Homeowners for Saanich’s EDPA group to rally Monday urging Mayor and Council to restore 2012 bylaw. Photo: Times Colonist.
A rally is planned Monday by Saanich residents calling on council to restore the Environmental Development Permit Area bylaw.
Council voted 5-4 last weekend to scrap the EDPA, which was passed in 2012 to protect sensitive ecosystems on 2,200 single family properties.
In a statement, Larry Wartels from a group calling itself ‘Homeowners for Saanich’s EDPA’ says the bylaw should not be taken away because it protects and respects homeowners’ rights.
Wartels also says the EDPA protects home property values along with green space, trees, and habitat.
The bylaw faced criticism for being a complicated bureaucratic system and being too restrictive for homeowners.
A draft report to look at a new biodiversity strategy was approved by Saanich Council, which may also include a new EPDA bylaw.
The rally is planned for 6:30 pm at Saanich Municipal Hall.
Andy Neal
