Landon GRAMS
Sooke Council
STRONG COMMUNITY, SMART GROWTH.
Protect what we love, Plan for what we need.
Contact: landongramscampaign@gmail.com
Platform Pillars
QUALITY OF LIFE
Prioritizing community wellbeing by supporting local non profits, expanding healthcare access and enhancing our network of trails and public parks.
ECONOMIC RESILIENCE
Supporting local businesses and sustainable tourism to build a robust economy that takes pressure off of homeowners.
FOOD SOVEREIGNTY
Enhancing local food systems reduces dependence on long supply chains, and protects the character and environmental health that makes this area special.
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
Protecting Sooke's natural beauty and biodiversity through science-led conservation and responsible land use policies.
SOCIAL EQUITY
Striving for everyone in Sooke to live well, participate in community life, and ensure the most vulnerable are not left behind.
CULTURAL PRESRVATION
Honoring Sooke's rich heritage by protecting historic sites and fostering local artisanal and Indigenous traditions.
Protect What We Love, Plan For What We Need.
Strong Communities: Not Just Housing
Affordable housing and social spaces are not extras. They are foundational to a strong, liveable community. Many have told me that Sooke has become a bedroom community. But I think our unique character and volunteer spirit not only remains but are our greatest strengths, and we can preserve and build on it by supporting projects like the Gathering Place and partnering with nonprofits and community associations that create places to gather, programs to participate in, and sports to play that help people feel connected to where they live. These iniciatives help strengthen neighbourhoods and reduce isolation, especially among seniors and youth.
I would explore the use of Amenity Cost Charges (ACCs), a provincial tool that allows municipalities to collect predictable, one-time contributions from new development to help fund the capital costs of community facilities. Used thoughtfully and in consultation with the development community, ACCs could help ensure that growth contributes to the social infrastructure needed for livable, connected neighbourhoods—such as recreation facilities, childcare spaces, and public areas—while helping share costs fairly between new development and existing taxpayers.
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Smart Growth: Clear Rules and Upfront Approvals
As councillor, I would work to adopt a formal Affordable Housing Policy and require development permit applications to be submitted alongside rezoning applications wherever appropriate. Together, these changes tie affordability and accountability directly to growth, ensuring new development benefits the whole community while giving local builders the certainty they need to deliver homes.
An affordable housing policy would set measurable targets for affordable, rental, and supportive housing.
This means more homes local workers, seniors, and young families can actually afford, less pressure on long‑term renters, and a more diverse, resilient population.
Requiring development permits with rezoning applications brings the same clarity to approvals. Council and the public can assess site design, environmental safeguards, infrastructure, and community benefits before land is rezoned. This discourages speculation and supports orderly growth by treating each project as part of a complete neighbourhood plan.
These policies benefit developers as well as residents. A predictable, transparent framework creates a level playing field: developers gain certainty, face fewer surprises, and can plan and finance projects with confidence.
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Local Business Support
Small businesses are the backbone of Sooke’s economy. They create local jobs, keep money circulating in our community, and give Sooke its unique character. Yet many local owners face rising costs, staffing challenges, and competition from large chains and online retailers.
My goals as councillor, would be to make Sooke a place where small businesses can start, stay, and grow.
That means:
Protecting and enhancing our Town Centre as a vibrant, walkable hub where local shops, cafes, and services can thrive alongside new housing.
Encouraging sustainable tourism that brings visitors to local businesses without overwhelming our neighbourhoods or environment.
Exploring targeted fee relief or grants for small businesses, especially those offering essential services, creating local jobs, or contributing to our community’s social and cultural life.
A strong local economy takes pressure off homeowners and renters alike. When small businesses succeed, more residents can work close to home and more of the money we spend stays in Sooke. I’m committed to policies that help local businesses flourish as part of a resilient, diverse, and community‑focused economy.
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