peninsula news review, january 03, 2014

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Steven HeywoodNews staff

A limit of up to 520 new housing units in North Saanich has been established in the District’s revised Regional Con-text Statement (RCS) that will be forwarded to the Capital Regional District for their ratification.

A majority of council approved the new RCS in the middle of last month, confirming plans for increased allowances for residential housing in two parts of the community — the McTavish Road area and around Tsehum Harbour. Those areas were identified as likely spots for more development out of the District’s 2013 housing consultation process with CTQ Consultants out of Kelowna. Projects such as Canora

Mews have broken ground, with others in the early application steps.

North Saanich is now asking the CRD to approve their plan for increased res-idential development in those areas and at an increased pace.

The change has been a priority for the council majority this term, having stated market-driven growth will help address housing shortages among the local workforce.

A minority of North Saanich coun-cil, led by Mayor Alice Finall, says that tack does nothing to address afford-able housing for those same workers.

“I have been asking for (an affordable housing policy) to be put in place,” Finall said. “There needs to be something like that in North Saanich to ensure developers are provid-ing affordable housing.”

Her position, she agrees, is different than that of the council majority. She said they are hoping increased hous-ing density at market prices will solve the issue. Finall said, however, that homes at market price will still be too high for many workers to afford. She called the drive for change led by developer demand.

Steven Heywood/News staff

Police, fire, border services and ambulance crews attended the Sidney International Ferry Terminal Monday, Dec. 30 at around 12 noon. A disabled vehicle was removed from the vessel. Washington State Ferries reported there was a 40 minute delay in the Elwha’s sailing time due to the incident.

District eyes more growth in 2014Controversial change to District’s growth strategy to go to the CRD

Please see: District needs housing, page 2

Alice Finall

Vital Signs reportGreater Victoria residents list cost of living as their most pressing concern, page 3

Watch for breaking news at www.vicnews.comC O M M U N I T Y N E W S M E D I A

Black Press Friday, January 3, 2014

PENINSULA R E V I E WNEWS

Collecting for Santas AnonymousNorth Saanich firefighters chipping trees to help out a local family in need, page 2

A2 • www.vicnews.com Friday, January 3, 2014- PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Corporation of the District of Central Saanich

2014 COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE

Notice is hereby given pursuant to the provisions of Section 127 of the Community Charter, of the Council Meeting schedule for 2014, as follows:

January 13 Special (Open) Council January 20 February 3 and 17 March 3 and 17 April 7 April 22 Special (Open) Council May 5 May 20 Special (Open) Council June 2 and 16 July 7 and 28 (Summer Schedule – To Be Confirmed) August 18 (Summer Schedule – To Be Confirmed) September 2 (Special (Open) Council in lieu of statutory holiday) September 15 October 6 and 20 November 3 and 17 December 1 and 15

The Regular and Special (Open) Council Meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at the Central Saanich Municipal Hall, 1903 Mt. Newton Cross Road, commencing at 7:00 p.m. (unless otherwise posted). The Council Meeting schedule is available at the Municipal Hall, and it and the monthly meeting schedules are posted on the District’s website: www.centralsaanich.ca. For further information, please contact the Municipal Hall at 250-652-4444. Ruby Shea Deputy Municipal Clerk [Note: The afore-noted schedule is subject to change at the discretion of Council.] PNR – Dec 13 and 18

NOTICE is hereby given of a PUBLIC HEARING to be held in the Central Saanich Municipal Hall, 1903 Mount Newton Cross Road, Saanichton, BC, at 6:30 p.m. on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2014, with regard to the following proposed Bylaw to amend LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1309, 1999.

CENTRAL SAANICH LAND USE BYLAW AMENDMENT BYLAW NO. 1810, 2013(Temporary Use Permits for Non-Farm Uses in the Agriculture A-1 Zone)

In general terms, the purpose of the proposed bylaw is to establish Temporary Use Permit Areas for those lands larger than 0.8ha (2 acres) zoned Agriculture (A-1) within the Agricultural Land Reserve, and provide general conditions for the issuance of temporary use permits for Non-Farm Uses that have received prior approval from the Agricultural Land Commission. The general con-ditions would specify that a temporary use permit may be issued for uses that would support an existing farm operation and not negatively impact the farm or neighbouring properties. Permits would be valid only so long as the principal use of the property remains agriculture. The general conditions would also specify that a temporary use permit shall not be issued to permit the sale of agricultural compost.

The proposed Bylaw would affect all land in the District of Central Saanich zoned Agriculture A-1.

A copy of the above proposed Bylaw, Land Use Bylaw No. 1309, 1999, staff reports and other related information that may be considered by Council, may be inspected at the Office of the Municipal Clerk, Central Saanich Municipal Hall, 1903 Mount Newton Cross Road, Saanichton, BC, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding holidays, from the date of this Notice to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, January 8, 2014, inclusive. For more information, please phone the Planning Department at 250-544-4209.

All persons who believe that their interest in property may be affected by the proposed Bylaw shall be afforded an opportunity to be heard at the Public Hearing, either in person, by represen-tative, or by written submission, on all matters contained in the proposed Bylaw at the above mentioned time, date and place.

Dated at Saanichton, BC, this 23rd day of December, 2013.

