Susan Woods
Age: 58
Occupation: Journalist, owner of the Moss Rock Review magazine
Family status: Married with three adult children
Political experience: Never served as an elected official but covered provincial and local government for years as a journalist
Lived in the community: I have lived on the Oak Bay boundary for 25 years. I participate in the community on a daily basis, and feel a strong affinity with the social, heritage and cultural landscape of Oak Bay.
What is your single biggest issue this election?
The biggest issue is new development and secondary suites.
How do you hope to solve it?
I would ensure new development respects neighbourhood sensitivity and preserves the urban canopy. Secondary suites are considered on a selective, case-by-case basis, using spot zoning and requiring the main residence to be owner-occupied.
What has council done well this term?
I believe they have worked hard to listen to and reflect the wishes of the community.
What would you do on council to improve it?
As a journalist I understand the impact local decisions have on our economy, neighbourhoods and quality of life. I would bring my passion for natural and built heritage to the table, work with other levels of government to secure funding for infrastructure projects, and be an accountable and productive representative.