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District of 1620 Mills Road Special meeting of Committee of the Whole Thursday, December 10, 2020 at 9:00 a.m.

At this time, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, public access to Municipal Hall is restricted. Public that may have wished to attend will now be able to view the meeting Live using the District's new Live Streaming feature at https://northsaanich.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingTypeList.aspx

AGENDA PAGE NO.

1. CALL TO ORDER

2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Staff recommendation: That the agenda be approved as circulated.

3. PROPOSED REVIEW PROCESS (Presentation)

(a) December 10, 2020 - Committee of the Whole 3 - 13 • Consensus discussion of review process - any changes or new ideas? • Review accomplishments in 2020 • Discuss revisions needed to create 2021 Plan • Direct staff to make the changes and report back with draft 2021 Plan 2021 Strategic Planning presentation

(b) January 11, 2021 - Committee of the Whole • Review draft, possibly make further changes • Recommend adoption 2021 Strategic Plan to Council

(c) January 18, 2021 - Council meeting • Formally adopt 2021 Strategic Plan

4. 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN REVIEW

(a) Strategic Plan 15 - 41 2020-06-15 Strategic Plan 2020-06-15 Strategic Plan Updated Dec 7

(b) Impacts of COVID Pandemic

(c) Accomplishments

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE December 10, 2020 AGENDA

(d) Items Underway

5. 2021 STRATEGIC PLAN

(a) New Items Previously Referred to Strategic Planning Process 43 - 86 by Council

1. That the correspondence received regarding library services be referred to the January 2021 Strategic Planning session. [Resolution 370] 2. That the correspondence dated November 13, 2020 from Mayor McNeil-Smith, Town of Sidney regarding options for library services be received and referred to Strategic Planning. [Resolution 788] 3. That the correspondence dated November 22, 2020 from L. Meyer regarding library agreement between North Saanich and Sidney be received and referred to Strategic Planning. [Resolution 789] IP library ltr McNeil-Smith ltr Meyer

(b) New Items Suggested by Councillors

1. Review of vacation rentals and their impact and whether North Saanich should allow them 2. Infill design guidelines 3. Need (or perceived need) for more/different industrial zoning (ie for trucking and other related businesses) 4. Agricultural priorities - staff have indicated this is part of OCP review, but should we have some specifics in the strategic plan? 5. Climate Change actions priorities - staff have indicated this is part of OCP review, but should we have some specifics in the strategic plan? 6. Reduction of house sizes on ALR land (through zoning) 7. Addition of anti-discrimination policy (staff have indicated this could be part of policy review)

6. ADJOURNMENT

Page 2 of 86 2021 STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION DECEMBER 10, 2020 Page 3 of 86 Today

1. Discussion of Proposed Review Process

2. 2020 Strategic Plan Review

 Impact of COVID

 Accomplishments

 Items Underway

3. 2021 Strategic Plan

 New Items Previously Referred by Council

 New Items Suggested by Councillors

 Direct Staff to Amend and Report Back on Jan 13 Page 4 of 86 Proposed Review Process

Dec 10 C-O-W

 consensus discussion of review process – any changes or new ideas?

 review accomplishments in 2020

 discuss revisions needed to create 2021 Plan

 direct staff to make the changes and report back with draft 2021 Plan Jan 13 C-O-W

 review draft, possibly make further changes

 recommend adoption 2021 Strategic Plan to Council Jan 20 Council Page 5 of 86  formally adopt 2021 Strategic Plan. 2020 Strategic Plan Review

Impact of COVID Pandemic

 Emergency Operations Centre Activated

 Public restricted from attending meetings

 Staff Work from Home (up to 50% at peak)

 The Rise of Remote Meetings

 New Challenges in Public Engagement

 EOC Team Rose to the Challenge Page 6 of 86 2020 Strategic Plan Review

Ensure Strong Leadership, Maintain a Safe and Fiscal Responsibility and Healthy Community Transparent Government

Protect and Enhance Rural, Agricultural, Heritage, Marine and Environmental Resources

Encourage Compatible Maintain a Strong Sense of Commercial and Local Community Business Development Page 7 of 86 SP1: Protect and Enhance Rural, Agricultural, Heritage, Marine and Environmental Resources

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Staff to prepare a report to Council regarding the Climate Action Strategy initiatives and Climate Action Committee 2020 PCS work COMPLETE 2 Staff to prepare a report regarding possible roles for the District in the Shoal Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary 2020 PCS Integrated Management Plan (boats, birds & sea level rise) COMPLETE 3 Establish long term operators for Sandown COMPLETE In progress 2020 IS/PCS 4 Review and Update Parks Plan including 2021 IS  prioritize beach access improvements including parking  review service levels 5 Review Tree Bylaw UNDERWAY 2020-21 PCS 6 Future development of Jubilee Park 2021 IS 7 Staff to prepare a discussion paper on natural asset management: financial & ecological 2022 IS (ecological asset management to be part of the Parks Plan) 8 Review Sign Bylaw COMPLETE In progress 2020 PCS

Page 8 of 86 SP 2: Maintain a Safe and Healthy Community

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Review Emergency Services Bylaw COMPLETE In progress 2020 ES 2 Update Wildfire Protection Plan include consideration of development permits and implementation UNDERWAY In progress 2020 ES 3 Staff to prepare a report to address the benefits and costs of green resources and outdoor burning 2021 PCS/IS/ES 4 Identify truck and bus routes on District roads 2022 IS 5 Explore the need to increase public engagement in emergency preparedness 2020 ES 6 Staff to report to Council on the scope and resources required to amend the Animal Control Bylaw to enable licensing of 2022 PCS cats 7 Staff to report to Council on the scope and resources required to amend the Animal Control Bylaw to regulate the 2022 PCS feeding of and the resultant renegotiation of the CRD animal Control contract.

Page 9 of 86 SP 3: Encourage Compatible Commercial and Local Business Development

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Review Home/Business Occupation permitted uses/regulations 2022 PCS 2 Develop Long-term Taxation Policy Complete FS

Page 10 of 86 SP 4: Maintain a Strong Sense of Community

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Finalize VIRL Library at Panorama (currently in ALC process) 2020 PCS In progress 2 Hold community events and consider: 2021 CS  Developing a “Welcome Program” for new residents  New Year’s Levee 3 OCP Review & update including: 2020 – 2022 PCS  Review boundaries re: Areas 1 & 2 Bylaw 1352 & area planning 2 year process  Review guest cottages on small properties policy/zoning  Address climate change impacts including sea level rise planning  Advance policies to guide marine & shoreline development  Review marine task force recommendations UNDERWAY 4 Prepare policy for decommissioning of illegal secondary suites 2023 PCS 5 Examine impacts of short-term vacation rentals on housing Post OCP update PCS 2022/23 6 Review and update zoning bylaw (including marina structures) Post OCP update PCS 2022/23 7 Consider Communication Strategy and current communication practices with a view to increasing resources for Complete CS communications 8 Consider input of local bands to enhance communications with ongoing CS

Page 11 of 86 SP 5: Ensure Strong Leadership, Fiscal Responsibility and Transparent Government

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Review and update Subdivision Bylaw including: 2020-21 PCS  Subdivision notifications policy review & monitoring of impacts 2 Policy manual review & update UNDERWAY 2021 CS 3 Finalize service agreements with First Nations 2020 in Corporate progress Services 4 Review of MOU with Airport Authority (Align with Land Use Bylaw) 2020 PCS 5 Review Council Procedure Bylaw COMPLETE 2020 CS 6 Council to review Council appointments COMPLETE Complete CS

Page 12 of 86 2021 Strategic Plan

Forwarded by Council during last year:  Library Servicing Options

New Items Suggested by Councillors:  Review of vacation rentals and their impact and whether North Saanich should allow them

 Infill design guidelines  Need (or perceived need) for more/different industrial zoning (ie for trucking and other related businesses)  Agricultural priorities - staff have indicated this is part of OCP review, but should we have some specifics in the strategic plan?

 Climate Change actions priorities - staff have indicated this is part of OCP review, but should we have some specifics in the strategic plan?  Reduction of house sizes on ALR land (through zoning)  Addition of anti-discrimination policy (staff have indicated this could be part of policy review) Page 13 of 86  Others?? Page 14 of 86

District of North Saanich 2020 Strategic Plan

Approved June 15, 2020

Page 15 of 86 Context

This Strategic Plan sets out Council’s focus and strategic priorities for the 2020-2023 period and beyond. The Plan is based on many studies, plans, and public input opportunities over the years and we believe the Plan’s directions and priorities reflect the overall will of the community we serve.

As we learn more from the community, our staff, Commissions and Committees, the Strategic Plan will be enhanced and modified as required by Council. Over time the Plan will be reviewed and updated to ensure consistency with emerging plans and related strategic decisions. Strategic planning is a Council- driven process that is supported by staff. The Strategic Plan is a working document developed with input from all members of Council and senior management. An initial planning workshop is held early in the first year of a newly elected Council and annual workshops are held to review and update the Plan. The most recent revision of the plan was done by Council at a workshop on January 10, 2020.

The Strategic Plan is an “umbrella policy” that sets the context for all that we do and helps to align specific plans having to do with finance, land use, solid waste, information technology, infrastructure and parks. It also provides the basis for department business plans and annual budget submissions. The Plan focuses on new objectives; however, it is recognized and acknowledged that the vast majority of the District’s resources are devoted to its core services, including infrastructure maintenance, Planning & Community Services, parks, trails, Emergency Services protection, emergency preparedness, financial services, administration, and information management.

