Do you live in Oak Bay?
Yes – I live in a very small house in the Willows Beach area and have done so for 25 years.
Are you in favour of some form of amalgamation in the Capital Region?
Not for Oak Bay. I believe the shared services model has served us well and should be continued. Amalgamation in Toronto and Hamilton has led to a net negative for citizens and I would not like to see that happen in Oak Bay.
What is your vision for sewage treatment in Oak Bay?
All the science I have read indicates that there is no need for the sewage treatment that is being imposed. If we’re forced to go ahead, then I believe that a centralized treatment plant is the way to go – not having each municipality pursuing a small-scale, go it alone approach.
Do you think speed limits should be lowered in high crash areas?
Yes
Should mobility scooters be regulated?
Yes – These vehicles share the sidewalks with pedestrians and so should be regulated in terms of do’s and don’ts.
Is a deer cull necessary?
Yes – In effect, we already have a deer cull – we just pay for it with our increased ICBC premiums. Controlling the number of deer through traffic accidents is not the answer to the ever increasing number of deer.
Should secondary suites be legalized?
No – Not until after we have a full and thoughtful examination of any by-laws and regulations surrounding secondary suites. Our residents have stated that they would require owner occupancy, suites built to meet building codes, on-site parking etc. to move forward.
Does Oak Bay need stronger noise bylaws?
No –The by-laws we currently have in place seem to work well.
Should Oak Bay allow more freedom for dogs?
I think we currently have a good balance between the interests of dog owners and the other members of the community but would always be willing to look at any suggestions for improvements.
Do you agree with the basic principles in the new OCP?
I am glad that we have a new official community plan but I am not in total agreement with everything it contains. For example, we need to make sure that the impacts of regulating suites is fully and thoughtfully examined and understood before implementing any changes.
Should council encourage more filming opportunities in Oak Bay?
We need to be aware of the impact filming has on our citizens and ensure we are not impinging on their good nature. Keeping that in mind, I do think we should encourage these opportunities as they’re great for the economy of Oak Bay.