Geoff Orr
Occupation: Engineering consultant.
Background:
• Mechanical Engineering, UBC
• Former owner of successful software company
• President of North Saanich Residents Association for eight years (resident for 12).
• Coach and Executive Member of Peninsula Minor Hockey for six years.
• Chair of Saanich Peninsula Water and Wastewater Commissions for six years.
• Current member of Airport Consultative Committee and PROW.
1. Why are you running for Council?
My involvement in a number of local organizations and committees for the past 10 years has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of municipal operations and our relationships with the CRD and other municipalities. North Saanich faces a number of challenging issues and I feel my technical, financial and people skills will be a valuable asset.
2. What are your top three issues to tackle, if elected?
Initiate local area planning for the McTavish and Tsehum housing areas. Sufficiently detailed planning must take place before any additional higher density proposals are considered.
Complete the review of District bylaws and OCP Development Permit Areas to ensure their continued relevance and achieve a reasonable balance of private and public interests.
Establish a long term taxation strategy in order to minimize tax increases, maintain core services and be prepared for future expenditures.
3. What are your priorities for housing policy in North Saanich?
North Saanich would benefit from a greater diversity of housing. The location of approved projects must also be consistent with an overall land use policy. I support housing initiatives that satisfy well defined objectives and are based on thorough, accurate information. Our housing policies must take into account that housing and workforce issues transcend municipal borders.
More specifically, I support the Saanich Peninsula Housing Partnership initiative and the adoption of secondary suite bylaws.
4. What are your thoughts on industrial, residential and agricultural balance in North Saanich?
Land use change is an increasingly critical issue for North Saanich. We must carefully manage growth to ensure adequate protection of the environment, agriculture and community character.
Any shift in the industrial, residential and agricultural balance must be accompanied by an OCP review which will require effective and frequent community consultation.
5. What can residents expect of your behaviour on council this term?
Many residents have expressed their strong desire for a council that will work through often divisive issues in a manner that is respectful, inclusive and thorough. In my business, committee and community activities I have consistently demonstrated these characteristics.
I’ve also earned a reputation for being well prepared. Residents can rely on me to analyze issues in detail, be objective and identify when better data is required to make an informed decision.