11 at 7 pm in Sooke Council chambers. The public is welcome to attend. The meeting will not be webcasted.
These groups have made applications for District of Sooke Category B (project) grants, totalling $34,700 [amount of individual requests shown in brackets]. Project grants are for one-time identifiable uses, not an ongoing operational expense.
A representative from each group is usually allowed an opportunity to address the committee.
- Communica: Dialogue and Resolution Services [$3,000]
- Harmony Project Society {$7,000]
- Rotary Club of Sooke [$3,000]
- Scouts Canada – Camp Barnard [$5,000]
- Sooke Saltwater Series [$3,500]
- Sooke Region Community Health Network [$7,000]
- Sooke River Bluegrass Festival [$5,000]
- Sooke Transition Town Society [$1,200]
The committee is being chaired again this year by District of Sooke Councillor Kerrie Reay.
Monday, May 9 ~ SOOKE. Due to increased fire danger levels and increased fire activity, a burning ban on all outdoor burning (except campfires) will go in effect tonight Monday, May 9, 2016 at sunset.The wind picked up in Sooke around 1 pm this afternoon, right in time for the Harbourside Lions rubber duck race fundraiser on the Sooke River.
A structure fire is being dealt with by Sooke firefighters around 3 pm on Sooke River Road; single lane traffic for a bit.
Don’t forget about gifts, phone calls and other plans for Mother’s Day which is tomorrow, Sunday, May 8.
Friday, May 6 ~ SOOKE. Every household in Canada was supposed to receive a Census 2016 form, presumably by postal mail this week.If you got missed (or you prefer digital), the census can also be completed online: http://www.census.gc.ca
Wednesday, May 4. the Shake Zone Earthquake Simulator is coming to BC, and right here to Sooke. It’s part of Emergency Preparedness awareness being generated in Emergency Preparedness Week (May 1 to 7 across Canada).
The portable earthquake simulator that is coming to BC is operated by Quake Cottage. There will be many stops in the BC lower mainland, and at various points on Vancouver Island. The quake demonstrator will be in Sooke on Sunday, May 22.
The Quake Cottage allows people to safely experience a significant 8.0 magnitude earthquake. The providers of Quake Cottage also have a 9.5 simulator.
“There is a huge difference between an 8.0 quake and 9.5,” says Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen. He explains that every point increase is an amplification by 10.
Natural Resources Canada estimates that there is a 30% chance that a major earthquake will strike BC in the next 50 years. A study in 2013 by the Insurance Bureau of Canada indicated such an earthquake could result in $75 billion in overall economic losses.
The 3-seat 8.0 Magnitude Quake Cottage will be in Sooke on Sunday, May 22 from 10am to 4pm. It will be set up out front at the Sooke Fire Hall, 2225 Otter Point Road. It can handle about 100 people per hour.
“We expect a very high turnout to try out the Quake Cottage,” says Sooke Fire Chief Sorensen. Taking part in the earthquake experience inside the Quake Cottage is safe. There are seat belts and no objects will toss around (that aspect will be displayed on a video). But before getting into the simulator, persons will be required to sign a waiver. “People who are frail or have serious health conditions may not wish to participate inside the Quake Cottage,” says Sorensen.
At the fire hall that day there will also be hot dogs and refreshments, and the popular bouncy house for kids. Parking is available in the District of Sooke municipal parking lot.
Tuesday, May 3 ~ SOOKE. A film production is underway at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort in Sooke. Starting yesterday, May 2, a film with the working title The Convenient Groom stars actors Vanessa Marcil and David Sutcliffe. Production Manager, Darren Robson, said filming would continue to Thursday, May 5, all day each day from 8:30 am to 8:30 pm.
Marcil is an American actress, best known for her television roles as Brenda Barrett on General Hospital, Gina Kincaid on Beverly Hills, 90210, and Sam Marquez on Las Vegas. Sutcliffe is a Canadian actor, best known for playing Christopher Hayden, Rory Gilmore’s father and Lorelai Gilmore’s on-and-off boyfriend, on the CW show Gilmore Girls. He played the lead role in Cracked as detective Aidan Black.
According to the District of Sooke, all extras hired are from Vancouver Island, and one hair and makeup trainee has been hired from Sooke. “We are very proud of Sooke’s natural beauty that continues to attract the film industry,” said Mayor Tait.
Yesterday the BC government announced the tax credits to the film industry are being cut back from 33% to 28% (eligible on BC labour costs), effective October 1, 2016. The digital animation and video effects (DAVE) industry is also taking a bit of a cutback, with their tax credit opportunity being reduced from 17.5% to 16%, effective October 1, 2016. Those subsidies have been forecast to cost BC taxpayers nearly $500 million in 2015-16, up from an average of $313 million over the past three years, and an average of $182 million over the five years prior to 2012-13.
The Province announced in the February budget it would establish an industry-government working group with representatives from the film and television industry. “These meetings helped the Province understand the industry’s perspectives and provided an opportunity to discuss potential options,” it was stated in a Ministry of Finance news release yesterday.
The BC film and television tax credit program consists of five distinct tax credits: Basic, Regional, Distant Location Regional, Film Training, Digital Aniination or Visual Effects.
Monday, May 2 ~ VICTORIA. The Victoria Real Estate Board (VREB) says that April 2016 property sales in the Victoria area “continue to exceed expectations”. As prices have been skyrocketing upwards for over a year, the current situation is certainly nothing short of a ballooning market, based on market factors, not the value of the house itself. Bubbles ultimately tend to burst. Growth of any kind always reaches a plateau or a breaking point, and that includes financial markets.
Those with enough money to quickly buy up properties in the currently inflated market are making it quite difficult for normal wage-earners to buy into the market. This has pushed up demand for rental accommodation as well.
The raw average of homes sold in the overall Greater Victoria area was $756,143 in April 2016. That’s up over $200,000 compared to just a few years ago. [Graph shows a 10-year spread from 2006 to 2016, where the HPI benchmark price of a single family home — the red line in the graph — in Greater Victoria went up from about $350,000 to the current $568,100. Townhomes went from about $300,000 to $400,000. Condos rose from about $200,000 to around $300,000 in that 10-year period.
A total of 1,286 properties sold in the Greater Victoria area in April. Not only is that an increase of 53% compared to 840 properties sold in the same month last year, it is the highest number of properties ever sold in any month under the VREB.
Good properties are being snapped up. Inventory levels remain lower than the previous year, with 2,594 active listings for sale on the VREB MLS at the end of April, which is 34% fewer than the 3,945 active listings at the end of April 2015.
“We continue to see extraordinary interest in the Victoria and area housing market. Likely this is because the trends we reviewed last month continue — low mortgage rates, higher employment numbers, diversity of properties for sale and of course the growing international awareness that Victoria is an amazing place to live,” notes Mike Nugent, 2016 VERB president.
“The vast majority of Victoria buyers are from within the local Victoria marketplace. Last year 70.5 per cent of buyers were from Victoria, and this year in the first quarter we see 72.5 per cent of buyers from the area. That means about one-quarter of property purchases in the south Vancouver Island area are being made by foreign buyers, as well as buyers from the BC Lower Mainland (about 8.2% in the first quarter of this year, up from 7.4% in 2015).
“It’s also noteworthy that we’ve seen a decrease in buyers from Alberta,” says Nugent. “Last year we saw 5.7%, and this quarter we saw 3.9%, and a small increase in buyers from the USA (from 0.8% to 1.0%. The increase in buyers from Asia was 0.8% this first quarter, up from 0.7%.
The MLS HPI (data-adjusted) benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core in April, 2015 was $581,700 in April, up 17.7% from April’s $684,900 level last year.
“If you are shopping for a home right now, there is a good chance that if you’re looking in a higher demand area (Victoria core, Saanich, Oak Bay) you may find yourself in a multiple offer situation when you go to purchase. This is because there are more buyers than homes for sale and so the market is more competitive than we’ve seen in years past,” adds Nugent. Many homes are selling far over asking price.
As gently as possible, VREB is suggesting that people — especially first-time buyers — may not be able to afford houses anymore. “As a consumer it may pay to get creative, consider types of property and locations you may have not originally identified. For example, condos and townhomes may be a great alternative for first time buyers. Some locations in the Victoria area are under slightly less pricing pressure, for example properties in the West Shore or Esquimalt area are close to amenities, share the same amazing weather as other nearby neighbourhoods.”
HPI price comparisons for single family homes on the west side of south Vancouver Island:
- View Royal $573,400 up from $571,700 a month ago, and up from $508,300 a year ago. Actual raw average sale price was $579,645 (22 sales) in April.
- Colwood $499,800 up from $488,600 one month ago, and up from $469,000 one year ago. Actual raw average sale price was $577,791 (30 sales) in April.
- Metchosin $637,400 up from $628,700 a month ago, and up from $606,100 a year ago. Actual raw average sale price was $629,875 (8 sales) in April.
- Langford $449,500, up from $440,200 one month ago, and up from $424,800 one year ago. Actual raw average sale price was $530,055 (114 sales) in April.
- Sooke $374,300 up from $366,400 a month ago, and up from $355,000 a year ago. Actual raw average sale price was $455,367 (56 sales) in April. [NOTE for this SOOKE page: the HPI being $81,067 lower than the actual sale average, means that VREB’s data analysis considers there to be drawbacks to living in Sooke. For anyone who lives here, that assessment is a matter of perception. Is a drive to town for some services really a drawback? What is the tradeoff — fresh seaside air? It also means that when people come shopping for a house in Sooke, that the actual sticker price is much higher than what the promoted stats indicate. ~ Editor, West Shore Voice News]
HPI pricing is data-adjusted to modify actual monthly sales averages based on perceptions about proximity to services, neighbourhood amenities, proximity to schools, etc. Except for Metchosin which generally has larger homes and/or rural acreages, the actual raw averages for each of the west shore sales areas were higher than the HPI (some of them significantly — such as Colwood and Sooke).
VREB stats are available online at www.vreb.org
Monday, May 2. A ‘citizen satisfaction survey’ was posted on the District of Sooke website on April 29, and taken down after the one-day April 30 Sooke Rotary Fair.
“The survey was a one-off we did for the Rotary Auction on Saturday. We intend to do a far more robust survey next Fall that will be on our website for two weeks,” says District of Sooke CAO Teresa Sullivan this morning.
The short-term nature of the survey was not mentioned on the District website. Several eager folks around town — including some active seniors — tried to access the survey on Sunday and only got ‘404’ (file not found). West Shore Voice News published the survey’s availability in our April 29 print/PDF edition.
