It’s the first time in 25 years that Saanich will use the alternate approval process (AAP) to borrow $9.6 million for five infrastructure projects.
Taxpayers would be wise to familiarize themselves with what many citizens around the province view as an anti-democratic, half-measure.
Council could have incorporated the projects into its operations budget or go to a referendum to get approval to borrow. An AAP saves money and is expedient, but lacks sufficient democratic safeguards.
The $9.615 million will be used to fund a portion of the sewer capital program ($400,000), storm drainage program ($1.7 million), transportation program ($3.1 million), parks capital program ($1.2 million) and community facilities ($3.215 million). You can vote to oppose one or more initiatives.
To be clear, an AAP is not a municipal vote or a referendum, but a different creature altogether that’s controversial and largely unknown to taxpayers. Some AAPs have been or are being challenged in the courts around BC.
For those engaged in their community, the provincial document called Alternate Approval Process: A guide for local governments will help you sort through what is a convoluted and complex process.
Saanich will need to spend lots of time and resources explaining AAPs to electors.
Head’s up taxpayers.
It’s unknown if the district will opt for an AAP or a more democratic referendum to borrow about $150 million for a new operations yard later this year.
DIG DEEPER
Saanich takes alternate approach to borrow $9.6M for capital programs, Vic News, Jan. 23 , 2025.
https://www.vicnews.com/local-news/saanich-takes-alternate-approach-to-borrow-96m-for-capital-programs-7776169
Saanich to use alternative approval process for $9.6M borrowing request, Times Colonist, Jan. 22, 2025.
https://www.timescolonist.com/local-news/saanich-to-use-alternative-approval-process-for-96m-borrowing-request-10111162
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