Ruby SheaDeputy Municipal Clerk

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NORTH SAANICH — Members of the North Saanich Volunteer Fire Department and Firefighters’ Asso-ciation hope to help out a local fam-ily through their annual tree chipping fundraiser on Jan. 4.

This Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local firefighters will collect Christmas trees for chipping at the McTavish Road fire hall and at the Wain Road hall. Association spokes-person Brian Thomas says this year’s effort will be directed towards a local family.

“All money raised will be split 50/50 with Santas Anonymous and this year, the Todd Caroll family,” Thomas stated in an email to the News Review. “Todd is a 46-year-old

Sidney man who has been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer.”

Todd, added Thomas, worked as a self-employed carpenter for most of his life. Approximately 20 years ago, Todd also volunteered as a firefighter in Mesachie Lake. He rents his home with his girlfriend, Natalie, and their one-year-old son, Angus.

In addition to the tree chipping program, the fire department will host an open house at the Wain Road fire hall. Thomas said everyone is welcome to join the firefighters on fire truck rides, a bouncy castle and tours of the hall. Firefighters will also be serving hot dogs, coffee and hot chocolate and everything is by dona-tion. — News staff

North Saanich firefighters raising money for family

Submitted photo

Santa dropped by Dean Park with the North Saanich firefighters on Dec. 21, helping collect food donations and $2,400 in cash for the Sidney Lions Food Bank.

Council has debated these positions throughout their term, with clear lines drawn between the two sides and among the commu-nity.

While the mayor says the District’s pre-vious RCS allowed for such growth, Council-lor Dunstan Browne said if the municipal-ity did what the mayor wants, it would “blow the industrial folks out of the water.”

A collection of local industry employers has lobbied for increased housing development to meet the needs of its workforce.

They have met with local municipalities, seeking policy that would help create more affordable homes and allow people to live closer to their jobs.

Coun. Ted Daly chal-lenged Finall’s posi-tion once again, stating there’s a need for mar-ket housing.

“You’re wrong, Madame Mayor,” Daly stated at council’s Dec. 16 meeting.

“There is a demand and the reason we’re not seeing it is North Saanich isn’t building anything.”

Forty units are in the works at 9395 East Saan-ich Rd. (Canora Mews), with an estimated 95 (not including second-ary suites or laneway housing options) in the Reay Creek Meadows proposal on land south of Sidney’s Summergate Village.

Another three condo-minium buildings are proposed for McDon-ald Park Road, next to Parkland Secondary School.

North Saanich staff will be working on a visual representation of the District’s new growth plans in 2014.

[email protected]

Continued from page 1

District needs housing


– Ted Daly

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NORTH SAANICH — Members of the North Saanich Volunteer Fire Department and Firefighters’ Asso-ciation hope to help out a local fam-ily through their annual tree chipping fundraiser on Jan. 4.

This Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local firefighters will collect Christmas trees for chipping at the McTavish Road fire hall and at the Wain Road hall. Association spokes-person Brian Thomas says this year’s effort will be directed towards a local family.

“All money raised will be split 50/50 with Santas Anonymous and this year, the Todd Caroll family,” Thomas stated in an email to the News Review. “Todd is a 46-year-old

Sidney man who has been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer.”

Todd, added Thomas, worked as a self-employed carpenter for most of his life. Approximately 20 years ago, Todd also volunteered as a firefighter in Mesachie Lake. He rents his home with his girlfriend, Natalie, and their one-year-old son, Angus.

In addition to the tree chipping program, the fire department will host an open house at the Wain Road fire hall. Thomas said everyone is welcome to join the firefighters on fire truck rides, a bouncy castle and tours of the hall. Firefighters will also be serving hot dogs, coffee and hot chocolate and everything is by dona-tion. — News staff

North Saanich firefighters raising money for family

Submitted photo

Santa dropped by Dean Park with the North Saanich firefighters on Dec. 21, helping collect food donations and $2,400 in cash for the Sidney Lions Food Bank.

Council has debated these positions throughout their term, with clear lines drawn between the two sides and among the commu-nity.

While the mayor says the District’s pre-vious RCS allowed for such growth, Council-lor Dunstan Browne said if the municipal-ity did what the mayor wants, it would “blow the industrial folks out of the water.”

A collection of local industry employers has lobbied for increased housing development to meet the needs of its workforce.

They have met with local municipalities, seeking policy that would help create more affordable homes and allow people to live closer to their jobs.

Coun. Ted Daly chal-lenged Finall’s posi-tion once again, stating there’s a need for mar-ket housing.

“You’re wrong, Madame Mayor,” Daly stated at council’s Dec. 16 meeting.


Forty units are in the works at 9395 East Saan-ich Rd. (Canora Mews), with an estimated 95 (not including second-ary suites or laneway housing options) in the Reay Creek Meadows proposal on land south of Sidney’s Summergate Village.

Another three condo-minium buildings are proposed for McDon-ald Park Road, next to Parkland Secondary School.

North Saanich staff will be working on a visual representation of the District’s new growth plans in 2014.

[email protected]

Continued from page 1

District needs housing


– Ted Daly


Don DescoteauNews staff

In the 2013 Victoria Vital Signs report, nearly half of the 1,200 respondents ranked cost of liv-ing as their most pressing issue.