Mayor Geoff Orr Councillor Heather Gartshore Councillor Jack McClintock Councillor Patricia Pearson Councillor Brett Smyth Councillor Celia Stock Councillor Murray Weisenberger

Page 16 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 2 of 13 Our Focus

Vision Council and staff of the District of North Saanich are guided by vision elements that have emerged from significant community review and discussion and are drawn from the Official Community Plan.

The future will ensure that: 1. diverse neighbourhoods are respected and supported; 2. rural, marine and agricultural resources are protected, maintained, and enhanced; 3. the needs and priorities of our community are supported; 4. the arts are supported; 5. the community is inclusive, accessible and culturally vibrant; 6. suitable, appropriately located economic activity is supported; 7. efficient levels of service commensurate with appropriate taxation are established; 8. natural environments are protected, and a commitment is made to the preservation and enhancement of regionally significant green and blue spaces; and 9. North Saanich is a sustainable community that plans for the potential impacts of climate change.

Page 17 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 3 of 13

Mission

The mission of the Direct of North Saanich is to provide leadership and good governance that reflect the community vision and protects, promotes and enhances a safe and diverse community for current and future generations.

The Municipal Purposes outlined in the Community Charter further detail the purposes of the District of North Saanich:

Section 7. The purposes of a include (a) providing for good government of its community, (b) providing for services, laws and other matters for community benefit, (c) providing for stewardship of the public assets of its community, and (d) fostering the economic, social and environmental well-being of its community.

Reconciliation

Council acknowledges the District of North Saanich exists within the Traditional Territories of Coast Salish peoples and is c ommitted to respectfully and appropriately engaging First Nations communities in matters of common interest.

Page 18 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 4 of 13

CORE SERVICES

The Strategic Plan focuses on new objectives; however, it is recognized and acknowledged that the vast majority of the District’s resources are devoted to its core services,

Within the means of District taxpayers, we are committed to meeting or exceeding public expectations in each of the following service areas:

1. governance leadership supported by volunteer Commissions/Committees and public consultation;

2. community planning for housing, economic development, heritage, arts and culture, and agriculture;

3. Emergency Services, police and emergency preparedness;

4. public works and Infrastructure Services;

5. parks, trails and preservation of green space;

6. environmental stewardship and protection;

7. joint recreation services with Peninsula Recreation Commission;

8. accountable financial and administrative services with a focus on performance management across all functions; and

9. effective communication with the public. Page 19 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 5 of 13

VALUES AND OPERATING PHILOSOPHY

The District of North Saanich Council and staff will:

1. be ethical, open, honest and fair;

2. provide excellent customer service;

3. collaborate as a strong team and promote constructive relationships at the local and regional level;

4. make decisions that reflect the overall will and best interests of our community;

5. be consistent in application of policy, bylaws and regulations;

6. be flexible, innovative and progressive in our efforts to improve results while being tolerant of appropriate risks;

7. ensure outstanding stewardship of public assets and the environment;

8. be supportive of the community’s strong volunteer ethic; and

9. be respectful of neighbourhood issues.

Page 20 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 6 of 13 Strategic Priorities

Ensure Strong Leadership, Maintain a Safe and Fiscal Responsibility and Healthy Community Transparent Government Protect and Enhance Rural, Agricultural, Heritage, Marine and Environmental Resources Maintain a Strong Sense of Encourage Compatible Community Commercial and Local Business Development

Page 21 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 7 of 13 District of North Saanich 2020-2023 Strategic Plan SP1: Protect and Enhance Rural, Agricultural, Heritage, Marine and Environmental Resources

North Saanich residents are proud and protective of their special place and unique environments. Through our participation wi th the Capital we continue to work with the Regional Growth Strategy. In concert with the Green/Blue Spaces Strategy, the District is committed to protecting and enhancing sensitive and significant land and marine environments. Further, the District i s committed to protecting and enhancing its rural, agricultural and heritage roots and lifestyle. The District is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and related costs to address climate change.

GOALS • Preserve and protect significant and sensitive environmental areas and ecosystems • Preserve and protect sensitive marine and inter -tidal habitats • Mitigate climate change impacts • Enhance parks and trails

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Staff to prepare a report to Council regarding the Climate Action Strategy initiatives and Climate Action Committee 2020 PCS work 2 Staff to prepare a report regarding possible roles for the District in the Shoal Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary 2020 PCS Integrated Management Plan (boats, birds & sea level rise) 3 Establish long term operators for Sandown In progress 2020 IS/PCS 4 Review and Update Parks Plan including 2021 IS  prioritize beach access improvements including parking  review service levels 5 Review Tree Bylaw 2020-21 PCS 6 Future development of Jubilee Park 2021 IS 7 Staff to prepare a discussion paper on natural asset management: financial & ecological 2022 IS (ecological asset management to be part of the Parks Plan) 8 Review Sign Bylaw In progress 2020 PCS

Page 22 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 8 of 13 SP 2: Maintain a Safe and Healthy Community North Saanich residents expect their municipal government to take steps to ensure public and environmental safety and health issues are addressed through provision of appropriate infrastructure and services such as water quality, liquid and solid waste management, safe roads, po lice, fire and emergency medical services. The key challenge in a small municipality with extensive rural areas is to determine th e appropriate balance amongst owner provision of services (e.g. septic systems), partnership provision with neighbouring jurisdictions ( Unified Sewer Treatm ent, RCMP, Peninsula Emergency Measures Organization, Panorama Recreation), and di rect municipal provision (North Saanich Volunteer Fire Department).

GOALS

• Protect resident safety and be prepared for emergencies • Encourage and support active lifestyles

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Review Emergency Services Bylaw In progress 2020 ES 2 Update Wildfire Protection Plan include consideration of development permits and implementation In progress 2020 ES 3 Staff to prepare a report to address the benefits and costs of green resources and outdoor burning In progress 2020 PCS/IS/ES 4 Identify truck and bus routes on District roads 2022 IS 5 Explore the need to increase public engagement in emergency preparedness 2020 ES 6 Staff to report to Council on the scope and resources required to amend the Animal Control Bylaw to enable licensing of 2022 PCS cats 7 Staff to report to Council on the scope and resources required to amend the Animal Control Bylaw to regulate the 2022 PCS feeding of raccoons and the resultant renegotiation of the CRD animal Control contract.

Page 23 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 9 of 13 SP 3: Encourage Compatible Commercial and Local Business Development

Local government has been given the mandate to foster the economic, social and environmental well -being of its community. The vision that guides this strategic plan makes it clear that North Saanich is interested in economic development that complements ou r rural and marine characteristics and our commitment to protection of the natural environment. Our motivators are to support our agricultural economy, encourage approp riate business development at the Airport and facilitate limited commercial development desired by our neighbourhoods. In addition, we must ensure the economic viability of the District through a balanced, sustainable tax base.

GOALS • An operating environment supportive of local business • A vibrant and sustainable agricultural economy

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Review Home/Business Occupation permitted uses/regulations 2022 PCS 2 Develop Long-term Taxation Policy Complete FS

Page 24 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 10 of 13 SP 4: Maintain a Strong Sense of Community

North Saanich is comprised of established neighbourhoods: the South -East Quadrant/Dean Park, Ardmore, Lands End/Curtis Point and Deep Cove. We support pride in the community that includes respect for diversity, support for the unique requirements of each n eighbourhood, and celebration of the quality of the life we share together.

GOALS • A strong sense of pride, identity and belonging in North Saanich • Engaging the community • Housing policies that support local and regional demand • Positive and constructive relations with First Nations

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Finalize VIRL Library at Panorama (currently in ALC process) 2020 PCS In progress 2 Hold community events and consider: 2021 CS  Developing a “Welcome Program” for new residents  New Year’s Levee 3 OCP Review & update including: 2020 – 2022 PCS  Review boundaries re: Areas 1 & 2 Bylaw 1352 & area planning 2 year process  Review guest cottages on small properties policy/zoning  Address climate change impacts including sea level rise planning  Advance policies to guide marine & shoreline development  Review marine task force recommendations 4 Prepare policy for decommissioning of illegal secondary suites 2023 PCS 5 Examine impacts of short-term vacation rentals on housing Post OCP update PCS 2022/23 6 Review and update zoning bylaw (including marina structures) Post OCP update PCS 2022/23 7 Consider Communication Strategy and current communication practices with a view to increasing resources for Complete CS communications 8 Consider input of local bands to enhance communications with First Nations ongoing CS

Page 25 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 11 of 13

SP 5: Ensure Strong Leadership, Fiscal Responsibility and Transparent Government

Our municipal mission and operating philosophy statements call for progressive leadership, service excellence, and outstanding stewardship of public assets.