The District booth at the Rotary fair did not have a display-board presentation about the budget, as was promised at Council on Monday April 25. A printed copy of the detailed budget was available on a table at the booth, and the budget was available to view on the computer screen at the booth.
Several Members of Council attended the booth to answer questions during the Rotary event that attracts about 2,000 visitors each year, including: Mayor Maja Tait and Councillors Bev Berger, Rick Kasper, Brenda Parkinson, and Kevin Pearson. Staffers on hand included CAO Teresa Sullivan, Finance Director Brent Blackhall (who stayed all day), Nikki Lewers, Sarah Temple, and Amanda Irving.
“Most of the public I spoke with said we were doing a terrific job and that they support the new leadership team and the work we are doing,” says CAO Teresa Sullivan today.
Photo Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News: Councillor Bev Berger (left) and CAO Teresa Sullivan, at the District of Sooke booth on April 30 at SEAPARC arena.
Monday, May 2. Today is Music Monday across Canada! “We’re sharing our music because Music Matters,” says Sandi Arts, Music Specialist,Sooke Music Teachers’ Association Vice-president, École Poirier Elementary. She says that school music programs benefit children in countless ways, and the whole community benefits when our students receive a quality music education.
Today in Sooke town centre, over 100 choir students from Sooke Elementary and École Poirier will gather at Evergreen Shopping Centre at 1pm. “The public is welcome to come and hear the voices of the children as they sing the Music Monday anthem, We Are One, along with other selections,” says Arts. “Our special guest will be Sooke’s own Gord Phillips, who has written songs for the students, and recently competed in the CBC Searchlight competition”.
Students will complete a singing “circuit” after the massed numbers, where they will sing at various businesses around town. Arts says that Music Monday has received support from the Sooke Lions, who will welcome the singers back to their starting point with juice and cookies.
Sunday, May 1. There was a strong, upbeat turnout at the 2016 Sooke Rotary Auction & Spring Fair yesterday, April 30. Filling the arena at SEAPARC Leisure Complex, there were about 70 booths and many tables of silent auction items (photo). The blue and yellow/gold rotary theme colours livened up the hall.
Rotarians spent many hours in setup the night before, the morning of, and then with take-down that night. This year’s Rotary president is Trevor Colley. Much of the event organizing was orchestrated by John Bridal.
Rotarian Deb Johnston worked on the ‘excellence of Sooke’ display that greeted guests as they first walked into the arena area (Business Excellence display in photo below).
The annual fundraiser — which includes a bicycle sale and plant sale — supplies Sooke Rotary with most of the funds they use for a year’s worth of donations, scholarships, projects and good works.
CRD was there with a booth about water use and recycling.
The District of Sooke had a booth, but no board displays about the 2016-2020 Five-Year Financial Plan as promised at their April 25 council meeting. Several Councillors attended the booth including Bev Berger, Rick Kasper, Brenda Parkinson and Kevin Pearson. Director of Finance Brent Blackhall was on hand for part of the time.
The Sooke Community Arts Council attractively displayed the artworks of many of their members. The Sooke Garden Club had a booth out in the lobby.
Several businesses that are based outside the Sooke area took the opportunity to expose their products and services to the Sooke-area audience that attended the fair.
The opening ceremony included MLA John Horgan and Juan de Fuca director Mike Hicks.
To come: name of the 50/50 draw winner, and fundraising tally from the silent and live auctions.
As provided by Juan
Saturday, April 30. The SEAPARC land purchase referendum has achieved a YES result! The YES vote was 82%!
As provided by Juan de Fuca Director Mike Hicks this evening, the preliminary results of SEAPARC referendum are: Yes 976 & No 211. “The referendum passed,” says Hicks.
The breakdown by voting location (yes/no) shows Port Renfrew almost entirely against (1 to 34), while the other voting location tallies achieved the Yes success:
Port Renfrew 1 / 34
Shirley 19 / 4
Otter Point 65 / 19
East Sooke 243 / 87 (incl. advance)
Sooke 648 /67 (incl. advance)
The referendum authorizes SEAPARC (through CRD) to borrow $750,000 to purchase 23 acres of recreational land on Throup Road in central Sooke. “Bylaw 4052 will now proceed to adoption at the May 11 CRD Board meeting,” says Hicks.
The land sale price is $999,000. The deposit of $250,000 has been made up of taxes levied on Sooke & Juan de Fuca taxpayers that ‘continued’ after the debt to finance the pool at SEAPARC had retired.
Saturday, April 30. Wow, what a busy spring-time Saturday in Sooke!
Today the annual Sooke Rotary Auction & Spring Fair is on at SEAPARC (starts 10am, with live auction and dinner at 6pm). Check out the District of Sooke booth to learn more about the 2016-2020 Five-Year Financial Plan.
Also at SEAPARC is the referendum about SEAPARC buying 23 acres of recreational land (8am to 8 pm).
At Sooke Community Hall you can buy fresh home-made pies by the Sooke Fall Fair gals, 10 am to 2pm.
At the Knox Presbyterian Church at 2110 Church Road there’s a plant sale 9 am to 1 pm, with plants, jams, fresh eggs and bagged manure.
At ALM Organic Farms they’re holding their annual plant and seed sale, 3680 Otter Point Road, 10 am to 2 pm.
Then in the evening there’s a folk music concert by the Sooke Folk Music Society featuring Mark Stuart, $20 at the door, 1962 Murray Road, 8 pm.
Friday, April 29 [UDPATE MAY 1]— the District has removed this survey from their website, after less than 48 hours. Apparently it was posted only for use during the Sooke Rotary Fair on April 30.
Are you satisfied with Sooke? The District of Sooke wants to know. Today they launched a Citizen Satisfaction Survey.
In the space of 15 questions at http://sooke.ca/districtnews/citizen-satisfaction-survey/ they hope to determine:
…overall impression toward the quality of life in Sooke
…level of satisfaction and importance of services and amenities provided by the District of Sooke
…perceptions when it comes to taxes and service levels
…preference of how to receive communication from the municipality
Thursday, April 28. Sooke and Juan de Fuca taxpayers are being asked in a referendum this Saturday (April 30) whether they want to spend more money so that SEAPARC (a CRD facility) can buy 23 acres of land. The land presently operates as a privately-owned golf course that produces some revenue.
SEAPARC chair Mike Hicks has been saying throughout the public info phase that 23 acres at $999,000 is too good a deal to pass up. In today’s low-interest market conditions, it probably is a very good deal.
Hicks said that the retired pool debt still leaves a levy of about $3.50 per household for the 2016 tax year, which he felt was too minimal to be worried about by individual households, and in composite could be put to good use. In fact, the sum of that tax levy has been targeted toward the $250,000 down payment for the proposed 23-acre land purchase.
In this context, we are publishing a letter from local resident Ellen Lewers: “Are we an informed voter? The SEAPARC Referendum is asking taxpayers for a 15-year commitment to buy a golf course. The SEAPARC swimming pool debt of $1 million was retired in 2015 at a cost of $155.61 per average household. That means we should have reduced taxes of that amount showing on our taxes for 2016. What is being put out there is that our taxes won’t increase, but actually they will, as the debt was retired. As well, SEAPARC is looking at a facility expansion of 4,000 sqft and the pool and skating rink are in need of repairs and updates. We are already running at a $3 million deficit with managing and maintenance of the existing space. The question is, how much more are you willing to pay? Do you know the loss of revenue for 23 acres? What is the cost of maintaining the 23 acres and what will be the cost of preparing these lands for ball fields? I guess the real question is, where is the business plan so we can all make an informed decision.”
See background information from CRD at www.seaparc.ca and coverage of the referendum parameters by West Shore Voice News in our print/PDF editions: West Shore Voice News February 5, 2016 (page 2) and West Shore Voice News April 8, 2016 (page 1).
Residents of Sooke and Juan de Fuca may vote in the referendum on Saturday, April 30 from 8am to 8pm, at the SEAPARC Leisure Complex, 2168 Phillips Road. Note, that the Sooke Rotary Spring Fair will also be on, so parking may be a challenge.
There was advance voting on April 20 and April 27.
Wednesday, April 27 (updated April 28). The Canada Mosaic 150 art project for Sooke has been cancelled by the District of Sooke’s Sooke Program of the Arts Committee (SPA). During their committee meeting today, SPA members determined that many additional costs and action requirements — over and above the $10,000 design fee that was approved by District of Council in 2015 — would be necessary. Volunteer time would be stretched, and besides that, no feasible secure location for the tiled mural could be determined.
To this point, about 20 people had submitted design ideas for the mural. A final selected design would have been sent to a private company in Calgary for production (for the $10,000 fee)., Then about four painting sessions would have been required of local art volunteers. Permanent installation would have followed, incurring further costs.
SPA members felt their time and the taxpayers’ money could be better applied toward other attractive and meaningful Canada 150 projects that are less burdensome on volunteers and the budget. The District of Sooke will write to the Calgary company to request a refund of the $2,500 deposit.
SPA also discussed their preparations toward this year’s Communities in Bloom process (judges coming in July). Sooke hopes to maintain its “Five Bloom” status. They earned a mid-80s score the last two times the judges were here (2013 and 2014). Once Sooke’s score reaches 90%, Sooke can respectably participate in the national Communities in Bloom process, said Councillor Brenda Parkinson who sits as a non-voting member on the committee.
SPA reviewed their Terms of Reference toward both updating and enhancing the scope of their work toward public art and other art enhancements for the Sooke community.
Tuesday, April 26. The next meeting of the District of Sooke Community Grant Review Committee is coming up on Wednesday, May 11. Minutes of the committee’s last meeting on November 18, 2015 have not been posted yet at www.sooke.ca . Grant applications are due April 30, 2016.
Last fall, the committee’s recommendations to pull away funding from the Sooke Community Arts Council and the Sooke Fine Arts Society were defeated by Sooke Council. But funds were easily issued to Sooke Food Bank projects, the Sooke Lions for Canada Day, and other projects.
The Community Grant Review Committee is chaired by Councillor Kerrie Reay.
Monday, April 25 (updated April 26) ~ SOOKE. Community watchdog Gail Hall put Sooke Council on notice tonight… asking them why there has been no public participation session this year (as in previous years) about the Five-Year Financial Plan.