It also found more than 60 per cent of people were moder-ately stressed or worse about personal finances. Around local water coolers, people often com-plain their wages aren’t keeping up with the cost of basic goods.

Certainly at the lower end of the wage spectrum the numbers bear that out.

Last year the Community Social Planning Council calcu-lated $18.73 an hour as the liv-ing wage in Greater Victoria: the minimum amount a couple with two children would each need to earn just to adequately get by in today’s local economy.

The 2013 figure was 3.7 per cent higher than the year before ($18.07). The council pointed to higher accommodation and other shelter costs, transporta-tion, food and shelter costs as reasons for the jump.

“It always seems that when you’re on an island, your food gets here by ferries. It’s always a concern when there’s incremen-tal increases to input costs (for suppliers),” said Dallas Gislason, economic development officer for the Greater Victoria Develop-ment Agency.

The region’s average one-per-cent inflation rate – calculated using a different basket of goods than the living wage – can be looked at as a positive for peo-ple looking to invest here and create jobs, he said. Gislason added the region’s economic growth has also been about one per cent, showing stability dur-ing this rebound from recession.

At the same time, he said, things like older workers staying in their jobs longer, or returning to work can put downward pres-sure on wages for others.

While the living wage report painted a rather bleak picture, the most recent Statistics Can-ada census showed Greater Vic-toria’s median total household income of $79,350 was signifi-

cantly higher than the national average of $72,240.

On the housing front, the larg-est line item in any household budget, real estate prices have been flat for some time and are expected to remain so, along with mortgage rates. Our rental vacancy rate, meanwhile, was 2.8 per cent in October – lower than the national average of 2.4 per cent, according to StatsCan.

In general, more availability keeps rental rates in check, but that hasn’t necessarily panned out.

Average rents in October were $706 for a bachelor suite, $833 for a one-bedroom, $1,068 for a two-bedroom and $1,281 for suites with three or more bed-rooms.

Prices for the two smallest categories, of which there are far more in the region, especially in Victoria, have gone up between five and 6.5 per cent, depend-ing upon location, since 2011. By contrast, the average rent for a two-bedroom unit has remained fairly constant the past two years, while larger units actually dropped in price.

The supply of rental accom-modation is increasing, with sev-eral buildings being constructed or renovated specifically for that purpose. And condo build-ing construction continues unabated, meaning people should have plenty of choices to break into the real estate mar-ket.

The Vital Signs report showed the poverty rate in Greater Vic-toria has risen to 8.6 per cent from 7.6 per cent in 2010.

Gislason takes a positive approach to figures like that and the living wage. He encourages people to bring an entrepreneur-ial approach to their workplace.

“My message to the workforce, and when we talk to people who are looking to move to Victoria, is this is probably a more dif-ficult environment to land a job and have everything work out fine,” he says. “Find ways to add value to your company, ways to enhance what you bring to the table or to create your own job.”

— Victoria News/Black Press

Keeping up with costsGreater Victoria cost of living is not all bad news

Steven Heywood/News staff

In Greater Victoria, the cost of food went up, but not as much as in other Canadian major cities.

Other StatsCan facts and figures

• Gas prices for regular unleaded ranked sixth-low-est among Canada’s largest cities as of last November. Only cities in Alberta, Sas-katchewan and Manitoba (ranging from 1.03 to 1.15.5 per litre) were cheaper.

• Victoria’s Consumer Price Index, a function of inflation and a calculation of the increase in overall cost of such basic elements as housing, food and transpor-tation costs, actually went up less in Victoria between 2008 and 2012 than in virtu-ally any other major city in Canada.

• While our new housing prices continue to be among the highest in the country, Victoria homes saw the greatest drop in value since 2007 among our country’s largest metropolitan areas.

SIDNEY — Green Party leader and Saanich-Gulf Islands MP Elizabeth May will hold a series of town hall meetings with residents of the Saan-ich Peninsula early in the new year.

Nine town hall meetings will be held in May’s Saanich-Gulf Islands riding and the federal party leader will be interested to hear the issues, opinions and ideas of residents.

The first open house will be Jan. 8 at the Gordon Head United Church

in Saanich. The last one will be Feb. 20 on Galiano Island at the commu-nity hall.

On the Peninsula, May visits Brent-wood Bay at the Central Saanich Seniors Centre on Clarke Road on Jan. 9 and she will be in Sidney on Jan. 23 at St. Elizabeth’s Church on Third Street.

All meetings start at 7 p.m. Get details at elizabethmaymp.ca/town-halls. — Submitted

Open houses with Green leader

A4 • www.vicnews.com Friday, January 3, 2014 - PENINSULA NEWS REVIEWA4 • www.vicnews.com Friday, January 3, 2014 - PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW

VIEWPOINTThe Peninsula News Review is published by Black Press Ltd. | #6 - 9843 Second St., Sidney, B.C. V8L 3C7 | Phone: 250-656-1151 • Fax: 250-656-5526 • Web: www.vicnews.com

Jim Parker PublisherSteven Heywood EditorJanice Marshall Production ManagerBruce Hogarth Circulation Manager

The PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council.

Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org.

The Peninsula News Review is published every Wednesday and Friday by Black Press Ltd., #6 - 9843 Second St., Sidney, B.C. V8L 3C7. Phone: 250-656-1151. Fax: 250-656-5526. Web: www.vicnews.com

OUR VIEW

What do you think? Give us your comments by e-mail: [email protected] or fax 250-656-5526. All letters must have a name and a telephone number for verification.

