Sooke public meetings in 2025

Regular Council

The District of Sooke Council will meet to decide on the third reading and adoption of the Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800, 2022. The meeting includes a 2026 budget service level overview and appointments to several external committees.

• Third reading and adoption of Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800, 2022
• Proposed $14,400 annual funding for five years for The Village Initiative’s Municipal Leaders’ Advisory Team Coordinator
• Proposed $2,500 funding for the Wounded Warrior Run BC 2026
• Proposed $10,000 from the Council Contingency fund for the Sooke Region Health Summit 2026
• RCMP Quarterly Report presentation by Staff Sergeant Greg Willcocks

Special Council

The District of Sooke Council will hold a public hearing on the revised Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800, 2022 (November 2025 version). Council will receive the hearing report for information. No decision on the bylaw will be made at this meeting; input will be considered at a later regular council meeting.

• Public Hearing on Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800, 2022 (November 2025 version)
• Council to receive the report titled “Public Hearing – Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800, 2022 (November 2025)” for information
• Council will not accept further public communications after the hearing
• Hearing required by the Local Government Act before adopting the OCP or zoning bylaws
• Next step: third reading anticipated on December 8 2025 at regular council meeting

Supplemental Agenda

The Sooke Council will review supplemental correspondence on Official Community Plan (OCP) Bylaw No. 800 received between November 28 and December 3 2025. Residents Thomas Schuler and Louis Collard have submitted formal letters raising cost, treaty, property‑rights, and legal concerns and asking that the OCP be put on hold. Council is being asked to delay adoption until mapping, transportation and parks plans are updated and legal risks are addressed.

• Review OCP correspondence package (3 documents) dated Nov 28–Dec 3 2025
• Thomas Schuler’s letter requesting the OCP be put on hold and outlining six concerns
• Louis Collard’s formal submission outlining procedural, legal and technical issues with the Proposed OCP
• Council asked to pause OCP adoption until environmental mapping, TMP/PTMP updates, and MoTI coordination are completed
• Requests to revise Development Permit Areas and seek independent legal review of constructive‑taking risk

Regular Council

The council will authorize the Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer to execute the Ground Lease Agreement for Lot A, 6671 Wadams Way with Catalyst Community Development Society. It will also adopt Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 926, changing 2103 Townsend Road from Large Lot Residential (R1) to Town Centre Apartment (RM5). Additional items include approving the 2026 council meeting schedule and receiving reports on the Parks and Trails, Transportation, and Strategic Master Plans. Motions will be considered to fund Foundry West Shore & Sooke and to study a Municipal Economic Development Corporation.

• Authorize execution of Ground Lease Agreement for Lot A, 6671 Wadams Way
• Adopt Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 926 for 2103 Townsend Road (R1 to RM5)
• Include funding for Foundry West Shore & Sooke in provisional 2026‑2030 Financial Plan
• Direct staff to conduct feasibility study for a Municipal Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
• Approve 2026 Regular Council Meeting Schedule (dates listed)

Committee of the Whole

At the Committee of the Whole, members will recommend that Council receive the mid‑point review reports for the Parks and Trails Master Plan, the Transportation Master Plan, and the Strategic Plan, and that Council incorporate minor housekeeping amendments into the Parks and Trails Master Plan. The Committee will also forward the 2026 service‑level overview presentations for operations such as wastewater, parks, engineering, and subdivision services for Council’s information and future budget deliberations. A First Nation recognition and a delegation on the Rising Economy 2030 and The Possibility Charter will be presented.

• Parks and Trails Master Plan Mid‑point Review – recommendation to receive report and adopt minor amendments
• Transportation Master Plan Mid‑point Review – recommendation to receive report
• Strategic Plan Progress Reporting – recommendation to receive report
• Budget 2026 Service Level Overview presentations – recommendation to receive and consider in budget deliberations
• Delegation: Rising Economy 2030 and The Possibility Charter presentation by South Island Prosperity Partnership

Regular Council

Council will receive a report from the Committee of the Whole on the Official Community Plan (OCP) Bylaw No. 800, 2022, and will consider incorporating recent edits and moving the bylaw to a second reading. Council also directed staff to study the feasibility of establishing a Municipal Economic Development Corporation to support land acquisition, business development, affordable housing, and First Nations partnerships. A funding request from Thrive Social Services Society for multi‑year operational support to Foundry West Shore & Sooke will be included in the provisional 2026‑2030 Financial Plan. The council received a new liquor primary licence application for Pourhouse Wine Co. at 2042 Otter Point Rd and chose not to comment, allowing the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch to continue its review.

