2022 Municipal Candidate Questionnaire Answers

This year, in preparation for the 2022 Municipal elections here in the CRD, SIMBS has put together a short questionnaire for candidates to answer some of the questions that folks in the mountain biking community may be asking.

We asked:

• How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?
• How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?
• What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?
• What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?
• How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?
• Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

We're accepting responses until October 5th, so stay tuned if you're missing folks from your municipality.

See below for answers the questions above, and use the table of contents below to jump to your municipality.

• Central Saanich
• Colwood
• Esquimalt
• Highlands
• Langford
• North Saanich
• Oak Bay
• Saanich
• Sidney
• Sooke
• Victoria
• View Royal
• Other

[LAST UPDATED: Oct 11 2022]

GRAHAM, Christopher

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Lots, I am a rider myself!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

It is a great outdoor activity in high demand that I would love to be able to do more of. It plays an important role in fitness and enjoyment of nature. It should be accessible to all ages and skill levels.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Ensuring the development and maintenance of trails, and the acquisition of park land and other lands that are suitable for Mt. Biking. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Acquiring and maintaining mt. biking opportunities. Ensure that conflicts are minimized between user groups.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Ideally to come forward to suggests on land that we should be looking at purchasing. Working together to find opportunities to develop new trails; and finding ways to enhance the existing trail network.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Mountain Biking needs to be considered within our park master plans both at the municipal and regional levels. This will also help raise awareness, and to deliver more services and better facilities/trails we need to plan towards them. CRD has significant land holdings and we should be reviewing them for opportunities to open up new trails. Also we should work more closely with Tourism Victoria and Destination Victoria to encourage hosting events.

NEWTON, Gord

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I would say that it's the economic driver of mountain bikers that is important for our community. Recognizing that Central Saanich doesn't have many dedicated MB trails, but we do have a number of services and retail which cater to and benefit from. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Trail connectivity, and allowing mountain bikers better connected trail access to get to riding areas, as well as identifying MB support services and the benefits MB rides provide to our local economy.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Advocate for Improved wayfinding and consistent signage for new riders.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

identify what businesses are in Central Saanich that benefit and support mountain bikers and maybe allow some trail/sign sponsorship by businesses.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Have SIMBS do presentations to councils, to make us aware of the benefits and barriers. 

PALTIEL, Niall

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

It is an amazing outdoor activity for people of all ages. I believe it is something that is growing in popularity and likely could use additional local amenities to support the use.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Finding areas where we can safely find public trail and/or pump track locations to help support the steady growth of the sport for users of different ages and abilities.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I want to continue to advocate for the maintenance, expansion and use of mountain bike trails at the Hartland Landfill. This is the most uses mountain bike course near Central Saanich and one that needs to be protected.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Regional planning is the best way we can work together. Like many sports and activities, one municipality is not going to be able to address everyone's needs. It is better that we sit down with groups like SIMBS and better understand how to create a network of spaces, amenities and programs to support the growth of the sport for schools and adults. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Ultimately I believe that it is up to collaboration between the municipality and the sport community to better advertise the advantages and benefits to the sport. The City of Langford has done an excellent job promoting Mountain Biking around Bear / Skirt mountain and their culture has been growing over the past number of years. We can learn from this and perhaps include regional rec facilities in the promotional effort (ie. work with Panorama Recreation Centre).

GROVE, David

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Good health is dependant upon many things. An active lifestyle is certainly a part.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I may encourage designated trails and facilities.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I see the inclusion of mountain biking needs in our Official Community Plan as good policy. The inclusion means the consideration of mountain biking community needs is included.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Once policy is established through the OCP, facility may be developed alongside all valuable recreation and sport.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Communication through effective committee work would go a long way toward elevating this valuable activity. Any trail development and infrastructure would increase city assets which is always a good thing. Contact through your elected council is a good place to start.

JORDISON, Kim

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I believe we should try to fit all sports in somewhere in the vision for a community.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I'd be interested in learning more and to find out what amount of the population is interested in this sport.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I suppose if there was a large interest in this sport, working together and finding partnerships would be key in getting the support needed.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I would suggest SIMBS present the data and plan forward to be reviewed by local governments to get a better understanding of needs.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I believe it's like any sport. If you show there is interest and you come to the table with some suggested solutions, partnerships, etc., to put SIMBS on the map, then it can happen.