Keeping their options openW

ill a planned spurt in residential development on the Saanich Peninsula in 2014 do much at all to alleviate a housing crunch for people in the mid-to-lower

income ranges?That’s a big question hanging over proposed

new homes in Sidney and North Saanich. There are at least six potential developments at various stages of application in both communities and all look to be based on current market conditions to set their prices. Almost all proposals are of the small lot, compact style of housing, meaning generally lower prices with the potential for mortgage-helpers — or laneway houses and mother-in-law suites — that could provide options for young people or new families.

That said, those options are left to the purchaser to decide. If they want a mortgage-helper, they can have one built. If they don’t, then it’s not an option - at least in the here-and-now. This means the ability for these projects to meet demands for affordable housing is, at best, random. That doesn’t necessarily mean, however, that it’s all bad.

With an increasing poverty rate in Greater Victoria, according to Statistics Canada and the 2013 Vital Signs report, and a high cost of living people are challenged to find an affordable place to live and have to balance that with a longer commute, access to transit and family life.

Will market conditions on the Peninsula, then, create a more affordable place to live?

Policy-makers in North Saanich and Sidney hope so, as municipal councils have created the environment for more growth and change. While allowing market price housing to lead the charge, these policies also create more options than a single direction of creating affordable - or social - housing. That has the potential of limiting who might want to buy here - or even build here.

Peninsula communities encourage the creation of affordable homes and require developers to build that into their plans. It’s yet another option for potential buyers when they look to make one of the biggest investments of their lives.

Having more options is the better way to go.

YOUR VIEW

Canadian government officials are working with those from 11 other nations to finalize the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). I am very concerned about the TPP, which is currently being negotiated without public input.

We know from documents revealed by Wikileaks that the TPP includes an Internet censorship plan. Experts have pointed out that under the TPP, “kids could be sent to jail for downloading” and whole families could be kicked off the Internet. It would force Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to become Internet police and monitor my Internet use, censor website content, and remove entire websites from my view.

It would also hinder our ability to access information and criminalize our everday use of the Internet. As a concerned citizen, I am speaking out for a free and open Internet.

In addition, the TPP’s proposal to force ISPs to install costly and invasive surveillance equipment into their networks gravely worries me.

These added costs would drive up everyone’s Internet bills and could force smaller independent Internet providers out of business. I believe that Internet access is a right and should be kept open and affordable for everyone.

Already over 120,000 have signed the Say No to Internet Censorship petition. I encourage everyone to learn more about TPP Internet

Censorship before it’s too late at this website: https://OpenMedia.org/Censorship.

Don HillmanNorth Saanich

Emotional responsesIn response to Noel Gagnon’s

rebuttal regarding facts applied to pipelines in Canada, I would like to make it clear that I have no association with any oil or gas enterprise. My perspective is taken from what I read and hear reported.

I have written several times but have yet to see any rational data that justifies the rhetoric of those who oppose these developments. To date the common phrases I have seen refer to “total devastation of pristine wilderness”, or “destruction of our fishing” in the event of a pipeline leak.

No evidence of such catastrophes are presented. These are simply emotional responses.

I could argue that the likelihood of an oil spill could be compared to the probability of a major earthquake on the west coast, yet we do not hear the environmental lobby suggesting wholesale migration of the west coast population to safer jurisdictions.

So far the only reasonable suggestion I have heard has been raised by a friend of mine living in the Terrace-Kitimat region that would be most affected by a pipeline spill.

He attended the hearings when the panel was in his area and told me he would support the northern gateway pipeline — if Enbridge would increase the thickness of the pipe carrying the bitumen to the coast.

I would hope that the NEB would concur with his suggestion. Prevention is better than reaction.

Eli FrickerNorth Saanich

Sidney fire hall plan is a win-win

I am moved to respond to a letter in the Dec. 18 issue in respect of the proposed relocation of the fire hall in the Town of Sidney.

I believe the proposal envisioned using a portion of the large playing field area adjacent to the Sidney Elementary School. What a win-win for both the town and the school district that is strapped for much needed funds and dealing with declining enrolment. I take exception to the comments of R. B. Burns of North Saanich. However, it is very reassuring to know that citizens of “ No Saanich” are keeping a watchful eye on our town.

Bob LougheedSidney

•••Let your voice be heard. Send your thoughts to [email protected]

Speak up for a free and open ‘Net

Questionof the week? Last Week

we asked you:Will 2014 be better than last year?Answer online at www.vicnews.com

Did you follow through on your New Year’s resolutions this year? YES 28% NO 50% MAYBE 22%


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SIDNEY — More people than ever now have access to British Columbia’s wine magazine.

B.C. Food and Wine Trails has expanded its dis-tribution and editorial coverage and modified its publication frequency for 2014. The popular maga-zine will now be published in March, May, July and September. The winter edition, which had been distributed in December, has been replaced by the May publication. The change to more frequency during the wine-touring season just makes sense, according to Editor Jennifer Schell.

“By increasing our publishing frequency during the wine season, we are able to offer visitors more timely news and features,” Schell said. “The initial response has been incredible.”

