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Views from the Council Chamber
In a Time of Change
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January 2004 (Last Updated: 16 Jan 04)
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We live in a culture where change is inevitable. It often occurs rapidly, whether we are paying attention or not. North Saanich has outgrown the traditional ways of "keeping things the same" and there is a significant shift in the political climate involving aspirations to create a "new way of doing business".
In September, 2003, the District hired George Cuff & Associates to undertake a corporate review of North Saanich administration, staff and council for the purpose of assessing its effectiveness and organizational structure. The consultant's report recommends mechanisms to improve governance and the management of services. A draft report is currently before Council and a final report will be delivered to Council and the public at a Committee of the Whole Meeting in January, date to be announced.
A new Administrator Bruce Williams, from Comox-Strathcona Regional District, has been hired to replace Joan Schill, who recently resigned. An Official Community Plan Review process has been initiated by Mayor Daly and Council. These developments provide an incredible opportunity to establish a comprehensive long-term vision, for which your input is welcome.
Additional topics Council will be facing in the New Year include: What defines 'rural character'? What standards motivate By-Law Enforcement? What level of services do we need/want? What are the priorities for tax $? How will North Saanich address affordable and seniors' housing? Where should new commercial zoning be located?
This next year will set the course for a raft of changes bringing both excitement and concern for many residents. There is great value in the diversity of this community and it needs to be reflected in the ‘Re-Vision', so please, join us in the process.
It is my intention to work pro-actively with the Mayor, fellow Councilors and Staff to help set in place good governance practices with management and service standards that support the uniquely individual neighborhoods, the natural habitat and diverse lifestyles in North Saanich.
Please write Mayor and Council, attend committee and council meetings, and pay close attention to the issues to ensure that your voices are heard.
North Saanich Online can become a forum for people from all sides of the issues to facilitate the free flow of information and provide a unique opportunity to positively affect the winds of change.
Editor's Note: When North Saanich Online was launched on December 3, 2003, we invited Mayor Daly and each of our Councillors to use this space to share their views on any aspect of life in North Saanich. Mayor Daly deferred for this edition,citing a busy schedule and indicating that he would prefer to wait until some time in the future. Proceeding in alphabetical order, we extended an invitation to Councillor Bird but we did not recieve a reply. Next in line was Councillor Goulet, who accepted.
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