KOBAYASHI, Doug

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I understand we have some great mountain biking trails in the South Island. To the best of my knowledge, there are not any formal mountain biking trails in Colwood. I have observed some bikers using the trails in Royal Roads University. It is certainly another way for people to enjoy the outdoors while getting great exercise.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Making the decisions to ensure there is a balance of outdoor activities for all to enjoy across the South Island.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Like any other outdoor activity, I believe municipal governments and the CRD should be supportive of mountain biking across the South Island in the areas where it is approved. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

In order to respond to this question, I need more information before I can make an informed comment. Saying that, I actively listen would like to learn more about this.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

My knowledge base is limited on this subject so I honestly cannot suggest ideas about how to reduce these barriers. Having said this, I think it is important that local governments should be informed about the mountain biking community to learn about its economic impacts, values and challenges.

MARTIN, Rob

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Promoting an active lifestyle fits perfectly into the Mountain biking lifestyle.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

The Key is not if we need more Mountain biking trails but where do we build them to limit conflicts with other users of trails. It is critical that municipal elected officials find those opportunities to increase participate in a great recreational sport

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

The CRD board has spent significant energies on these types of opportunities and will need to continue to work with staff to grow this important trail network.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Conversations and dialog will be needed to build on SIMBS continued success.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Its important to continue to highlight contributions that SIMBS has made to the general public to change the perception of "rouge" trail building vs the consulted approved designs supported by municipalities' and the CRD

DESJARDINS, Barb

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I am supportive of this activity and have seen it grow in my time as Mayor

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Role includes reviewing and making decisions supporting mountain biking within CRD parks and Hartland landfill opportunities 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Role includes reviewing and making decisions supporting mountain biking within CRD parks and Hartland landfill opportunities 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Increasing access and awareness of the economic benefits as well as the health benefits to our region

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Expand communication supported with data regarding economic benefit, holding open houses in municipalities and increase completions opportunities as well as family outing opportunities. Work with Municiplities and CRD for trail expansion and natural management planning

GRACEY, Sonya

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Mountain biking is part of the fabric of recreational activities in the south island that gives people options in terms of how to be engaged in physical and community activities . 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Supporting cycling infrastructure for transportation and recreation including active transportation infrastructure, bike parks, trails, and educational opportunities across the region. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Sport and recreation are key to building healthy communities. I am thrilled to see the growth in mountain biking in the CRD. In my role as a CRD Director I would work collaboratively with stakeholders including SIMBS to ensure the growing sport of Mountain Biking is supported and there is access to trails and parks. The world class mountain biking opportunities that we have here on the Island are also an opportunity to attract and create partnerships for sustainable sport tourism.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

-Mountain bike tourism / partner with ferries, hotels, and Destination Greater Victoria -Connect SIMBS to the Sport tourism Commission -Host events and contests at local bike parks

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Include SIMBS as a stakeholder in discussions about recreation in CRD parks. Actively engage with SIMBS and other stakeholders to identify opportunities for further engagements. Encourage Destination Greater Victoria and other partners to create a Mountain Bike Tourism initiative to attract mountain bike tourism, and raise awareness of the benefits and opportunities of mountain biking in the CRD.

MORRISON, Tim

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Esquimalt is in the process of implementing our Active Transportation Plan. Supporting all types of cycling for all ages and abilities form an important part of that plan. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Municipalities need to ensure mountain biking opportunities are safe and accessible in their communities. As a compact community, Esquimalt does not have any long, mountainous trails within our municipal parks but we can still support the CRD region's efforts to provide a variety of mountain biking trails. Our Highrock Park has some short trail mountain biking opportunities. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

The CRD are responsible for ensuring a variety of recreational pursuits within our regional parks and that includes opportunities for mountain biking. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Building relationships are a very important part of good governance. Municipal governments should be open and inclusive of SIMBS in discussions about the use of our trails and parks. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Work with municipal and regional Parks & Recreation departments to build awareness of the benefits, opportunities, interconnectivity and diversity of options (including potential options) for mountain biking on South Island. 

MUNKACSI, Chris

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

I was a competitive cyclist, know lots about it but can no longer ride due to injury.