The expanded circulation includes dozens of new distribution locations in Alberta, the Koote-nays, the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. At the same time, editorial coverage has been expanded to include all of the province’s wine regions. For further information about B.C. Food and Wine Trails, contact [email protected].

— Black Press

Peter RuslandNews staff

DUNCAN — The coast’s starfish are dying horrific deaths while scientists scram-ble to figure out why.

They’re also wor-ried about how sea-star wasting syndrome will affect ecosystems spanning Alaska to Cowichan to California.

“Since late August, we started noticing sun-flower seastars dying off quite quickly,” said marine biologist Paula Romagosa, curator of Sidney’s Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre.

“The coastal div-ing community got involved doing survey dives. So far we don’t know why,” she said of the starfish die-off involving six or seven species. “I’m quite scared, to be honest. We can’t figure out what it is, so there’s no way to control it — or know if it’ll affect our food sources like fish.”

Peter Luckham, a Thetis Island dive mas-ter who piloted Che-mainus’ dive-reef jet, said he was stunned by the seastar decima-tion. He sends seastar data to the Vancouver Aquarium.

“It’s like science fic-tion. It decomposes into a pile of goo. If you could hear a scream under water, they’d be saying ‘I’m melting’, just like out of the Wiz-ard Of Oz.”

Populations includ-ing sunflower, sun, bas-ket, leather, pink, com-mon purple, vermillion, and blood stars are dying, Luckham said.

“Brittle stars are the only ones I’ve noted [which have] not been affected.”

“We believe its some sort of virus,” said Romagosa, “but we haven’t been able to prove it yet.”

Proof of what’s wip-ing out about 30% of the coast’s observ-able starfish could come from samples sent to Cornell Univer-sity, explained Vancou-ver Aquarium’s Donna Gibbs. Other samples have been shipped to UBC, UVic and Califor-nia universities.

“It’s pretty shocking. We were surprised see-ing seastars in dives during research around Howe Sound in some state of decay or melt-down.”

Divers started notic-ing melting and dissolv-ing seastars in Septem-

ber in Howe Sound.“It started with sun-

flower seastars, but has spread to other spe-cies,” said Romagosa. “California purple sea-stars are being affected more than other spe-cies.”

Gibbs said she’d never seen starfish deaths on this scale.

“Not on this magni-tude. Before this, we saw an overabundance of these animals when they were just piled on top of each other on Hutt Island.”

Romagosa noted “it could be nature taking its course from over-population — or some-

thing we humans have done.”

Luckham was “quite alarmed” about the sea-star’s demise between Nanaimo and Victoria.

“It appears to be some kind of pathogen, but I’m not a biologist. It completely wipes out the entire population.”

But the veteran frog-man hadn’t seen the disease’s wrath below 70 feet. “That indicates it’s also temperature sensitive, and not sur-viving in deeper water.

“What worries me is stars are a big preda-tor; they eat everything they can find including other stars,” he said of

the critter keeping oth-ers in balance.

He and Romagosa doubted the starfish crisis was sparked by Pacific radiation from the meltdown of Japan’s Fukushima nuclear plant.

“It’s hard to believe it’s radiation affecting the Vancouver area before the closest prox-imity to Japan. It could be an environmental reaction to overpopu-lation; it could be sew-age, or pollution. Some species disintegrate in a couple of days, others will last longer.”

Dan Jacques, a diver and dock master at Maple Bay Yacht Club, was also shocked see-ing seastar carnage in areas around the island, one of the Earth’s big-gest seastar popula-tions.

“There’s no way you can tell me this is nat-

ural. It’s a big wake-up call,” he said. “It’s just crazy.”

Crazy enough the legs are dropping off seastars he’s photo-graphed “and they’re just rotting.”

Romagosa said the wast ing -syndrome deaths look more like a viral infection — per-haps resembling the human ebola virus — affecting adult seastars.

“Some get bald spots, and get really skinny, and start to dis-integrate. With others, their guts start coming through the pores in their skin. It’s a horrible sight to see; it’s terrify-ing. Their legs fall off and start walking away from the body.”

It’s tough to tell if sea-stars are in pain, she explained.

“They don’t have a brain, but do have a nervous system so they

do have pain receptors, but we’ve seen no signs of distress from the ones in the aquarium. They go about their normal activities until they just fall apart.”

Romagoa’s other worry is about vital starfish roles in the food chain.

“Most seastars are top predators so this will affect everything in the food chain below them. All populations that depend on the seastars as a control system will start going unchecked.”

“The biggest thing,” said Gibbs, “is getting photographic evidence to us.”

Pictures can be sent to [email protected] or [email protected]. Also visit vanaqua.org or aquablog.

— Cowichan News Leader/Black Press

Coast starfish dying in record numbersShaw Ocean Discovery Centre trying to determine the cause as samples shipped to universities

Submitted photo by Peter Luckham

A pink sea star shows the stress of the early stages of a mysterious wasting disease taking hold along North America’s northwestern Pacific shoreline.

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VOLUNTEERS

CATS CRADLE Animal Res-cue would appreciate a pet keeping and cleaning volun-teer to assist at a foster home for cats. Note that a vehicle is required to reach the home in North Saanich. Other positions available. Call Volunteer Vic-toria at 250-386-2269.

