Celia Stock
Occupation: Councillor, consultant and retired federal public servant.
Background:
A 40-year professional career in the federal and Yukon and NWT public service, working in policy and comprehensive claims and self-government negotiations with First Nations across Canada (including the tri-partite modern treaty negotiations process in B.C.).
1. Why are you running for Council?
I am running for council because I want to continue my public service to the community of North Saanich, applying my knowledge and experience at the council table.
2. What are your top three issues to tackle, if elected?
Financial matters and property taxes. Work to maintain low/reasonable levels of property taxes in North Saanich, including engagement with the Province in determining cost–effective ways to finance local government. Determine the future of land development/use in North Saanich and review either the OCP or portions thereof. Bringing into effect an Affordable Housing Policy and the Secondary Suites Policy in North Saanich.
3. What are your priorities for housing policy in North Saanich?
My approach to new housing policy in North Saanich is not to continue approving, with no revision whatsoever, ad-hoc development proposals for the “same old, same old style of house,” sold at $400,000. And more. But, to respond to the need for different and contemporary options for more affordable, worker, family and seniors’ housing. My view is that we need balanced and paced housing development in accordance with our OCP and the Regional Growth Strategy.
4. What are your thoughts on industrial, residential and agricultural balance in North Saanich?
In North Saanich, we are faced with a situation where one-third of our land is already taken up by the Victoria Airport, the B.C. Ferry terminal, the Plant Health Centre, the Institute for Ocean Sciences, schools and other public institutions. One-third of our land is being used as farmland and/or is within the Agricultural Land Reserve. This leaves the remaining one-third for other purposes, such as parks, rights of way, trails, beach access and residential.
This is what we have to deal with and I do not think we should remove land from the ALR or agricultural use. The Victoria Airport Authority does control a lot of land used for industrial purposes, and, so far, there has not been a need for extra land for this purpose.
5. What can residents expect of your behaviour on council this term?
Residents can expect that I will continue to bring positive energy to council; that I will continue to be accountable, and provide respectful leadership they can trust.
I will continue to listen and engage with residents, work collaboratively and respectfully with council members and staff, always adhering to the ethics and values of good governance.