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Mountain biking fits into my vision for the South Island and my community. We are inner city urban, but have the E&N Corridor and the Galloping Goose running through Esquimalt. There are lots of people on Mountain Bikes in my community of all ages. It is wonderful to see the sport so healthy. We can always use more trails to ride and to improve safety through my community for cyclists. Roads should be for all to walk or roll to your destination. E-bikes and power charging stations need further additions in my community. We have the upcoming Active Transportation Safety Plan for Esquimalt which I fully support.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I would like to be a promoter and supporter in cycling and mountain biking given my history as a cyclist and Triathlete for 18 years.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

The municipal governments and Capital Regional District should continue to support a network of pathways, promote and create bylaws to increase safety. In areas more amenable to Mountain Bike Pathways through parks they should be safe and well groomed so all can enjoy the sport and it can grow.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

SIMBS can continue to do the great job it does advocating, promoting the sport and working with the Municipal Governments to create bylaws which create spaces to ride, raise awareness and safety for the sport. The sport will only continue to grow and local government can have a roll in creating world class places to ride. Municipal governments and SIMBs working together can help create the culture for the sport to continue to grow as part of an active transportation strategy and sport.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Through the Municipal Recreation Centre and through our Active Transportation Network promotion we can raise issues such as positive economic impacts that mountain biking has on the local economy and general health. Mountain biking is a global sport and brings diversity from all ages and cultures. It is easy to get on a bike no matter where you fit on the riding spectrum from new young rider to old rider, beginner to Olympian and riders are from every culture and diverse orientation under the sun. No matter your ability there are positive benefits for all and lots of opportunities in BC for trail expansion to get people closer to building a connection with nature and climate. I support the reduction of barriers and working with the mountain biking community to build better networks of transportation and trails in the region.

STANTON, Rose

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

I have friends who ride and I live near Mt. Work and Cal Revelle Sanctuary where unsanctioned trails have been built destroying protected lands.

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I support mountain biking if riders stay on sanctioned trails and if SIMBS takes a position against rogue bikers building unsanctioned trails in protected parks..

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I support mountain biking on sanctioned trails.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Our challenge has been destruction of the natural habitat in protected parks within our borders. It costs municipalities to have staff patrol the parks and dismantle unsanctioned trails and jumps.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

If expanding economic impact means more pressure on parks and destruction of parklands, I don't see how we can reconcile those differences.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Given the current Climate Emergency, if economic impacts means bringing more mountain bikers to the Island and more pressure on trails and more destruction of the natural habitat, I support keeping the barriers in place.

ACKLAND, Shirley

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I think mountain biking is a great activity for kids and adults. Loving close to the Jordie Lunn park, I am thrilled to see the constant use and enjoyment of this facility. It is a great fit for our community.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I believe that encouraging mountain biking will increase people’s fitness levels while getting outside to enjoy the fresh air and incredible natural beauty that surrounds us.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Enhancing mountain biking makes sense. It is an activity enjoyed by all ages, families can participate together and it is relatively low cost, once a person has a bike. Municipal governments need to invest in park/play areas that increase our residents’ healthy lifestyle - and mountain biking is a natural choice. Working with the CRD, municipalities like Langford could enhance the mountain bike trails much as they have increased the hiking trails throughout the South Island region.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Adding more advertisements in our tourist literature - connect and increase awareness in our schools.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Working in collaboration with the CRD, SD62 SIMBS, we can spread the positives of mountain biking and encourage more riders.

HARDER, Colby

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Lots, a prospective rider who lacks access to try the sport. 

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

There is a clear desire from the SIMB community to see the development of additional trails as the sport grows in popularity across the region, which I support wholeheartedly. In Langford, we are uniquely poised to cultivate a greater mountain biking culture within our community. While we lack a waterfront like other municipalities in the CRD, we are fortunate to have several slopes and mountain areas where we could support the construction of new trails. I see promoting a greater biking culture in Langford as an untapped opportunity for us to diversify and strengthen our local economy. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a council candidate, I believe it's important to understand the needs of mountain bikers as key park users in our community and in our region. While I do not currently ride, I am interested in trying the activity – from friends I recognize it's importance in maintaining one's mental, physical, and social well–being. 

If elected, I see my role as someone who will need to be able to listen to and communicate the different perspectives and desires of various park users in order to reduce social division in our community. I intend to advocate for a responsible balance where trails are encouraged, but where all park users can feel they are a part of ensuring a fair balance of building new trails while respecting the need to protect sensitive ecology and natural environments. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Recognizing recent conflicts among different park user groups in our community, I believe local governments need to look at creating new spaces and designated trails in partnership with land owners and the Mountain Biking community. 

In the Westshore, mountain biking is a growing sport with the recent addition of the Jordie Lunn Bike Park and yet cycling remains a change in the city. I would like to see Langford improve and prioritize its cycling connectivity into this area in particular in partnership with the CRD, through the completion of the E&N Trail to Humpback Road. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Given the recent and continued loss of many "unofficial" trails on Skirt Mountain and the growth of the sport through the Covid–19 pandemic, there is a need for municipalities to establish plans and strategies to work together to find areas where new mountain biking opportunities are available and to identify how city design, infrastructure and policy can promote the growth of this activity. 