• Committee of the Whole recommends incorporating edits to OCP Bylaw No. 800, 2022 and considering a second reading
• Feasibility study directed for a Municipal Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
• Funding request from Thrive Social Services Society for Foundry West Shore & Sooke to be added to the 2026‑2030 Financial Plan
• New liquor primary licence application for Pourhouse Wine Co. at 2042 Otter Point Rd – council opts not to comment
• Direction to staff on correspondence with the Ministry of Transportation and Transit regarding Sooke River Bridge beautification

Special Council (Committee of the Whole)

The Special Council meeting will review the clean version of Official Community Plan (OCP) Bylaw No. 800. The Committee of the Whole will record proposed edits and recommend that staff incorporate those changes into the draft OCP Bylaw No. 800, 2022. The committee will also recommend that Council consider giving a second reading as amended, or alternatively direct staff to prepare a revised clean version for future consideration.

• Review of the clean version of OCP Bylaw No. 800 (Committee of the Whole)
• Recommendation to incorporate identified edits into Draft OCP Bylaw No. 800, 2022
• Recommendation to consider giving a second reading as amended
• Alternative recommendation to have staff prepare a revised clean version
• Motion for the Committee of the Whole to rise and report

Community Economic Development Committee Supplemental Agenda

The Community Economic Development Committee is receiving a status report on several local business and tourism initiatives. The report covers updates on grant applications, a new student transit project, and the implementation of a lodging tax.

• Implementation of a 3% Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) on accommodations from Nov 1, 2025, to Nov 1, 2030
• REDIP grant application submitted Oct 31, 2025, for a Local Employment Land Use Strategy/Guideline (up to $100,000)
• Launch of an RRU MBA student project on 'Accessible & Viable Shuttle Transit for Sooke's Inner Core'
• Estimated annual MRDT revenue of $400,000 to $700,000
• Update on the Sooke to Port Renfrew Business Services Cooperative following its Oct 7, 2025 AGM

Regular Council

The District of Sooke Council will discuss the Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800 and a potential public hearing. The meeting includes delegations regarding social services and homelessness, as well as reports on Whiffin Spit management and the 2026 budget.

• Second reading and potential public hearing for Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800
• Adoption of Traffic and Highway Regulation Amendment Bylaw No. 931 (67-07), 2025
• Whiffin Spit Management Options Assessment Report regarding shoreline protection and parking
• Endorsement of the Community Service Agreement Policy
• Direction on the Memorial Wall project at Quimper Park

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is discussing a management assessment for Whiffin Spit, including shoreline protection and parking expansions. They are also reviewing a draft Community Service Agreement Policy and a report on 2026 budget feedback.

• Recommendation to maintain status quo (option #1) for Whiffin Spit shoreline protection
• Proposed addition of up to 13 parking spaces and a gate at Whiffin Spit Park
• Review of the draft Community Service Agreement Policy
• Receipt of the Budget 2026 'What We Heard' Report

Special Council

The Council is holding a special meeting that will adjourn to a closed session. The closed portion concerns the acquisition, disposition, or expropriation of land or improvements.

• Closed meeting regarding land acquisition, disposition, or expropriation under Community Charter 90 (1)(e)

Regular Council

The council will consider and vote on two development permits, one for a new commercial building at 2350 Sunriver Way and another for a 403 m² addition to the BC Liquor Store at 6660 Sooke Road. It will also conduct the first, second, and third readings of Traffic and Highway Regulation Amendment Bylaw No. 931 (67‑07), 2025. Additional items include directing staff to fund a $10,000 Sooke Region Health Summit in the 2026 provisional budget and to require a Section 219 covenant for future highway dedication on 6579 Throup Road.