GOALS • Efficient and cost effective management of corporate assets and financial services • Efficient and effective administrative and regulatory processes. • Effective governance and leadership • Be an employer of choice

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Review and update Subdivision Bylaw including: 2020-21 PCS  Subdivision notifications policy review & monitoring of impacts 2 Policy manual review & update 2021 CS 3 Finalize service agreements with First Nations 2020 in Corporate progress Services 4 Review of MOU with Airport Authority (Align with Land Use Bylaw) 2020 PCS 5 Review Council Procedure Bylaw 2020 CS 6 Council to review Council appointments Complete CS

Page 26 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 12 of 13 Results Report Card Projects & Initiatives Recently Completed

2019-20 Staff to prepare recommendations for implementation of the Agriculture Economic Development Strategy (AEDS) and the Whole Community Agricultural Strategy Develop guidelines and policies for agri-business/tourism Examine term limits for Council appointments for certain external appointments Improve communications with citizens. Reconsider Communications Strategy and current communications practices with a view to increasing resources for communications Develop long-term taxation policy

Page 27 of 86

May 25, 2020 page 13 of 13 Page 28 of 86

District of North Saanich 2020 Strategic Plan Marked Up with Updates December 7, 2020

Approved June 15, 2020/Updated December 7, 2020

Page 29 of 86 Context

This Strategic Plan sets out Council’s focus and strategic priorities for the 2020-2023 period and beyond. The Plan is based on many studies, plans, and public input opportunities over the years and we believe the Plan’s directions and priorities reflect the overall will of the community we serve.

As we learn more from the community, our staff, Commissions and Committees, the Strategic Plan will be enhanced and modified as required by Council. Over time the Plan will be reviewed and updated to ensure consistency with emerging plans and related strategic decisions. Strategic planning is a Council- driven process that is supported by staff. The Strategic Plan is a working document developed with input from all members of Council and senior management. An initial planning workshop is held early in the first year of a newly elected Council and annual workshops are held to review and update the Plan. The most recent revision of the plan was done by Council at a workshop on January 10, 2020.

The Strategic Plan is an “umbrella policy” that sets the context for all that we do and helps to align specific plans having to do with finance, land use, solid waste, information technology, infrastructure and parks. It also provides the basis for department business plans and annual budget submissions. The Plan focuses on new objectives; however, it is recognized and acknowledged that the vast majority of the District’s resources are devoted to its core services, including infrastructure maintenance, Planning & Community Services, parks, trails, Emergency Services protection, emergency preparedness, financial services, administration, and information management.

Mayor Geoff Orr Councillor Heather Gartshore Councillor Jack McClintock Councillor Patricia Pearson Councillor Brett Smyth Councillor Celia Stock Councillor Murray Weisenberger

Page 30 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 2 of 13 Our Focus

Vision Council and staff of the District of North Saanich are guided by vision elements that have emerged from significant community review and discussion and are drawn from the Official Community Plan.

The future will ensure that: 1. diverse neighbourhoods are respected and supported; 2. rural, marine and agricultural resources are protected, maintained, and enhanced; 3. the needs and priorities of our community are supported; 4. the arts are supported; 5. the community is inclusive, accessible and culturally vibrant; 6. suitable, appropriately located economic activity is supported; 7. efficient levels of service commensurate with appropriate taxation are established; 8. natural environments are protected, and a commitment is made to the preservation and enhancement of regionally significant green and blue spaces; and 9. North Saanich is a sustainable community that plans for the potential impacts of climate change.

Page 31 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 3 of 13

Mission

The mission of the Direct of North Saanich is to provide leadership and good governance that reflect the community vision and protects, promotes and enhances a safe and diverse community for current and future generations.

The Municipal Purposes outlined in the Community Charter further detail the purposes of the District of North Saanich:

Section 7. The purposes of a municipality include (a) providing for good government of its community, (b) providing for services, laws and other matters for community benefit, (c) providing for stewardship of the public assets of its community, and (d) fostering the economic, social and environmental well-being of its community.

Reconciliation

Council acknowledges the District of North Saanich exists within the Traditional Territories of Coast Salish peoples and is committed to respectfully and appropriately engaging First Nations communities in matters of common interest.

Page 32 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 4 of 13

CORE SERVICES

The Strategic Plan focuses on new objectives; however, it is recognized and acknowledged that the vast majority of the District’s resources are devoted to its core services,

Within the means of District taxpayers, we are committed to meeting or exceeding public expectations in each of the following service areas:

1. governance leadership supported by volunteer Commissions/Committees and public consultation;

2. community planning for housing, economic development, heritage, arts and culture, and agriculture;

3. Emergency Services, police and emergency preparedness;

4. public works and Infrastructure Services;

5. parks, trails and preservation of green space;

6. environmental stewardship and protection;

7. joint recreation services with Peninsula Recreation Commission;

8. accountable financial and administrative services with a focus on performance management across all funct ions; and

9. effective communication with the public. Page 33 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 5 of 13

VALUES AND OPERATING PHILOSOPHY

The District of North Saanich Council and staff will:

1. be ethical, open, honest and fair;

2. provide excellent customer service;

3. collaborate as a strong team and promote constructive relationships at the local and regional level;

4. make decisions that reflect the overall will and best interests of our community;

5. be consistent in application of policy, bylaws and regulations;

6. be flexible, innovative and progressive in our efforts to improve results while being tolerant of appropriate risks;

7. ensure outstanding stewardship of public assets and the environment;

8. be supportive of the community’s strong volunteer ethic; and

9. be respectful of neighbourhood issues.

Page 34 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 6 of 13 Strategic Priorities

Strategic Priorities are overarching directions that guide the District’s efforts towards realizing our vision. In selecting the five priorities, Council focused on the need to demonstrate our commitment to our rural and marine character, the importance of maintaining a strong sense of community, and the challenges of delivering quality services at a reasonable cost to the taxpayer.

The five strategic priorities area shown in the following illustration; each priority is further detailed on the following pages.

Ensure Strong Leadership, Maintain a Safe and Fiscal Responsibility and Healthy Community Transparent Government

Protect and Enhance Rural, Agricultural,

Heritage, Marine and Environmental Resources

Maintain a Strong Sense of Encourage Compatible Community Commercial and Local

Business Development

Each Strategic Priority is accompanied by a table that details goals and specific projects and initiatives to be initiated in

Page 35 of 86 the 2020-2023 period.

December 7, 2020 page 7 of 13 District of North Saanich 2020-2023 Strategic Plan SP1: Protect and Enhance Rural, Agricultural, Heritage, Marine and Environmental Resources

North Saanich residents are proud and protective of their special place and unique environments. Through our participation with the Capital Regional District we continue to work with the Regional Growth Strategy. In concert with the Green/Blue Spaces Strategy, the District is committed to protecting and enhancing sensitive and significant land and marine environments. Further, the District is committed to protecting and enhancing its ru ral, agricultural and heritage roots and lifestyle. The District is committed to reducing greenh ouse gas emissions and related costs to address climate change.

GOALS • Preserve and protect significant and sensitive environmental areas and ecosystems • Preserve and protect sensitive marine and inter -tidal habitats • Mitigate climate change impacts • Enhance parks and trails

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Staff to prepare a report to Council regarding the Climate Action Strategy initiatives and Climate Action Committee 2020 PCS work COMPLETE 2 Staff to prepare a report regarding possible roles for the District in the Shoal Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary 2020 PCS Integrated Management Plan (boats, birds & sea level rise) COMPLETE 3 Establish long term operators for Sandown COMPLETE In progress 2020 IS/PCS 4 Review and Update Parks Plan including 2021 IS  prioritize beach access improvements including parking  review service levels 5 Review Tree Bylaw UNDERWAY 2020-21 PCS 6 Future development of Jubilee Park 2021 IS 7 Staff to prepare a discussion paper on natural asset management: financial & ecological 2022 IS (ecological asset management to be part of the Parks Plan) 8 Review Sign Bylaw COMPLETE In progress 2020 PCS

Page 36 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 8 of 13 SP 2: Maintain a Safe and Healthy Community North Saanich residents expect their municipal government to take steps to ensure public and environmental safety and health issues are add ressed through provision of appropriate infrastructure and services such as water quality, liquid and solid waste management, safe roads, police, fire and emergency medical services. The key challenge in a small municipality with extensive rural areas is to determine the appropriate balan ce amongst owner provision of services (e.g. septic systems), partnership provision with neighbou ring jurisdictions (Saanich Peninsula Unified Sewer Treatment, RCMP, Peninsula Emergency Measures Organization, Panorama Recreation), and direct municipal provision (North Saanich Volunteer Fire Departmen t).

GOALS

• Protect resident safety and be prepared for emergencies • Encourage and support active lifestyles

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Review Emergency Services Bylaw COMPLETE In progress 2020 ES 2 Update Wildfire Protection Plan include consideration of development permits and implementation UNDERWAY In progress 2020 ES 3 Staff to prepare a report to address the benefits and costs of green resources and outdoor burning 2021 PCS/IS/ES 4 Identify truck and bus routes on District roads 2022 IS 5 Explore the need to increase public engagement in emergency preparedness 2020 ES 6 Staff to report to Council on the scope and resources required to amend the Animal Control Bylaw to enable licensing of 2022 PCS cats 7 Staff to report to Council on the scope and resources required to amend the Animal Control Bylaw to regulate the 2022 PCS feeding of raccoons and the resultant renegotiation of the CRD animal Control contract.

Page 37 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 9 of 13 SP 3: Encourage Compatible Commercial and Local Business Development

Local government has been given the mandate to foster the economic, social and environmental well -being of its community. The vision that guides this strategic plan makes it clear that North Saanich is interested in economic development that complements our rural and marine characteristics and our commitment to protection of the natural environment. Our motivators are to support our agricultural economy, encourage approp riate business development at the Airport and facilitate limited commercial development desired by our neighbourhoods. In ad dition, we must ensure the economic viability of the District through a balanced, sustainable tax base.

