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’.
Tag Archives: SRD Board
SRD Approves Funding For The Cortes Island Food Bank
At their May 27 meeting, the Strathcona Regional District Board (SRD) approved a motion to provide the Cortes Island Food Bank with close to $24,000 for its new outlet in Manson’s Landing.
Mark Vonesh (Regional Director, Cortes Island): “I’d like to move that a financial contribution of up to $23,425 be approved from the Electoral Area B Community Works Fund to the Cortes Island Food Bank Association to support construction of a food security hub, subject to finalizing a funding agreement between the association and the regional district.”
The minutes state that Michael Lott of Gold River seconded the motion, but the voice in the audio sounds more like Robin Mawhinney, Regional Director for Area C.
Mark Baker (Chair of the SRD): “Discussion? All in favor. Motion is passed.”
Continue reading SRD Approves Funding For The Cortes Island Food Bank
Allegations that Rural Directors Bullied Area D; Who bullied who?
At the May 27 SRD Board Meeting, Mayor Kermit Dahl of Campbell River accused Regional Directors Mark Vonesch, Robyn Mawhinney and Gerald Whalley of bullying Regional Director John Rice:
“For example, when Director Rice was outvoted on a development in Area D by three electoral area Directors who wanted to show him, ‘Stay in line or else we’ll show you.’ They could stop him from succeeding in moving Area D forward.”
This is not the first time Campbell River Directors have made this allegation.
Continue reading Allegations that Rural Directors Bullied Area D; Who bullied who?
Mark Vonesch Removed; Susan Sinnott New Vice-Chair of the SRD
Mark Vonesch was removed from his position as Vice-Chair of the SRD through a non-confidence vote, and Campbell River Director Susan Sinnott was elected in his place.
The voting followed what is becoming a familiar pattern: the five Campbell River Directors and their allies voted to remove Vonesch, while the Directors from Gold River, Tahsis, and Electoral Areas A, B, and C supported him.
The Alleged Plot
The vote was preceded by a roughly two-hour in-camera session, after which Campbell River Mayor Kermit Dahl addressed the public meeting.
Continue reading Mark Vonesch Removed; Susan Sinnott New Vice-Chair of the SRD
Strathcona Gardens – How Many Dollars Count as a Meaningful Voice?
Originally published in the Bird’s Eye
Two communities, both alike in ocean views, in fair Strathcona where we lay our scene. From ancient boundary disputes to new taxation, where civic math… wait a second, this doesn’t add up.
I’ve been debating whether to include this story since April 29. Is it relevant? Is it journalism? Is it just my own feelings getting tangled up in local politics? Or is it representation for the people that were there? Heart and ego occasionally arrive wearing the same outfit. You know I’m telling the story.
April 29, 2026 12:27 p.m. – Your Editor arrives at the SRD building. Air cast, cane, very little sleep, and even less snacks. Outside, an impressive number of Quadra folks and friends gathered with their handmade signs, chants at the ready.
Then the front doors swing open. “Is there any media here?” a staffer shouts out.
Startled, I raised my hand. “It’s me. I’m the media.”
Continue reading Strathcona Gardens – How Many Dollars Count as a Meaningful Voice?