Sooke 2030 Climate Action Plan: Implementation

The District of Sooke is reminding community organizations of the upcoming deadline to apply for the 2025 Community Grants Program. This program provides funding to support local initiatives that benefit the community.

Notably, the former Climate Action Seed Funding Program has now been incorporated into the Community Grants Program to streamline processes and better manage staff resources. As a result, projects focused on community climate action are encouraged to apply under this initiative. This integration aims to support innovative solutions that contribute to climate resilience and sustainability within Sooke.

Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to review the application guidelines and submit their proposals before the deadline.

• Deadline: March 15, 2025
• Apply Here: https://sooke.ca/district-of-sooke-invites-applications-for-2025-community-grants/

Don't miss this opportunity to secure funding for your community project! We look forward to receiving your applications.

Residents of Sooke can access up to $1,000 in rebates for taking steps to protect their homes and properties from wildfire. The FireSmart Rebate Program, supported by the District of Sooke, provides reimbursement for 50% of eligible expenses up to $1,000 to encourage homeowners to implement recommended wildfire mitigation measures and enhance community safety.

This initiative is made possible through funding from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Community Resiliency Investment (CRI) program under the FireSmart Community Funding & Supports stream. This funding helps communities reduce wildfire risks and build long-term resilience.

To qualify for the rebate, residents must first book a free FireSmart Home Assessment through Sooke Fire Rescue by calling 250-642-5422. During this assessment, the District’s Certified FireSmart Coordinator will identify specific actions property owners can take to reduce wildfire risk.

Eligible Expenses for Reimbursement Include:

• Removal of combustible vegetation and debris (e.g., branches, leaves, etc.)
• Upgrading landscaping with fire-resistant plants and materials
• Replacing combustible fencing, decks, or siding with non-combustible alternatives
• Installing ember-resistant vents and screens
• Clearing and maintaining defensible space around structures

“The FireSmart Rebate Program is an incredible opportunity for residents to take proactive steps in safeguarding their properties against wildfire,” says Madison Crawford, District of Sooke FireSmart Program Coordinator and Fire/Life Safety Inspector. “By making small but impactful changes, homeowners can significantly enhance their home’s resilience while contributing to the overall safety of our community.”

Residents are encouraged to act early, as rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis while funding lasts.

Exciting news for families in Sooke! The Walking School Bus (WSB) is launching on February 12th in collaboration with École Poirier Elementary. This pilot initiative provides a safe, active, and fun way for students to get to and from school while fostering community connections and reducing traffic congestion.

How It Works

A Walking School Bus is a group of children walking to school together, led by responsible and trained adult Walk Leaders. The route will have designated stops and scheduled times for morning pickups and afternoon drop-offs. Check out the map to find your stop and ensure you’re ready to join!

Walking School Bus Route Details

• Stop #1: Sooke District Office Parking Lot – AM Pickup: 7:40 AM | PM Drop-off: 3:30 PM
• Stop #2: Stickleback Trail @ Townsend Road – AM Pickup: 8:15 AM | PM Drop-off: 3:20 PM
• Stop #3: Rhodonite Road @ Church Road – AM Pickup: 8:25 AM | PM Drop-off: 3:10 PM
• Stop #4: École Poirier Elementary Front Entrance – AM Drop-off: 8:40 AM | PM Pick-up: 2:40 PM (leave at 2:55 PM)

Join the Fun – Volunteer Today!

More volunteers to support the group and help grow participation are appreciated! If you are interested in joining as a Walk Leader or signing your child up to join the walking school bus, please contact Emma with the Society for Children and Youth BC at walkingschoolbus@scyofbc.org.

Let’s make the Walking School Bus a success together—see you on the walk!

For more details on the Walking School Bus program through SYCBC, visit: SCY of BC Walking School Bus.

Acknowledgements

A huge thank you to the Society of Children and Youth BC (SYCBC) for coordinating this initiative and making it possible with funding provided by the Province of BC. Their dedication to child-friendly communities ensures that programs like the Walking School Bus can thrive.

Community comes together for groundbreaking of Little River Pedestrian Crossing and Multi Use Trail Project

Today, the District of Sooke celebrated a significant milestone in the development of the Little River Pedestrian Crossing and Multi-Use Trails Project with a groundbreaking ceremony. The event brought together community leaders, representatives from T’Sou-ke Nation, and local school children to mark the start of this transformational $2.7 million investment.

