In Sooke District on Vancouver Island, the population has been steadily increasing since the early 2000s. However, the local infrastructure is facing challenges in keeping up with this growth due to environmental regulations and limited resources. As the municipal election approaches, candidates are exploring sustainable and cost-effective solutions to manage the district’s expansion.
Real estate agent and Sooke Chamber of Commerce Vice-President Tim Ayres noted that while residential growth in Sooke has been significant, there is a need for more commercial development to retain businesses within the community. With over 15,000 residents according to the 2021 census, Sooke continues to experience growth, leading to traffic congestion issues along the sole major road, Highway 14 (Sooke Road), connecting the district to neighboring areas like Langford and Victoria.
Outgoing mayor Maja Tait highlighted the slow progress in improving the highway under provincial jurisdiction. Mayoral candidates, including Independent candidate Al Beddows and Sooke First slate candidate Kevin Pearson, are proposing various strategies such as tax reduction, promoting ecotourism, and creating business-friendly environments to support growth.
However, Tait expressed concerns about the strain on district resources with new developments. She emphasized the limitations on further growth due to existing infrastructure constraints, particularly in water supply from Sooke Lake and the recently expanded sewer system. The district’s coastal location and environmental regulations pose additional challenges to expansion efforts.
With the influx of residents, recreational facilities in Sooke are struggling to meet demands. Organizations like the Sooke Soccer Club are facing capacity issues, necessitating the construction of additional facilities like a second all-weather field. Moreover, a plebiscite question will be included in the upcoming election ballot, seeking residents’ input on borrowing funds for an intergenerational community center.
Residents of Sooke will cast their votes for various positions, including mayor, councillors, school trustees, and on the plebiscite question on October 17 at the Edward Milne Community School.