A few fresh faces, particularly in Sidney, are one highlight of the new council term, which begins Nov. 5 for all three Saanich municipalities.
Sidney Mayor-elect Cliff McNeil-Smith told the Review on election night he was eager to get started in his new role, and on the agenda of the inaugural meeting will be the appointment of the Town’s councillors to roughly 40 committees and commissions. He joins newcomers Sara Duncan, Scott Garnett, Terri O’Keeffe and Chad Rintoul.
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“I think it’ll be a very strong council,” he said. “I’m excited to be working with the new team.”
Monday evening’s meeting takes place in council chambers at Sidney Town Hall (2440 Sidney Avenue) at 7 p.m.
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In Central Saanich, improvements to the lobby and front counter services of the Central Saanich Police will be completed Friday in time for Monday’s meeting.
During the campaign for the Oct. 20 municipal election, affordable housing and road safety became key issues for candidates — all incumbents secured their seats and will be joined by newcomer Gord Newton.
Council meets at 7 p.m. at Central Saanich Municipal Hall (1903 Mount Newton Cross Rd.).
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In North Saanich, Mayor-elect Geoff Orr heads up the first meeting slated for 2:30 p.m. at the District’s Municipal Hall (1620 Mills Road).
Having served as a councillor since 2014, Orr’s priorities remain improving council’s relationship with the community, including the Pauquachin and Tseycum First Nations because “that builds trust.”
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Transparency, he said, is vital in the decision-making process.
“It’s a big challenge,” Orr said of mayoral duties, during the campaign. “It’s a role you cannot take lightly.”