Apparently municipalities can decide how to best present the financial plan to their communities. In previous years there have been open sessions where people could walk about to review display boards and speak with District representatives (see photo — from a District of Sooke public walkabout info session in March 2014 ~ Photo Copyright 2014-2016 West Shore Voice News). No such event has been held this budget season.
“The absolute chaos both at the table and with staff as they tried to find their way to safety said it all,” Gail Hall told West Shore Voice News after the meeting. “There had been no discussion at all about the requirement for public consultation.”
Display boards will be manned by District representatives at a booth at the annual Sooke Rotary Auction & Spring Fair event, coming up this Saturday, April 30 at SEAPARC Leisure Complex in Sooke. The public option to review the finances of the municipality at the Sooke Rotary fair was only revealed tonight during the Council meeting, and only because Gail Hall pushed the issue. As part of deciding how to respond to the concern about public opportunity to comment on the budget, Director Finance Brent Blackhall offered to stay the entire seven hours of the display period (10 am to 5 pm) in order to answer public questions about the finance display.
Tonight Councillor Rick Kasper put forward a motion that the District advertise the opportunity for the public to have input ahead of “4th reading” (final approval) of the 2016-2020 Five-Year Financial Plan, at the next Regular Council meeting in two weeks’ time. Not much is likely to change about the budget in the few minutes between public comment and Council’s final approval. The municipal budget must be completed by May 15 each year, before being submitted to the BC Government for approval.
Monday, April 25 ~ SOOKE. Landscaping of the roundabout on Sooke Road in town centre will be undertaken in the coming days, aiming for a May 10 completion date, it was announced by the District of Sooke at their council meeting this evening. Traffic disriptions will be kept to a minimum, with work being done in early morning and toward the evenings, said District of Sooke CAO Teresa Sullivan at Council this evening.
On the advice of the Sooke Program for the Arts (SPA) Committee, the landscaping will be low shrubbery, and native and colourful seasonal plantings. “A design was developed that displays the beauty of local flora and demonstrates how it is possible to create sustainable natural landscapes,” the District said in their April 25 news release.
The center of the roundabout will be formed with four gabions (contained areas) shaped in a circular or lobe design. The native plants will be a maximum of 1.8 metres high near the centre and become lower as they grade outward. The vertical structure will provide shade variation on different sides, creating micro-habitats for different species. The design will mimic a natural forest, with ferns to the north, and grading south. Dry grasses and river rock will be installed around the perimeter.
“This design is in line with Council’s Strategic Plan to make the Town Center vibrant, while remaining fiscally sustainable by having low maintenance installations,” said Mayor Maja Tait in the release.
There will be no trees in the boulevards due to the nearby presence of overhead utility lines and no manner of natural irrigation. There will be no grass in the boulevards, as they aren’t irrigated. The installation of public art might be installed into the roundabout area at a later date “after longer term use of the roundabout has been experienced”.
Soil that originally installed into the roundabout (see photo above, from September 21, 2015 – photo Copyright 2016-2016 West Shore Voice News) will be removed and replaced with the river rock. The soil will be stockpiled for reuse in other projects in the District.
Monday, April 25 ~ SOOKE. Pay parking will be in effect at Sooke Potholes and Thetis Lake Regional Parks for the 2016 summer season from May 1 to September 30. The parking fee is $2.25 per day, or $20 for a season’s pass, as announced by the Capital Regional District (CRD) today. Revenue collected from parking fees helps to offset the costs of park services for visitors.
The CRD recently added a third parking lot to Sooke Potholes Regional Park near the Spring Salmon Place (KWL-UCHUN) Campground. The new parking lot will accommodate up to 56 vehicles.
A seasonal parking pass is valid at both parks and can be purchased from CRD Regional Parks headquarters (490 Atkins Avenue, Langford), Robbins Parking (1102 Fort St, Victoria), the main ticket dispenser at Thetis Lake, or the Parking Lot #2 dispenser at Sooke Potholes. Visitors purchasing a pass from CRD Regional Parks’ headquarters or Robbins Parking are also required to purchase a $10 refundable decal deposit.
CRD Regional Parks reminds visitors that Sooke Potholes is open 8am to 9pm and Thetis Lake from sunrise to sunset.
Sunday, April 24 ~ SOOKE. Food security for the Sooke region continues to be an important concern for Randall Garrison, MP (Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke).
Garrison frequently talks about how Vancouver Island would have only three day supply of fresh food if food transport by ferry were to be interrupted by some sort of emergency. He mentioned it in a speech several years ago at the Sooke Fall Fair opening ceremony, and frequently promotes the cause of fresh food.
Today under partly cloudy skies, Garrison toured Sunriver Community Garden and ALM Organic Farms. Joining him was NDP agriculture and agri-food critic Ruth Ellen Brosseau (Berthier-Maskinonge), MP. They heard about the various benefits and challenges of operating a community garden. Sooke Community Gardens has grown from its initial size of 70 growing plots up to 124 plots that are tended to by individuals or groups. Each plos costs $80 for the year. One large tented growing area supplies produce to the Sooke Food Bank.
The custom tour for Garrison and Broisseau at Sunriver Community Gardens today was conducted by Sooke Food CHI rep Anita Wasiuta. Sooke Food CHI organizes the volunteer-run garden area, and has been instrumental in finding grants for development of the garden features including drainage, water supply, and tent coverings.
Garrison says he is not seeking the federal NDP leadership but Brosseau says she has “not closed the door” on that. In about three weeks the NDP Party executive will make a recommendation for timing of the NDP leadership convention at which Thomas Mulcair will be replaced by a new leader who will lead the NDP in the 2019 federal election. Paul Dewar and Nathan Cullen are two long-time NDP’ers who have the profile by which to consider the leadership.
Tonight Garrison is hosting his 9th annual local food dinner at the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific in Saanich. Brosseau will be the guest speaker at the $100-per-plate political fundraiser. Brosseau has launched a Bill in the House of Commons regarding the elimination of food waste in Canada. She says a lot of food waste occurs in people’s home kitchens. She’s hoping to see a National Food Waste Reduction Day, to heighten people’s awareness.
PHOTO Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News: Randall Garrison and Ruth Ellen Brosseau at the Sunriver Community Garden in Sooke on April 24, 2016.
Friday, April 22 ~ SOOKE. It’s already a bit dry out there. Recent warm dry days have helped the landscaping look great around Sooke. Many flowers and bushes are already in bloom, and people have planted their food crops a bit earlier than usual.
But the Fire Danger Rating is already up to MODERATE, after being set at LOW through the winter.
In the first three months of 2016, there were 18 burning complaints handled by the Sooke Fire Dept.
Friday, April 22 ~ SOOKE. The April 25 District of Sooke Committee of the Whole Meeting has been cancelled.
The April 25 Regular Council meeting is still on for 7pm. Agenda and webcasting at www.sooke.ca .
Items for the April 25 Regular Council meeting include 2nd and 3rd reading of the 2016-2020 Five-Year Financial Plan, some zoning bylaw amendments (7105 Grant Road and 7109 Grant Road), a development permit and development variance (6689 Goodmere Rd).
A recommendation is on the agenda for Wittich Environmental Services to be awarded an $85,000 drainage development contract for Atherly Close (a short road across from the Sooke Main Post Office, alongside Royal LePage and a commercial car wash). See page 27 in the agenda.
Mayor and Council reports will be verbal.
There is a Quarterly Fire Department Report (see 1st Quarter Report on pg 33 in the agenda). The number of volunteer firefighters remains steady at 24; there were five career firefighters up to March 31. In those first three months of the year, there were 220 incidents responded to by firefighter personnel. Of those, 18 were burning complaints, 18 were motor vehicle incidents, 15 were hazardous condition events, and 15 were fires of various types. There were 142 medical calls attended between January 1 and March 31, 2016. Mutual aid was provided twice to East Sooke and twice to Metchosin in that time period.
[Photo: MVI attended by Sooke firefighters on March 4, 2016 on Sooke Road. Photo by Sooke Fire Chief Steve Sorensen]
Wednesday, April 20 ~ SOOKE. A referendum asking Sooke and JdF taxpayers about the financing of $750,000 will be held on Saturday, April 30 at SEAPARC Leisure Complex, 2168 Phillips Road (8am to 8pm) as well as Port Renfrew Rec Centre, Shirley Community Hall, the CRD planning office on Butler Road, and East Sooke Community Hall.
Advance voting is available on Wednesday, April 20 & Wednesday, April 27 (8am to 8pm) at East Sooke Community Hall and Sooke Community Hall.
More details about the referendum at www.seaparc.ca and background on the proposed land purchase in the April 8, 2015 edition of West Shore Voice News (page 1).
Tuesday, April 19 ~ SOOKE. Sooke RCMP advises that on Thursday, April 14 just after 1:00 am, their officers were called to a residence on Robinson Road in Otter Point. Witnesses reported that three men on ATVs had entered the property which has several dwellings on it, and were seen banging on the door of one home, asking, where the drug house was.
Those men “allegedly threw three Molotov Cocktails at the cabin, which landed on the front porch and started a fire,” says Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander S/Sgt Jeff McArthur. The occupants of the cabin awoke and the fires were put out, prior to anyone being injured. Prior to police attendance, the suspects departed on the ATVs. While the RCMP were investigating, an ATV approached the scene. Police attempted to conduct a vehicle stop, however the driver refused and evaded police.
In past several weeks, there have been large posters placed on Robinson Road by unknown persons. These posters warned of drug users and thieves living at the address on Robinson Road, where the arson occurred this past weekend. “It is too early to clearly establish a connection between the posters and the arson, however these links are being thoroughly investigated,” says McArthur.
“Violence and vigilante activity will not be tolerated,” says McArthur. “The Sooke RCMP will actively investigate and charge anyone who is responsible for these crimes.” Anyone with information or concerns about criminal activity, may be reported to the RCMP at 250-642-5241 or anonymously at 1-888-222-TIPS (8477) . “This incident ended with no injury to anyone, but this easily could have been different. The crimes committed by what may be vigilantes, are much more serious than those alleged to have been committed by their intended targets.”
SUN APRIL 17 ~ SOOKE: Today there will be an open symposium on how Sooke might become a zero waste community. The discussion event is open to everyone, 10am to 3:30 pm at Sooke Community Hall. No fee to attend.
In followup to this event, a report will be presented to District of Sooke council, about the views and findings that emerge from today’s think-tank.
Info at www.zerowastesooke.ca
SAT APRIL 16 ~ SOOKE: Tonight, April 16, the Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards will be held at the Prestige Hotel. The ticketed event was pre-sold out.
