Welcome to our Blog!
Keep checking back on updates on the council and your community!
We are thrilled and deeply honored to receive the Climate and Energy Action award from the Community Energy Association (CEA) for our groundbreaking E-Bike Incentive Pilot Program. This recognition would not have been possible without the unwavering support and collaboration of our outstanding partners and funders: the District of Saanich, The University of British Columbia, … Read more
We strongly believe in the power of collaboration and collective action to create lasting positive change within our community. That’s why we were thrilled to be part of the inspiring United Way Southern Vancouver Island Campaign Kickoff event. This event was a testament to the strength and unity of the community, coming together to support … Read more
It is with mixed emotions that we announce a planned change in our leadership team. After five years of dedicated service, Diana Gibson, our Executive Director, will be moving on to new opportunities for serving the community. Please join us in thanking her for her tremendous contribution. This decision comes after extensive planning and consultation. … Read more
Imagine a breathtaking island community where golden sunsets, towering trees, and thriving coastal waters allure residents and tourists alike. However, beneath this paradise, a pressing challenge looms over its transportation system, impeding progress on accessibility and environmental sustainability while jeopardizing the cherished natural vistas. During a recent trip to Cowichan Lake, I witnessed glaring transportation … Read more
Connecting Coastal Communities: The Need for Change Imagine an early summer morning on Malcolm Island, where the sun bathes the landscape in a warm glow, accompanied by a gentle breeze from the Queen Charlotte Strait. The awe-inspiring peaks of the Broughton Archipelago stretch across the horizon. While this picturesque community feels like a slice of … Read more
As Canada grapples with a nationwide housing crisis, the focus on affordability has reached a critical juncture. While federal and provincial governments often take the spotlight in addressing the challenge, it is crucial to recognize the pivotal role that local governments play in the creation of more affordable housing stock. Local governments possess an array … Read more
In recent years, a quiet revolution has been taking place on the streets of cities worldwide. E-Bikes have been rapidly gaining popularity as a clean, efficient, and practical mode of transportation. As the province of British Columbia seeks sustainable solutions to address its transportation, climate, and equity challenges, its investment in e-mobility is finally coming … Read more
With Uber being given the go-ahead to operate within the region, many are rejoicing at the thought of being able to have an alternative to taxis in the city. Despite the fanfare, many equity seeking groups and individuals have come out in opposition against the ride-hailing giant’s emergence on the South Island. Our current public … Read more
April 22nd marks Earth Day – an annual reminder for everyday citizens to be cognizant of how their actions impact the environment. Though this holiday is recognized across the world, the celebration of Earth Day is especially important for us in Greater Victoria. According to a climate change risk assessment focusing on the City … Read more
The critical role of social planning in creating sustainable and vibrant communities cannot be overstated. As such, I am pleased to share important updates from the Community Social Planning Council (CSPC) regarding our efforts towards achieving more just and equitable communities in Greater Victoria. Our recent activities include addressing issues related to homelessness, gender equity, … Read more
Women in the Capital Regional District (CRD) continue to earn less than men. The gap is even larger for visible minority women and women with diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Women annually earn between 30 and 85 cents for each dollar a white man earns. The gender pay gap is a widely recognized indicator of … Read more
This year’s Family Day Factsheet highlights inflation pressures, cost of living, and housing as top issues. Family Day is a day that allows us to be together, celebrate one another and embrace all that is good about those who enrich our lives. But, did you know that 1 in 15 families living in the Greater … Read more