NORTH SAANICH — North Saanich resident Heather Gartshore announced this week that she will be running for a seat on Council this November.
Gartshore said in a press release that the timing is right for her to get more actively involved in community governance.
“Numerous North Saanich residents, as well as past and present councillors, have encouraged me to run over the years,” said Gartshore.
Gartshore is currently the Vice President of the North Saanich Residents Association and Vice Chair of the North Saanich Parks Commission.
She said in the press release her decision to seek office is based partly on the discord she’s observed on the present council.
“The current council majority has demonstrated a style of leadership that many find objectionable and I believe that North Saanich residents deserve better.
“The democratic process is currently not being well served in our community. I am committed to bringing informed, collaborative and respectful dialogue back to the council chambers.”
Gartshore said a main priority for her is to respect the Official Community Plan as the voice of North Saanich residents and a guide to decision making.
“I have found it tremendously frustrating that significant decisions related to housing have been made recently without an OCP review or adequate opportunity for engagement with the community.”
Gartshore has lived in North Saanich for 26 years.
— News staff