When I recently received my North Saanich News addressed to our household, I had to take a look around to check that I was indeed in North Saanich and not in some developing country where that kind of propaganda and spin are the norm.
It may come as a surprise to Mayor Alice Finall that many North Saanich residents are sophisticated and educated. This is a ratepayer group that has seen and written business plans.
Upon review of the Sandown proposal’s business plan, this best-plan scenario would not stand under up close scrutiny or due diligence. I listened to the Feb. 13 webcast and with all due respect to the work the Farmlands Trust wishes to achieve, we must look at their experience and expertise. Anyone who would encourage craftsmen or craftswomen to come and set up shop at a small-C commercial venture has no idea about business.
My advice: keep selling at the Sidney market where you will see in those three hours more potential purchasers than you would see in a good month at Sandown.
The no cost to the district is fantasy. It has already cost taxpayers money in staff time, for example.
A municipality should not be in the farming business. It is council’s duty to review the official community plan, despite Mayor Finall’s insinuation that it is too soon after the 2007 OCP review. This would only be a review that is good governance to tweak if and where required.
Madam mayor, you have a clear mandate.
O.N. Johnson
North Saanich