Central Saanich celebrates 2022 accomplishments
As the year comes to a close, we take a look back on the many exciting developments and accomplishments in Central Saanich. Thank you to the community and all involved in providing these projects and services.
Awarded $9.4 million in grant funding
We were awarded 10 grants in 2022 for almost $10M, which is a significant portion of our budget. We are extremely grateful for this financial supoprt to move a number of important projects forward. You can find details in the 2023 Financial Plan.
Launched FireSmart program to protect community from wildfires
The Fire Department proudly launched a program to reduce wildfire hazards. This program will support, promote, and engage in FireSmart activities and awareness throughout Central Saanich as well as the Tsawout and Tsartlip First Nations. The two-year program is generously funded by a grant from Community Resiliency Investment Program through UBCM! Learn more.
Launched financing program to help homeowners get off oil heating
The District's new program provides $12,000 upfront to help the homeowners purchase a heat pump. The interest-free loan is then repaid on property tax bills over 10 years. Homeowners can also take advantage of available rebates.
Drafted Official Community Plan with input from community
After drafting the Official Community Plan (OCP) in January 2022 for public comment, the District hosted seven information sessions and an open house to gather feedback and revise the draft. The updated OCP is nearing completion! Subscribe for updates at: LetsTalkCentralSaanich.ca/OCP.
Improved parks and beaches
A number of park upgrades take place every year. In 2022, this beautiful staircase rebuilt at the base of Stelly's Cross Road was just one example! To celebrate Tree Appreciation Day, 12 Garry Oaks and 6 Trembling Aspen trees were planted at Adam Kerr Park.
Analyzed Keating Business District parking needs
We conducted a study on the parking demand in the Keating Business District; this included forecasting the amount of parking required in the next twenty years. Read the report.
Prioritized Active Transportation and road safety improvements
A new pathway along Benvenuto encourages walking and cycling to Butchart Gardens and Tod Inlet, and two school zones were reconfigured with light-activated crosswalks and additional sidewalks. The projects were made possible by more than $700,000 in grants from the Province of BC. Learn more about the Active Transportation Plan.
Received awards for budgeting and financial reporting
Once again our Finance Department received the Canadian Award for Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for our financial statements and the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from GFOA for our Financial Plan.
Opened Bike N' Ride in Saanichton Village
Cyclists have a new facility for storing their bikes, tuning up and even charging e-bikes. In partnership with Saanichton Village Association, the District built a Bike N’ Ride in the core of Saanichton to support active transportation. The site is on municipal-owned property at 1945 Mt Newton Cross Road, and will further enhance the village.
Celebrated PRIDE with Central Saanich's first rainbow crosswalk and benches
New rainbow benches in the community and this rainbow crosswalk near Bayside Middle School welcome and remind people that Central Saanich proudly supports people of all sexual orientations and genders. These permanent installations are just one way Central Saanich stands with and celebrates inclusion and diversity; the District encourages all residents to take active steps to be allies at every opportunity.
Launched project to build a multi-sport facility at Centennial Park
A new multi-sport facility is coming to Centennial Park thanks to a $2M grant from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program announced in 2022. The Centennial Multi-Sport Box will host a variety of sports and recreation programs and accommodate many user groups. The facility will be home to the Peninsula Warriors Lacrosse Association and used for other sports and fitness programs. Boasting 17,000 square feet of surface, a roof and lighting, the facility will increase access to year-round all weather outdoor recreational activities for Central Saanich and the region.
Renamed baseball diamond after longtime volunteer
From coaching to umpire duties and wearing many other literal and figurative hats, George Tiessen played an enormous role in Central Saanich Little League. The District of Central Saanich is proud to recognize his significant contributions. The District commemorated his contribution by naming a ball diamond after him.
Launched program to help establish more public EV chargers
The Business EV Charger Grant offers up to 50% of the overall cost of a Level 2 charging station (max $5,000 rebate per station) to local businesses and non-profit organizations seeking to add a public charger to their site by partnering with the District of Central Saanich.
Opened Central Saanich Community Garden
The Central Saanich Community Gardens held its grand opening ceremony on Saturday, July 16. In addition to the benefits community gardens offer for mental and physical health, food security is an increasing local and regional issue. A community garden offers opportunities for partnerships and public educational that strengthen Central Saanich residents involvement in, and appreciation for, local food supply chains. In addition, community gardens can help increase local economic and community resilience for members. Get involved at csgardens.org.
Sponsored climate leadership program for local students
The District sponsors a climate education program delivered by the BC Sustainable Energy Association for local schools each year. ,The Cool It! program inspires students in Grades 4 through 12 (and their families!) to commit to energy, waste, and greenhouse gas saving actions. Alongside environmental education, the challenge is designed to motivate lifelong habits that reduce personal and household carbon footprints. Mayor Windsor visited the classes to celebrate their accomplishment, talk about what they learned and answer questions about the District's climate action work.
Explored Central Saanich food processing facility
Thanks to a grant from the Ministry of Agriculture, the District conducted a study examining opportunities for a food processing facility in Central Saanich. A food hub enable small businesses to share commercial kitchen, storage and distribution spaces, and appears to be a welcomed asset in the region. The results of this project will provide stakeholders with a business case and information on the feasibility of such a facility. The study will be presented to Council in January 2023. Learn more and get involved at letstalkcentralsaanich.ca/food-hub-study.
Supported pediatric cancer fundraising
Residents and businesses of Central Saanich donated $42,500 to the Canadian Cancer Society for two staff members, Police Corporal Pat Bryant and Fire Chief Kenn Mount riding the 25th Tour de Rock.
Looking forward to seeing what's in store for 2023! Curious? Check out our service plan and provide your feedback at letstalkcentralsaanich.ca/budget2023.