Gabriola Sounder Q&A #2

1. On Nov. 09, 2021, the Saltspring Island LTC voted to defer enforcement activities for all unlawful dwellings being used for residential purposes. The Gabriola LTC is considering the adoption of a similar measure for Gabriola Island. Do you support this step, and - if it is adopted - would you continue it if elected?

Susan Yates: I support the intent of this Resolution, but not as it is currently written. It has received feedback from the APC, the HAPC, and Planning and Enforcement staff, and I hope the LTC decides on a modified version of the Motion. If I were elected, I would also want the new Gabriola LTC to review it to gauge its effect and continue or make adjustments as required.

2. If you are elected as Island Trustee, what kinds of initiatives do you think can be brought forward by the Trust to increase affordable housing stock on Gabriola?

Susan Yates: The question says ‘the Trust’ and not specifically the Gabriola LTC, so I would refer to recent Council Motions and advocacy work with the province on affordable housing. This past Tuesday the UBCM supported Trust Council’s Motion EB24: Affordable Housing Support for Rural Area. Now is the time to work with the Regional Districts on Housing Authorities and with BC Housing to recognize that current funding formulas do not match Trust Area household incomes and that housing as investment at the expense of people who need homes is unacceptable.

3. How do (or should we) change our approach to the housing shortage on Gabriola?

Susan Yates: We can change our approach to affordable housing on Gabriola by updating our OCP and Land Use Bylaws to reflect the need and the interest for more flexible and environmentally sound housing provisions, e.g.: co-ops, co-housing, tiny homes, residential use in commercial areas, and housing agreements to ensure affordability. We should support housing advocates and groups so that innovative ideas are always forthcoming and put to use wherever possible.