Taxes
Sooke’s tax pressure is real, and we need to meet it with discipline, vision, and a stronger local economy. Council has a responsibility to manage its own budget carefully, protect core services, and spend wisely on the priorities that matter most. The best long-term path is to broaden our tax base through thoughtful land-use planning, mixed-use and business-friendly development, and infrastructure that attracts investment, creates local jobs, and strengthens the community.
As councilor, I will work to keep Sooke professionally run, fiscally responsible, and among the lowest-taxed municipalities in the region while still delivering safe streets, well-maintained parks, and sound long-term planning. Click the button below for more on Sookes budget.
Traffic:
I believe we need a transportation strategy that is both responsible and forward-looking. The Throup Road connection may offer some relief, but I cannot support taking on an estimated $27 million in debt for a project of that scale unless there is major outside funding and a clear, compelling public benefit.
The reality is that most travel in Sooke is local. People are not just passing through — they are going to school, getting groceries, taking children to activities, and getting to work. That means the answer cannot be road building alone. It must include practical partnerships with the province, smarter use of the roads we already have, and improvements such as an HOV priority lane or bridge upgrades that can help reduce peak congestion more affordably.
Just as important, we need to give people real choices. Safer walking, cycling, and transit options are essential if we want to reduce traffic and make Sooke more accessible for seniors.
Healthcare
This is a provincial issue and advocacy for our needs in Sooke is ongoing. Local government can also play an important role by planning for healthier and more accessible communities.
This would reduce stress, improve mobility, and encourage people to stay physically and socially engaged. Furthermore Council can and should support local community initiatives like the Gathering Place.
Environment:
Sooke’s parks, trails, water, food systems, and natural areas are central to our quality of life. I would support policy that will protect environmental values, manage stormwater, preserve trees and green space where possible, and prepare the community for climate impacts and emergencies.
Responsible growth means protecting the places that make Sooke special while ensuring future neighbourhoods are resilient, efficient, and well planned.
Food Sovereignty
Local food is central to Sooke’s identity, economy, and long-term resilience.
I will encourage community gardens and small-scale production in neighbourhoods, schools, and public spaces to increase access to fresh food, and advance a regional food charter to guide decisions on food sovereignty, local producers, and sustainable land use across the region.
When we invest in local food, we invest in a more resilient Sooke: one where farmers can make a living, families can access fresh produce, and our community is less vulnerable to disruptions in distant supply chains.
