Last week I had the chance to deliver the Mayor’s Annual Address. It’s Saanich’s version of the State of the Union, highlighting key 2024 accomplishments and 2025 initiatives.
I’m proud to share the work we’ve accomplished and set in motion this year. This important work is guided by the priorities you told us are important to you and your family. Together, we are ensuring that Saanich is a community where everyone can thrive and feel good about the place where they live.
Creating homes that meet your needs and fit your budget
The secret is out. Saanich is the place to be. As more people look to settle in our community, we’re focused on creating more homes for all incomes and stages of life.
This year, Saanich tripled the number of building permits issued compared to last year. Even more significant is that nearly 1/3 of those permits were for affordable, non-market homes.
Progress takes time, and these steps are setting the stage for a more livable, inclusive future.
The rapid deployment program is another key change that helps break barriers for affordable housing providers.
By speeding up approval processes, Saanich is helping shovel-ready projects break ground faster. It’s not a quick fix—but it’s exactly what needs to happen to create real change.
Safer streets for everyone
This year Saanich adopted its first-ever Road Safety Action Plan. It’s our plan to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on our roads.
With safer crossings, bike lanes, and redesigned corridors like Shelbourne, Saanich is becoming a place where everyone can travel safely, no matter how you get around.
Trees, parks and community amenities
Ask any Saanich resident what they love most about this community, and the answer is the same: the trees, the parks, the green spaces.
This year, your Council approved a Biodiversity Conservation Strategy and updated Urban Forest strategy to protect and enhance our tree canopy, urban forest and natural areas.
As our community grows, we’re making investments in places for families like Rutledge Park’s new splash pad, planning for better trails and improvements to enjoy Panama Flats, and preparing for more recreation programming and services at Lambrick Park.
Climate leadership and preparedness
Saanich continues to lead on emission-reducing initiatives, like the Climate Action Tax Exemption program, that assists large multi-unit buildings to switch to electric heating and cooling systems.
The program means that people renting in older apartment buildings can keep cool in a heat wave and warm during cold weather events.
Building on our successes
Your Mayor and Council know the road isn’t easy. Housing challenges won’t be solved overnight. Safer streets and climate resilience take time. But every decision being made today is a step toward the Saanich we all believe in.
The important work being done today is shaping a better, stronger Saanich for everyone. Let’s keep moving forward.
Got a few minutes? Check out the full 2024 Mayor’s Annual Address.