GOALS • An operating environment supportive of local business • A vibrant and sustainable agricultural economy

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Review Home/Business Occupation permitted uses/regulations 2022 PCS 2 Develop Long-term Taxation Policy Complete FS

Page 38 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 10 of 13 SP 4: Maintain a Strong Sense of Community

North Saanich is comprised of established neighbourhoods: the South -East Quadrant/Dean Park, Ardmore, Lands End/Curtis Point and Deep Cove. We support pride in the community that includes respect for diversity, support for the unique requirements of each n eighbourhood, and celebration of the quality of the life we share together.

GOALS • A strong sense of pride, identity and belonging in North Saanich • Engaging the community • Housing policies that support local and regional demand • Positive and constructive relations with First Nations

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Finalize VIRL Library at Panorama (currently in ALC process) 2020 PCS In progress 2 Hold community events and consider: 2021 CS  Developing a “Welcome Program” for new residents  New Year’s Levee 3 OCP Review & update including: 2020 – 2022 PCS  Review boundaries re: Areas 1 & 2 Bylaw 1352 & area planning 2 year process  Review guest cottages on small properties policy/zoning  Address climate change impacts including sea level rise planning  Advance policies to guide marine & shoreline development  Review marine task force recommendations UNDERWAY 4 Prepare policy for decommissioning of illegal secondary suites 2023 PCS 5 Examine impacts of short-term vacation rentals on housing Post OCP update PCS 2022/23 6 Review and update zoning bylaw (including marina structures) Post OCP update PCS 2022/23 7 Consider Communication Strategy and current communication practices with a view to increasing resources for Complete CS communications 8 Consider input of local bands to enhance communications with First Nations ongoing CS

Page 39 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 11 of 13

SP 5: Ensure Strong Leadership, Fiscal Responsibility and Transparent Government

Our municipal mission and operating philosophy statements call for progressive leadership, service excellence, and outstanding stewardship of public assets.

GOALS • Efficient and cost effective management of corporate assets and financial services • Efficient and effective administrative and regulatory processes. • Effective governance and leadership • Be an employer of choice

Lead Projects & Initiatives Timeline Department 1 Review and update Subdivision Bylaw including: 2020-21 PCS  Subdivision notifications policy review & monitoring of impacts 2 Policy manual review & update UNDERWAY 2021 CS 3 Finalize service agreements with First Nations 2020 in Corporate progress Services 4 Review of MOU with Airport Authority (Align with Land Use Bylaw) 2020 PCS 5 Review Council Procedure Bylaw COMPLETE 2020 CS 6 Council to review Council appointments COMPLETE Complete CS

Page 40 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 12 of 13 Results Report Card Projects & Initiatives Recently Completed

2019-20 Staff to prepare recommendations for implementation of the Agriculture Economic Development Strategy (AEDS) and the Whole Community Agricultural Strategy Develop guidelines and policies for agri-business/tourism Examine term limits for Council appointments for certain external appointments Improve communications with citizens. Reconsider Communications Strategy and current communications practices with a view to increasing resources for communications Develop long-term taxation policy

Page 41 of 86

December 7, 2020 page 13 of 13 Page 42 of 86 Dan Moreton

From: Lynn Meyer Sent: Sunday, June 7, 2020 10:19 PM To: [email protected] Cc: admin; Murray Weisenberger; Robyn Quaintance; Directors NSRA Subject: Re: Review of North Saanich/Sidney membership in the Island Regional Library (VIRL) System Attachments: Library Letter - North Saanich.pdf; June 7, 2020 letter to North Saanich re Library.pdf

To: Town of Sidney Mayor, Councillors and Administration

Attached to this e-mail are 2 letters which I have sent to the District ofNorth Saanich, I sent the first one on May 31, 2020 and the second today. In both letters, I have requested that North Saanich review its membership in the VIRL. Such a review would, of necessity, require engagement of both North Saanich and Sidney. I know that Sidney has indicated that review of its library services is a provider. I urge the Town of Sidney to work with the District of North Saanich to ensure that a thorough review of our library services provider is carried out expeditiously.

Respectfully submitted, Lynn Meyer

Lynn Meyer 1690 Hedgerow Place

CIRCULATION Mayor 6d CAO~ Corporate Office ACTION D 9>undl Agenda ,0'info Pk D Reading File D Staff Recommendation , ------I

1 DISfHICT 0~ NORTH ~AANIClt 1620 Ml! l ~ ROAD NOi !TII S11i\ NICI I BC V8l 5S9

Page 43 of 86 To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

I am writing to request that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider, with a view to assessing whether North Saanich would be better served by membership in the Public Library (GVPL) system. Such a review would, of necessity, have to be conducted jointly with the Town of Sidney. This review should be completed prior to construction of a new library branch at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

North Saanich, in partnership with the Town of Sidney, is currently a member of the Regional Library (VIRL) system. My experience has been that the materials available through the VIRL are not at the level that I would expect from my library services provider. It is often difficult to find copies of older materials and it can take many months to access more current materials. If one is a member of a book club, as I am, it is difficult to find sufficient copies of a particular book for discussion, even if the materials are reserved months in advance. My fellow book club members, in both North Saanich and Sidney, have the same difficulties, while those who are members of the GVPL system do not seem to have the same issue. It may well be that VIRL does not spend as much on materials as it should.

I have attached an analysis of materials expenditure per capital prepared by Peter Wainwright, a Sidney town councillor, which demonstrates that the GVPL spends considerably more per capital that the VIRL.

Materials Expenditure Per Capita

.,.._GVPL $6.00 ~\IIRL

- Av«I~ -W-1.hban

2002 200.S 2004 2005 20:>6 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 201! 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Page 44 of 86 In addition, North Saanich and Sidney are far removed geographically from the remainder of the VIRL, with all of the GVPL between us and the rest of the VIRL. Materials which are not available on the shelves of the library in Sidney must travel a very long way for Sidney/North Saanich patrons, which is not environmentally sensitive.

I appreciate that there is an option for North Saanich to access books in the GVPL and other BC library systems through the BC One card or through inter-library loans. Both are limited in their usefulness. The BC One card, which permits anyone in BC to access books anywhere in BC, does not permit the holder to place holds, borrow one week loans or e-books or to renew materials. Inter-library loans can take a very long time and face similar limitations.

As stated at the outset of this letter, I am requesting that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider in partnership with the Town of Sidney. I would suggest that it follow the following steps and timeline:

1. Approach GVPL to assess whether it would be receptive to North Saanich/Sidney becoming members of the GVPL, and on what terms, including whether the branch in Sidney would be sufficient to meet the requirements of membership; 2. Retain a consultant to assess whether North Saanich/Sidney are being properly served by VIRL and whether they would be better served by membership in the GVPL. This review should be completed in sufficient time to allow the necessary plebiscite to be placed before the electorate next year. Of critical importance is the requirement in the Libraries Act that a vote to leave a regional library system must be completed prior to October 1, which means that it will not be possible to hold the necessary plebiscite at the same time as the municipal elections. 3. Place on hold any decision about a library branch on the lands at the Panorama Recreation Centre, assuming that removal of those lands from the ALR is approved.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynn Meyer

Page 45 of 86 June 7, 2020

To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

Re: Review of North Saanich Membership in Vancouver Island Regional Library {VIRL) system

I am writing to follow up on my letter of May 31, 2020, in which I requested that "North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider, with a view to assessing whether North Saanich would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system."

I appreciate that Council received and considered my letter expeditiously, reviewing it at its meeting on June 1, 2020. North Saanich staff contacted me after the meeting, to advise that "Council directed staff to add a webpage to the District's website that includes all available information on the proposed new library project. The information will be available soon at www.northsaanich.ca".

While it will certainly be helpful to have greater transparency around Council's new library project, the response does not address the primary request in my letter, which is for a review of North Saanich's membership in the VIRL.

Such a review would, of necessity, have to be conducted jointly with the Town of Sidney. The Town of Sidney has indicated that a review of its library services is a priority for their Council and is included in the Town's Strategic Plan for 2022. Given the intertwined nature of library services between the two , I am hopeful that North Saanich will also treat a review of its membership in the VIRL as a priority.

I know that I am not alone in considering this to be an issue to be addressed by our Council. look forward to hearing further from you on this important issue.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynn Meyer

Page 46 of 86 Sara De Melo

From: Karen Allan Sent: Friday, June 5, 2020 11 :50 AM To: admin Subject: Li brary Services in North Saanich Attachments: NS ltr re GVPL from VIRL.PDF

To Mayor and Council North Saanich

Find attached my letter of support for Lynn Meyer's letter submitted to Mayor and Council on May 31, 2020.

Thank you for addressing this important community matter.

Respectfully, Karen A. Allan -10956 Madrona Drive, NS

gRCULATIO.Ji Mayor ~ CAO~~ corporate officer ACTION. 0 cyun--cil Agenda e1nfoPk O Reading File . 0 Staff Rec.ommendauon DISTRICT OF NOHTH SAANICH 1b20 MILLS ROAD NORTH SAA t~ICH BC V8L 5S9

Page 47 of 86 To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

June 5, 2020

We fully support a review to determine whether the community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) System rather than the current library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich, the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VJRL).

