Area G has been slower since my last update, so I am sharing a few regional updates.
As of July 19, 2024, all CVRD water systems operated by the Cowichan Valley Regional District are at Stage 3 water use restrictions, moving East Vancouver Island to Drought Level 4.
We’re thrilled to announce the completion of the Shawnigan Village Rail Trail pathway, a project eagerly anticipated and made possible by the collective efforts. This new trail, which links Old Mill Park to Shawnigan Wharf Park, is a testament to our region’s community’s spirit and active involvement. We’re excited for you to explore it. The recently completed trail links Masons Beach Park, Dougan Park, Shawnigan Community Centre, Elsie Miles Park, Shawnigan Village, Shawnigan Wharf Park, and Old Mill Park.
Memory Island Provincial Park is now free of the invasive Scotch Broom, thanks to the dedicated efforts of CVRD Parks & Trails volunteers, B.C. Parks staff and student BC Park Rangers. This significant clearing in June has beautifully restored the park’s natural beauty, a testament to our community’s unwavering commitment to preserving our local ecosystem. We can all take pride in this achievement, which is a shining example of our community’s dedication to environmental preservation.
CVRD awarded the contract to remove the World’s Largest Hockey Stick (WLHS) at the Cowichan Community Centre. The WLHS, which has now ended its serviceable life, has been a landmark of the Cowichan region for the past 35 years. As we bid farewell to this iconic symbol, let’s take a moment to appreciate its history and the countless memories it has given us. It will always be a part of our shared past and is a reminder of our community’s love for sports.
The CVRD amended zoning bylaws to permit suites in all Electoral Areas per Bill 44. The CVRD has completed a process to update zoning in its nine electoral areas, which allows all residential properties zoned for single-family dwellings to create or construct an attached secondary suite to their home.
The CVRD obtained the necessary funding and approvals to proceed with the significant repair work to a large section of the trail near Agira Road in Duncan that was damaged during an atmospheric rain event in 2021.
The CVRD values your input and has launched a survey to gather feedback on the preferred 2025 budget engagement process. Your responses will help us understand your preferred options for receiving and providing information to the CVRD. Your feedback is crucial in shaping our future budget engagement strategies.
The B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy has announced that a Chemainus River Right Bank Restoration submission has been added to the Navigable Waters Registry.