While all the other category winners are known to the organizers, the People’s Choice Award is about generating an element of surprise for the evening event. The People’s Choice Award will be chosen by business peers and ‘the esteemed guests in attendance’, says the Sooke Region Chamber.
The winner is acknoweldged as “THE favourate amonst Sooke’s business community” and will receive an engraved crystal award.
Nominees for all the other categories were submitted by businesses and the public several weeks ago.
The event included an offer of a special room rate for that night at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort.
FRI APRIL 15 ~ SOOKE: Busy spring weekend in Sooke!
On Saturday morning, April 16, there will be the 10th Annual Family Arts Fair at SEAPARC Leisure Complex, 9am to 12:30pm, free event. www.sookecommunityartscouncil.com
On Saturday April 16 from 12 to 5 pm you can Meet the Artists who have contributed their works to the 2nd Annual ARTiFACTS exhibit. The exhibit is in the upstairs gallery. The exhibit which opened April 10 runs to May 29, open daily 9 am to 5 pm (except Mondays, when the museum is closed).
On Saturday evening, April 16 there will be the Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards at the Prestige Hotel, ticketed event. www.sookeregionchamber.com
On Sunday, April 17, the Zero Waste Sooke organization will hold an Open Space discussion about making Sooke into a zero waste community, from 10am to 3:30 pm at Sooke Community Hall. It’s open to the public. It’s backed by the District of Sooke who will be receiving a detailed report from Sooke Zero Waste organizers as followup to the event. www.zerowastesooke.ca
For other events and activities, visit the EVENTS page of this website or check our Sooke local Twitter stream @SookeVoiceLOCAL.
TUES APRIL 12 ~ SOOKE: Last night at Sooke Council, former councillor Herb Haldane — in a public delegation time slot — briefly introduced the idea of the importance of Council putting funds toward a ball park. Several other speakers briefly supported the pitch. Council fairly swiftly approved an additional $300,000 on top of a previous $300,000 earmarked expenditure for ball fields.
Also in the public delegation period, Ellen Lewers made a presentation about getting yet another digital display sign put up on Sooke. She resurrected her pitch from 2014. Apparently several groups in Sooke are interested in using a joint sign on the highway. Council was unclear about location and who would organize it. Matters of driver distraction were raised, and the fact that EMCS and SEAPARC already have LED signs on Hwy 14 that are seen by both incoming and outgoing traffic. The matter was sent back to staff for further sorting out.
MON APRIL 11 ~ SOOKE: District of Sooke Council tonight had their Mayor, Maja Tait, back at the table, after about four months of maternity leave. She seemed relaxed and ready to be back on top of all the issues.
A number of people showed up to be in the Council chambers audience tonight to see how the issue of Mayor Tait’s position as a director on the Capital Regional District (CRD) board would be handled. Last fall, during Mayor Tait’s absence, the position was approved for Councillor Rick Kasper (previously the alternate), to be Sooke’s rep to the CRD board.
This week, a swirl of public opinion was concerned that Councillor Kasper was taking advantage of Mayor Tait’s absence, in retaining the Director appointment. But that all got smoothed out tonight, with Mayor Tait pushing through a motion that Kasper stay in the CRD spot until September 1, 2016 after which time Tait will resume the commitment. During this period, April to September, the alternate director will be Councillor Bev Berger, for any meetings that Kasper cannot attend. This appeared to take some of the steam out of those who were concerned that women’s rights (while on maternity leave) were being trampled. 
See our editorial in the April 15, 2016 edition of West Shore Voice News: Why squander political capital?
Meanwhile, this past weekend at the 2016 convention of the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities (AVICC) in Nanaimo, Mayor Tait was successful in presenting a motion that Mayors and Councillors have paid maternity leave made available to them in all Councils in BC. The motion will go the the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention this fall.
Photo: Mayor Maja Tait at the April 11, 2016 Sooke Council meeting. Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News
FRI APRIL 8 ~ SOOKE: Formal meetings at the District of Sooke in April include Committee of the Whole (CoW) and Regular Council on Monday, April 11. Those meetings will be the first ones chaired by Mayor Maja Tait in 2016, now back from maternity leave. Agendas are at www.sooke.ca .
This year, CoW and Council meetings have been running back-to-back, instead of being separated by a week’s time.
The April 11 Council meeting includes some recommendations from the Sooke Fire Commission for significant downward pressure on the Fire Dept budget, including a freeze on all new equipment purchases.
There is also a recommendation from the Sooke Program of the Arts Committee (SPA) that Sooke re-engage with Communities in Bloom this year ($3,000 plus staff time), to maintain a 5-bloom status.
The Sooke Saltwater Derby Series will be back asking for $500 again this year. They are requesting the sponsorship funds separately from the formal grant process. [Photo: derby signage for the Sooke Saltwater Series on fishing boat outside the Eagle Eye Outfitters store in Sooke. Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News]
Of some recent controversy, was– with Mayor Maja Tait on maternity leave — that the 2015 reappointment of Councillor Rick Kasper to the CRD board (to represent Sooke) be renewed. That matter will be up for discussion again on April 11 (item R1-3). The appointment comes with a somewhat significant paycheque.
WED APRIL 6 ~ SOOKE: Two high-profile community information events are coming up at Edward Milne Community School (EMCS) tonight and tomorrow.
Tonight Wednesday, April 6 is the 5th Annual Sooke Region Volunteer Centre information fair, 5:30-7:30pm at the school. Sooke knows itself at the Volunteer Capital of Canada. There are over 200 groups that have contributed to making the community what it is today, says SRVC coordinator Marlene Barry. In addition to the ample info about volunteering, tonight there will be a silent auction, family activities, food concession and entertainment.
Tomorrow night Thursday, April 7 is the annual Career Exploration Night for Grades 9 to 12 at EMCS, and the full community is welcome to review the displays and information about post-secondary careers and training. Some of the career possibilities being explored on April 7 include Health care, construction industry, women in trades, Canadian Armed Forces, Canadian Coast Guard, tourism, maritime trades, recreation, fitness, aeronautics, beauty aesthetics, and veterinary. The displays are on from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, with keynote speakers in the school theatre at 7pm.
The school is located at 6218 Sooke Road, and there is plenty of parking.
TUES APRIL 5 ~ SOOKE AREA: A land opportunity ‘too good to pass up’, is very much front and center for the board of the SEAPARC recreation commission that serves taxpayers in Sooke and the Juan de Fuca (JdF) Electoral Area.
A public open house to explain the proposed 23-acre land purchase was hosted by SEAPARC Chair Mike Hicks (in photo) and SEAPARC manager Steve Knoke yesterday evening, April 4, at the JdF Services Building in Otter Point. This first open house is being followed by four more opportunities to view display boards and chat with SEAPARC reps coming up in other areas of the served area: Shirley, East Sooke, Port Renfrew, and the District of Sooke. Details at www.seaparc.ca
The 23-acre property at 6518 Throup Road is presently used by private owners as a revenue-generating golf course. The aging owner is offering up his property for sale for the negotiated sale price of $999,000. SEAPARC’s plan is to transfer $250,000 from their coffers as the down payment on the land purchase, with the remaining $750,000 to be funded by Bylaw 4052, which requires taxpayer approval.
After having paid off the debt for installing a pool in the SEAPARC Leisure Complex 20 years ago, SEAPARC will be debt free this year with funding in place for construction of a 4,000 sqft expansion in 2017 including exercise and weight room expansion. Upon retiring of the debt for the pool, SEAPARC’s financing plan does not include consideration of repaying $350,000 to taxpayers; the current tax rate is projected to fund the payment for the land and continue to build the reserves towards the facility’s exercise and weight room expansion.
SEAPARC hopes to at first operate the land in its present capacity as a golf course, and eventually hope to put in ball fields on that land. The land is in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), with permission from the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) for use as a golf course at this time. The ALC would need to be approached for permission to use the land for ball fields, or any other purpose than its present use as a golf course, Hicks explained at the April 4 public open house.
A referendum asking Sooke and JdF taxpayers about the financing of $750,000 will be held on Saturday, April 30 at SEAPARC Leisure Complex, 2168 Phillips Road (8am to 8pm) as well as Port Renfrew Rec Centre, Shirley Community Hall, the CRD planning office on Butler Road, and East Sooke Community Hall. Advance voting will be available on Wednesday, April 20 & 27 (8am to 8pm) at East Sooke Community Hall and Sooke Community Hall. The referendum itself will cost $25,000, said Hicks last night at the open house in Otter Point.
Mike Hicks also chairs the JdF Electoral Area, which stretches from just west of Sooke out to Port Renfrew, as well as East Sooke.
TUES APRIL 5 ~ LANGFORD: The RCMP is deeply saddened to inform the public that earlier this morning a police officer with West Shore RCMP was killed while on duty, in a motor vehicle collision in Langford.
Cst Sarah Beckett — in her 11th year of service with the RCMP on Vancouver Island, was 32 years old. She leaves behind a husband and two young children; she had just returned to active duty following maternity leave. A large pickup truck crashed into the driver side of the police cruiser that Beckett was driving, landing almost on top of the cruiser.
The fatal crash that occurred around 3:30 am in Langford town centre at Goldstream Avenue and Peatt Road remains under investigation, though it was implied that alcohol was a factor with the driver of the truck. Police may have been following the pickup truck before the accident occurred.
BC Premier Christy Clark issued a statement around 1 pm today, including: “My thoughts are with Cst Beckett’s colleagues in the RCMP, and especially with her husband and her two young children. Nothing anyone can say will ease their pain during such a dark time. In the years to come, I hope they will take comfort in the knowledge that their mother was a hero. Each and every day, police officers put themselves in harm’s way to keep the rest of us safe. We should all take the opportunity to thank them more often.”
Around noon Pacific time, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted his condolences: “On behalf of the government, I offer my condolences to the family of RCMP Const. Sarah Beckett, who was killed today in the line of duty.”
Langford Mayor Stew Young said on local TV news this evening that it’s the worst tragedy that’s happened in Langford in the 23 years that he’s been Mayor.
People are laying flowers in memorial outside the West Shore RCMP detachment. A book of condolences is available to sign, inside the detachment.
FRI APRIL 1 ~ SOOKE: A medical marijuana outlet will be open soon in Sooke town centre.
Signage for Sooke MediJuana was up today, and building exterior work was being done under sunny skies today at the 6691 Sooke Road location.