The ceremony featured T’Sou-ke Elder Jackie Planes-Deyaeger, who provided a blessing, and included T’Sou-ke Nation Chief Larry Underwood, MLA Dana Lajeunesse, Sooke School District 62 Board Trustees Cendra Beaton (Chair) and Ebony Logins, Secretary-Treasurer Brian Jonker, Journey Middle School Principal Darren Russell, Poirier Elementary School Principal Tess Vally, Poirier PAC President Jen Temple and Poirier Walking School Bus Leader Gen Evelyn, alongside District of Sooke Mayor and Council members, and enthusiastic students from Poirier Elementary School, all highlighting the collaborative effort behind this initiative.

Mayor Tait led the ceremony thanking the numerous partners including the members of the former Parks and Trails Committee and members of the Juan de Fuca Community Trails Society who initiated project consideration, and Chief Larry Underwood, David Planes and Billy Mobley who provided cultural and environmental guidance leading to today’s milestone.

She also expressed her gratitude to both the Federal and Provincial governments for their respective $1.3 million and $500,000 investments, acknowledging that remaining project funding is coming from developer contributions and Casino Reserve Funds. “Progressing a project of this scale for a community of our size with such a minimal impact on the immediate tax base, really limited to staff support, is an accomplishment in itself,” said Mayor Maja Tait. “It is an honour to share in today’s celebration with such a remarkable team who are our partners and true builders of community.”

“Little River Crossing symbolizes the connection of people, place, and culture,” said T’Sou-ke Nation Chief Larry Underwood. “It reminds us of the importance of working together to create a vibrant, connected community while honouring the rich cultural history of the area through interpretive signage.”

Once completed, the crossing will provide a safe and accessible pedestrian link between the Sunriver Neighbourhood, Poirier Elementary and Journey Middle Schools, and Sooke’s town core. It will provide a 600-metre pedestrian friendly route, offering a significant alternative to the current four-kilometre vehicle route on Highway 14 to travel the same corridor today.

Sooke School District Board Chair, Cendra Beaton, shared her enthusiasm: “This project is so much more than a bridge—it’s a pathway to learning, community, and environmental stewardship. We’re excited for the opportunities this will create for our students and families.”

Jen Temple, Poirier Parent Advisory Committee President, emphasized the importance of the crossing for families adding, “This project will transform how many students and parents travel to school. It offers a safer, greener way to connect with our community.”

In an earlier statement, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities soke about the project, “Canada is known for its natural beauty and rich cultural history. We’re proud to support projects that honour that while better connecting our communities. Improving the trail network surrounding (Little River) will help Sooke residents and visitors alike get around safely and enjoy all that the area has to offer. We will continue to invest in active transportation infrastructure improvements across the country that make life better for Canadians.”

MLA Dana Lajeunesse echoed these sentiments, “The Little River Pedestrian Crossing is a perfect example of how provincial partnerships can create meaningful change for local communities. I look forward to seeing how this project inspires residents to choose active transportation options.”

Construction on the project is beginning immediately, with substantial completion anticipated this fall. Project updates will be provided to the community through the District’s website.

“The Little River Pedestrian Crossing represents a brighter future for Sooke. By investing in active transportation infrastructure, we’re connecting neighbourhoods, creating safe routes for families, and fostering a healthier, more sustainable community,” said Tait.

For more information, please visit the project web page:

• Little River Multi-Use Trail Project

Additional Resources:

• Mayoral Remarks: Little River Crossing
• Quick Fact Sheet: Little River Crossing
• Project Drawings

The District of Sooke is pleased to announce the successful approval of a $150,000 grant from the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF), administered by the Union of BC Municipalities and supported by the Province of British Columbia. This funding will support the development of a Climate Adaptation and Natural Hazard Risk Assessment (CANHRA), a foundational step in strengthening emergency preparedness and climate resilience.

“The District of Sooke is committed to proactively planning for the future by identifying climate and natural hazard risks and ensuring that our community is prepared to respond and adapt,” says Ryland Bennett, Emergency Program Manager. “This grant allows us to take meaningful steps in assessing and addressing vulnerabilities while ensuring that our emergency management strategies align with best practices and legislative requirements.

This project will inform updates on mitigation, recovery, response, and business continuity plans while shaping emergency management training and exercises in our community.

