Growth and opportunity were the key messages from Carol Hamilton during her annual mayor’s address at a recent Colwood council meeting.
She spoke about “preserving the aspects we value about our community,” while ushering in growth and new energy to Colwood.
“Our forward momentum may be most visible in Royal Bay, where we have ushered in a new era for Colwood,” she said.
“We have seen our gravel pit transformed into a bustling community with the opening of Royal Bay secondary school and the new Latoria Boulevard.”
Hamilton pointed to the future proliferation of the new neighbourhood through the additions of a park, new businesses and plans for a neighbourhood centre.
Other major additions she listed were Colwood’s first new hotel, the Holiday Inn Express; the Rexall building on Goldstream Avenue, the sale of the former Capital City Centre Site to Onni Group, renewed interest in project sites, including the 468 Landmark and the empty lot on Wale Road.
Other new developments, including Ocean Grove and the Pacific Landing project are also coming to life and key staff positions, including that of new CAO Ian Howat, have been filled. Hamilton thanked the community, council and staff for their continued efforts.
“The pace of growth in Colwood has been incredibly demanding for staff, who continue to rise to the challenge, day in and day out. They are committed to continuous improvement amid ever increasing pressure and limited resources,” she stated.
“I am inspired by their expertise and their commitment to making this community great.”
The address also pointed to future projects helping “redefine” the municipality, while promoting its natural surroundings and lifestyle, and attracting new economic opportunities to the West Shore community.
“I wish each of you a very happy holiday season and look forward to an exciting year together here in Colwood,” she said.
“I hope we will see a lot of each other as we work together to enhance this community we are proud to call home.”
alim@goldstreamgazette.com
