Community Q&A Session
On July 26, 2025, the Saltair and District Ratepayers Association hosted an impromptu Q&A at the Saltair Community Centre, where residents asked me questions in an open, informal setting over coffee and tea. Topics included the 2026 budget, Official Community Plan (OCP) updates, water filtration, public transit, the E&N Rail Corridor, snow removal, regional recreation, and slope stability. I am grateful to all who participated and contributed to a constructive dialogue.
2026 Budget
In preparation for the upcoming 2026 budget, I put forward a resolution asking staff to prepare a budget with a maximum 4% increase, with an option for a 2.5% increase. The board supported it. With Regional Rec fully phased in, my goal is to strike a balance between fiscal responsibility, transparency and making smart investments for the long-term needs of our community.
Saltair Community Centre upgrades
As of August 11, 2025, the Saltair Community Centre has been fully outfitted with air conditioning. This long-awaited upgrade ensures a more comfortable environment for everyone using the facility, whether for classes, daycare, or community programs. It’s a meaningful step in making the Centre a welcoming space year-round.
Three-Stream Garbage Collection
Residents will have noticed the roll-out of the three-stream collection system—organics, recycling, and garbage. Increased costs are always unwanted, but this change brings significant benefits:
- Protecting the Environment: Organics are now composted instead of producing harmful methane in landfills.
- Saving Money: Diverting compost and recyclables reduces shipping costs as we send all of our garbage to Washington State.
- Meeting Provincial Mandates: We now comply with BC’s mandated recycling and waste-reduction targets.
