Sooke 2030 Climate Action Plan: Implementation

A part of the 25^th Anniversary Community Day Celebration!

Curious about heat pumps? Wondering if your home is ready for an energy retrofit? Whether you’re planning renovations or just starting to explore, the Sooke Retrofit Community Festival is your chance to connect with leading experts and get practical advice on making your home more energy efficient.

Taking place on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Woodside Farm (7149 West Coast Road, Sooke), this one-day event offers expert-led panels, contractor demos, and hands-on guidance for residents interested in reducing energy bills, increasing comfort, and improving home performance.

Funded through the Local Government Climate Action Program, the Retrofit Festival is about equipping Sooke residents with the tools, support, and knowledge to take climate-wise steps at their own pace.

“The Retrofit Festival is one way we’re looking to the future—equipping our residents with the information and resources to make energy-smart choices at their own pace,” says Chris Marshall, Director of Planning and Development for the District of Sooke. “We recognize that not everyone is ready to make these investments today. But for those who are, or are just starting to explore their options, we want to ensure they feel supported, informed, and empowered to take action that benefits both their household and the environment.”

Expert Panel Schedule

(Presentation Tents – inside Woodside Farm Grounds)

Living Library & Expert Alley – Open 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Meet the Panelists:

• Liam Butters – Ecology Consulting: A Professional Engineer and Certified Energy Manager with deep expertise in building science and energy performance. Liam helps homeowners and businesses balance practical realities with energy efficiency goals.
• Mark Bernhardt – Bernhardt Contracting: A leading voice in Canada’s high-performance building movement, Mark is a Passive House Consultant who develops tools, trains builders, and promotes the adoption of energy-efficient construction practices.
• Jeffrey Robinson – Canadian Association of Certified Energy Advisors: An experienced energy advisor and Red Seal carpenter who has completed more than 1,000 EnerGuide evaluations. Jeffrey specializes in supporting both new builds and renovations with education-first guidance.
• Wendy Wall – Vancouver Island Strata Owners Association: As president of a long-standing non-profit supporting strata owners, Wendy helps residents of duplexes, townhouses, and condos navigate rebates, legal steps, and planning considerations for energy retrofits and EV charging infrastructure.
• Cameron Lockhart – CarbonWise Consulting: With over a decade in the trades and six years as an energy advisor, Cameron brings practical insight into retrofitting homes for climate goals—especially for those undertaking larger-scale or phased upgrades.

Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or strata council member, this is your opportunity to get inspired, get informed, and take your next step toward a more efficient home. For Retrofit Festival details, visit: citygreen.ca/projects/sooke-retrofit-community-festival View the Retrofit Festival Experience Programme Brochure: Retrofit Festival Brochure Sooke (PDF) To learn more about the 25^th Anniversary Community Day Celebration, visit: sooke.ca/events.

The District of Sooke is supporting Liveable Futures, a free two-part workshop series to help residents take practical, affordable climate action.

Join us at WorkLink (2096 Church Road) from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31 and Saturday, June 14.

“This is a chance to learn together, connect with neighbours, and take steps—big or small—that feel right for you,” says Christina Moog, Manager of Communications and Community Relations.

Workshops include tips to reduce emissions, save money, and access rebates. Open to Sooke residents 18+. Registration is on a sliding scale.

Learn more and register: fireweedlearningcommons.ca/workshop

Whether you have a patio, balcony, or small backyard, you can grow fresh vegetables, fruits, and flowers right at home! The District, in partnership with the Compost Education Centre and Vancouver Island Regional Library, invites residents to attend a free Container Gardening Workshop on Thursday, June 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Sooke Library.

Perfect for beginners or seasoned gardeners looking to expand their skills, this hands-on session will explore:

• The best types of containers for healthy plants
• Soil and nutrient tips for maximum growth
• Top varieties of vegetables, fruits, and flowers to grow in containers

Participants will gain practical knowledge on how to create and maintain productive container gardens that bring nourishment and beauty into any space.

This workshop is part of a complimentary community education series designed to support local food security and climate resilience in Sooke.

Pre-registration is required. Sign up here: virl.bc.ca/event/container-gardening/

The District of Sooke invites local organizations, businesses, and community groups to participate in the 2025 Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM alongside the opening day of the Sooke Country Market on the greenspace beside Fire Station One (2225 Otter Point Road).

This family-friendly event will bring the community together to celebrate sustainability, environmental stewardship, and climate action—key pillars of the District’s Climate Action Plan, which envisions a resilient and low-carbon community that protects and regenerates the natural environment while fostering a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable local economy.

We are seeking additional participants to showcase initiatives, offer interactive activities, and engage with the community on solutions for a healthier planet.

A fantastic lineup of organizations has already signed up, including:

• BC Transit
• Fireweed Learning Commons
• Friends of Sooke Parks Society
• 606 Water Group
• Sooke Branch - Vancouver Island Regional Library
• Sooke Region Museum and Visitor Information Centre
• Transition Sooke
• Wild Wise Society

Join these incredible organizations in making a difference! Whether you’re a local business promoting sustainable products, an environmental group sharing conservation efforts, or an educator with hands-on learning activities, we welcome your participation.

Each registered participant will be provided with a table, chairs, and a tent (unless otherwise requested). Spaces will be set up by 8:30 AM, and participants are asked to have their setup complete by 9:45 AM before the event officially begins at 10:00 AM.

This event, in partnership with the Sooke Country Market’s opening day, highlights the importance of sustainable local economies. Supporting local food producers and artisans is a key action in the District’s Climate Action Plan, which calls for a vibrant, climate-resilient food system to reduce our carbon footprint and strengthen community well-being.

Please sign up online for the April 26th event or call 250.642.1634.

Come be a part of Sooke’s Earth Day Celebration and help inspire a greener future!

For more on the Sooke Country Market or to sign up as a Sooke Country Market Season vendor, please see their website:

• www.sookecountrymarket.com

Event contact:
Christina Moog
Manager, Communications and Community Relations
Tel: 250.642.1634, ext. 678
cmoog@sooke.ca

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