Thursday March 6, 2025 | SOOKE, BC
LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
In this time of economic upheaval and political change, the mayor of a small Vancouver Island municipality is setting a tone of resilience for her community.
Maja Tait has been the mayor of the District of Sooke since 2014 (re-elected 2018 and 2022). Quite soon, she will be leaving that level of governance behind to actively run as the NDP candidate for Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke in the upcoming federal election.
Today Mayor Tait released a statement to the residents of Sooke, with an upbeat tone about the many good things about Sooke, and emphasizing some positive activities coming up over the next few months.
Mayor’s Message: Holding Steady, Supporting Each Other
As we navigate an ever-changing world, we are reminded time and again of the strength found in community. While global currents shift—our anchor remains steady in Sooke. We hold firm in the face of uncertainty by pulling together, supporting one another, and embracing the resilience that defines us.
In our small but mighty community, this sense of togetherness is more than just words—it’s action. Through initiatives like the Shop Sooke First campaign, we are strengthening our local economy by encouraging residents to support businesses right here at home. These businesses are the heartbeat of our town, providing employment, services, and a sense of place.
To further bolster local enterprise, we continue to offer resources through the Strengthening Our Local Economy in a Changing Landscape initiative, ensuring that businesses have the tools they need to adapt and thrive.
Our community spirit shines brightest in the many events that bring us together. We celebrate the recent successes of our EMCS basketball athletes, whose hard work and determination have made us all proud. Looking ahead, we have a vibrant lineup of gatherings that showcase Sooke’s commitment to connection, sustainability, and local prosperity.
- The Sooke Job Fair on March 20th, hosted by WorkLink BC, provides a space for employers and job seekers to connect and strengthen our workforce.
- Seedy Saturday on March 29th, hosted by Sooke Food CHI, fosters food security and environmental awareness as we exchange seeds, knowledge, and ideas.
- Sookarama on April 26th, presented by the Sooke Lions and supported by the District of Sooke at SEAPARC, highlights local businesses and organizations that contribute to our thriving town.
- That same day, we also welcome the opening of the Sooke Country Market and join together for Sooke’s Earth Day Celebration—both testaments to our dedication to sustainability and community engagement.
- On May 3rd, the Sooke Harbourside Lioness Annual Duck Race adds a touch of fun to our spring festivities.
All of this takes place as our streets bloom in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Greater Victoria Flower Count, a cheerful reminder that the seeds we plant—both literally and figuratively—flourish when nurtured by a strong community.
Through it all, Sooke remains unwavering. We stand together, resilient in the face of change, and united in our commitment to a thriving, inclusive, and hopeful future. By supporting each other—whether through business, sport, employment, sustainability, or celebration—we ensure that our community remains a place where everyone belongs.
Let’s keep holding steady, looking out for one another, and embracing the opportunities that lie ahead.
===== RELATED:
- Pedestrian crossing reduces travel time for families within nature experience (February 7, 2025)
- Maja Tait kickstarts her federal campaign in Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke (September 1, 2023)
- Sooke Mayor Maja Tait turning from local to federal (August 15, 2023)
- NEWS SECTIONS: SOOKE REGION | CANADIAN FEDERAL ELECTION 2025
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