As a parent, I know arts and recreation opportunities matter. I also know that fees, accessibility barriers and limited program space can make participation difficult. I want Saanich to offer quality recreation and cultural opportunities that more residents can enjoy.

What I would work toward

• Accessible recreation programs with reasonable fees and support for households facing barriers
• Using waitlists and registration information to understand where demand is going unmet
• Regional cooperation so residents can access programs across municipal boundaries
• Exploring improved recreation and ice facilities in Gordon Head, with careful assessment of construction, operating and maintenance costs
• Supporting local festivals, performances and cultural activities through practical partnerships and grants
• Making better use of existing spaces for community gatherings and creative programs

Before committing to a major new facility, I would want to understand who it will serve, how it will be operated and what residents will be paying for over its lifetime.

Supporting the Lambrick Park ice rink and recreation centre plan

As a lifelong Gordon Head resident, I believe our area has long needed improved recreation and ice facilities. I support moving the Lambrick Park plan forward, provided it remains within a clear scope, is financially feasible and delivers lasting value.

Moving forward responsibly means doing the financial work early. Before approving construction, I would want Council and residents to understand:

• The demonstrated demand and the programs the facility would provide
• Construction costs, ongoing staffing and operations, maintenance and eventual replacement costs
• Opportunities for provincial and federal grants and credible partnerships
• The benefits and trade-offs of municipal operation compared with private or partnership models
• How any borrowing would fit within Saanich’s broader financial commitments and ability to service debt
• How parking, traffic, accessibility and reasonable user fees would be addressed

I want to see a practical path toward better facilities. A clear business case, realistic funding plan and sustainable operating model would help turn that support into a project our community can afford and use for generations.

Making more room for arts and culture

I would also support exploring an arts centre or community arts hub in Saanich—a place for creative programs, performances, exhibitions and gathering.

My conversations with Victoria Councillor Matt Dell have helped me think about how municipal government can support a more vibrant arts community. I would want to hear from local artists, cultural organizations and residents about what is missing, and whether existing spaces, shared facilities or partnerships could help meet those needs.

Alongside exploring a centre, I support practical grants for festivals, cultural spaces and equipment. More local music, performances and community events can create opportunities for artists, bring neighbours together and support nearby businesses.

Arts and culture should also reflect the breadth of Saanich, including our rural communities and farming traditions.

Keeping participation accessible

I would work toward reasonable recreation fees, accessible facilities and support for households facing financial barriers. Tracking waitlists and unmet demand would help identify where programs need to expand, while regional cooperation could give residents more options across municipal boundaries.

Families should have opportunities throughout Saanich, wherever they live.

How this connects to my priorities

Families First means people of all ages and abilities have opportunities to participate. Community Driven means residents help shape the facilities and programs we provide. Protect What Makes Saanich Home includes our local culture and community connections. Responsible Leadership means planning for the full cost of these investments so they remain valuable and affordable over time.