Year-End Message from the Mayor
As we approach the end of 2023, I want to review some of the achievements we’ve celebrated as a community. I’m proud and grateful for the progress we’ve made together.
One standout accomplishment this year has been the signing of the Aquifer 560 Watershed Agreement with the SCRD. The final agreement promises positive impacts on our ability to monitor and ensure sustainable stewardship of the aquifer and watershed in Gibsons. This collaboration will also play a crucial role in working with the Squamish Nation on provincial watershed security and protecting the aquifer recharge area.
Another highlight was the recognition from the Community Energy Association for our Natural Asset Management as a Climate Adaptation Approach, with an award presented to the Town during the Union of BC Municipalities Conference. It’s a testament to our commitment to innovative climate work at the local level and showcases Gibsons as a forward-thinking community.
I am pleased about the progress made on affordable housing projects in Gibsons. In July, we broke ground at 824 Kiwanis Way for the first phase of the 76-unit affordable housing project for seniors. The Shaw Road affordable housing is also coming along, and Phase 1 is expected to be completed in 2024. These are both huge steps in the right direction for our community in tackling the current housing crisis. More work needs to be done, and we’re also actively working on future projects, including supporting Phase Two of Shaw Road.
Furthermore, with support from BC Housing, we have innovatively established a Homeless Outreach Program to connect people who are homeless or are at risk of homelessness with housing and services.
Beyond housing, our advocacy efforts have extended to healthcare, childcare, mental health, BC Ferries, highways, water and more. Countless meetings, letters, and presentations have been dedicated to advancing solutions for our community’s challenges.
One of our first actions as a new Council was to improve public participation, and we are pleased with what has come as a result. Our Community Dialogues have been well attended and have fostered constructive and inclusive conversation. Looking ahead, we are partnering with the SFU Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue to engage a citizens’ assembly for public input into the development of our Official Community Plan Update over the next year.
I would also like to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of our Student Representatives on Council, Colten Rockford and Cael Read. Their commitment to advocacy on issues that matter to Sunshine Coast youth is impressive and inspiring.
And finally, I would like to thank our residents and businesses for making Gibsons the place it is. We are lucky to have such a passionate, active, artistic and caring community. Here’s to more shared successes and collaborative efforts in the coming year.
On behalf of staff and Council, I would like to wish everyone a safe and healthy holiday season and a wonderful new year.
Sincerely,
Silas White, Mayor of Gibsons
