Hello,
Far from complaints of ‘Junuary’, recent rain showers have been a blessing as we head into a predicted hot, dry summer. FireSmartBC.ca shares actions, resources & tips for reducing the risk of wildfire damaging your home… they say the best protection against wildfire damage is prevention. This short report shares news from the May 27 Board meeting & summer dates for ‘chat with the Director’.
Improved, mobile-friendly SRD website
The Strathcona Regional District has an all-new website (still at srd.ca) which was debuted at the May 27 meeting. The new site is designed to be intuitive, prioritizes items which are more frequently visited so they’re easier to find, and was designed with a ‘mobile-first’ approach.
I’m appreciating the new Area C page, srd.ca/communities/area-c, which has links to in-progress projects and initiatives like the OCP and Surge Narrows Revitalization project, lists SRD Parks and their amenities, and has dates for relevant upcoming meetings (including Area C Advisory Planning Commission meetings). The page also has links to Services we see on our taxes and a Bylaw search function.
Regional Housing Service Policy
In early 2024 the Board adopted the Regional Housing Service. Since then, this Service has funded the Healthcare Workforce Housing project adjacent to the hospital in Campbell River which is slated to open later this year.
To date, the SRD has not had a policy or guidelines/criteria for accessing the Regional Housing Service. Housing needs look very different across the district, and the Board has determined the need for a policy which supports transparent decision-making and recognizes the diversity of the SRD.
In May the Board supported applying for a $15,000 grant to fund part of the work to create a policy framework for the Regional Housing Service. I’m hopeful that with or without the grant funds, the Board moves forward with a policy which will provide clarity to nonprofits interested in accessing funds for local housing projects.
Strathcona Gardens Recreation Service Tax
I appreciate the level of concern and stress of many folks with this potentially significant addition to future year’s taxes, and I am truly saddened that our community is feeling the need to raise money for a legal defense against Bylaw 643 (while I completely understand why!).
Recently I spoke with someone from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs who told me there’s a timeline the Inspector of Municipalities adheres to for referendum questions, so a response to Bylaw 643 won’t be returned to the SRD until around July 30. This is because there is a requirement for an assent vote (referendum) to be held by a Board within 80 days of receipt of approval from the Inspector of Municipalities. Referendum questions will be included in the October 17 local government election, so they count backward 80 days and arrive at July 30ish. Additionally, I learned that written responses are being prepared for the hundreds of Quadra Islanders who have written with concerns to the Inspector of Municipalities and will be sent shortly.
To date I have not received a response to my emails to the Inspector of Municipalities and Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, letters in which I formally requested a careful review of Bylaw 643. I’ve made my letters publicly available, you can read them here.
Chat with the Director
This is an opportunity to say ‘hi’ and discuss a topic of interest: at least one morning a month you can find me at Aroma Cove Café. I’m committing to June 19, July 23 & August 13, 8:30am-10am… you’re welcome to stop by and chat! Of course, you can connect by phone or email any time.
Connect
You’re welcome to connect with me with questions or concerns: email [email protected], or call 250.203.2468. Visit RobynMawhinney.ca for links to helpful community resources and ‘back issues’ of Director Reports. Visit srd.ca/government/agendas-minutes to keep up to date on SRD governance happenings.
Until next time,
Respectfully,
Robyn Mawhinney