In the same building is an X-ray clinic and a breakfast-style cafe. Behind that building is a dental clinic, CIBC Bank, and the Sooke Centre Mall including Village Food Markets and McDonalds.
Photo Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News
FRI APRIL 1 ~ SOOKE: Today District of Sooke Mayor Maja Tait is back on the job at municipal hall, following her maternity leave.
Baby Ewan was born to parents Maja and Alec Tait in November 2015.
Mom and baby shown here in photo at the Sooke library land purchase announcement at Sooke Elementary School on February 29, 2016.
FRI APRIL 1 ~ GREATER VICTORIA AREA: Bus fares in the Greater Victoria area have changed effective today, April 1, 2016. Increases or loss of discounts are in effect for seniors and youth.Monthly passes and tickets are available at more than 150 dealers around the Capital Region. Tickets are sold in sheets of 10 for $22.50 ($2.25 per ride). Here is the price grid as released by BC Transit:
| Fare Product | Before March 31 | As of April 1 |
| Single Trip | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| DayPASS | $5.00 | $5.00 (sold on bus only) or two tickets |
| Tickets (10) Adult | $22.50 | $22.50 |
| Tickets (10) Youth/Senior | $15.00 | $22.50 |
| Monthly Pass Adult | $85.00 | $85.00 |
| Monthly Pass Youth/Senior | $45.00 | $45.00 |
| Youth Pass (6-12 months) | $35.00 (per month) | discontinued |
Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News
TUES MARCH 29 ~ SOOKE: On Saturday evening, March 26, 2016 at 9:30pm, the Sooke RCMP received a report of two men overdue from a fishing trip. They had departed from a boat launch in Port Renfrew, earlier that evening.
The coordinated search and rescue operation for these men has now been called off. The men, ages 34 and 51, both from Langford, are now considered missing persons. Sooke RCMP will continue to investigate.
“The men are thought to have gone down in rough waters while fishing in the Port Renfrew area,” says Sooke RCMP Detachment Commander S/Sgt Jeff McArthur.
TUES MARCH 29 ~ SOOKE: A very brief power outage in Sooke on Saturday March 26 around 1 pm on a bright sunny afternoon, had an impact on homes, retail businesses and home businesses.
Very short interruptions of power supply are not often reported to BC Hydro, says a BC Hydro rep. But if unreported, the interruptions on not on record. Should there be claims or other problems caused by sudden shutoffs it is more difficult for problems to be sorted out.
When there is no wind or rain, sudden shut offs are not generally expected by hydro customers.
FRI MARCH 25 ~ SOOKE: Staff at the Sooke Region Museum are waiting for roof repairs. In the windstorm that blew up to 90 km per hour overnight Sunday, March 13 a tree limb crashed into the museum roof, leaving a gaping hole.
Repairs will need to be done from the outside (the roof) and the inside (ceiling and insulation), says Sooke Region Museum director Lee Boyko.
Meanwhile, staff need to make their way around a large setup of scaffolding in the front retail and office area of the museum. The process of repairs is awaiting insurance company action, says Boyko.
WED MARCH 23 ~ SOOKE: This year’s one-evening Appetite for Art event at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort in Sooke (held March 5) raised $1,625 for the Sooke Food Bank, and $1,625 for the Sooke Fine Arts Scholarship. The food bank received their cheque at the hotel on March 21 (see photo). The scholarship will be presented to a selected Grade 12 art student at Edward Milne Community School (EMCS) during the grad awards process at the high school.
In submitted photo this week (from left to right): Caryl Wilford, president, Sooke Community Arts Council; Catherine Keogan, executive director, Sooke Fine Arts Society; Kim Metzger with the Sooke Food Bank; and Tracy Snow of the West Coast Grill at the Prestige.
See photo coverage of the March 5 Appetite for Art event in the March 11, 2016 edition of West Shore Voice News (page 3).
SAT MARCH 19 ~ VICTORIA: AOE Accumulated Ocean Energy of Sooke, BC is pleased to announce the joining with the University of Victoria and the West Coast Wave Initiative through the funding programs of the Natural Resources Canada; Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and Collaborative Research Development Canada.
“Since February 2013, AOE has diligently worked towards a design of an Ocean Wave Energy Conversion System (WEC) that will capture and withstand the power within our oceans. The design had to meet our mission statement of “No harm to any life in any manner”, says AOE Accumulated Ocean Energy’s CEO and CTO Jim Matei. [Photo taken at the West Coast Wave Initiative Centre at UVic, from left: Bryson Robertson, Jim Matei, Helen Bailey.]
While navigating the oceans of the world in some very extreme conditions, Matei grew a desire to harness that ocean energy and work towards a design of a Renewable Green Ocean Wave Energy Conversion system. While working with nature, keeping things simple and investigating many of the possibilities, Matei found the answer in using air compression and went on to write and acquire several patents. During a trip to Orkney, Scotland, where the Scottish government has been testing ocean energy devices since the 1980s, the AOE team studied the many ocean energy devices that had failed in both engineering and business design. With this insight, the AOE team was able to develop a successful engineering and business model for an Ocean Wave Energy Conversion (WEC) System and created the direction of AOE WEC development.
Working with the latest computer modeling systems, which have been created by doctoral graduates under the direction of Dr. Brad Buckham at the University of Victoria, Dr. Clayton Hiles and Dr. Scott Beatty of Victoria based Cascadia Coastal Research and along with Dr. Ryan Nicoll of Dynamic Systems Analysis provides the opportunity to use science to design, engineer and develop Ocean Wave Energy Systems capable of capturing the immense power of the ocean and increasing the survivability of the WEC systems.
An understanding of computer design and simulation was gained when Matei worked for many years with Caterpillar participating in the development of large mining equipment such a monster mining haul trucks. These trucks are first designed and built in a computer modeling system and then virtually run in the simulated environment. This computer modeling process allows a cost effective environment for development rather than the old school of wishful building something and hoping it works. Computer modeling used by Caterpillar allows the mining haul truck to perform to expectations within computer modeling and then once the design is achieved, it is then sent out to CNC machining, welding and tooling and the actual truck is then built and brought into reality for further testing. Once further testing has been completed in an actual mining environment, the haul truck is then sold into a commercial mining market.
This is the same program concept that AOE Accumulated Ocean Energy along with the University of Victoria / West Coast Wave Initiative and Victoria based mechanical and ocean engineering contractors have applied to achieve the science and design level of a system which is now moving one step closer to reality. The Canadian Government through the Natural Resources Canada funding programs has made it possible for Canadian companies such as AOE Accumulated Ocean Energy to lead the way to provide the world with ‘Clean Green Renewable Ocean Wave Energy’.
The lead proponent is the University of Victoria. The total project cost listed by Natural Resources Canada. “The 11.5 year hindcast of wave conditions, with 3-hour resolution, off the West Coast of Vancouver Island, has been shown to provide superior performance against all previous models and has generated interest internationally, federally and provincially,” says NRC.
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SUN MARCH 13 ~ SOOKE: Strong winds and rain started picking up around 4pm. Branches have been flying off trees. Sure enough, more power outages, as tree limbs fall onto power lines and other wind-related actions. As of 5:30 pm:
- 3,976 BC Hydro customers without power in Colwood/Langford since between 4:54 pm and 5:15 pm. Seems to have a relatively short ETO time.
- 1,642 BC Hydro customers in Sooke (with many of those also in Metchosin) as of 5:09 pm. Seems to have a relatively short ETO time.
- The power’s been out for about 66 BC Hydro customers since 12:57 pm out there on West Coast Rd at Sheringham Pt Rd. No ETO given.
- For current updates as the storm blows on, visit www.bchydro.com
- Update March 14: A tree limb crashed into the roof at the Sooke Region Museum during the windstorm last night. See page 1 in March 25, 2016 edition of West Shore Voice News.
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FRI MARCH 11 [last update March 13] ~ SOOKE: The weekly print/PDF edition of West Shore Voice News — March 11th edition –has been unexpectedly delayed. Coming soon. [/column]
[column width=”100%” padding=”10px”] WED MARCH 9 ~ GREATER VICTORIA AREA: Bus fares are going up in the Greater Victoria area – but just for youth and seniors. If adults buy a sheet of 10 tickets, the cost per ticket is lower than the cash fare (same as before). The fare increases come into effect on Friday, April 1. BC Transit says there hasn’t been a fare increase for three years.
Although there was public input, it seems counter-culture to increase fares for the two most income-challenged segments of the community — many seniors and likely most youth. If not able to afford the increase, the fallback goes onto families or otherwise diminishes general affordability for young and old.
BC Transit released this information today: “Following consultations with the general public and transit operators, the Victoria Regional Transit Commission decided to keep most fares the same. This includes the regular cash fare of $2.50, Adult Tickets at $22.50 for a sheet of 10, the $5.00 DayPASS and the $85.00 Monthly Pass for adults. As well, the price for the Monthly Pass for seniors and youth will remain at $45.00, as it has for the past three years. Paper transfers, the multi-month Youth Pass and the Youth/Senior (green) tickets will be discontinued.”
Paper transfers have been eliminated. “Previous paper transfers allowed one-way travel within a 60-minute time period. Now customers needing to travel on more than one route during a trip may purchase a DayPASS for $5.00 (or by exchanging two tickets), allowing them unlimited travel for that day. DayPASSes are only sold on board buses, exact change required. Eliminating transfers also supports a safer work environment for transit operators and customers, as disputes between operators and passengers often involve transfers.”
Monthly passes and tickets are available at more than 150 dealers around the Capital Region. Tickets are sold in sheets of 10 for $22.50 ($2.25 per ride). Here is the price grid as released by BC Transit:
| Fare Product | Before March 31 | As of April 1 |
| Single Trip | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| DayPASS | $5.00 | $5.00 (sold on bus only) or two tickets |
| Tickets (10) Adult | $22.50 | $22.50 |
| Tickets (10) Youth/Senior | $15.00 | $22.50 |
| Monthly Pass Adult | $85.00 | $85.00 |
| Monthly Pass Youth/Senior | $45.00 | $45.00 |
| Youth Pass (6-12 months) | $35.00 (per month) | discontinued |
Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News
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WED MARCH 9 ~ WEST SHORE / VANCOUVER ISLAND: “Strong winds that may cause damage are expected or occurring, it was issued by Environment Canada this morning, March 9. “Winds up to 70 km/h will occur overnight and into Thursday morning as a strong cold front crosses Vancouver Island. The threat of strong winds will pass by noon on Thursday. Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur. High winds may toss loose objects or cause tree branches to break.”
