Media Release

For Immediate Release

Saanich residents to have their say on environmental resilience

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich is pleased to invite the public to participate in the development of Resilient Saanich, a new environmental policy framework, by taking part in a virtual open house and sharing their thoughts via survey.

“At this first step in the Resilient Saanich process, we’re striving to set forward-thinking goals and objectives that will guide the development of all new and improved environmental programs and policies in Saanich,” said Councillor Rebecca Mersereau, council liaison to the Resilient Saanich Technical Committee (RSTC). “The goals and objectives should also reflect our community’s vision for environmental leadership, which is why it’s important that we hear from the public at this critical stage.” 

Resilient Saanich will include a new biodiversity conservation strategy, enhanced stewardship opportunities, and the award winning Climate Plan. The process will also identify any policy gaps that need to be addressed to achieve the goals and objectives.

Council appointed ten members with specific expertise to the RSTC. The first task was to propose goals and objectives for Resilient Saanich. The public are invited to view and comment on the vision, principles, goals, and objectives.

“This process will guide Saanich’s efforts to ensure environmental resilience through updated policies and programs,” said Mayor Fred Haynes. “We know that working with the community is critical to the success of projects like this, and that's why we are presenting several options for residents and stakeholders to have their say."

Though public engagement is challenging under current COVID-19 guidelines, the public can participate and provide their feedback in several ways:

• visit the virtual open house at saanich.ca/biodiversity
• fill out a feedback form (on-line or submit a printed form) available at the above link
• contact staff with any questions or to receive information at: biodiversity@saanich.ca or 250-475-5471

Saanich also invites anyone interested in Resilient Saanich to subscribe to e-bulletins to keep updated on the process and future public engagement opportunities. Subscribe to the e-bulletins via the website at saanich.ca/biodiversity.

The public engagement process will be open until mid to late February, with the actual deadline for feedback to be announced. Feedback from the public will be considered by the RSTC and ultimately by Council in March/April 2021.

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Media contact:
Kelsie McLeod
Communications Manager
kelsie.mcleod@saanich.ca
250-475-7638