MY THOUGHTS
CLIMATE ACTION
Practical, evidence-based action that protects our community and prepares us for the future.
Climate action belongs in the everyday decisions Council makes: How we maintain drainage, plan neighbourhoods, care for trees, improve transportation and prepare for emergencies.
My approach to climate action is grounded in conservation, responsible planning and measurable results. Through my elected volunteer leadership with two provincial-wide conservation organizations, I have worked with people committed to protecting natural areas and supporting long-term stewardship.
I want Saanich to reduce emissions while becoming better prepared for extreme heat, heavy rainfall, flooding, the risk of urban wildfire, and other climate pressures. That requires clear priorities, realistic budgets and a way to measure progress.
What I would work toward
- Protecting natural areas and biodiversity, and strengthening partnerships with conservation and stewardship organizations
- Matching growth with infrastructure and environmental capacity
- Preparing drainage, water systems, parks and emergency services for changing climate conditions
- Building climate preparedness into emergency planning
- Caring for urban trees and the habitat and shade they provide
- Supporting safer, useful walking and cycling connections and reliable transit
- Using science, research and measurable results to guide investments and explain their value to residents
- Seeking grants and partnerships, with clear reporting on costs and results
Planning ahead can help protect residents and avoid larger costs later. I would ask what each initiative is expected to achieve, how success will be measured and what it means for household affordability.
Our urban forest as climate infrastructure
Saanich’s Urban Forest Strategy belongs in the climate conversation. Trees provide shade, help manage rainwater, store carbon and support wildlife. Protecting and caring for them is part of preparing our community for the future.
I support protecting mature trees, planting for long-term survival and considering tree canopy early in development and infrastructure planning. I would want implementation guided by evidence, with clear costs and measurable results—including how well newly planted trees survive and where additional shade is most needed.
Bringing a climate lens to Council decisions
When reviewing a proposal, I would ask how it affects emissions, our ability to withstand extreme weather, and the health of our natural spaces. I would consider those impacts alongside affordability, infrastructure capacity and public safety, including the long-term costs of acting or delaying action.
I would seek relevant research and expertise to help shape practical solutions, and work with staff, community organizations and regional partners to put them into action.
Residents deserve clear explanations of the options, costs and expected benefits. I would support tracking results, reporting progress publicly and adjusting our approach when evidence shows something is not working.
My own contribution
Working from home has eliminated my 14-kilometre daily commute. I also combine errands, buy local produce, garden, reduce waste, recycle soft plastics and buy second-hand or repair items where possible.
These are choices that work for my household. People have different circumstances, and municipal decisions should help make sustainable choices more accessible.
How this connects to my priorities
Families First means considering household affordability and safety. Protect What Makes Saanich Home means caring for natural areas and biodiversity. Community Driven means working with residents and stewardship partners. Responsible Leadership means using evidence, planning ahead and being accountable for results.