• Authorize Development Permit PLN02028 for new commercial building at 2350 Sunriver Way
• Authorize Development Permit PLN02033 for 403 m² addition to BC Liquor Store at 6660 Sooke Road
• First, second, and third reading of Traffic and Highway Regulation Amendment Bylaw No. 931 (67‑07), 2025
• Approve $10,000 funding for a second Sooke Region Health Summit in 2Q 2026
• Require owner of 6579 Throup Road to register a Section 219 covenant for a 20‑m wide arterial road dedication before adopting Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 927

Supplemental Agenda

The Sooke Council will consider supplemental items to Official Community Plan (OCP) Bylaw No. 800, including a “What We Learned” report covering correspondence received October 12‑14, 2025. Public emails supporting and questioning aspects of the OCP – such as the overall plan, DPA #3 for waterfront owners, and exemptions for routine waterfront maintenance – will be discussed. No formal decisions are indicated on the agenda.

• Supplemental OCP Bylaw No. 800 – What We Learned Report (correspondence Oct 12‑14, 2025)
• Email from Chris Moss (Corporate Services) approving the OCP and its climate‑related provisions
• Email from Susan Bexson raising concerns about DPA #3 for waterfront/shoreline owners
• Email from Kathy and Mike Hicks requesting exemptions for routine maintenance 15 m from the waterfront
• Note about confusing messaging in OCP 7.6 Bylaw 800

Land Use and Development Committee

The Land Use and Development Committee will recommend that Council authorize a Development Permit for a new commercial building and addition at 2350 Sunriver Way. It will also consider a Development Permit for a single‑storey addition to the BC Liquor Store at 6660 Sooke Road, and receive the Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800 “What We Learned” report for information.

• 2350 Sunriver Way – Development Permit PLN02028 for new 114.41 m² commercial building and 18.58 m² addition
• 6660 Sooke Road – Development Permit PLN02033 for 403 m² single‑storey addition to BC Liquor Store
• Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800 – “What We Learned” report (Sept 2025) for information

Regular Council

The District of Sooke Council is reviewing zoning changes for properties on Throup Road, West Coast Road, and Townsend Road. The body is also deciding on grant applications for stormwater upgrades and school route designs. Additionally, Council will address short-term rental regulations on agricultural land.

• Zoning amendment for 6579 Throup Road to permit a Community Care Facility
• Zoning amendment for 2103 Townsend Road to Town Centre Apartment with $3,000 per unit housing contribution
• Throup Stream Flood-Resilient Stormwater project with a total cost of $999,120
• West Coast Road - Safe & Active School Routes Design Project with a total cost of $250,000
• Zoning amendment for 6490 West Coast Road to Small Lot Residential with $3,000 per lot housing contribution

Regular Council

The council will adopt the Throup Road and Phillips Road Connector Active Transportation Corridor project, noting it will be tender‑ready in 2026 and constructed from 2027 to 2029 at a total cost of $49,791,200. Council also approved a $7,000,000 funding application to the Union British Columbia Municipalities Strategic Priorities Fund and a $5,000 microgrant pilot for local business events. Additional items include adoption of Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 930, Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 928, and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 920.

• Throup Road & Phillips Road Connector project – $49,791,200 total cost, tender‑ready 2026
• $7,000,000 funding application to UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund
• $5,000 microgrant pilot for business networking events and storefront beautification
• Adoption of Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 930, 2025
• Adoption of Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 928, 2025

Supplemental Agenda

The District of Sooke Council will discuss a request to support The Forge, a peer-led mental health and addictions wellness hub for tradespeople located in Langford. The proposal suggests providing $5,000 from council contingency to assist with the renovation of the facility.

• Proposed $5,000 contribution from council contingency for The Forge wellness hub

Land Use and Development Committee

The Land Use and Development Committee is reviewing three requests to rezone properties from Large Lot Residential (R1) to higher-density uses. These proposals include multi-family housing, small lot residential, and town centre apartments.

• 6579 Throup Road: Proposed rezone to Medium Density Multi-Family 2 (RM2) to allow apartments, townhouses, and a Community Care Facility
• 6940 West Coast Road: Proposed rezone to Small Lot Residential (R3) with a $3,000 per lot contribution to the Housing Reserve Fund
• 2103 Townsend Road: Proposed rezone to Town Centre Apartment (RM5) with a height limit of four storeys and $3,000 per unit contribution to the Housing Reserve Fund
• Discussion of short-term rental regulation review correspondence from Joshua Perina

Supplemental Agenda

The Sooke District Council will discuss a Development Variance Permit (PLN2019) for the property at 1245 Silver Spray Drive. A written submission from residents Natalie Cielanga and Martin Libby has been received, supporting the variance and requesting omission of street lights and preservation of native trees with a gravel trail. The council will review this application and the comments during the meeting.

