Cairine Green

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After I published my first blog article in late June 2016 titled “Crib Notes on Local Government,” readers asked for a sequel explaining just how the public can get involved and engaged with their local municipal council and government.   While this may not be gripping material that keeps readers awake at night, it might … Read more

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Regional and local governments in the Capital Region have taken some hard knocks in the past few years, primarily on issues of spending, project management or transparency.  The increase in public angst and criticism seems to be a common part of the political landscape these days.  As a private citizen now engaged differently with my … Read more

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Over the past few months, media attention has focused on the loss of older character homes barged from Oak Bay and transplanted to other communities.  The San Juan Community Home Trust is a grateful recipient of these homes, re-purposed by the Trust as affordable housing on San Juan Island, Washington State.  This affordable housing project … Read more

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The attached link to the British newspaper, the Guardian, and it’s article on Oak Bay housing, resonates across our region. Thanks to reporter,  Ashifa Kassam for her coverage and interest in this blog website and my articles on housing.  You can read the entire Guardian article here: Guardian newspaper article on Oak Bay homes going to Washington State.

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I recently attended and moderated a public forum, hosted by our local MLA for Oak Bay-Gordon Head, Dr. Andrew Weaver, who was joined by keynote guest speaker Isobel Mackenzie, BC’s Seniors’ Advocate.  Ms. Mackenzie did a lot of “myth-busting” about BC seniors during her presentation and summarized some key findings and highlights. Did you know: … Read more

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As crocuses and daffodils start poking up their heads in many gardens around the Capital Region, some big local, regional and provincial issues are blooming right along with them.  Homelessness, amalgamation, the housing crunch and sewage create a bouquet of challenges for local politicians and communities.  While no one promised elected officials a rose garden … Read more

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With a new year, the Capital Regional District (CRD) Board welcomes a new Board Chair, Mayor Barb Desjardins of Esquimalt. In addition to Mayor Desjardins’ election, one that suggests a desire for positive change and new direction, newly appointed Chairs/Vice-Chairs of Standing and Select Committees also take their seats.  These appointments involve careful thought and … Read more

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The first Oak Bay Heritage lecture for 2016.  Please mark your calendar and bring a friend or neighbour to hear Oak Bay’s very own Archivist extraordinaire, Jean Sparks. When:  February 17, 2016 at 7:00 PM Where:  Windsor Park Pavilion Refreshments will be served and donations at the door are always welcome.    

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A new era of Canadian federal politics unfolded in Ottawa and across the country with the swearing in on November 4, 2015 of a second Trudeau Liberal government. Since election day, changes in tone, intent and leadership have been nothing less than groundbreaking.  While media and political pundits covering events called November 4 a day … Read more

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Well, it’s all over but the shouting.  The longest election in Canadian campaign history ended with a triumphant Liberal sweep and a significant defeat for the Harper Conservatives.  The NDP also took a drubbing because it appears that when Thomas Mulcair turned right, Justin Trudeau went left and the rest, they say, is history.  The … Read more

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Please plan to attend these two heritage lectures, presented by Oak Bay Heritage.  They will be packed and who can resist a good love story or a glimpse into a lost garden? Hoping to see you there! To enlarge for easy reading, click on the images below.