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PERSONAL SERVICES

VOLUNTEERS

THE MULTIPLE Sclerosis So-ciety is seeking a social media volunteer to develop a cam-paign from January to April, promoting their Vancouver Is-land walks in April. Call Volun-teer Victoria at 250-386-2269.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

PERSONAL SERVICES

MIND BODY & SPIRIT

Kripalu full body massage. Release your stress now. Over 13 years experience. Gift Cer-tifi cates. Women only. Holiday special. Professional. 250-514 -6223, www.andreakober.com

PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO

RETOUCH, RESTORE, Edit Photos. Home Movies to DVD. Also, Portraiture, Baby, Family + Maternity. 250-475-3332. www.cwpics.com

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

FRIENDLY FRANK

WARREN’S TRAINING manu-al, $5. Menopause hormone therapy, $10. (250)477-1819.

FUEL/FIREWOOD

ARBUTUS, CYPRESS, fi r, hardwoods. Seasoned. Call 250-661-7391.

MEDICAL SUPPLIES

2011 PEGASUS 4W Scooter. Excellent condition. $1900. Ask for Warren, 250-208-4392.

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MISCELLANEOUS WANTED

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SIDNEY 9805 2nd St- lrg south facing 1 bdrm apt. Ocean view, lrg full length bal-cony, in-suite laundry, guest suites, underground parking pet free, secure concrete building w/monitored entrance. No rental restriction, low con-do fees. (778)426-0007. Ex-cellent investment [email protected]

RENTALS

HOMES FOR RENT

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1966 CHEVY Pick up, 1/2 ton short box, burgundy. 3 in the tree, 6 cylinder. Good condi-tion, runs great, comes with second set of winter tires and rims. Second owner for last 45 years, in Victoria. $6,000 obo. Call: 250-479-0441 or email: [email protected]

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$$$ TOP CA$H PAID $$$. ForALL unwanted Vehicles, anycondition. Call (250)885-1427.

RECREATIONAL VEHICLESFOR SALE

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ACCOUNTINGVida Samimi

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(250)217-3090.ELECTRICIAN 30 yrs exp. New homes and Renos. Knob & tube replace-ment. Service calls. Senior’s Disc. Free est. Lic.#3003.

250-361-6193 Quality Electric Reno’s, res & comm. No job too small. Lic# 22779.

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KENDRA’S ELECTRICAL Co. #86952. No Job too Small. Kendra, 250-415-7991.

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ABBA EXTERIORS Gutter cleaning & repairs. Seniors discounts. WCB, Insured. Free estimates. (778)433-9275.

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$20 & Up Garbage & Garden waste removal. Senior Disc. Free estimates. 250-812-2279.

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Location, location, location.

You’ve heard it before, but what does it mean for house hunters on an island peninsula like Greater Victoria?

Even with the gamut of housing options between Oak Bay and Sooke, James Bay and North Saanich, there are still long-established rules that help determine the best buy for househunt-ers, says Tim Ayres, pres-ident-elect of the Victoria Real Estate Board.

“Probably the No. 1 determinant is close proximity to work and commute time,” Ayres says.

“The closer you are to work or opportunities for work, the better off you’re going to be.”

The obvious location features – proximity to water, view, lot size, access to recreation areas and amenities – are rare in combination, and most home buyers know they can’t have it all, Ayres says.

“I think everybody has

their particular location in mind. It’s usually the first question people ask themselves. Almost before, ‘How much can I afford,’ they’ll ask, ‘Where do I want to live?’”

But what if that detached Uplands man-sion on a half-acre threat-ens to break the bank? Try giving a little on one expectation and see what opens up, Ayres says.

“People always appre-

ciate being close to the beach, parks, trails, bike routes. Those are all huge considerations for any buyer,” he says.

Close proximity to a good school also ranks high for buyers with chil-dren, Ayres says.

But depending on the school district, students who aren’t living in the immediate area can still jump across boundaries. Best to call the school district before purchas-ing to confirm whether

this is possible.Another big location

consideration is vehicle noise, Ayres says.

Keep an ear open for heavy truck traffic with homes that border main driving arteries. (Open the windows to test noise levels from inside a home if suspicious.) And be sure to ask neigh-bours about any distract-ing decibels that could drive down home value.

“A busy street takes away value, whereas a

traffic-calmed street or neighbourhood is going to make your home more appealing,” Ayres says.

“Almost everyone has to do the balancing act between their ideal home and what they can afford.”

Ayres’ best advice to potential buyers?

Keep an open mind while nailing down the location factors that mat-ter most to you and your family.

-Daniel Palmer

Q: DO MEN OR WOMEN ENJOY HOUSEHUNTING

MORE?

HomeFinderFind a place to call home

BUYING TIP | Ask potential neighbours for the good and bad of the area before purchasing

Do you have a house-hunting story you’d like to share

with us? Email [email protected]

To advertise in HomeFinder, call John Graham at

250.480.3227 or email [email protected]

Location means more than geography

» $249,900

» $482,300» 3,433

He Said, She Said

A: More women (87%) report

enjoying the process of purchasing a new

home than men (77%).