Collaboration with T’Sou-ke First Nation will be an important part of this work, ensuring Indigenous knowledge and traditional practices are incorporated into emergency planning. By working together, the District aims to build a more resilient and inclusive framework that strengthens regional emergency preparedness.

Recent years have demonstrated the growing threat of climate-related emergencies, including record-breaking heatwaves, cold snaps, atmospheric rivers, rising wildfire activity, and prolonged drought conditions. The increasing frequency and intensity of these events highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive understanding of risks and vulnerabilities. At the same time, Sooke is experiencing notable population growth and infrastructure expansion, making it essential that planning efforts account for emerging climate-related challenges. The CANHRA will provide a critical framework to guide future development, ensuring that new infrastructure and community initiatives are resilient and sustainable.

“This initiative is an important step forward for our community,” adds Bennett. “We are grateful for this funding and excited to begin the work of strengthening our emergency preparedness in a way that is thoughtful, inclusive, and informed by the latest data and best practices.”

Read more from the Province here:

• Funding helps build resilient communities through stronger climate adaptation

The District of Sooke is excited to announce the launch of its Bike Rack for Business Program, a pilot project to support local businesses and promote sustainable transportation. Through this initiative, a limited number of public bike racks will be fabricated and provided (installation included) to local businesses at no cost, funded through the District’s Climate Action Program.

Businesses interested in receiving a bike rack can submit an online application form to express their interest. This is a great opportunity to enhance accessibility for customers, promote eco-friendly transportation, and contribute to the District’s efforts to reduce emissions and create a more sustainable community.

“We’re providing another option for easier access to connect with and support local businesses. When talking with businesses to inform the Community Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan, business operators identified a limited bike parking as a barrier,” says Community Economic Development Officer Gail Scott. “We’re happy to alleviate one obstacle as we continue to grow our local economy and support multi-modal transportation options.”

The program is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so businesses are encouraged to apply early.

How to Apply:

Interested businesses can submit their online application to express their interest in participating in the program. The program will remain open until all units are claimed.

Program funding is provided by the provincial Local Government Climate Action Program.

Learn more:

• Bike Rack for Business Program Information page
• Bike Rack for Business Application Form
• District of Sooke Climate Action Plan Implementation Information page: letstalk.sooke.ca/Sooke2030

The District of Sooke is pleased to announce that Council has directed staff to proceed with the awarding of the tender for the Little River Pedestrian Crossing Project to Regehr Contracting Ltd. after a competitive bidding process. This project will enhance pedestrian connectivity and safety, serving as an important link in our community’s transportation network, and is being funded outside District of Sooke tax dollars, led by $1.3 million in funding from the Federal Government through an Active Transportation Grant.

The Little River Crossing and Multi-Use Trail Project is a pedestrian crossing over DeMamiel Creek, referred to as “Little River” by T’Sou-ke Nation, also includes a supporting trail system to increase connectivity between the Sunriver Neighbourhood and nearby schools, as well as Sooke’s town core. It will form a critical connection for the Sunrun Trail, as identified in the District’s Parks and Trails Master Plan, and provide an alternative transportation option to help alleviate vehicle travel on Highway 14. The project will also incorporate interpretive signage to educate users on the cultural and natural history of the area.

Key Project Details:

• Contractor: Regehr Contracting Ltd
• Construction Budget: $2 million
• Funding Breakdown:
  • $1.3 million – Federal Active Transportation Funds
  • $500,000 – Provincial Active Transportation Funds
  • Remaining portion – Parks Development Cost Charges (Developer contributions), Growing B.C. Fund, Casino Reserves Fund
• Project Timeline:
  • January to February 2025: Site preparation (in advance of bird nesting season March to June).
  • Spring 2025: Trail and boardwalk construction begins.
  • August 1 to September 15, 2025: Bridge and instream works conducted around the fisheries window.
  • Fall 2025: Substantial completion.

“This milestone marks an exciting step forward in the development of Sooke’s trail systems,” said Mayor Maja Tait. “It reflects our commitment to creating a walkable, connected community while protecting and enhancing our natural environment, and providing alternative means to get around Sooke to lessen reliance on Highway 14.”

The new trail and bridge will connect the east and west portions of the community by Poirier Elementary and Journal Middle Schools, facilitating pedestrian travel between Sooke’s Town Core and the Sunriver Neighbourhood including the expanding recreation site at Ravens Ridge Park. The Little River Crossing will not only provide a safe and scenic route for pedestrian travel but also encourage outdoor activity and ease transportation challenges by offering a sustainable, active transportation option.

