The District of Central Saanich is on the hunt for volunteers to fill various advisory committees.
“Previously we’ve had limited response from the community so this year we want to create some interest in these positions,” explained the District’s interim corporate officer, Liz Cornwell.
Cornwell added that there are several benefits to being a part of one of the District’s advisory committees, especially for those who have an interest in their community.
“Members of these committees have the opportunity not only to learn more about their community and how the municipality works but they also have the chance to have their voices heard. These are the committees that influence decision making at a higher level and by being a part of them the volunteers have a chance to really give back.”
The District currently has openings in three committees: the Advisory Planning Commission (two positions of two year terms), the Family Court and Youth Justice Committee of Victoria (one member to serve the last year of a three-year term) and the Healthy Watersheds Committee (two positions of two year terms).
“People who are interested in those areas can also apply to sit on more than one committee,” added Cornwell.
Residents of Central Saanich who are interested in being part of any of the committees should fill out application forms and submit them by Friday, Jan. 31.
Application forms are available online or at municipal hall. For more information on the specific roles of the committees, interested community members can call Cornwell at 250-652-4444.
What are the roles of the committees?
• Advisory Planning Commission
The mandate of the Advisory Planning Commission is to advise council on all matters respecting land use, community planning or proposed bylaws and permits, environmental issues and on the environment aspects of matters pertaining to land use, community planning or proposed bylaws and permits and cycling issues and on the planning aspect of matters related to cycling routes and provisions of bicycle facilities pertaining to land use, community planning or proposed bylaws and permits.
• Family Court and Youth Justice Committee of Victoria
The mandate of the Family Court and Youth Justice Committee of Victoria is to protect youth in the justice system by educating the public, reviewing family and youth legislation, making recommendations to appropriate legislative bodies and monitoring court hearings and custody facilities.
• Healthy Watershed Committee of Victoria
The Healthy Watershed Committee provides advice and direction on the implementation of the Hagan, Tetayut and McHugh Integrated Stormwater Management Plan (ISMP). The purpose of the committee is to help track the progress on rainwater initiatives, help guide monitoring decisions, assist in developing funding applications and act as a champion for progressive rainwater management in the District of Central Saanich.