A Wind Warning is issued by Environment Canada when winds are expected to be 70 km/h or higher of sustained wind and/or gusts to 90 km/h or more.
Specifically for Sooke weather, The Weather Network indicates winds reaching around 50 km/h tonight and into Thursday. Heavy rainfall began around 2 pm this afternoon (Pacific Time). Due to wind (onto trees/lines), early this afternoon 874 BC Hydro customers lost power in the West Coast Road area and in the Connie Road area about 5 customers are without power (last update 4:45 pm).
Around 4:25 pm, about 198 BC Hydro customers lost power in the Phillips Road / Sunriver area. At 5:54 pm, about 125 customers lost power in the Belvista/Sea Lion Way area. By 10pm, it seems most of the wind has passed through the Sooke area, but most of the outages are not yet resolved.
For Langford weather, winds are forecasted to be around 30 km/h during this storm. There were no power outages in the Langford area midday but as of 8:43 pm there were 2,266 BC Hydro customers without power in Langford/Colwood.
WED MARCH 9 ~ WEST SHORE: It’s school budget season. The SD62 Sooke School Board met last night for several hours of in-camera meetings, plus a 1.5-hour public board meeting, at the school board office. The budget for 2016-2017 is the board’s main focus from now until the final completion before the end of April.
Making a presentation that compared figures from the actuals for 2013-2014 through 2015-2016, to projections for 2016-2017, SD62 Treasurer Harold Cull rolled out an overview of where financials are heading for the school district that serves students and families in several municipalities and regions including Langford, Colwood, Sooke and Port Renfrew.
Enrolment has been increasing in SD62, up to a projected 9,804 for 2016-2017 from 9,075 in 2013-2014), 9,135 in 2014-2015, and 9,515 in this current year 2015-2016.
The number of ‘educators’ is shown as increasing from 508 (2014-2015) to 530 (2015-2016) to a projected 545 (2016-2017), with a student-educator ratio increasing slightly over three years from 17.86 (2013-2014) to 18.0 (2016-2017). Apparently this is pretty much on par with the BC provincial average. Educators are defined as not just teachers but also educational assistants (EA) and anyone else who guides children in the classroom. Classroom count is certainly higher than 18 (figures to come).
The higher number of students in SD62 is in large part because they can now be accommodated (two new high schools opened in September 2015), and due to increased residential populations in the Langford, Colwood and Sooke areas where families are finding housing to relatively more affordable than in in other parts of Greater Victoria.
Operating revenues have steadily increased, from $80,848 in 2013-2014 to a projected $90,628 for 2016-2017. Revenues come from various fees (including in-school fees and buses), as well now from the space rental at the new high schools.
Meanwhile, earlier this year, the ‘Safe Routes to School’ initiative in SD62 was launched to encourage parents to find other options for their children to arrive at school and get home after school, other than using school buses. The cost of managing the bus service has continually increased, including the acquisition of additional buses. However, there is no societal evidence that use of trails for walking or cycling is any safer than it used to be, unless that is done in groups. School bus service provides some level of tracking (and presumably security) of student whereabouts during transit to/from school.
Of the overall budget for 2016-2017, $75.7 million will be spent on instruction, with $3.1 million on administration, $8.5 million for facilities, and $2.1 million on transportation, said Cull.
Budget pressures include having to spend a projected $41,000 more to BC Hydro in 2016-2017, as well as an increase in MSP fees (paid by SD62 for all their employees) coming in January 2017. This is money not going directly to classrooms. SD62 will also be contributing $178,500 in 2016-2017 as their share for the New Generation Network (a $10.5 million Internet connection project across BC).
The public is encouraged to engage with the SD62 budget process. A series of meetings are available for the public to attend (and participate), as well as access to information at www.sd62.bc.ca where input by email is welcome. The meeting schedule is:
• April 12 at 7 p.m. at John Muir Elementary in Sooke – Education Committee of the Whole (ECOW)
• April 26 at 8 p.m. at the School Board Office – Board meeting
• May 10 at 7 p.m. at Belmont Secondary – ECOW meeting
• May 24 at 8 p.m. at the School Board Office – Review, debate and approve budget during Board meeting
Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News [/column]
TUES MARCH 8 ~ SOOKE. Sooke RCMP continue to deal with a rise in thefts from motor vehicles. Generally investigators divide these into two categories – glass break TFO (theft from auto) and unlocked TFO. Arrests have been made in regard to these crimes, and Sooke RCMP investigators continue to target those known to be responsible, says Detachment Commander S/Sgt Jeff McArthur.
Yesterday (March 7), Sooke officers and support staff dealt with six reports of thefts from motor vehicles from various locations in Sooke. All of these cars –despite all the recent publicity about the increase in these types of thefts — were left unlocked. Vehicles that were in fact locked in these areas were not broken into. In one case, a vehicle was left unlocked, with the keys for the vehicle inside — upon finding the keys the suspect stole the car. The vehicle was located by officers on patrol, and the suspect arrested, and held in custody.
Under the Motor Vehicle Act it is an offence to leave your vehicle unlocked.
Sooke RCMP are again asking the residents of Sooke to remove valuables from their vehicles when parked over night, and to lock and alarm their vehicles.
MON MARCH 7 ~ SOOKE. Toughening up the rules or catching up with the times? The jury’s still out as to whether District of Sooke Council is opening up public debate or containing it further. There could be more input allowed from the public, but in a more structured manner. General guidelines were introduced tonight, with more details to come on March 14.
At a short Special Council Meeting tonight at 7pm (a meeeting not previously included in the monthly meeting schedule), the District of Sooke made public its intention to consider changes to council meeting procedures. The changes (still in the works by staff, and coming back to Council on March 14) are apparently toward allowing more public input in formal meetings. In a report by Gabryel Joseph, Director of Corporate Services, it was briefly outlined that public input in pre-arranged delegations could be 10 minutes long (instead of 5 minutes). Joseph said that public input is important for democracy.
As well, public comment might be three minutes instead of two minutes, on specific agenda items; input would be limited to each item as it comes up on the agenda (instead of presently, where any topic on the agenda can be addressed at the beginning of the meeting).
Open public input on ‘any topic’ (as first brought in by then-Mayor Wendal Milne in 2011-2014) has been deemed to be against the current Community Charter. The Director of Corporate Services also said that there cannot be debate on items presented in minutes that are up for approval at a council meeting.
Apparently a flashing red light that comes on when someone from the public has been speaking for over 2 minutes has been ‘in the works’ since last year, said Acting Mayor Rick Kasper tonight. It was first employed at tonight’s meeting. The only person speaking from the public tonight was long-time local Sooke activist Ellen Lewers. Among her few quick comments, Lewers asked “if council knew what they voted on” (at the February 23 special council meeting) regarding ‘adjustments’ to the 2015 budget. Some recent money transactions, including $1.42 million for the seemingly sudden purchase of land behind Evergreen mall, took place in recent days.
Tonight the agenda included a ‘revenue anticipation borrowing bylaw’ (an annual thing, to meet expenditure commitments). A first look at the 2016-2020 Five Year Financial Plan will come up at Committee of the Whole on March 14 (6 pm meeting, ahead of the 7 pm council meeting that night).
Tonight council heard from Rob Howat, Director of Development Services, for council about the need to address some current drainage issues. A request for $300,000 to be in the 2016 budget was well received by council.
It was a quick meeting tonight. The public portion wrapped up at 7:25 pm, before Council went in-camera.
SUN MARCH 6 ~ SOOKE. The District of Sooke has called a Special Council Meeting for Monday, March 7 (7 pm in council chambers).
The agenda includes a ‘revenue anticipation borrowing bylaw’ (an annual thing, to meet expenditure commitments), and some recommendations for a Council Procedure Bylaw (following statements from the last meeting about public input at Council meetings).
There will also be an update for council on drainage issues (staff is recommending a budget of $300,000 to deal with neglected drainage maintenance issues), and a Sooke Fire Services Commission update. Agenda at www.sooke.ca
SUN MARCH 6 ~ SOOKE: Last night’s 3rd Annual Appetite for Art walkabout food-and-art pairing event was a big hit. Great turnout, lots of art presented and sold, tasty food samplings. Nicely organized by the Sooke Fine Arts Society, Sooke Community Arts Council, and the Prestige Oceanfront Resort.
The raffle winner (ticket #1032) was Sheila Gallant of Sooke. She won a night at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort along with a a $100 gift certificate for the West Coast Grill.
Several local food and beverage suppliers paired up their tasty delights with works of art. Unlike in the first year of the show, the art and food were in separate areas of the ballroom, but each food item had a place card showing which art piece it was paired with. Full list of vendors to come in the March 11 edition of West Shore Voice News.
The evening event was overall very creative, and clearly enjoyed by the crowd of several hundred people who attended. Leadership for the arts was represented in the crowd by Sooke Fine Arts Society president Geraldine McGuire and Sooke Community Arts Council president Caryl Wilford. A further who’s who of art leadership was present for the evening including: Linda Anderson, Phoebe Dunbar (centre in photo), Linda Gordon, Lynda Slater, Louise Morin, Brenda Parkinson, Pat Phillips (at left in photo), and John Russell.
Attendees included a wide range of the Sooke art community and others who support the arts. The event started at 7pm and some lingered long after the 9pm closing time, to mingle and chat.
Among the artists whose work sold at the March 5 event was District of Sooke Councillor Brenda Parkinson who wowed folks with her purple and gold sparkly cape-gown. Full list of artists and their works to come in the March 11 edition of West Shore Voice News.
How people can get involved in supporting the Canada 150 Mosaic art project that has received District of Sooke funding was displayed in the lobby outside the ballroom. Councillor Parkinson brought the idea to Council and secured $10,000 funding. Long-time art adjudicator John Russell is executing the project organization. The public may submit design ideas.
Proceeds from the raffle (sale tally to be announced) will be split 50/50 between a scholarship for an art student at Edward Milne Community School (SD62) and the Sooke Food Bank. Tickets were $2 each, and were sold widely around town in the weeks leading up to the event.
As expected, parking lot overflow meant — for many — parking along West Coast Road and walking back to the hotel venue in the dark. But the night was warm (14°C that evening!) with a light breeze and no rain.
Story filed by Mary Brooke, editor, West Shore Voice News. Photos Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News.
SAT MARCH 5 ~ SOOKE: Today March 5, the District of Sooke has reported a break in a small pressure line at Sooke Road and Belvista Place occurred on Friday, March 4 around 10am. “The wastewater is being directed into a nearby sewer manhole in order to protect the environment,” says District of Sooke CAO Teresa Sullivan.
