SOOKE COUNCIL
Peter Jonassen, 51, works for a powerline company peterforsooke.ca Top three issues:
Smart growth , Sooke need to be careful to not let growth get too far ahead of us or the town of Sooke will be playing catch up . We need to guide the growth in an intelligent way . Sooke needs to gets it’s medical center secured and completed , it is not unreasonable for us to do so , we just need the motivation to get it completed. Sooke really needs an alternate road that can be accessed when route 14 closes down , nothing fancy just a bypass route .
One big idea:
Sooke really needs an alternate route in and out of Sooke for when route 14 gets shut down . It only needs to be a simple road from the 17 mile area leading to Sooke that is opened when necessary to allow people to get home and can be used for emergencies as well. In the distant future it could become part of a new road that links Sooke to other southern communities and replaces route 14 .
Rick Kasper*, 67, retired bricklayer facebook.com/ RickKasperSooke Top three issues:
I want to see more affordable housing for youth, families and seniors. We need to fix the problems causing delays and red tape, which create barriers to affordable housing and bring no benefit to the community. We need to get back on track with plans for better infrastructure especially safe sidewalks.
One big idea:
I’ve been working and pushing for a seniors/youth centre for Sooke. Sooke seniors need a place where they can get together and connect socially and we need more opportunities for youth. I will continue to work to see this become a reality.
Ebony Logins* ebonylogins.ca Megan McMath meganmcmath.com Brenda Parkinson*, marriage commissioner Top three issues:
1. Ensure well-planned development for the benefit of all Sooke Citizens 2. Improved accessibility through road infrastructure, sidewalks and trails 3. Affordable and diverse housing opportunities for all residents
One big idea:
To see Lot A developed and have our new library, a seniors and youth centre, medical centre and a gathering place.
Phil N. Rossner, 66, retired high-tech manager letsbethechange.net Top three issues:
1. The natural environment is the most important and engaging part of our community. We simply have to ensure that our green space is protected and that we remain vigilant in all areas of promoting green initiatives. 2. We need an allencompassing health system that meets the needs of our burgeoning population. 3. Small business is the heartbeat of our community. We need to support them in every way possible.
One big idea:
We have witnessed an extremely successful installation and use of a solar power system on T’Souke Nation land. Sooke should take advantage of this technology as well as researching the feasibility of micro hydro on Sooke river.
Tony St-Pierre**, 52, builder, planner and farmer tonysooke.ca Top three issues:
1) Managing our development. Sooke is a beautiful community and rapid growth threatens it. Sooke's council needs to work effectively and respectfully with its staff to deal with our growing pains (Route 14!). 2)Maintaining Sooke's rural quality. We came to Sooke because of the sense of community. Meeting places & amenities in our neighbourhoods are needed to maintain this. 3)Making our local economy diverse and strong. Local businesses providing long term local jobs principally in eco-tourism.
One big idea: Jeff Stewart**, 44, store manager, Western Foods Top three issues:
1. Financial responsibility and accountability. The administration of local government and it’s services should be transparent and cost effective. 2. Using our Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw to guide the development process in our rapidly growing community. 3. To reconnect the Council’s vision, as received from the electorate, to guide the direction of the administration.
One big idea:
Less administration, more sidewalks.