Related resources:

• District Grant Application Information page

More About Little River Crossing and Multi-Use Trail Project:

• Little River Multi-Use Trail Project Information Page
• November 5, 2024: Project Update: Little River Pedestrian Crossing – Now Accepting Tenders
• September 27, 2024: District of Sooke Moves Forward with Little River Multi-Use Trail Project
• April 19, 2024: Project Update: Little River Crossing and Multi-Use Trail
• March 25, 2024: Province Announces $1 Million Investment in Active Transportation for Sooke
• December 6, 2023: Federal government supports active transportation infrastructure upgrades in Sooke
• December 7, 2020: Project update: Progress being made on Sun Run Trail, which aims to connect Sunriver to town core
• July 27, 2020: News Release: Phase 1 of Demamiel Creek Pedestrian Crossing now open

The District of Sooke is proud to support the Baby & Toddler Supplies Swap, hosted by Zero Waste Sooke (part of Transition Sooke) at the Sooke Library. This community-driven event promotes sustainability, affordability, and connection by providing families with gently used baby and toddler supplies.

Event Details:

• Donation Drop-off: January 19–25, 2025
  Donations of gently used baby and toddler supplies (clothing, toys, books, etc.) can be dropped off at the Sooke Library during this period.
• Supplies Swap: Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Families are invited to visit the Sooke Library Multipurpose Room to browse and take what they need from the collected donations

The event is open to all and aims to foster a sense of community while supporting sustainable practices. By reusing and sharing, participants can reduce waste, save money, and help others in the process.

“The District of Sooke is proud to support this initiative,” says Mayor Maja Tait. “Events like this strengthen our community, promote sustainability, and provide tangible support to families.”

Location:
Sooke Library, 6671 Wadams Way - Multipurpose Room

We look forward to seeing you there!

The District of Sooke is pleased to share that Zero Waste Sooke, part of Transition Sooke, will be hosting their popular Repair Café on Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the downstairs dining hall of the

A skilled volunteer works on a small appliance during a community Repair Café event (Photo credit: Transition Sooke)

Sooke Community Hall.

This free, community-driven event invites residents to bring in items that need repair instead of discarding them, helping to reduce waste while fostering practical skills. From small household appliances to clothing and other items, skilled volunteers will be on hand to guide participants through the repair process, promoting learning and sustainability.

What to bring:

• Lamps or small electronics that no longer work
• Clothing with tears or missing buttons
• Tools or equipment in need of maintenance
• Other household items that might otherwise end up in the landfill
  

“Repair Cafés are a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together, share knowledge, and keep useful items out of the landfill,” said Christina Moog, Manager of Communications and Community Relations with the District of Sooke. “Events like this reflect Sooke’s commitment to sustainability and consideration for a zero-waste future.”

Participants are encouraged to bring their items early, as repairs are handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Whether you’re handy with a sewing needle, intrigued by how small appliances work, or simply want to reduce your waste, the Repair Café is an inclusive event for everyone.

For more information about the event, please visit the Transition Sooke website.

Together, we can repair, reuse, and reduce waste!

Monday, December 9, 2024 - Climate Action To-Go Kits contain tools and activities to help you take action on climate change at home. Kits have been recently updated to include NEW Thermal Imaging Cameras!

Each kit contains resources and activities for you to:

• Measure household appliance electricity use with a Kill-A-Watt meter
• Discover air leaks in walls and around windows using a thermal leak detector
• Measure your home’s optimal lighting using a digital illuminance light meter
• Tune up a bike or track steps while learning about local active transportation routes
• Test showerhead water efficiency
• Identify native species of plants and animals in the region
• Audit your household's waste habits
• Measure the moisture, pH and sunlight conditions of your outdoor space
• Learn about expected climate changes while preparing for both adaptation and emergencies
• And more!

Find the digital copy of the activity guide here (PDF)

The NEW Thermal Imaging Camera Kits can help you identify hot and cold spots in your home, indicating where air leaks are occurring.
Use this kit to expose heat loss, improve energy efficiency, and save money!

Find the digital copy of the thermal imaging guidebook here (PDF)

This program is made possible through a collaborative partnership with the Capital Regional District and the Vancouver Island Regional Library. To learn more and explore additional resources, visit:

• Climate Action To-Go Kits | CRD

Sign out a kit today the Sooke Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library, located at 6671 Wadams Way.