As a bookclub member, in my experience, the materials available at the Sidney branch are not at the level I would expect for a community of this size. The material expenditures per capita, as prepared by Peter Wainwright, a Sidney town councilor, of the VIRL at around $8 is greater than that of the GVPL of around $6 which equates to about 25.6% more cost to our residents for a less than satisfactory service. We can do better by becoming part of the geographically more sensible GVPL, especially considering the eco sensitive matter of transporting library stock up and down the peninsula and the Malahat.

We strongly believe a review should be conducted as soon as possible before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident.

We fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully,

Karen A. Allan,

(of 10956 Madrona Drive)

Page 48 of 86 Sara De Melo

From: SHEILA BAILIN Sent: Thursday, June 4, 2020 11 :48 AM To: admin Subject: Review of Library branch proposal

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich

I fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for North Saanich. I believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) System. I support the recommendations included in the letter Council received from Lynn Meyer on May 31, 2020.

I strongly urge Council to complete a review before proceeding any further with the Panorama Recreation Centre library branch proposal.

Yours respectfully,

Sheila Bailin 1465 Cloake Hill Road North Saanich, BC V8L SK3

~ CIRCULATIOfi Mayor (!;i:)

CAOµy'corporate Offi~ ACTI ~ li ~ uncil Agenda to Pk ffil~J~~ fill 0 Reading file . ~!! Staff Recommendation 0 DISTRICT OF NORTH SAANICII - 1620 MILLS ROAD NORTH SAANICH BC VSL 5S9

- - - - - . .,.

1

Page 49 of 86 Sara De Melo

From: Barbara Bolton Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2020 11 :OS AM To: admin Subject: Fwd: Sidney/North Saanich Library: Review of North Saanich Membership in VIRL Attachments: Library Letter - North Saanich.pdf

6 June 2020

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich To Mayor and Council, Sidney, BC

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. We believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system.

We strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the attached letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident.

We fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully,

Barbara Bolton Richard Smythe 105 - 9655 First Street CIRCULATION Sidney V8L 3C8 Mayor~ CAO .l-o>- \ID) i~~u~~ \~ ACTION - JUN O9 131.0 \0 \lf\l 0 <;gtlndl Agenda .0'1nfoPk 01S1f-llCT OF NOHTH SAANICH 1620 MILLS 1101\0 D Reading File NORTH SAANICII SC VBL 5S9 D Staff Recommendation \

1

Page 50 of 86 To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

I am writing to request that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider, with a view to assessing whether North Saanich would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. Such a review would, of necessity, have to be conducted jointly with the Town of Sidney. This review should be completed prior to construction of a new library branch at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

North Saanich, in partnership with the Town of Sidney, is currently a member of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) system. My experience has been that the materials available through the VIRL are not at the level that I would expect from my library services provider. It is often difficult to find copies of older materials and it can take many months to access more current materials. If one is a member of a book club, as I am, it is difficult to find sufficient copies of a particular book for discussion, even if the materials are reserved months in advance. My fellow book club members, in both North Saanich and Sidney, have the same difficulties, while those who are members of the GVPL system do not seem to have the same issue. It may well be that VIRL does not spend as much on materials as it should.

I have attached an analysis of materials expenditure per capital prepared by Peter Wainwright, a Sidney town councillor, which demonstrates that the GVPL spends considerably more per capital that the VIRL.

Materials Expenditure Per Capita

-__ -,.... , -.-Av.rap ~Utban

2002 2003 2004 200S 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 20U 2013 101• 201S 2016 20J7 2018

Page 51 of 86 In addition, North Saanich and Sidney are far removed geographically from the remainder of the VIAL, with all of the GVPL between us and the rest of the VIAL. Materials which are not available on the shelves of the library in Sidney must travel a very long way for Sidney/North Saanich patrons, which is not environmentally sensitive.

I appreciate that there is an option for North Saanich to access books in the GVPL and other BC library systems through the BC One card or through inter-library loans. Both are limited in their usefulness. The BC One card, which permits anyone in BC to access books anywhere in BC, does not permit the holder to place holds, borrow one week loans or e-books or to renew materials. Inter-library loans can take a very long time and face similar limitations.

As stated at the outset of this letter, I am requesting that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider in partnership with the Town of Sidney. I would suggest that it follow the following steps and timeline:

1. Approach GVPL to assess whether it would be receptive to North Saanich/Sidney becoming members of the GVPL, and on what terms, including whether the branch in Sidney would be sufficient to meet the requirements of membership; 2. Retain a consultant to assess whether North Saanich/Sidney are being properly served by VIAL and whether they would be better served by membership in the GVPL. This review should be completed in sufficient time to allow the necessary plebiscite to be placed before the electorate next year. Of critical importance is the requirement in the Libraries Act that a vote to leave a regional library system must be completed prior to October 1, which means that it will not be possible to hold the necessary plebiscite at the same time as the municipal elections. 3. Place on hold any decision about a library branch on the lands at the Panorama Recreation Centre, assuming that removal of those lands from the ALA is approved.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynn Meyer

Page 52 of 86 Dan Moreton

From: Marion Bromley Sent: Saturday, June 6, 2020 9:23 AM To: admin Subject: Library Attachments: To North Saanich Mayor.docx

June 6, 2020

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich

To Mayor and Council, Sidney, BC

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. We believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. We strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the attached letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident. We fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully,

Marion Bromley

10822 Madrona Drive CIRCUIATION North Saanich, BC V8L 5Pl Mayor ~ CAO~ Corporate ACTION □ µiundl Agenda .ff'tnfo Pie □ Reading File 0 Staff Recommendation

1 DISTRICT OF NCJ .lTH ~MNIL:11 11,20 WII LS lllJA D NORTH $f

Page 53 of 86 To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

I am writing to request that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider, with a view to assessing whether North Saanich would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. Such a review would, of necessity, have to be conducted jointly with the Town of Sidney. This review should be completed prior to construction of a new library branch at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

North Saanich, in partnership with the Town of Sidney, is currently a member of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIAL) system. My experience has been that the materials available through the VIAL are not at the level that I would expect from my library services provider. It is often difficult to find copies of older materials and it can take many months to access more current materials. If one is a member of a book club, as I am, it is difficult to find sufficient copies of a particular book for discussion, even if the materials are reserved months in advance. My fellow book club members, in both North Saanich and Sidney, have the same difficulties, while those who are members of the GVPL system do not seem to have the same issue. It may well be that VIAL does not spend as much on materials as it should.

I have attached an analysis of materials expenditure per capital prepared by Peter Wainwright, a Sidney town councillor, which demonstrates that the GVPL spends considerably more per capital that the VIAL.

Materials Expenditure Per capita $9.00 ---

$3.00 +---- ~-~-~------~-~-----~--~ 2002 2003 2004 200S 2006 2()(11 200a 2009 2010 2.011 2012 20n 201• 201s 201& 201, 2018

Page 54 of 86 In addition, North Saanich and Sidney are far removed geographically from the remainder of the VIRL, with all of the GVPL between us and the rest of the VIRL. Materials which are not available on the shelves of the library in Sidney must travel a very long way for Sidney/North Saanich patrons, which is not environmentally sensitive.

I appreciate that there is an option for North Saanich to access books in the GVPL and other BC library systems through the BC One card or through inter-library loans. Both are limited in their usefulness. The BC One card, which permits anyone in BC to access books anywhere in BC, does not permit the holder to place holds, borrow one week loans or e-books or to renew materials. Inter-library loans can take a very long time and face similar limitations.

As stated at the outset of this letter, I am requesting that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider in partnership with the Town of Sidney. I would suggest that it follow the following steps and timeline:

1. Approach GVPL to assess whether it would be receptive to North Saanich/Sidney becoming members of the GVPL, and on what terms, including whether the branch in Sidney would be sufficient to meet the requirements of membership; 2. Retain a consultant to assess whether North Saanich/Sidney are being properly served by VIRL and whether they would be better served by membership in the GVPL. This review should be completed in sufficient time to allow the necessary plebiscite to be placed before the electorate next year. Of critical importance is the requirement in the Libraries Act that a vote to leave a regional library system must be completed prior to October 1, which means that it will not be possible to hold the necessary plebiscite at the same time as the municipal elections. 3. Place on hold any decision about a library branch on the lands at the Panorama Recreation Centre, assuming that removal of those lands from the ALR is approved.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynn Meyer

Page 55 of 86 Sara De Melo

From: Ann Conquergood Sent: Friday, June 5, 2020 7:04 AM To: admin Subject: North Saanich Library Attachments: Library Letter - North Saanich.pdf; Library Letter to Mayor and Council.docx

CIRCULATION Mayor 66 CAO ~..tt:.-- Corporate Officer ACTION \ID) [g©[g OW[g i\Jl ~undlAgenda nfo Pk lJll JUN O5 2020 l!dJ D Reading File D Staff Recommendation 01!:>TRICT 01- NORTH SAANICH 1b?O MILLS ROAD l• NORTH SAANICH RC VSL 5S9

1

Page 56 of 86 June 5, 2020

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich

To Mayor and Council, Sidney, BC

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. We believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. We strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the attached letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident. We fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully,

Ann Conquergood

1270 Readings Dr.

North Saanich, BC

Page 57 of 86 To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

I am writing to request that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider, with a view to assessing whether North Saanich would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. Such a review would, of necessity, have to be conducted jointly with the Town of Sidney. This review should be completed prior to construction of a new library branch at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

North Saanich, in partnership with the Town of Sidney, is currently a member of the Vancouver Island Regional Library {VIAL} system. My experience has been that the materials available through the VIAL are not at the level that I would expect from my library services provider. It is often difficult to find copies of older materials and it can take many months to access more current materials. If one is a member of a book club, as I am, it is difficult to find sufficient copies of a particular book for discussion, even if the materials are reserved months in advance. My fellow book club members, in both North Saanich and Sidney, have the same difficulties, while those who are members of the GVPL system do not seem to have the same issue. It may well be that VIAL does not spend as much on materials as it should.

