by Annilee Armstrong –
News, changes, updates, launches? Email noteworthyseaside@gmail.com.
IN LOVING MEMORY
Mel Townley
On November 2, 2023, we lost the man who helped pioneer specialty coffee on the Saanich Peninsula. Mel Townley helped start Fresh Cup Roastery Café as their original Roastmaster back in 2000, and worked tirelessly with his family to help shape the award-winning coffees they continue to serve today. His son Jim Townley, who oversees daily operations at the Saanichton café, has announced a Limited Edition “Roastmasters Blend” for the Christmas season, along with a limited Bourbon Brulee Cask Conditioned coffee, in honor of his dad. For more information, email freshlyroasted@shaw.ca.
NORTH SAANICH NEWS
Welcome to the new CAO
The District of North Saanich is pleased to announce that Council has appointed Stephanie Munro as the new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), following a comprehensive recruitment process. Stephanie was appointed to the position on November 6.
Parks Plan
An online survey is available to share your experiences with North Saanich parks and what is important to you for the future. Share your thoughts, perspectives and help set the direction. Residents can also fill out a hard copy at Municipal Hall. Online registration can be found at https://tinyurl.com/ydf3rmr3
CENTRAL SAANICH NEWS
Increasing Housing Flexibility in the ALR
The District of Central Saanich is looking to change zoning bylaws on ALR land to more closely align with recently updated provincial policies. As a result of provincial changes in legislation for the Agricultural Land Reserve, local governments may now consider permitting up to three dwelling units on a single property. This could include a principal dwelling, a secondary suite in the principal dwelling, and a detached accessory dwelling, such as a cottage or carriage house. The District is seeking public input on options via www.LetsTalkCentralSaanich.ca and at Municipal Hall. The survey is available until December 15, 2023.
SIDNEY NEWS
Congratulations
Congratulations to Small Gods Brewing, located at 9835 Third Street, on their Specialty award at the BC Beer Awards! They won the category for Innovator of the Year. www.smallgods.ca
Driver Services
The Town of Sidney offers a local Driver Services branch, located at 9884 Third Street in Sidney. Due to a staffing shortage, Sidney Driver Services will be operating on reduced hours. Current Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with a 30-minute closure from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
THANK YOU
I wish to express my deep gratitude to this community for allowing me to be a part of the community news. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time writing for the Seaside Magazine and getting a deeper feel for this wonderful place we’re blessed to call home. It is time for me to pass the torch (or pen?) on to another – watch for John Kernaghan’s first column in the January issue. I will keep reading my favourite magazine and look forward to the next chapter.