“EPCOR located a section of pipe in Langford and it is en route to the spill site. The site was secured overnight,” Sullivan said this morning.
“Work crews have been on site since early morning” (apparently today, March 5). “The pipe will be replaced this afternoon and water testing from nearby drainage creek that discharges into the Sooke Basin was conduced yesterday and again this morning. The test lab in Victoria will open to take samples and to determine any fecal coliform counts,” Sullivan says, adding that “all regulatory bodies have been informed, as have the immediate neighbours”. She adds that “the District of Sooke and EPCOR will remain vigilant in our efforts to remediate the pipe as soon as possible”.
EPCOR Utilities Inc manages wastewater services for the District of Sooke, and are the company that first installed the local sewer system in 2006. Photo submitted by the District of Sooke
FRI MARCH 4 ~ SOOKE: Lighting the way! Light stands that will hold banners are being installed in Sooke town center today. All seven of them (three of those with double luminaries)!
Under a light drizzle, crews from the BC Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure started the day’s work around 8:30 am this morning, March 4.
The light/banner stands have been funded by the District of Sooke as part of the roundabout project, at a cost of $91,000 according to Sooke CAO Teresa Sullivan. In addition to further illumination of the town core as people drive through or shop at night, the idea is that colourful banners will add to Sooke town centre beautification.
According to the District of Sooke, there are seven (7) decorative poles in total, all with lights. Two of the poles each have two lights.
Update March 5: A drive-through at the Sooke roundabout at night clearly is a brighter experience!
Photo by West Shore Voice News
THURS MARCH 3 ~ WEST SHORE: Bridge-washing season is coming up soon. Mainroad South Island Contracting will being their annual bridge washing program soon. From mid-March to mid-April their crews will be washing all of the bridges in their South Island contract area. That includes along Hwy 14 between Metchosin and Port Renfrew, as well as Duncan and along the Pacific Marine Circle Route.
There will be some minor traffic delays, as traffic will flow single-lane for 5 to 10 minutes at a time. “Please obey our traffic controllers and have patience with our crews while they perform our spring maintenance,” it was stated in a Mainroad news release today.
During March 14 to March 31 all bridges in the Sooke area will be swept and washed with water. That includes the Sooke River Bridge, McKenzie Bridge on Hwy 14 (just west of the 4-lane), Stoney Creek Bridge on Hwy 14 (just west of Coopers Cove), and 25 bridges on West Coast Road between Sooke and Port Renfrew. In April, Mainroad crews will do the bridges in Duncan and the Pacific Marine Circle Route – those are the colder areas – so they leave those til last.
“The bridge washing is done in a short fisheries window, before the fry emerge,” says David Turenne, Bridge Manager, Mainroad South Island Contracting. “First we sweep all debris. Then we block the drains so that water goes through abutments and through vegetation, so it’s not going directly into the creeks or rivers,” he told West Shore Voice News today.
Top photo by TranBC. Second photo by Sooke Voice News.
WED MARCH 2 ~ SOOKE. Local Sooke resident Sara John Fowler will receive a Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award in a ceremony in Vancouver on Friday, March 4. The award will be presented by Canada’s Governor General David Johnston at a large event at the Chan Centre on the UBC Campus. Fowler began volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross Society over 25 years ago and has remained committed to its humanitarian work. Her dedication, her ability to take initiative and lead without hesitation, and her advocacy of volunteerism exemplify her contributions, it was stated in a government announcement today.
“More than 150 remarkable Canadians will be recognized for their excellence, courage or exceptional dedication to service with one of the following honours: the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award, an Exemplary Service Medal, a Decoration for Bravery or a Meritorious Service Decoration,” the release stated.
The ceremonies will be streamed live online at www.gg.ca live starting at 9:30 am and again at 2:30 pm. (PST). Fowler will receive her award in the morning session.
WED MARCH 2 ~ SOOKE. Public input produces results for John Phillips Memorial Park. The District of Sooke Parks & Trails Advisory Committee has voted to recommend to Council the top 3 public-input options for John Phillips Memorial Park. That would be a public washroom, a loop trail around the park, and picnic tables and benches. At their committee meeting yesterday, March 1, there was a unanimous decision to back those three features for the long-neglected park on Otter Point Road. Committee chair John Boquist seemed pleased at the result. The 7.74 ha (17.28 acres) park is primarily flanked by residential, with nearby light commercial.
Those top three features showed at the top of the public input list by a clear 25% margin over the next most-popular features which were a dog run, water splash park, and all-season access to the pond. “The people have spoken,” said Boquist with upbeat confidence. That secondary set of popular features from the public input would require more intensive public consultation, the committee heard from District of Sooke environmental staff person Laura Hooper. She explained that comments for/against the John Phillips Memorial Park location as being appropriate for a dog park, even by dog owners. A splash park might be developed by SEAPARC, said Hooper, which would alleviate the Parks & Trails Advisory Committee from having to deal with that one
Until now, the park has for the most part been left in its natural state. Indeed 77 species of wild birds have been spotted there over the years, including blue heron, snow geese, mallard, common merganser, turkey vulture, bald eagle, California gull, belted kingfisher, and more (see pg43 in District of Sooke Parks & Trails Advisory Committee supplemental agenda from March 1, 2016, at www.sooke.ca) . The occasional summer event has been held there, and many dog-owners walk their pets through the park. In the rainy season, it can be a bit of a boggy marsh due to its low-lying terrain.
The proposed three top features themselves — public washroom, a loop trail around the park, and picnic tables and benches — would tally to between $90,000 and $190,000, depending on which options are approved by Council. The public washroom installation alone would be almost $100,000; a ready-made unit would be purchased, delivered and dropped into place. Sewer access is available but not water service yet.
A ‘placeholder’ for $162,000 in park expenditures is in the District of Sooke 5-Year Financial Plan at the moment, said Hooper to the committee yesterday. She added that ‘normally’ the amount is $100,000 per year, implying that there’s currently a bit extra to spend. The committee discussed whether to recommend spending the entire budget this year on the three top improvements, or see the expenditure for improvements spread out over several years.
Memorial benches could be funded apart from the Parks & Trails portion of the District budget. There is a $2,000 price tag for installing a bench with a memorial plaque, which would be paid by the family of the person buying each bench. As all the bench spots are filled up at Whiffin Spit, this opens up the opportunity for more memorial benches in the John Phillips Memorial Park location, it was explained to the committee by District of Sooke Councillor Brenda Parkinson during the March 1 meeting.
See full list of proposed park features in the Feb 5, 2016 edition of West Shore Voice News (page 4). That full list was open to public comment during a 3-hour walkabout open house held at SEAPARC Leisure Complex on February 10. The same list, in an adapted format for online participation, was available online during February 15 to 26. District of Sooke environmental staffer Laura Hooper compiled the results and presented them to the committee in their agenda for March 1.
During the March 1 meeting, Committee Chair John Boquist oft repeated the mandate of ‘connectivity’, from within the District of Sooke Strategic Plan, saying that connecting trails and parks in turn to one another is a big part of movement and connection within the community.
A committee report from 2005-2006 (which the committee has endorsed and continues to follow) proposed a public washroom somewhere in the northwest corner of the park (towards municipal hall) “but the precise location will be determined by Committee with a recommendation to Council for approval.” said District of Sooke CAO Teresa Sullivan today.
TUES MARCH 1 ~ SOOKE. The Acting Mayor of the District of Sooke is Councillor Rick Kasper for March and April 2016 (or as long as Mayor Maja Tait remains on maternity leave in those months). Two-month stints for each Councillor to serve as acting mayor are established by Council in the previous year.
TUES MARCH 1 ~ SOOKE. Results of the public input about John Phillips Memorial Park will be presented at the March 1 District of Sooke Parks & Trails Advisory Committee today. The meeting is open to the public, starting at 1pm in Sooke council chambers. Comments, results and written submissions are presented as a Supplemental Agenda on the Sooke municipal website.
Top favourites among public input from both the forum held on February 10 and an online survey made available during February 15 to 26 were public washroom, loop trail, picnic tables and benches. Gazebo and putting green were the least popular. Somewhere in the middle was the dog run feature, and all-season access to the pond.
The Parks & Trails Advisory Committee is chaired by John Boquist. Councillor Brenda Parkinson sits on the committee.
TUES MARCH 1 ~ SOOKE. Three long-time tourism industry leaders retired from the Sooke Region Tourism Association (SRTA) board last night. (In photo by West Shore Voice News, from left:) Jonathan Heerema has been an active marketer with SRTA since its inception in 2007, Frederique Philip has been promoting Sooke for 37 years since arriving on these shores when she first started Sooke Harbour House, and Nigel Keatley (of Sooke Harbour Marina) has been on the board since 2012. In particular, Frederique was honoured for her long service to promoting the entire Sooke region, beyond the direct interests of Sooke Harbour House (from which she is also departing).
The organization that received $23,000 in grant funding from the District of Sooke in 2015, presented their budget. Matching funds from the Tourism Association of Vancouver Island amounted to a further income of $27,964.12. Every year there is a debate about how expenditures are recorded. “Website expenses” amounted to $22,918.85 even though a bulk of that also included print marketing and other services. At 2015 year-end there was a net loss of $5,491.22.
The organization primarily targets visitor traffic from Washington State, Oregon and Alberta, with pitches about the natural beauty and rugged outdoor activities of the Sooke region.
Members of the new SRTA board for 2016 include Ryan Chamberlain (of Vancouver Island Lodge), Jacob Cramp (of Prestige Hotels), Ron Neitsch (of Eagle Eye Outfitters), Paul Pudwell (Sooke Whale Watching), Doug Pudwell, Rob Martin (Island Vacation Rentals), and Patty Handy (of Sooke Region Museum). The District of Sooke representative on the SRTA board is Councillor Ebony Logins.
Also attending the 2016 AGM on February 29 were Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce president Kerry Cavers, West Shore Voice News editor Mary Brooke, District of Sooke Councillor Brenda Parkinson, Sooke Region Museum director Lee Boyko, and the website marketing team of Amber Chen and David Limo.
MON FEBRUARY 29 ~ SOOKE. The District of Sooke has purchased a 5.26 acre parcel of land in the community core, as part of provisioning for a new Sooke Library. The land purchase was announced at Sooke Elementary School this afternoon. “The District of Sooke and the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) can now take the next steps toward building a new library for Sooke,” said Acting Mayor Kerrie Reay.