• Development Variance Permit (PLN2019) for 1245 Silver Spray Drive
• Resident submission supporting omission of street lights
• Resident request to retain native trees and use a gravel trail instead of paved sidewalks
• Correspondence received from Natalie Cielanga on July 24, 2025

Regular Council

The District of Sooke Council will adopt the agenda and minutes, approve several consent agenda items, and make several decisions. Council will deny the proposed variance for 1245 Silver Spray Drive that sought to modify frontage improvements. Council will accept $42,600 in cash in lieu of parkland dedication for 5627 Woodlands Road, award the Climate Adaptation and Natural Hazard Risk Assessment project to Logic League Consulting Ltd., and adopt a new Sponsorship Contribution Policy while endorsing Maja Tait for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities board.

• Deny Development Variance Permit for 1245 Silver Spray Drive (Section 2.2(a) of Bylaw No. 404)
• Accept $42,600 cash‑in‑lieu for parkland dedication at 5627 Woodlands Road (market value $852,000)
• Award Climate Adaptation and Natural Hazard Risk Assessment project to Logic League Consulting Ltd.
• Repeal Community Grant and Sponsorship Policy CO-003 and adopt Sponsorship Contribution Policy No. CO-030
• Endorse Maja Tait to serve on the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Board of Directors

Regular Council

The Sooke Council will give final reading and adopt Subdivision & Development Standards Bylaw No. 925, 2025. It will direct staff to start a final public consultation on the draft Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800. The council will also approve a commercial park use permit for Sooke Food CHI Society at 2380 Phillips Road and waive related fees, and adopt the Respectful Correspondence Policy (CO‑028). Procedural items such as agenda, minutes and consent agenda approvals are also scheduled.

• Adopt Subdivision & Development Standards Bylaw No. 925, 2025 (final reading)
• Direct staff to conduct final public consultation on Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800
• Authorize Commercial Parks Use Permit for Sooke Food CHI Society at Sunriver Community Garden, 2380 Phillips Road and exempt fees
• Adopt Respectful Correspondence Policy (CO‑028)
• Approve agenda, minutes and consent agenda items

Special Council

The Special Council will discuss a motion to formally recognize First Nations. It will also consider a motion to adjourn the meeting to a closed session under Community Charter subsection 90(1)(c).

• First Nation Recognition motion
• Motion to adjourn to closed meeting under Community Charter subsection 90(1)(c)

Land Use and Development Committee

The Land Use and Development Committee will recommend that Council deny a variance request to modify required road frontage improvements for a subdivision at 1245 Silver Spray Drive. The Committee also recommends that staff begin a final round of public consultation on the draft Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800, using the proposed preliminary edits. Procedural items include approval of the agenda and adoption of the previous meeting minutes.

• Denial of proposed variance to Section 2.2(a) of Subdivision and Development Standards Bylaw No. 404 for 1245 Silver Spray Drive (57 m of Thornton Heights and 265 m of Silver Spray Drive)
• Recommendation to direct staff to conduct final public consultation on Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 800 using the draft with preliminary edits
• Approval of the agenda for the July 3, 2025 meeting
• Adoption of the minutes from the June 3, 2025 meeting

Regular Council

Council will review the District of Sooke Accessibility Plan and the 2024 Annual Report. The body is also determining specific priorities and meeting requests for the 2025 Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) conference.

• Adoption of the District of Sooke Accessibility Plan including updates for John Philips Memorial Park and Ravens Ridge Park
• Development Permit PLN02018 for subdivision at 6671 Logan Lane and 6674, 6662, 6654 Lincroft Road
• Adoption of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 923 for 6557 Clairview Street
• Approval of the 2024 Statement of Financial Information Report
• Proposed advocacy for Highway 14 improvements and Sooke Elementary School rebuild at UBCM

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider and recommend that Council adopt the District of Sooke Accessibility Plan as presented. An invited presentation will outline the SEAPARC 2025‑2035 Strategic Plan for recreation services. The meeting will also include a First Nation recognition and will adjourn to a closed session for labour‑relations matters under the Community Charter.