For instance, Langford is surrounded by two rural municipalities – Metchosin and the Highlands – where there may be opportunities to expand the trail network beyond the recently announced Jordie Lunn Park expansion (i.e. Centre Mountain, Stewart Mountain). I see the opportunity to support new trails in these regions by providing safe routes and trails to connect mountain bikers into Langford to relax and enjoy the city life post trails.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

It's important for elected officials to represent and understand the needs of their communities. In my past experiences, bringing together stakeholders and various representatives from all sides of the community can help in effectively communicating the needs and concerns of people with opposing perspectives. On top of bringing in younger representation who may take part in the mountain biking community, I support working with the CRD Parks and Regional Planning to prioritize a plan for remaining trail expansion and mountain biking opportunities in the region. 

In Langford specifically, to support the work that's already being accomplished by SIMBS, I would support establishing mountain biking trails as a key area within my proposal to create an Active Transportation committee. 

SAHLSTROM, Matt

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Mountain Biking is a priority in Langford, now especially with the new Jordie Lunn park and Bear Mountain Course.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

To keep on supporting it

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Follow Langford's lead

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Same a sLangford has done

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Same as Above. I am keen on Mountain Biking and realize the social and economic benefits to the surrounding area. 

STEWART, Norma

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

My vision is to continue to support mountain biking in Langford and build on our success of the Jordie Lunn Bike Park

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

to be an advocate in the growth of the recreational and health benefits of mountain biking

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

to maintain and expand the mountain bike trail systems in regional parks

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

by encouraging and promoting riding clinics and National Biking competitions and exhibitions 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

to include mountain biking trails and mountain biking events in our tourism advertising, to encourage our schools to add mountain biking to their recreation programs.

WAGNER, Mary

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Great question! I am more of a hiker myself, but I know quite a few people who love to mountain bike. I think it's a great way to get outdoors for some people, but I want to make sure that the environment is protected and there are peaceful trails as well. I am eager to learn more! 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I would seek more information to start with. Wide community engagement is needed to ensure that people with kids, dogs, mobility issues etc. are also having their outdoor needs met. I appreciate the goals of mountain bikers who are promoting their sport, and I would like to balance that with the desires of other groups. I am strongly in favor of multi-use trails.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Municipal governments and the CRD should work together and ensure the needs of all ages and all abilities are met. It is important to me that trails of a variety of skill levels are available to include as many people as possible in the benefits of getting outdoors.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Open and regular dialogue with municipal governments and SIMBS along with all other stakeholders in what happens to our trail networks is important to both enhance opportunities for biking and ensure that the environment is protected and able to be enjoyed by everyone. Economic impact is one factor to be considered. I am a firm believer in thorough engagement and detailed planning to bring about the best outcomes for the most people. I would like to consult with experts in the CRD, SIMBS and city staff to increase my knowledge and undertake a financial analysis of the benefits of increasing mountain biking in the region. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I would like to consult with experts in the CRD, SIMBS and city staff to increase my knowledge of mountain biking in the region. I base my decisions on evidence. At this time, I do not have enough understanding to be able to offer my own solutions, but I look forward to learning more. 

YACUCHA, Keith

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Lots, I am a rider myself!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Mountain biking has been demonstrated on many occasions to be driver of healthy communities as well as economic growth and tourism. I feel the South Island has the potential to tap into and responsibly preserve this resource for its residents.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Working with community associations, such as SIMBS, to ensure they have a voice in local and regional discussions around the preservation and expansion of mountain bike and outdoor recreation through-out the south island. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a rider I had often come up against the CRD and municipalities for closure and de-activation of trails. While this has always been frustrating, I understand that in order to ensure the sustainability of the environment and the sport proper oversight and management is required to ensure that riding areas and the greater environment are not degraded in the process. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I believe such a partnership is vital, especially with the growing mountain bike community and trails in the Westshore. These trails, along with the corresponding outdoor recreation areas present a great tourism opportunity for the south island. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

With respect to the first two, I would love to see the expansion of mountain biking from the realm of private coaching to also include sessions being publicly provided at subsidized rates by rec-centers. While this will not necessarily create the next generation of elite athletes, it will create a larger group that has an appreciation of the benefits of the sport. 

