Words June Murray Dagnall
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Outgrowing the Past and Building the Future
A standing priority in the Town of Sidney’s Strategic Plan is replacing the Town Hall. Built in 1964, the aging building is increasingly costly to maintain and no longer meets functional or accessibility needs.
A 2025 independent assessment found that extending its life by 40 years would require major upgrades, including new mechanical and electrical systems, structural work, an elevator, seismic improvements and exterior updates.
The cost of these renovations would be comparable to building a new facility without the benefits of a modern, accessible design. Currently, much of Town Hall is not accessible, and Council Chambers are too small for public participation. A new Town Hall would provide full accessibility, larger and more welcoming public spaces, improved Council Chambers, and flexible work areas to meet future needs.
Residents Asked to Weigh In on Rec Centre Plan
Sidney residents are being asked to weigh in on a proposal to borrow up to $14.2 million for a new recreation centre in Central Saanich. The cost would be shared by Sidney, Central Saanich and North Saanich through the Peninsula Recreation Commission, which manages local facilities.
The new centre, planned near Centennial Park, would add fitness, studio and multi-purpose space to help relieve pressure on existing amenities such as Panorama Recreation Centre.
Precision
Cuts and Timeless Finds
At Mankind Barbers, grooming is just the beginning. This barbershop now features a curated gift gallery for the modern man, blending craftsmanship, quality and style.
Discover premium leather goods, handcrafted grooming bags and high-quality knives sourced from local bladesmiths. The collection also includes sterling silver jewelry, sunglasses, hats and distinctive accessories. Alongside expert haircuts, beard sculpting and traditional shaves, clients can relax in a licensed lounge with a craft beer, Americano
or latte.
Friends of Sidney Parks
Have you noticed ivy choking trees and crowding our native plants? Invasive species such as English ivy, daphne and Himalayan blackberry compete aggressively for light, nutrients, water and space, harming native ecosystems, disrupting wildlife habitats and reducing soil health. This can lead to increased erosion, particularly along our foreshores and stream edges.
The newly formed Friends of Sidney Parks, with full support from the Town, is working to restore biodiversity in our local parks by removing invasive plants and encouraging the growth of native species. Contact friendsofsidneyparks@gmail.com.
Jumpstart Fundraiser
On June 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., your North Saanich Canadian Tire will be hosting a fundraising event, with all proceeds going to Jumpstart. Come meet LEGO Certified Professional Robin Sather, who will be crafting a LEGO™ Big Build creation, build your own Canadian flag to take home, or enjoy a North Saanich Firesmart barbecue by donation.
Fresh Name, Fresh Energy!
Rebranded as V Gallery & Framing, Village Gallery on Beacon Avenue in Sidney has been revitalized under the ownership of Michelle Ford. Bringing fresh energy to the local arts community, the artist and long-time resident continues to showcase the gallery as West Coast art by West Coast artists, traditional with the addition of a new contemporary vision. With a framing and art material background, Michelle has added Art of Supply, a finely curated selection of art materials.
New Hotel Now Open
A new hotel has officially opened in Sidney, just minutes from Victoria International Airport. The TownePlace Suites by Marriott Sidney, a $35-million, 129-room extended-stay property, held its grand opening on May 4. Located at Pat Bay Highway and Stirling Way, the three-storey hotel offers studio to two-bedroom suites with full kitchens and workspaces, designed for both short and long stays. Amenities include a fitness centre, pool and meeting space for business and leisure guests. Developed by the Ontario-based Kothari Group in its first Greater Victoria project, the hotel aims to serve growing travel demand. A 5,000-square-foot restaurant is also planned for the site, with construction expected to begin in June 2026.
New Business of the Month
Sidney Hearing Clinic proudly provides personalized, professional hearing care to the local community. They offer free hearing tests and consultations, along with a wide range of modern hearing aids and promotions to fit clients’ needs and budget. Now accepting new clients; visit 2440 Bevan Avenue in Sidney, call
778-351-2222 or email info@sidneyhearingclinic.ca.