• Recommendation to adopt the District of Sooke Accessibility Plan
• Presentation of the SEAPARC 2025‑2035 Strategic Plan by Melanie Alsdorf
• First Nation recognition statement
• Adjournment to a closed meeting for labour‑relations issues (Community Charter 90(1)(c))
• Approval of the meeting agenda

Regular Council

The Sooke Council will adopt the agenda and minutes, and approve several consent items. It will award the Bridge Rehabilitation Program contract to Test Right Rigging Ltd. for $309,077 (excluding GST). Council will approve the design of the Wadams Way Transit Exchange and endorse BC Transit’s funding request, and direct staff to pursue meetings with provincial ministers on housing, transportation and health at the 2025 UBCM conference.

• Bridge Rehabilitation Program contract awarded to Test Right Rigging Ltd. for $309,077 (excl. GST)
• Approval of Wadams Way Transit Exchange design and support for BC Transit funding request
• Staff directed to seek meetings with provincial ministers on housing, transportation, and health at the 2025 UBCM conference
• Letter from Minister Ravi Kahlon on Small Scale Multi‑Unit Housing; council requests status update
• RCMP Municipal Multi‑Year Financial Plan 2026/27‑2030/31 – staff to provide ‘Approval in Principle’ letter by June 15

Land Use and Development Committee

The Land Use and Development Committee will recommend that Council authorize the issuance of Development Permit PLN02018 for a subdivision of the properties at 6671 Logan Lane and 6674, 6662, 6654 Lincroft Road. The proposed subdivision would create four primary lots with the capacity to yield up to 15 lots, aligning with the Official Community Plan and the Transportation Master Plan. The Committee will also receive a Draft Housing Amenity Contributions Policy and recommend that staff seek stakeholder input before Council adopts the policy. Procedural items include approval of the agenda and adoption of the May 6 minutes.

• Development Permit PLN02018 for subdivision of 6671 Logan Lane and 6674, 6662, 6654 Lincroft Road
• Draft Housing Amenity Contributions Policy received for information and stakeholder consultation
• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Adoption of minutes from the May 6, 2025 meeting

Regular Council

Council will adopt several consent agenda items, including endorsement of the 2025‑2027 Emergency Management Plan, adoption of a revised Permissive Tax Exemption Policy, and authorization to negotiate a police dispatch services agreement with E‑Comm 9‑1‑1. The council will also give first, second, and third readings to Subdivision and Development Standards Bylaw No. 925 and consider a non‑adhering residential use application for 6626 Helgesen Road.

• Authorize staff to negotiate and potentially enter into a police dispatch services agreement with E‑Comm 9‑1‑1
• Adopt Permissive Tax Exemption Policy (Policy No. CO‑027) and repeal Policy No. 5.3
• Endorse Sooke Emergency Management Plan 2025‑2027 as guiding framework
• Authorize non‑adhering residential use application at 6626 Helgesen Road to proceed to Agricultural Land Commission
• Give first, second, and third readings to Subdivision and Development Standards Bylaw No. 925, 2025

Special Council

The Sooke Special Council will consider a First Nation recognition, approve the meeting agenda, and decide whether to adjourn to a closed session. The agenda approval is a routine motion. The closed‑meeting motion cites specific subsections of the Community Charter for excluding the public.

• First Nation recognition
• Approval of the agenda
• Adjournment to a closed meeting under Community Charter 90(1)(d) and (m)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will recommend that Council endorse the Sooke Emergency Management Plan 2025‑2027, a three‑year all‑hazard framework that cost about $15 k to develop. It will also consider adopting the new Permissive Tax Exemption Policy (Policy No. CO‑027) and repealing Policy No. 5.3. Additionally, the Committee will endorse the principle of a Community Investment Program starting in 2026 and direct staff to engage agencies and draft supporting policy changes.