It has taken several years for the District to find available land for the 10,000 sq ft library facility. This land purchase will be more than adequate for a library, with 80% of the remaining land to be used for other purposes, said Reay. On this her last day as Acting Mayor in 2016, Reay noted that District staff had “worked hard over the past two months” to secure the land deal.
“This land meets most of the criteria required by the VIRL board in order to fulfill our commitment to build a new library for Sooke,” said VIRL board spokesperson Steve Hurcombe, Divisional Manager, Finance. Details to come as to what criteria might remain unfulfilled.
Councillor Reay has served on the VIRL board since 2011, representing the District of Sooke.
The undeveloped piece of land is bordered by Evergreen Mall on the south and the newly-constructed Wadams Way on the north.
“The property was first purchased in the 1940s by Porter Gibson, whose two sons, Bob and Milt, were well established fixtures in our community. Milt was a teacher at Sooke Elementary School and part of his duties was school librarian. He also went on to establish the first evening classes at Edward Milne highschool,” said Sooke historian Elida Peers.
The purchase price of the property was $1.42 million, paid for initially from District reserve funds. The reserve funds will be replenished following the District’s 2016/17 budget and five-year financial plan discussions.
The District of Sooke issued in a news release: “The land is currently zoned residential and designated as Town Centre in the Official Community Plan. The purchase of the land aligns with the District of Sooke’s Strategic Plan goals of fiscal sustainability, community planning, and enhancing community livability.”
“I see this as a great fit for a new library, and the learning and community gathering opportunities that come with it. There are many great things we can do with the remainder of this property, and this land acquisition will be held for future partnerships,” Reay said.
Sooke Mayor Maja Tait attended the opening event with her baby son Ewan. Juan de Fuca Regional Director Mike Hicks also attended, as well asSooke Councillor Rick Kasper, Sooke Councillor Brenda Parkinson, Sooke Councillor Ebony Logins, and Sooke Library manager Adrienne Wass.
The current Sooke Library is on Anna Marie Road, also within Sooke town centre. But the current library space is leased, and VIRL has a long-range goal of owning all of its operating properties.
MON FEBRUARY 29 ~ SOOKE. Results of the public input about John Phillips Memorial Park will be presented at the March 1 District of Sooke Parks & Trails Advisory Committee. The meeting is open to the public, starting at 1pm in Sooke council chambers. Comments, results and written submissions are presented as a Supplemental Agenda on the Sooke municipal website.
Top favourites among public input from both the forum held on February 10 and an online survey were public washroom, loop trail, picnic tables and benches. Gazebo and putting green were the least popular. Somewhere in the middle was the dog run feature, and all-season access to the pond.
SUN FEBRUARY 28 ~ SOOKE. Anyone who is interested in tourism in the Sooke Region is invited to attend the Sooke Region Tourism Association (SRTA) 2016 Annual General Meeting, tomorrow night. The February 29 meeting starts at 7pm at Sooke Harbour House. Usually there’s a presentation on current tourism trends, followed by an active debate. Last year the debate included input from several local fishing charter interests, who ended up developing the Sooke Saltwater Derby Series by the end of 2015.
SUN FEBRUARY 28 ~ SOOKE. There’s been rainfall off and on today under grey skies in Sooke. Puddles from this sort of heavy rainfall this winter have been quickly absorbed, still revealing the impact of last summer’s drought on regional soils. At yesterday’s Sooke Seedy Saturday the CRD booth was providing information on Rainwater Harvesting and also Building a Rain Garden.
SAT FEBRUARY 27 ~ SOOKE. Over 1,000 people checked out the Sooke Seedy Saturday event today at Sooke Community Hall, in just five hours (10 am to 3pm)! Seeds and plants for sale, and info on food growing were all coordinated by Sooke Food CHI. The CRD booth had information on building a rain garden and rainwater harvesting. There was a sell-out hot lunch downstairs by Sooke Fall Fair.
THURS FEBRUARY 25 ~ VICTORIA. An open house to present and discuss two refined options for the new McKenzie Interchange was hosted yesterday by the BC Ministry of Transportation (MOTI) and BC Transit. Over 330 people attended the 4-hour community consultation at a community hall in Saanich. This Phase 2 presentation was based on further technical work and feedback received to date from the public and stakeholders. Public could be made through conversation, or in writing, or using wireless computers at the ready.
Notably, the Burnside/McKenzie intersection was brought into focus, which was not part of the first proposed set of plans; an additional southbound lane would be part of the final plan, as well as 2-lane flow from McKenzie onto the Trans Canada Highway (Hwy 1). And based on strong public feedback about ‘no tunnels’, all pedestrian and cycling corridors will be overhead, and the grade for those access ways will be no greater than 4 degrees. The highway interchange itself (whether cloverleaf design or diamond shape) will go over top of Hwy 1 at McKenzie & Admirals.
This $85 million venture is in large part to ease the so-called ‘Colwood Crawl’ — i.e. traffic congestion to and from the downtown core (and the high-employment areas in Saanich at UVic and Camosun), for travelers and commuters living in the west shore and beyond. This week an additional northbound bus lane on Douglas Street (approaching Hwy 1) was announced, to further support the movement of road traffic from downtown to the west shore, particularly for the head-home commute.
Construction on various aspects of the project will begin later in 2016. One portion that could be done early in the project is to relocate a CRD water main that runs down the middle of Hwy 1, said MOTI District Manager Janelle Erwin. Another early aspect of the project could be making the Galloping Goose a safer right-of-way for cyclists, Erwin told media at the February 24 open house. Overall construction is expected to take about two years.
The project is expected to remain within the budget of just over $85 million, said MOTI officials yesterday. The BC government is footing $53 million of that cost, with the federal government contributing $32.6 million.
An associated project called the Westshore Parkway Extension was not discussed in detail at yesterday’s open house. That stretch of road will better connect the Langford area to Hwy 14 (Sooke Road), improving access to Sooke. Construction is expected to get underway later this year as well. The Westshore Parkway Extension budget is $22.5 million, of which 3-way contributions include federal ($7.45 million), provincial ($7.45 million), and City of Langford ($7.6 million).
Anyone unable to attend yesterday’s open house can still provide input on the BC Ministry of Transportation McKenzie Interchange website. | Photos Copyright 2016 West Shore Voice News ~ request publication rights
WED FEB 24 ~ Pink Shirt Day in Sooke. There was a lot of waving and honking to acknowledge the folks along Sooke Road in town centre, waving their anti-bullying signs this afternoon. This is the second year that District of Sooke Councillor Brenda Parkinson has organized a simple but effective and highly visible statement for Pink Shirt Day, with fellow coordinators Bill Jones and Patti Curry. Jones was a hit with his decorated scooter and hair dyed pink for the occasion. Parkinson remarked how many more cars were honking their horns this year, suggesting that the new roundabout helped slow people down and gave them more time to notice. Pink Shirt Day has caught on across Canada since 2007 when some students in Nova Scotia came to the defense of a Grade 9 male student who had been bullied for wearing a pink shirt on the first day of school. His buddies bought 50 pink shirts for people to wear in support of the bullied student.
WED FEB 24 ~ Live in Sooke and travel to Victoria? This affects you! Phase 2 Public Input on the McKenzie Interchange will be held today. Based on further technical work and feedback received to date from the public and stakeholders, the BC Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure will present two refined options for the new McKenzie Interchange at today’s public open house (3:30 to 7:30 pm, 753 Burnside Rd West in Saanich). Apparently there will be no roundabouts in the McKenzie Interchange. The idea was strongly opposed by the public in the first round of public consultation in November 2015. Read More.
MON FEB 23. Tomorrow will be Pink Shirt Day 2016. In Sooke a crowd of sign-waving folks wearing pink will be outside Evergreen Shopping Centre on Wednesday, February 24 between 3 pm and 5 pm, as people are on their way home from school and work. Honk and wave back to show that you support anti-bullying! Photo by Sooke Voice News show last year’s (2015) Pink Shirt Day in Sooke, which was coordinated by Sooke Councillor Brenda Parkinson and senior resident Bill Jones. Pink Shirt Day began a few years ago in Eastern Canada and has really caught on across the country.
MON FEB 23. Despite the heavy rain, there was a good turnout for the blood donor clinic in Sooke on February 15. There were 104 eager donors and 87 of them were able to give blood. Certain medications, hemoglobin level, having a cold, and even dehydration area reasons why some donors cannot donate blood on a given day. On top of that, there are the recent travelers (who may have been exposed to the Zika virus) and donors whose blood ‘just doesn’t take’ that day (withdrawal flow is minimal). Upcoming blood donor clinics are on Monday, March 21 in Colwood (Church of the Advent, 510 Mount View Ave, 12-7pm), and on Monday, April 11 in Sooke (Sooke Legion, 6726 Eustace Rd, 11:30 am to 6:30 pm). [As first published in the Feb 19, 2016 edition of West Shore Voice News, page 4.]
MON FEB 23. New rules, no random public input. It might say ‘Public Input’, even ‘Public Input on Current Issues’ but there’ll be none of that. Last night at District of Sooke Committee of the Whole (and later in more detail in the Regular Council Meeting mayor’s report), a declaration was made by Acting Mayor Kerrie Reay that the only public input allowed at Committee of the Whole must be related to the agenda of that night’s meeting. Read more.
MON FEB 22. TWO MEETINGS, back to back, plus a third. Tonight there will be a presentation by Nature Trails Society executive director Daniel Cammiade at District of Sooke Committee of the Whole, 6pm. There is also room on that agenda for public input on any topic. The meeting will be webcasted. That will be followed by a Regular Council Meeting at 7pm with verbal reports from Council and CAO, and likely approval of about $2,000 in community sponsorships. A presentation will be made by Shirley Roodbol and Rob Barry regarding the Soule Road Right of Way. The meeting will be webcasted. Check it out at www.sooke.ca . Tomorrow night (Tuesday Feb 23) the District of Sooke Five-Year Financial Plan is open for input. 7 pm in Council Chambers.
THURS FEB 18. Businesses & organizations collaborate at think tank meeting, Feb 18.
WED FEB 17. Town centre building gets a facelift: xray clinic still operating and new restaurant starts up
ARCHIVES (articles published before February 18, 2016):
- Big Picture Breaking News – regional, BC & national
- Local Breaking News – west shore of Vancouver Island (Sooke, Langford, Colwood, Juan de Fuca, and more
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