Source: Prudential Real Estate Outlook Survey (Nov. 2013)

MOST AFFORDABLE WATERFRONT LISTING IN VICTORIA (FLOATHOME)

BENCHMARK PRICE FOR A SINGLE FAMILY HOME IN GREATER VICTORIA

TOTAL NUMBER OF HOMES LISTED IN ALL CATEGORIES

GREATER VICTORIA MARKET UPDATE »

Diana Parkhouse photo

A one-acre waterfront mansion may not be in the cards, but location is still one of the biggest influencers on new home purchase says Tim Ayres, Victoria Real Estate Board president-elect.

Proximity to work often the primary consideration for new buyers

VICTORIA606 Speed Ave, $215,000Saturday & Sunday 1-3Royal LePage Coast Capital RealtyScott Munro, 250 477-5353

5-1027 Belmont Ave, $639,000Saturday Jan 4, 1-3DFH Real Estate Ltd.Dennis Guevin, 250-477-7291

ESQUIMALT404-520 Foster St, $199,900!Jan 4 11-1Pemberton HolmesRick Couvelier, 250-477-0921

SAANICH EASTMidtown ParkSaturday & Sunday 12-4RE/MAX AllianceRon Neal, 250-386-8181

SAANICH WEST3795 Burnside Pl, $549,900Saturday January 4 1-3DFH Real Estate Ltd.Jenn Raappana, 250-590-3921

SAANICH PENINSULA110-10461 Resthaven, $164,900Sun Jan 5 11-1Pemberton HolmesRick Couvelier, 250-477-0921

WEST SHORE 3379 Vision Way, $339,900Saturday Jan. 4 & Sunday Jan. 5 1-3DFH Real Estate Ltd.Mike Hartshorne, 250-590-3921

3467 Happy Valley Rd.Saturday, Jan. 4 & Sunday, Jan. 5 12-4DFH Real Estate Ltd.Mike Hartshorne, 250-889-4445

OPEN HOUSES | JAN. 3 TO JAN. 8, 2014 more details in Real Estate Victoria, available FREE on news stands now

Select your home.Select your mortgage.

Oak Bay 250-370-7601Westshore 250-391-2933

Victoria 250-483-1360Sidney 250-655-0632

www.vericoselect.comChatterton Way 250-479-0688

3377 Vision Way, $339,900Saturday & Sunday Jan 4/5th 1-3DFH Real Estate Ltd.Jenn Raappana, 250-590-3921

3008 Dornier Rd.Saturday, Jan. 4 & Sunday Jan. 5 12-4DFH Real Estate Ltd.Mike Hartshorne, 250-889-4445

VICTORIA606 Speed Ave, $215,000Saturday & Sunday 1-3Royal LePage Coast Capital RealtyScott Munro, 250 477-5353

5-1027 Belmont Ave, $639,000Saturday Jan 4, 1-3DFH Real Estate Ltd.Dennis Guevin, 250-477-7291

ESQUIMALT404-520 Foster St, $199,900!Jan 4 11-1Pemberton HolmesRick Couvelier, 250-477-0921

SAANICH EASTMidtown ParkSaturday & Sunday 12-4RE/MAX AllianceRon Neal, 250-386-8181

SAANICH WEST3795 Burnside Pl, $549,900Saturday January 4 1-3DFH Real Estate Ltd.Jenn Raappana, 250-590-3921

SAANICH PENINSULA110-10461 Resthaven, $164,900Sun Jan 5 11-1Pemberton HolmesRick Couvelier, 250-477-0921

WEST SHORE 3379 Vision Way, $339,900Saturday Jan. 4 & Sunday Jan. 5 1-3DFH Real Estate Ltd.Mike Hartshorne, 250-590-3921

3467 Happy Valley Rd.Saturday, Jan. 4 & Sunday, Jan. 5 12-4DFH Real Estate Ltd.Mike Hartshorne, 250-889-4445

OPEN HOUSES | JAN. 3 TO JAN. 8, 2014 more details in Real Estate Victoria, available FREE on news stands now

Select your home.Select your mortgage.

Oak Bay 250-370-7601Westshore 250-391-2933

Victoria 250-483-1360Sidney 250-655-0632

www.vericoselect.comChatterton Way 250-479-0688

3377 Vision Way, $339,900Saturday & Sunday Jan 4/5th 1-3DFH Real Estate Ltd.Jenn Raappana, 250-590-3921

3008 Dornier Rd.Saturday, Jan. 4 & Sunday Jan. 5 12-4DFH Real Estate Ltd.Mike Hartshorne, 250-889-4445


6305270

83 Acre Farm with 1450’ of OceanfrontStunningly beautiful Woodside farm features 1450ft of ocean frontand 83.75 acres. One residence is 2,262 sqft the other a circa 1851apprx 3,844 sqft farm house. The Dutch Barn is approximately 5000sqft. It is a unique one of a kind offering adjacent to the Sooke townboundary. An amazing property with huge opportunity. $5,099,000

Build An Oceantfront DreamRARE opportunity to build an Oceanfront Estate in Victoria BC. This1.24 acre lot in Margaret’s Bay offers 195.5 feet of waterfront, withunobstructed 180 degree views across Haro Strait to the San Juan Is-lands.The choice location provides a panorama of mountain and islandviews. The neighbourhood is serene and private, close to UVIC and allamenities. A blank palette to create your dream! $1,775,000