• Endorse Sooke Emergency Management Plan 2025‑2027 (development cost ≈ $15 k).
• Adopt Permissive Tax Exemption Policy (Policy No. CO‑027) and repeal Policy No. 5.3.
• Endorse in principle the Community Investment Program beginning in 2026.
• Direct staff to conduct engagement with local community agencies for program development.
• Direct staff to draft policy changes supporting the Community Investment Program, including updates to the Community Grants and Sponsorship Policy, Letters of Support Policy, and creation of a Service Agreement Policy.

Regular Council

The Sooke Council will adopt the agenda and minutes, receive reports from RCMP and the Chief Administrative Officer, and approve a consent agenda that includes a Moose Hide Campaign proclamation. It will provide preliminary support for dedicating 0.56 hectares of parkland at 7350 West Coast Road, consider a resolution to the UBCM for FOIPPA amendments, and discuss motions on online road‑safety training and a letter to the Regional Transit Commission about Sooke transit services.

• Preliminary support for dedicating 0.56 hectares of parkland at 7350 West Coast Road (ENG03871)
• UBCM resolution to amend FOIPPA section 43 and appoint a parliamentary review committee
• Motion for ICBC to create short online training modules and testing before license renewals
• Letter to the Regional Transit Commission on Langford exchange amenities and new Sooke‑Victoria non‑peak service
• Mayor’s proclamation of May 15 2025 as Moose Hide Campaign Day

Land Use and Development Committee

The Land Use and Development Committee will consider a recommendation to send a Non‑Adhering Residential Use application for 6626 Helgesen Road to the Agricultural Land Commission. The application seeks to raise the maximum principal‑residence floor area from 500 sq m to 520 sq m by adding a second storey and a secondary suite. Staff notes that the proposal does not expand the building footprint or agricultural land and meets the district’s zoning bylaws. The committee’s decision will determine whether Council authorizes the forward to the ALC.

• Non‑Adhering Residential Use application for 6626 Helgesen Rd to increase floor area to 520 sq m
• Property is a 1.7 ha ALR lot (Lot A, Section 34, Plan 47014) with existing single‑family home
• Referral comments from Building Division, Engineering Division, Ministry of Agriculture, Archaeology Branch, and T’Sou‑ke First Nation
• Requirement under ALC Act s. 25 that local government approve forwarding the application
• Proposed addition includes a second storey (194 sq m) and a 90 sq m secondary suite

Special Council

The Special Council will adopt its agenda, acknowledge First Nations, and hold a public question and comment period. The main substantive item is a report on the 2025 Community Grant Applications, for which staff will be asked to provide direction on approval. No other financial or policy decisions are listed.

• Adopt agenda as presented
• First Nation recognition
• Public question and comment period
• Report on 2025 Community Grant Applications – staff direction requested for grant approvals
• Adjournment

Special Council

The Special Council will postpone deciding on the appointment of a Chief Election Officer for the 2025 District of Sooke by‑election until the regular council meeting on May 12, 2025. Staff recommend aligning the by‑election with other 2025 voting opportunities, setting the election date for Saturday, July 26, 2025. The estimated cost of conducting the by‑election is $39,000.

• Defer appointment of the Chief Election Officer for the 2025 by‑election until May 12, 2025
• Proposed by‑election date: Saturday, July 26, 2025
• Estimated by‑election cost: $39,000
• Staff recommendation to align all 2025 voting opportunities before deciding
• Alternative option: appoint Jessica Bagnall as Chief Election Officer ($1,800) and Nancy Owen as Deputy ($1,200)

Special Council

The Special Council will open with a call to order, formally recognize First Nations, and approve the agenda. It will then move to a closed session for matters covered by Community Charter section 90(1)(c), including labour relations, solicitor‑client privileged advice, and preparation of the annual municipal report.

• First Nation recognition
• Approval of the agenda
• Adjournment to closed meeting under Community Charter 90(1)(c)

Regular Council

Council will give a third reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 920, changing 6727 West Coast Road from Large Lot Residential (R1) to General Commercial (C2). The meeting also includes adoption of the 2025 Property Tax Rate Bylaw, approval of several non‑farm use applications, and adoption of other zoning amendments. Additional items such as the audited 2024 financial statements and a motion on FOIPPA are presented for information or support.

