Almost 80 people are currently packed into the Capital Regional District (CRD) Board Meeting, where the full board is discussing matters that will impact the future of our region’s farmlands and forests. Over 150 people were turned away as they tried to attend the meeting too.

A large crowd gathered to share food and build community outside of the CRD offices. Chants of “Stop the Sprawl” filtered up to the CRD board room, where I am sure directors could hear us.

Today's board meeting has two key agenda items which will have a big impact on the future of urban sprawl in the region.

The first motion calls for stronger tools for the CRD as a whole to enforce the Regional Growth Strategy. This is the same regional growth strategy that would  be violated by the proposed Marine Trail Holding Development next to the Juan de Fuca Trail. The second motion would start the process to amend the board structure so that the entire board would have a say in the future of Rural Resource Lands - an area of significant importance for the regions wilderness and biodiversity. The Rural resource lands include the Juan de Fuca Forests lands and key areas like Muir Creek, Avatar Grove, the REd  Creek Fir, and the Juan de Fuca trail.

Over 30 people signed up to present to the board on the issues associated with the project. The sheer number of people who are concerned about this project continues to inspire and motivate me. And I am sure the CRD board is taking note, and listening to our concerns.

The board is currently in an in camera session discussion the motions on the table.

Stay tuned for the outcome of the meeting!

If you have not had a chance yet, please write a letter today.

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Tria Donaldson, Pacific Coast Campaigner