Saanich is taking another shot at gaining public support for its revised Draft Quadra McKenzie Plan (QMP), following months of pushback and heated debate.
Following Monday’s council meeting regarding the revised QMP, this plan will go back to the public for further input this fall.
According to the District, the key changes that have been made to the QMP since the last round of public engagement phase are:
- Reducing the intensity of land use designations by, including reducing the number of properties designated as Corridor (6-storeys), primarily in Quadra North; scaling back building heights; and re-designating more parcels as Urban Townhome and Apartment (3 to 4-storeys).
- Removing design concepts for vehicle travel lanes on McKenzie Avenue
According to the District, the lane configuration will be considered separately, at another time, through a future process in collaboration with BC Transit.
Furthermore, the revised QMP also took into account much of the feedback Saanich has received thus far, and made other changes to be considered through another feedback phase.
Saanich says the next engagement campaign will run from August to October through a combination of in-person and online engagement tools.
According to the District, the QMP represents a vision for the next 20-30 years and aims to lay a foundation for creating healthy, diverse and vibrant communities for all.
Following the revised QMP coming before council, Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock provided a statement on the process and incidents of bullying that have taken place regarding this project.
“Last night, Saanich Council heard once again from passionate residents about the future of the Quadra McKenzie area. I want to thank everyone who took the time to attend and share their views—whether in support or in opposition. Our community is stronger when people engage in the democratic process,” said Mayor Murdock.
“However, I must address something deeply concerning. It is absolutely unacceptable that some members of the public were met with hostility, intimidation, and even verbal abuse simply for showing up to support the plan. No one should ever be sworn at or made to feel unsafe for participating in a public meeting.”
He added that this type of behaviour, this escalation of tone and aggression will not be tolerated in the council chambers.
Because of what happened, Murdock says that steps are being taken to ensure this type of behaviour does not prevail in future council meetings.
“The Quadra McKenzie planning process has sparked unprecedented public involvement,” said Murdock.
“Council has listened closely, and we have directed staff to revise the plan based on more than 10,000 public comments. There is still work ahead, including another round of public engagement, and I encourage all residents to stay involved—respectfully and constructively.”
He concluded that he hopes future meetings and conversations on the QMP can reflect the values of the District of Saanich: respect, inclusion and care for one another.