I have attached an analysis of materials expenditure per capital prepared by Peter Wainwright, a Sidney town councillor, which demonstrates that the GVPL spends considerably more per capital that the VIAL.

Materials Expenditure Per Capita

$7.00

--+-G\/!'l S6-00 -\llltl -Awtage ~Urb~n

$5.00

$4.00

S>.ao 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 201S 2016 201'1 2018

Page 58 of 86 In addition, North Saanich and Sidney are far removed geographically from the remainder of the VIAL, with all of the GVPL between us and the rest of the VIAL. Materials which are not available on the shelves of the library in Sidney must travel a very long way for Sidney/North Saanich patrons, which is not environmentally sensitive.

I appreciate that there is an option for North Saanich to access books in the GVPL and other BC library systems through the BC One card or through inter-library loans. Both are limited in their usefulness. The BC One card, which permits anyone in BC to access books anywhere in BC, does not permit the holder to place holds, borrow one week loans ore-books or to renew materials. Inter-library loans can take a very long time and face similar limitations.

As stated at the outset of this letter, I am requesting that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider in partnership with the Town of Sidney. I would suggest that it follow the following steps and timeline:

1. Approach GVPL to assess whether it would be receptive to North Saanich/Sidney becoming members of the GVPL, and on what terms, including whether the branch in Sidney would be sufficient to meet the requirements of membership; 2. Retain a consultant to assess whether North Saanich/Sidney are being properly served by VIAL and whether they would be better served by membership in the GVPL. This review should be completed in sufficient time to allow the necessary plebiscite to be placed before the electorate next year. Of critical importance is the requirement in the Libraries Act that a vote to leave a regional library system must be completed prior to October 1, which means that it will not be possible to hold the necessary plebiscite at the same time as the municipal elections. 3. Place on hold any decision about a library branch on the lands at the Panorama Recreation Centre, assuming that removal of those lands from the ALR is approved.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynn Meyer

Page 59 of 86 Sara De Melo

From: Jeff & Janet Daines Sent: Friday, June 5, 2020 11 :08 AM To: admin Subject: Review of North Saanich Membership in VIRL Attachments: CCF05062020.pdf

- C!RCULA!IOril Mayor 411 !,~-\- -~-f(~1t\ll~ ID) CAO L-...e::__ , , ! • r~~v ts LI ~ ~ Corporate Officer u··-u JUN os 20 20 ACTION □ Council Agenda OIStRI C1 0~ NORTH SAANICM c;.tfifo Pk 1620 MILLS ROAD □ Reading File NORTH SAANICH BC VBL 5S9 □ Staff Recommendation

1

Page 60 of 86 Jeff and Janet Daines 1640 Mayneview Terrace North Saanich, BC V8L SB2

June 5, 2020

Mayor Geoff Orr and North Saanich Council Municipal Hall 1620 Mills Road North Saanich, BC V8L 5S9

Dear Mayor Orr and North Saanich Council Members:

We fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. We believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system, which provides a considerably wider and deeper collection for its members. With the VIRL system we find that there are long waits to receive books and some books are just not available within the system.

We strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre. Important points in favour of such a review are outlined in the letter to the Mayor and Council written by North Saanich resident Lynn Meyer and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020. We fully support its contents and urge you to consider this matter.

Yours truly,

~ Jeff a nd Janet Daines

Page 61 of 86 Sara De Melo

From: RUTH EDGAR Sent: Thursday, June 4, 2020 7:37 PM To: admin Cc: RUTH EDGAR Subject: Letter to Mayor and Council

Dear Mayor Orr and Councillors:

Regarding Library Services in North Saanich:

One of my favourite pastimes is reading a good book, so when I moved to the area in 1975, I was grateful to discover that a library was close by in the Town of Sidney. I continue to make regular and frequent use of the Sidney/ North Saanich Library. It has served the community well over much of that time.

The Vancouver Island Regional Library has been a wonderful service for the smaller communities.

Now, however, I believe the time has come for North Saanich and Sidney to look at other options. The VIRL serves a vast area of Vancouver Island and beyond, from Sidney to and to Bella Coola. That is a very large area for circulating a collection of books. When I put a hold on a title, it can take two weeks on average to reach me WHEN I'm first in line. When I'm not first in line, it can take months. There are times I get so frustrated by the long waits that I consider paying the $200 per year to join \the Greater Victoria Public Library

The transportation costs for moving all these books back and forth over the serviced area must be huge, and the environmental costs must be considered too.

Central Saanich is served by the GVPL. It makes sense to explore the option of becoming part of that system, if they'll have us! It would be a more efficient system for us, with more copies of titles, and much shorter wait times for holds.

Thank you for your consideration in this matter. . . ·c;~CULATIO~J Regards, Mayor '1,a Ruth Edgar CAO J--,,,.-- Corporate Officer ACTION ~uncilAgenda nfo Pk f6) ~©~0W[g l()1 □ Reading File l_nl JUN O5 2n20 lhU □ Staff Recommendation 01$ rRICT OF NORTH SAANICH 16?0 MILLS ROAD NOHTH SAANICH BC V8L 5S9

1

Page 62 of 86 Dan Moreton

From: Geoff Orr Sent: Monday, June 8, 2020 1:26 PM To: admin Cc: Jackie Gretchen Subject: FW: Library Review Attachments: Library Letter - North Saanich.pdf

From: Barb Humm Sent: Monday, June 8, 2020 1:24 PM To: Geoff Orr; Heather Gartshore; Jack McClintock; Patricia Pearson; Brett Smyth; Celia Stock; Murray Weisenberger Subject: Library Review

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. We believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) System. We strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the attached letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident. We fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully, Barbara and Michael Humm 11320 Pachena Place, North Saanich, BC, V8L 5J5

CIRCULATION Mayor ~ CAO~ Corporate Off~ ACTION □ ())undl Agenda 01nfoPk a Reading File D Staff Rec.ommendation

DIS1HICT Of NOHTHSMNICH 1620 MIL LS ROI\O NORTH SA,~l~ICI I HC VBL 5S9

Page 63 of 86 To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

I am writing to request that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider, with a view to assessing whether North Saanich would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. Such a review would, of necessity, have to be conducted jointly with the Town of Sidney. This review should be completed prior to construction of a new library branch at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

North Saanich, in partnership with the Town of Sidney, is currently a member of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIAL) system. My experience has been that the materials available through the VIAL are not at the level that I would expect from my library services provider. It is often difficult to find copies of older materials and it can take many months to access more current materials. If one is a member of a book club, as I am, it is difficult to find sufficient copies of a particular book for discussion, even if the materials are reserved months in advance. My fellow book club members, in both North Saanich and Sidney, have the same difficulties, while those who are members of the GVPL system do not seem to have the same issue. It may well be that VIAL does not spend as much on materials as it should.

I have attached an analysis of materials expenditure per capital prepared by Peter Wainwright, a Sidney town councillor, which demonstrates that the GVPL spends considerably more per capital that the VIAL.

Materials Expenditure Per Capita s= r------

$3.00 +-::::~==-----=~ -:-:--~:-:----- ~~- ~ --~ ~ - ~ - - ~ --~~ 2002 2003 2004 200s 200& 2001 200a 2009 2010 2011 2012 iou 2014 201s 2016 2017 2018

Page 64 of 86 In addition, North Saanich and Sidney are far removed geographically from the remainder of the VIRL, with all of the GVPL between us and the rest of the VIRL. Materials which are not available on the shelves of the library in Sidney must travel a very long way for Sidney/North Saanich patrons, which is not environmentally sensitive.

I appreciate that there is an option for North Saanich to access books in the GVPL and other BC library systems through the BC One card or through inter-library loans. Both are limited in their usefulness. The BC One card, which permits anyone in BC to access books anywhere in BC, does not permit the holder to place holds, borrow one week loans ore-books or to renew materials. Inter-library loans can take a very long time and face similar limitations.

