As the new year unfolds we look forward to the inevitable changes.
With a new council eager and prepared to go the distance, we look ahead to their initiatives and plans as well as the unexpected events which will shape our year to come. Not two full months into a new local government, change is afoot and the feeling about town is a positive one. It appears council is listening to the residents and is prepared to keep listening with the new “open mike” session at the end of council meetings. It is a excellent way to dispel rumours and discontent. It is one of the first steps in becoming a council that listens to the people.
Not all change is political. There is physical change in Sooke as well. The change to the Townsend Road intersection is drawing comment, most of it negative, and the continuing growth, while a good thing, seems optimistic in light of the current economic downturn. What we would like to see in terms of economic growth in Sooke are businesses we need, like a laundromat and a car wash to name just two. To carry us forward into the future we need more commercial businesses to provide the goods and services we need without having to drive into Langford or Victoria, and to provide jobs for locals so they do not have to commute.
The future is full of promise, let’s ensure that we have realistic plans which are sustainable and attainable. We have the opportunity to be an example in terms of green initiatives and affordable housing in a very liveable community. Let’s see what we can do.