• Third reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 920 (6727 West Coast Road) to rezone from R1 to C2
• Adoption of Property Tax Rate Bylaw No. 924, 2025
• Authorization of non‑farm use application for 7295 Francis Road – proposed community care facility
• Authorization of non‑farm use application for 6600 Helgesen Road – proposed ground‑mounted solar array
• Adoption of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 885 (2104 Charters Road)

Special Council

The Special Council will give first, second and third readings to Property Tax Rate Bylaw No. 924, 2025, establishing the 2025 tax rate of 15.29% (equivalent to $236.22 per year or $19.68 per month for the average residential property). Council will also provide direction on approving 2025 community grant applications, having received 36 requests totaling $199,286 and increasing the grant allocation to $100,000 using COVID restart funds. Additional agenda items include a First Nation recognition, approval of the agenda, and a public question and comment period.

• Adopt Property Tax Rate Bylaw No. 924, 2025 (residential tax $236.22/yr, 15.29%)
• Review and direct approval of 2025 community grant applications (36 apps, $199,286 requested, $100,000 allocation)
• First Nation recognition
• Approval of the agenda
• Public question and comment period

Regular Council

Council will consider adopting the 2025-2029 Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 922. The body is also deciding on a provincial tax program application and deferring a report on the 2025 by-election.

• Adoption of 2025-2029 Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 922
• Application to the Province of BC for the Municipal & Regional District Tax (MRDT) Program
• Deferral of 2025 By-Election Report to May 12, 2025, with a proposed election date of July 26, 2025
• Discussion on knotweed infestation in Sooke River
• Proposal to acquire The Matterhorn as a park

Regular Council

Council is reviewing funding applications for two major sanitary wastewater and storm infrastructure projects. The meeting also includes a vote on the 2025-2029 Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw and a zoning amendment for West Coast Road.

• Proposed $21,268,579 Town Centre and Sunriver wastewater project with a $10,634,289 grant application
• Proposed $16,993,000 Western Town Centre and Broomhill wastewater project with a $8,496,500 grant application
• Zoning amendment for 6727 West Coast Road from Large Lot Residential (R1) to General Commercial (C2)
• First, second, and third reading of the 2025-2029 Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 922, 2025
• Funding application for $100,000 for the Next Generation 911 Implementation and Public Awareness Project

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss a check‑in on Council Code of Conduct Bylaw No. 889 (2024). It will consider a grant application to the Responsible Conduct Resource Administration Fund. It will recommend that Council rescind the Code of Ethics Policy, 2011 (Policy No. 7.10).

• Council Code of Conduct Bylaw No. 889 (2024) check‑in discussion
• Responsible Conduct Resource Administration Fund grant application
• Recommendation to rescind Code of Ethics Policy, 2011 (Policy No. 7.10)
• First Nation recognition acknowledgment
• Approval of the meeting agenda

Regular Council

The District of Sooke Council will review the draft 2025-2029 Financial Plan and determine potential residential tax increases. The meeting also includes a presentation on 9-1-1 dispatch costs and a funding request for the Sooke Food Bank.

• Draft 2025-2029 Financial Plan including residential tax increase decisions
• Sooke Food Bank additional funding request
• Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw No. 921, 2025
• Presentation by E-Comm 9-1-1 CEO regarding dispatch costs
• Discussion on Throup/Phillips Road Connector Project

Regular Council

Council will approve funding applications for several active‑transportation projects, including the $49,791,200 Throup Road and Phillips Road Connector. The council also considers options for a long‑term borrowing referendum to be held with upcoming elections. Additionally, the Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw No. 921, 2025 will receive first, second and third readings.

• Approve Throup Road & Phillips Road Connector project – total cost $49,791,200; apply for $16,901,991 from the Active Transportation Fund; district share $32,889,209
• Approve Little River Active Transportation – Sunriver Access project – total cost $2,763,441; apply for $1,658,064; district share $1,105,377
• Approve Otter Point Road Active Transportation Continuation project – total cost $2,096,602; apply for $884,930; district share $1,211,672
• Approve Highway 14 Active Transportation Corridor Continuation project – total cost $10,789,017; apply for $5,801,769; district share $4,987,248
• Consider timing for a long‑term borrowing referendum – options include the 2025 by‑election, the 2026 general election, or a separate standalone vote

Special Council

The council will give first, second, and third readings and adopt Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 910 to implement small‑scale multi‑unit housing legislation. It will also adopt Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 911 for 2032 Maple Avenue South. Council will endorse a $400,000 FireSmart Community Resiliency Investment grant and authorize a commercial parks use permit for Western Educational Adventures Inc. New business includes motions to update the utility tax and shift 911 service costs.