As stated at the outset of this letter, I am requesting that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider in partnership with the Town of Sidney. I would suggest that it follow the following steps and timeline:

1. Approach GVPL to assess whether it would be receptive to North Saanich/Sidney becoming members of the GVPL, and on what terms, including whether the branch in Sidney would be sufficient to meet the requirements of membership; 2. Retain a consultant to assess whether North Saanich/Sidney are being properly served by VIRL and whether they would be better served by membership in the GVPL. This review should be completed in sufficient time to allow the necessary plebiscite to be placed before the electorate next year. Of critical importance is the requirement in the Libraries Act that a vote to leave a regional library system must be completed prior to October 1, which means that it will not be possible to hold the necessary plebiscite at the same time as the municipal elections. 3. Place on hold any decision about a library branch on the lands at the Panorama Recreation Centre, assuming that removal of those lands from the ALR is approved.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynn Meyer

Page 65 of 86 Dan Moreton

From: Lili Jaehrlich Sent: Sunday, June 7, 2020 12:29 AM To: admin Subject:: Sidney/North Saanich Library: Review of North Saanich Membership in VIRL Attachments: Library Letter - North Saanich.pdf

To: Mayor and Council, North Saanich

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library {VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. I believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. I strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are competently outlined in the attached letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident. I fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Respectfully yours, Lili Jaehrlich

1700 Hedgerow Place North Saanich V8L 682

CIRCULATION Mayor6d CAO Corporate ACTION □ j;eundl Agenda .szftnfo Pk □ Reading FIie □ Staff Recommendation

DISl HIC I OF NOi.TH SAAIJIL:11 h ,20 MILL', ROAD 1 NORT t ~/l.A.1ICII IIC VIIL 5Sll

Page 66 of 86 To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

I am writing to request that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider, with a view to assessing whether North Saanich would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. Such a review would, of necessity, have to be conducted jointly with the Town of Sidney. This review should be completed prior to construction of a new library branch at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

North Saanich, in partnership with the Town of Sidney, is currently a member of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) system. My experience has been that the materials available through the VIRL are not at the level that I would expect from my library services provider. It is often difficult to find copies of older materials and it can take many months to access more current materials. If one is a member of a book club, as I am, it is difficult to find sufficient copies of a particular book for discussion, even if the materials are reserved months in advance. My fellow book club members, in both North Saanich and Sidney, have the same difficulties, while those who are members of the GVPL system do not seem to have the same issue. It may well be that VIRL does not spend as much on materials as it should.

I have attached an analysis of materials expenditure per capital prepared by Peter Wainwright, a Sidney town councillor, which demonstrates that the GVPL spends considerably more per capital that the VIRL.

Materials Expenditure Per Capita

$9.00 .------

-+-GV!'L ~VIAl

$3.00 -~-:-::--~- ~-- - --~ --~-~--- --~--~ 2002 20:)) 2004 2COS 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Page 67 of 86 In addition, North Saanich and Sidney are far removed geographically from the remainder of the VIRL, with all of the GVPL between us and the rest of the VIRL. Materials which are not available on the shelves of the library in Sidney must travel a very long way for Sidney/North Saanich patrons, which is not environmentally sensitive.

I appreciate that there is an option for North Saanich to access books in the GVPL and other BC library systems through the BC One card or through inter-library loans. Both are limited in their usefulness. The BC One card, which permits anyone in BC to access books anywhere in BC, does not permit the holder to place holds, borrow one week loans or e-books or to renew materials. Inter-library loans can take a very long time and face similar limitations.

As stated at the outset of this letter, I am requesting that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider in partnership with the Town of Sidney. I would suggest that it follow the following steps and timeline:

1. Approach GVPL to assess whether it would be receptive to North Saanich/Sidney becoming members of the GVPL, and on what terms, including whether the branch in Sidney would be sufficient to meet the requirements of membership; 2. Retain a consultant to assess whether North Saanich/Sidney are being properly served by VIRL and whether they would be better served by membership in the GVPL. This review should be completed in sufficient time to allow the necessary plebiscite to be placed before the electorate next year. Of critical importance is the requirement in the Libraries Act that a vote to leave a regional library system must be completed prior to October 1, which means that it will not be possible to hold the necessary plebiscite at the same time as the municipal elections. 3. Place on hold any decision about a library branch on the lands at the Panorama Recreation Centre, assuming that removal of those lands from the ALR is approved.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynn Meyer

Page 68 of 86 Dan Moreton

From: Brenda Morris Sent: Monday, June 8, 2020 3:37 PM To: admin Subject: Library Attachments: Letter to Mayor and Council.docx

Sent from my iPad

CIRCULATION Mayor~ CA0.2.-,,,e­ Corporate Offi ACIIQN □ 9>uodl Agenda 1J1nfo Pk □ Reading File □ Staff Recommendation

1

Page 69 of 86 June 8,2020

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich

To Mayor and Council, Sidney, BC

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. We believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. We strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the attached letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident. We fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully,

Brenda Morris 22-10520 McDonald Park Road

Page 70 of 86 Sara De Melo

From: Alison Paton Sent: Friday, June 5, 2020 1:30 PM To: admin Cc: Murray Weisenberger Subject: Review of North Saanich in VIRL Attachments: Library Letter - North Saanich.pdf

North Saanich Mayor and Council

I would like to express my support for a review of North Saanich's membership in the VIRL. I am envious of the apparent ease with which friends who are members of the GVPL (Greater Victoria Public Library) are able to obtain library material. For the exact same material, I often have to wait weeks or months. When looking for books recommended on websites and in magazines, all too often, the VIRL not only does not have the material but has absolutely nothing by the recommended author(s). A search on the GVPL almost always brings up something by the author(s ), if not the book I am seeking.

I have a BC One sticker on my VIRL card which allows me to take out books from GVPL but I am not able to request material, just take out books that are currently shelved. Also, I have to go to the branch where the material is located, I can't request that the material be sent to the branch closest to me.

As noted in the letter below, considerable amounts of gas are wasted ferrying books back and forth between remote library branches in the VIRL. As a result natural resources are used to get books to me in our current library system and even more are used as I run around picking up books from the GVPL that our library simply doesn't have. I think you can sense my frustration.

Yours sincerely,

Alison Paton 11274 Chalet Rd ... - - CIRCULATION Mayor e,,,() CAO <_~ Corporate ,cer ACTION uonepuawwo)alj uins D D Council Agenda al!~ 6u1pea)i D (g"lnfo Pk lid OJUI 0 D Reading File epua6\f 1puno) D D Staff Recommendation NOl.1.J'I DISTRICT OF NOllTH SAANICH Ja:>!»() aie.1odJO) 16?0 MILLS ROAD NORTH SAANICli HC V8l !>S9 O'O Jo~ew NOl1"1fl)Mt:>

1

Page 71 of 86 To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

I am writing to request that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider, with a view to assessing whether North Saanich would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. Such a review would, of necessity, have to be conducted jointly with the Town of Sidney. This review should be completed prior to construction of a new library branch at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

North Saanich, in partnership with the Town of Sidney, is currently a member of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIAL) system. My experience has been that the materials available through the VIAL are not at the level that I would expect from my library services provider. It is often difficult to find copies of older materials and it can take many months to access more current materials. If one is a member of a book club, as I am, it is difficult to find sufficient copies of a particular book for discussion, even if the materials are reserved months in advance. My fellow book club members, in both North Saanich and Sidney, have the same difficulties, while those who are members of the GVPL system do not seem to have the same issue. It may well be that VIAL does not spend as much on materials as it should.

I have attached an analysis of materials expenditure per capital prepared by Peter Wainwright, a Sidney town councillor, which demonstrates that the GVPL spends considerably more per capital that the VIAL.

Materials Expenditure Per Capita

2002 2003 2004 200S 2006 2007 2COa 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Page 72 of 86 In addition, North Saanich and Sidney are far removed geographically from the remainder of the VIRL, with all of the GVPL between us and the rest of the VIRL. Materials which are not available on the shelves of the library in Sidney must travel a very long way for Sidney/North Saanich patrons, which is not environmentally sensitive.

I appreciate that there is an option for North Saanich to access books in the GVPL and other BC library systems through the BC One card or through inter-library loans. Both are limited in their usefulness. The BC One card, which permits anyone in BC to access books anywhere in BC, does not permit the holder to place holds, borrow one week loans or e-books or to renew materials. Inter-library loans can take a very long time and face similar limitations.

As stated at the outset of this letter, I am requesting that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider in partnership with the Town of Sidney. I would suggest that it follow the following steps and timeline:

1. Approach GVPL to assess whether it would be receptive to North Saanich/Sidney becoming members of the GVPL, and on what terms, including whether the branch in Sidney would be sufficient to meet the requirements of membership; 2. Retain a consultant to assess whether North Saanich/Sidney are being properly served by VIRL and whether they would be better served by membership in the GVPL. This review should be completed in sufficient time to allow the necessary plebiscite to be placed before the electorate next year. Of critical importance is the requirement in the Libraries Act that a vote to leave a regional library system must be completed prior to October 1, which means that it will not be possible to hold the necessary plebiscite at the same time as the municipal elections. 3. Place on hold any decision about a library branch on the lands at the Panorama Recreation Centre, assuming that removal of those lands from the ALR is approved.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynn Meyer

Page 73 of 86 Dan Moreton

From: Hannah Poplar Sent: Friday, June 5, 2020 4:55 PM To: admin Subject: Library reform please

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich

To Mayor and Council, Sidney, BC

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. We believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) System. We strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the attached letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident. We fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully, Freda Hannah Poplar

..2291 Tryon Rd. North Saanich

CIRCULATION Mayor ~ CAO Corpor ACTION □ 9Jundl Agenda .efinfoPk D Reading File ,------·- □ Staff Recommendation

DISTHICf Ill NOHT,~ ,;,, CH 1 1620 Mil LS Hf1A ) NOP.II" S/\AN~,C.' ,l, ·- J -·

Page 74 of 86 To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

I am writing to request that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider, with a view to assessing whether North Saanich would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. Such a review would, of necessity, have to be conducted jointly with the Town of Sidney. This review should be completed prior to construction of a new library branch at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

North Saanich, in partnership with the Town of Sidney, is currently a member of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) system. My experience has been that the materials available through the VIRL are not at the level that I would expect from my library services provider. It is often difficult to find copies of older materials and it can take many months to access more current materials. If one is a member of a book club, as I am, it is difficult to find sufficient copies of a particular book for discussion, even if the materials are reserved months in advance. My fellow book club members, in both North Saanich and Sidney, have the same difficulties, while those who are members of the GVPL system do not seem to have the same issue. It may well be that VIRL does not spend as much on materials as it should.

