It is time to officially announce that I will not be seeking re-election in November.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest thanks to the people of Sooke for your support for the last 12 years as your councillor and your mayor. I have been humbled by your continued encouragement and faithfulness in me and I thank you all.
This was not an easy decision for me as I am very passionate about Sooke and all the great potential it has to offer to its citizens and newcomers. I believe council, staff and I have laid a strong foundation for this community to continue to grow and thrive, that is why I believe I can leave knowing that things will continue to move forward making Sooke the best community in the region.
I looked back on my election brochures and the promises I made, if elected, many of those commitments are complete or are being completed this year. The biggest, of course, was bringing sewers to Sooke. Because of this we have the Ayre Manor Lodge, a new five-star Prestige Hotel, new Shoppers Drug Mart, and the Mariner’s Village development just to name a few. All these new additions to our community have increased our tax base and development has provided new sidewalks, trails, parks and amenities, with more to come in the next few years.
We are excited about the Salmon Interpretation Centre and the great new tourism opportunities for visitors to Sooke. We provided access to the waterfront with the boardwalk and the accessible walkway in Ed Macgregor Park and there are many new trails now connecting neighbourhoods.
We worked with Transit for the new park and ride and with Highways for the improvements on Sooke Road. We now have a brand new multi-million dollar waterline to Sooke that will serve us for the next 80 years, and I believe our voice is finally being heard at the CRD board table.
We are now working on a new medical clinic which will provide all citizens in Sooke and the region with proper health care. And, as promised, I have been your full-time mayor always available to meet with members of the community and attend their functions.
Many wonderful things have been accomplished since incorporation in 1999 and I have been proud to represent Sooke as your mayor. I have worked with the best staff and councils for the last nine years and look forward to completing my term in November.
Finally, I am not retiring; I am excited about new career opportunities in the years to come.
Mayor Janet Evans