That is not to take business away from the amazing coaches we have in the area, but rather to compliment the services they are already providing and allow greater access to the sport. 

YOUNG, Stew

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Lots, I am a rider myself!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

High priority 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As mayor of Langford my role is to support all types of sports and that includes mountain biking pump tracks etc as I have done in past years and will do so in future

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

It is our job as politicians to enhance mountain biking experience for all ages Langford will continue to grow the amenities such as jordie Lunn bike park and clubhouse that is currently under construction 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Bring more events to Langford as we are exited to have small or large events red bull series as an example 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Langford partners with groups and helps promote events to help build awareness on southern Vancouver island . I will work hard to make mtn biking one of our top priorities as we have done in the past . We will build more trails in Langford and help grow the participation level

KEEPING, Tara

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I see increased access to mountain biking trails on the South Island as a component of improved active transportation and as a key part of providing healthy outdoor activities for all ages.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I will be an advocate for cycling of all types in my community - whether for transportation or for recreation, including mountain biking.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

The CRD and municipal governments can support and enhance mountain biking by providing access in park areas which are suitable for this activity. As the region's population grows, there will be a need for our local and regional governments to increase and expand recreational facilities and areas to continue to provide residents with access to the activities that give us the very high quality of life in our region.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I see a great opportunity for municipal governments to support the work of SIMBS. Cycling, including mountain biking, is a fairly low impact activity. There is a significant amount of economic activities that can result from cyclists - bike shops, coffee shops and restaurants. With more planning for cycling facilities and commercial areas nearby, cyclists, related businesses and municipalities could all benefit from these activities.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

There needs to be better communication and acknowledgement about the benefits that mountain biking has for the region. It is an activity not limited to just younger people, but is a part of an active lifestyle for a broader demographic.

Access to high quality mountain biking facilities is part of what can make this region attractive to higher income earners or retirees who are seeking outdoor, year-round activities.

I think that municipal governments should work closely with SIMBS, as they do with other local active transportation groups to communicate the benefits of mountain biking and to seek opportunities to improve access for these users.

Encouraging more people to try mountain biking by increasing access is key part of a broader plan to great a strong cycling culture on the South Island. Getting more people in mountain biking will increase the number of people who cycle as part of an active lifestyle and who use cycling as active transportation. This will lead to better health, traffic and environmental outcomes.

As the region's population grows, local and regional governments will need to continually look for opportunities to secure undeveloped space for parks for different types of users - including mountain biking trails. These investments will yield benefits for our region's residents' health and well-being, as well as having economic benefits for our communities.

STOCK, Celia

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I know that there are many riders who love this sport, and I think there is room for mountain biking on many of the trails on the Peninsula.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a Councillor, I would be able to support mountain biking, but I don't know if there is any money available. I will also support proposals to NGAs and other levels of government.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Providing support, working on trails and areas for mountain biking, and maybe some money if there is any available for this purpose. We can also support proposals to NGAs and other levels of government.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

By supporting proposals, by assisting SIMBS with enhancement of trails and areas for mountain biking.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I haven't had the opportunity to give this much thought. We have a wonderful free ride bike park in North Saanich, which is very well used. However, I have never had occasion to work with SIMBS or to review any proposals concerning mountain biking on the Peninsula.

TSE-COTTON, Maya

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I am advocating for a joint Peninsula strategy for important issues like recreation, climate, tourism etc (North Saanich, Central Saanich and Sidney). All three are at various stages of developing Active Transportation Networks. Though mountain-biking is a very different animal as a distinct recreational not well suited to multi-use trails, it is part of active and healthy living and even, tourism. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As municipalities consider advocacy, policy and funding of projects, as with all other recreation facilities and infrastructure, we consider it part of the mix of options and choices we provide our citizens. There is one major park in Central Saanich and several "up island", but I understand the one in Central Saanich is not well suited to beginners. Perhaps that's an oportunity.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Advocacy, policy and funding of projects

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

The peninsula where we are (North Saanich, Central Saanich and Sidney) does not have much in the way of cycling routes that are a "tourism draw" (as compared to the newly finished Ucluelet to Tofino route or the for example). There would be explore new opportunities.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Integrate this as part of opportunity to enhance this as part of an enhanced tourism strategy for the three municipalities on the peninsula.