I have attached an analysis of materials expenditure per capital prepared by Peter Wainwright, a Sidney town councillor, which demonstrates that the GVPL spends considerably more per capital that the VIRL.

Materials Expenditure Per Capita 7

-...Averap ~Urben

Page 75 of 86 In addition, North Saanich and Sidney are far removed geographically from the remainder of the VIAL, with all of the GVPL between us and the rest of the VIAL. Materials which are not available on the shelves of the library in Sidney must travel a very long way for Sidney/North Saanich patrons, which is not environmentally sensitive.

I appreciate that there is an option for North Saanich to access books in the GVPL and other BC library systems through the BC One card or through inter-library loans. Both are limited in their usefulness. The BC One card, which permits anyone in BC to access books anywhere in BC, does not permit the holder to place holds, borrow one week loans or e-books or to renew materials. Inter-library loans can take a very long time and face similar limitations.

As stated at the outset of this letter, I am requesting that North Saanich conduct a review of its library services provider in partnership with the Town of Sidney. I would suggest that it follow the following steps and timeline:

1. Approach GVPL to assess whether it would be receptive to North Saanich/Sidney becoming members of the GVPL, and on what terms, including whether the branch in Sidney would be sufficient to meet the requirements of membership; 2. Retain a consultant to assess whether North Saanich/Sidney are being properly served by VIAL and whether they would be better served by membership in the GVPL. This review should be completed in sufficient time to allow the necessary plebiscite to be placed before the electorate next year. Of critical importance is the requirement in the Libraries Act that a vote to leave a regional library system must be completed prior to October 1, which means that it will not be possible to hold the necessary plebiscite at the same time as the municipal elections. 3. Place on hold any decision about a library branch on the lands at the Panorama Recreation Centre, assuming that removal of those lands from the ALR is approved.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynn Meyer

Page 76 of 86 Dan Moreton

From: Porter Robert Sent: Sunday, June 7, 2020 3:54 PM To: admin Subject: GVPL vs VIRL

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich [email protected]

We fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. We believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) System. We strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident. We fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully,

Robert and Pamela Porter

Best regards, Robert Porter

CIRCULATIO....li Mayor 6D CAO~ corporate Off ACJIQtl 0 ncil Agenda Info Pk o Reading file . o Staff Recommendation ID)~© ~ □ W~f[i' l_nl JU N O8 :i:3 l_!dj I 01S, AICl OF NOH rH ~AAN!CH 1 1620 MILLS RO~D NOHTll S!\l\r~,c \/Ill 5S9

Page 77 of 86 Dan Moreton

From: MEENAL SHRIVASTAVA Sent: Friday, June 5, 2020 5:54 PM To: admin; Sanjiv Emails Subject: Sidney/North Saanich Library: Review of North Saanich Membership in VIRL Attachments: Library Letter - North Saanich-1 .pdf

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich

To Mayor and Council, Sidney, BC

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. We believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. We strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the attached letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident. We fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully, Meenal and Sanjiv Shrivastava 2260 Kedge Anchor Road

CIRCULATION Mayor4tJ CAO <.L- Corporate Off~ Dr. Meenal Shrivastava Professor & Chair, Centre for Social Sciences, ACTION Athabasca University ~cilAgenda nfo Pk □ Reading Ale http:// ammasdaughters.com/site/ □ Staff Recommendation

- - OISTBICT llf NORTH SAANICH 1620 MILLS llOAO ! NORTtl SAArJICH nc \ISL 5S9 1

Page 78 of 86 Sara De Melo

From: Diane Walton Sent: Friday, June 5, 2020 7:46 AM To: [email protected] Cc: admin Subject: Sidney/North Saanich Library Letter

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich

To Mayor and Council, Sidney, BC

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. I believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. I strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the attached letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident. I fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully,

Diane Walton

2264 Markinch Pl Sidney BC CIRCULATION V8L0C6 Mayor (SIO CAO cl...~­ Corporate Officer

ACTION D C_gµndl Agenda ~foPk D Reading File DISTRICT OF NORTH SAANICH D Staff Recommendation 1620 MILLS ROAD NO RTH SMN ICH BC V8L 5S9

Page 79 of 86 Sara De Melo

From: Donna Warrender Sent: Friday, June 5, 2020 8:57 AM To: admin Subject: Library Letter - North Saanich Attachments: Copy of Letter to Mayor and Council.pdf

As a Public Health Nurse who supports all the evidence of the benefits of early literacy for children; the health benefits of social engagement through book clubs and library activities; reading during our twilight years as well as the current strain to mental health during this CoVid epidemic. I am strongly seeking your support on the request in this attached letter. Thank you for your time and consideration, Donna Warrender

- CtRCULATION Mayor ~ CAO ~ Corporate Officer ACTION □ Council Agenda ~oPk D Reading File □ Staff Recommendation DISTRICT OF NORTH SAANICH 1620 MILLS ROAD NORTH SAANICH BC VSL 5S9

1

Page 80 of 86 June 5, 2020

To Mayor and Council, North Saanich

To Mayor and Council, Sidney, BC

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We fully support a review of whether the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) should remain the library services provider for Sidney and North Saanich. We believe our community would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public library (GVPL) system. We strongly believe a review should be completed before a new library branch is constructed at the Panorama Recreation Centre.

Strong points in favour of such a review are very competently outlined in the attached letter to North Saanich Mayor and Council. The letter was written and transmitted by email on May 31, 2020 by Lynn Meyer, a North Saanich resident. We fully support the contents of this letter and urge immediate progress on this matter.

Yours respectfully,

Donna Warrender

793 Haliburton Road,

Victoria, BC -V8Y 1H7

Page 81 of 86 Page 82 of 86 ______

Sara De Melo

From: Christa Baxter Sent: Friday, November 13, 2020 3:35 PM To: admin Cc: Tim Tanton Subject: Letter to District of North Saanich Council - Delivery of Library Services Attachments: Delivery of Library Services.pdf

Good afternoon,

Please find attached a letter from Mayor McNeil-Smith to Mayor Orr and Council.

Kind regards,

Christa Baxter Records Coordinator/Administrative Assistant TOWN OF SIDNEY 2440 Sidney Avenue, Sidney, BC,V8L 1Y7

SET,TINES— WSANEc Territory Main: 250-656-1139 Fax: 250-656-7056 cbaxter@sid ney.ca www.sid ney.ca

the sea

This e-mail and attachments (if any) are only for the intended recipient(s) and may be confidential, privileged and/or subj ect to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Any unauthorized use, copying, disclosure or dissemination of this email and attachments is strictly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please immediately delete this email and all attachments and contact the sender. Thank you for your cooperation. U1N jMayor6Z I

Ir.%1s 1111 1 .cJ3..Q.t! I U U NOV13 2020 UJ L-i genia QlnfoPk I DISTRICTOFNORTHSMNIGH J Readingfi’e I NORTHSMNiCHCV&5S9 Recommefldt10 —I

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Sara De Melo

From: Lynn Meyer Sent: Sunday, November 22, 2020 8:17 PM To: admin Cc: Directors NSRA;Murray Weisenberger; Robyn Quaintance Subject: Library Agreement dated September 1, 2020 Attachments: Library letter, November 22, 2020.pdf

Please find attached a letter with respect to the recently executed Library Agreement between North Saanich and Sidney.

Lynn Meyer 1690 Hedgerow Place

Mayor6O CAO I Corporate I I Agenda I -cai ‘ 1i1oPk 1’ReadinF1e staffRmmendatiOfl ©1 1a Il_lu N0V232020 I L_‘:ir: j

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Page 85 of 86 November 22, 2020

To: North Saanich Mayor, Councillors and Administration:

Re: Library Agreement dated September 1, 2020

I have previously written to you (May 31 and June 7, 2020) requesting a review of North Saanich’s library services provider with a view to assessing whether North Saanich would be better served by membership in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL)system.

I read with interest in the documentation related to Council’s November 16, 2020 meeting that North Saanich and Sidney have entered into an agreement to end the current joint sharing arrangement for the VIRLbranch located in Sidney on December 31 , 2022. The rationale for the agreement is that “North Saanich is pursuing a separate facility located within their jurisdiction, which may negate the requirements for a joint facility”.

At its meeting on June 15, 2020, Council agreed to refer my letters and other related correspondence on the issue of library services to its January 2021 Strategic Planning.

As I have previously indicated, I am concerned about continuing with pursuit of a library branch at the Panorama Recreation Centre prior to a review of North Saanich’s membership in the

VIRL.As I understand it, the new branch would be funded by the VIRL.It is not clear to me the nature and length of commitments that North Saanich would make in return for this funding. It would likely be difficult to leave the VIRLsystem in the short term if a VIRL-funded branch is

constructed at Panorama. I am hopeful that Council will move expeditiously in a thorough review of its membership in the VIRLprior to proceeding further with committing to a new branch.

I look forward to hearing further from you on this important issue.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynn Meyer

Page 86 of 86