Have Your Oceanfront and Swim There Too!Rare south facing Oceanfront! Amazing folding wall systemopens for an indoor-outdoor feel. Easy beach, access and yourown mooring buoy. Unwind in the Master suite, or paint in theairy studio. Enjoy the Sauna and relaxing hot tub. This is WestCoast Living at its very best...waiting just for you! $1,698,800

Escape to the Country A magnificent Schubart designed residence surrounded by 10 acres ofnatural beauty. Dream kitchen: custom cabinetry, elegant design, su-perior appliances. 2 excellent bedrooms & den. The lower floor has adelightful self-contained legal suite. A separate character farm house.Unspoiled beaches, golf courses, amazing outdoors & ocean activities.Just 30-minutes drive to downtown Victoria. $1,549,000

Almost New WaterfrontElegant.72 acre Oceanfront home features Control 4 lighting which in-tegrates lighting, music, shades, locks, climate control, and video. En-during construction is seen in the built-in cabinetry, and dark hardwoodplaced in a bright ambiance of voluminous rooms and custom kitchen!The convenient location blends all the best in life seamlessly!$1,099,995

Wright for Frank Newly updated contemporary Oceanfront masterpiece + dock. Ar-chitecturally designed taking advantage of the spectacular private lo-cation. Floor to sky windows create a true indoor-outdoor flow. At3200 sqft it will suit most circumstances & incl In Law. Once insidethe most discerning buyer will be wowed by the Artistry! $1,499,800

Song for the AskingPlaced high and peaceful, in tune with the land. This Architecturally de-signed one acre haven enjoys the best Ocean views over Sidney to JamesIsland, the Olympics, Mount Ranier, and the Saanich Inlet! The interiorof this light-bathed home is just as magical as the land that cradles it. Thisis a home for the thoughtful Executive, where fine living and an active,hiking-boating lifestyle exist in perfect Synergy. $989,000

I Can Sea Forever Ultimate Luxury this SW corner unit has panoramic Ocean views,and is so light and bright from all day sun. Three balconies! Thissteel & concrete building is second to none. It benefits from a worldclass restaurant and the full facilities of a 5-star hotel. You may evenrent your suite while you bask in the Caribbean winter sun. $963,800

A Honey of a Deal Custom 3006sqft home on a useable 1 acre featuring a spacious fam-ily room, elegant winding oak staircase, amazing lofty ceilings in theliving room with fireplace and hardwood flooring. The gourmet kitchenand dining area; offer a built-in oven, cook-top, and island for culinaryjoy. Downstairs there is even a spacious one bedroom ‘Sweet’!$675,000

NEW PRICE

BEST BUY!

www.ianheath.netExperience the Difference

Call Now to get TOP DOLLAR

for Your Home!

[email protected] Real Estate Inc.

Wishing You Love and Joy,and Best Wishes for a

Happy New Year.

[email protected] www.RonNeal.com

www.midtownpark.ca

$299,888TWO BEDROOMPRICING STARTS

AT JUST

Centrally located 750+ sq.ft. one-bedroom plus den 796 to 1,197 sq.ft. two-bedroom,two bath homes.

OCCUPANCYEXPECTED EARLY 2014

PRESENTATION

CENTRENOW OPENSAT & SUNNOON - 4 100%

FINANCING Available OAC

Hard Hat Tours By Appointment

Robert Buckle 250-385-2033N.A. TOLL FREE 1-888-886-1286

www.robertbuckle.com

U•R•B•A•N P•E•N•T•H•O•U•S•E$515,000

- UPSCALE LUXURY, concrete/steel building, attractive lobby- 2 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, 1458 sq ft- 2 Level/corner, huge roof garden for entertaining, afternoon sun, beautiful sunsets, gas BBQ

hookup & garden tap- MANY UPGRADES: custom fireplace, granite bar, Brazilian Cherrywood floors etc- SPECTACULAR CITY VIEWS - floor to ceiling windows,

very bright- Stroll to theatres, restaurants, the harbour, shopping- STUNNING, GREAT VALUE! MLS 328408.

IT’S • THAT • TIME • AGAIN......to thank my many clients and friends. It was my pleasure working with you

successfully throughout the year.

Wishing you the best for 2014

• Count on me with high expectations •


A whole, fresh pork leg is a budget-friendly choice for a variety of tasty meals!

FreshWholePork LegCanadian Grain FedBone In$2.20/kg

Adams

Peanut ButterAssorted500g

Weight Watchers

Smart Ones EntréesSelected124–311g

$3On Sale

Each$2

On Sale

Each

Danone

Activia Yogurt

Selected650g

$3On Sale

Each

Island Gold

Veggie Fed EggsLarge, WhiteDozen

$3On Sale

Each

SunRype

100% Juice or BlendsAssorted1L

$1On Sale

Each

BC Wild Coho Salmon

FilletsPreviously Frozen

$9.07/lb

Giant GrapefruitGrown in Texas

$9.07/lb

$2On Sale

Per

100g

Specials in Effect from Thursday, January 2nd to Tuesday, January 7th, 2014

On Sale

$1 Per

lb

On Sale

3for$2

Where this symbol appears, deposit & enviro levies are applicable.

3

peninsula news review, january 03, 2014

Documents

majority of council

council majority

special open council

residential housing

housing shortages

district of central

new housing units

affordable housing policy