• Adopt Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 910 (small‑scale multi‑unit housing) – first, second, third reading
• Adopt Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 911 for 2032 Maple Avenue South
• Endorse $400,000 FireSmart Community Resiliency Investment grant for two years
• Authorize Commercial Parks Use Permit for Western Educational Adventures Inc. at Sunriver Nature Trail Park and Sooke Potholes Gateway
• Motions to update utility tax and shift 911 service costs to beneficiaries

CANCELLED - Regural Council

The meeting scheduled for February 10, 2025, was cancelled. No agenda items were provided.

New Business/Supplemental Agenda

Council will review supplemental information regarding the Sooke Region CHC-UPCC project, including board details and capital build progress. The agenda also includes a notice of motion requesting increased funding for the BC Human Rights Tribunal.

• Supplemental information for Sooke Region CHC-UPCC project
• Notice of motion for increased BC Human Rights Tribunal funding
• SRCHN Board of Directors 2024-2025 list
• BC Builds land opportunity for CHC-UPCC on Wadams Way
• AVICC 2025 Resolution on Human Rights Tribunal funding

Special Council

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate and a motion to adjourn to a closed meeting. The closed session is designated for discussions regarding land acquisition or disposition, law enforcement, and other legally excluded matters.

• Adjournment to closed meeting for land acquisition, disposition, or expropriation
• Adjournment to closed meeting for law enforcement matters

Regular Council

The council voted to reject the application to subdivide property at 2532 Sooke River Road in the Agricultural Land Reserve and to close the file. It approved a $50,000 budget for engagement activities related to restarting the Official Community Plan update. The council also directed staff to use up to $30,000 from the SPA Reserve Fund for a rainbow crosswalk and to provide a report on the updated 2025‑2029 Financial Plan with a residential tax increase not exceeding 10%. Additional items include deferring the 2025 by‑election report to the April 7 meeting.

• Reject subdivision application for 2532 Sooke River Road (ALR) and close file
• Allocate $50,000 for Official Community Plan engagement and design
• Authorize up to $30,000 from SPA Reserve Fund for rainbow crosswalk installation and maintenance
• Direct staff to report on updated 2025‑2029 Financial Plan with tax increase cap of 10%
• Defer 2025 by‑election report to April 7, 2025 regular council meeting

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will receive a report on the Draft 2025‑2029 Financial Plan, including proposed operating and capital budgets. Members will decide whether to accept the report for information or ask staff to provide an updated plan that includes a residential tax increase. The discussion covers a potential 16.04% property tax rise amounting to $2,134,323 in general municipal taxes for 2025. The agenda also notes upcoming budget readings and adoption steps through March 2025.

• $951,681 (7.72%) increase for policing, including E‑Comm
• $200,000 increase to the Highway Maintenance Contract
• $254,927 new cost for E‑Comm emergency dispatch services (prorated Apr‑Dec)
• $380,000 design cost for the Throup Connector (Phillips to Charters)
• $2,700,000 Little River (Demamiel Creek) pedestrian crossing

Regular Council

The District of Sooke Council will award the Little River Pedestrian Crossing contract to Regehr Contracting Ltd. for $1,943,749.30 (excluding GST). It will also accept $56,500 cash‑in‑lieu for park land dedication on the 2045 Maple Avenue subdivision. Two bylaws will be adopted: the Board of Variance Bylaw No. 919, 2024 and the Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 915 for 1995 Caldwell Road. A consent agenda item will adopt the recent correspondence package.

• Award Little River Pedestrian Crossing contract to Regehr Contracting Ltd. for $1,943,749.30 (excl. GST)
• Accept $56,500 cash‑in‑lieu for park land dedication (2045 Maple Avenue subdivision)
• Adopt Board of Variance Bylaw No. 919, 2024
• Adopt Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 915 (600‑107) for 1995 Caldwell Road
• Adopt correspondence package (20250108) on consent agenda