GREEN, Cairine

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

It certainly fits into a regional vision. For Oak Bay, it's not easily achieved due to the typography and lack of suitable public space that can facilitate this type of activity. Oak Bay does promote active transportation, however and we do have a comprehensive recreational facility, Oak Bay Recreation Centre.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I would support this activity at a regional level certainly, through my network of regional local government colleagues and organizations that develop and sustain this type of recreation. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

They both have a role in supporting this type of recreation for the South Island, through a land use lens. Two important factors to consider, however, are to ensure that locations are not damaging to local green space, parkland or natural environments, again a responsibility local governments and the CRD share. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

This would require local education, especially for the Oak Bay community, given our limited resources, lack of infrastructure designed for this type of activity, sensitive land and foreshore habitats and our natural geography. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Good public education programs and information-sharing and tapping into existing cycling organizations that promote active transportation and related outdoor activities.

HELME, Roxanne

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

While not a mountain biker I do love cycling. The Netherlands is my favourite (and regular) travel destination and my husband and I bike everywhere there. I would need to and be anxious to hear and learn more about the specific and unique needs of mountain bikers.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a council member I would ensure that I am readily accessible to all residents and groups such as yours. As a lawyer I am used to solving problems and making evidence based decisions. I am an advocate by trade. In order to answer this question in any meaningful way I would first need to engage with you, the experts.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Same answer as for the question above.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

In my view, like with every governance issue, successful outcomes boil down to accessibility, engagement, effective communication and research followed by strategic and evidence based decision making.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Communication, engagement and the building of relationships are prerequisites to awareness. As a Board Member of the Vancouver Island Trial Association, I am keenly aware of some of the specific barriers to which you refer. If elected to Oak Bay Council I will look forward to meeting with you and learning about your organization. Given the obvious benefits of cycling, of any kind, I strongly suspect yours will be a relatively easy sell once the word gets out! Thank you for the work you do!

SMART, Carrie

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Mountain biking is a great opportunity to improve physical and mental health and enjoy nature.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I am a cycling advocate and would support local initiatives that included cycling opportunities.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I would envision support as part of providing comprehensive infrastructure for recreational opportunities for all ages.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Communication could include presenting opportunities for projects to council at council meetings and reaching out to council members directly.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Further communication with the community could include information tables and demonstrations at local events.

BARRY, Trevor

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Vancouver Island has a reputation - well earned and deserving - as an eco-tourism destination and a fit outdoorsy lifestyle for locals. And mountain biking is a very important part of that mix, on both accounts. I presume that this survey originates with motivation for residents’ access; but (a) I assume we haven’t yet reached a “locals vs tourists” conflict, (b) I’d be interested to learn more about this dynamic.

My vision for the South Island - and Saanich as the most important municipality on the island - is one of greater:

• cycling for transportation and recreation
• access to outdoors and nature, in data-informed approaches that protect the ecological (and rec) value of these environments.
• cultural competencies toward natural systems, and appreciation experiencing it

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

LISTEN. LEARN. Participate. (Learn from doing) Listen and learn from any “other side of arguments” LIAISE.

Also, as a CRD DIRECTOR, I could facilitate dialogue, ensure discussion at the board meetings is considerate, evidence-based, and hopefully less divisive.

Plus, with the platform as an elected leader, sharing the experience of mountain biking and related activities would support, promote, etc (assuming folks don’t want this “best kept secret” to stay that way: haha, I don’t know!)

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Engage the public. Consult with stakeholders. Plus also STAFF, INDIGENOUS PEOPLE, PROVINCE - re: law, culture, contracts, obligations, opportunities costs, liabilities and risks.

I hope that didn’t sound pessimistic. But that is the job. And again: platform for promotion of healthy lifestyle activities, and economic opportunities. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Elect Trevor Barry ;-)

This survey is a great start. More stuff like this. For the public as well. Open Houses. Zoom Town Halls. Reports to Council/Board.
South Island Prosperity. Victoria Vital Signs. DestinationBC. Tourism Victoria. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Trail expansion is the trickiest one. I wonder if there are opportunities to connect “friends of _ park” -type societies and clubs (doing invasives pulling, keeping traffic on-trail, ecological restoration, conservation efforts…) …to connect these folks with the Mountain Biking Community. Because (A) if bikers are part of volunteer groups doing good eco stuff. (B) and eco volunteers learn about biking and appreciate the appreciation. (C.) then the synergy could be bring co-benefits. 

So that - when concerns arise from the idea of “carving” new trails; there’s a culture in the community of conservation and protection that comes with it.

BRICE, Susan

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Important for health and recreation

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Supporting proposals that would see this activity become more accessible

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Through CRD Parks there are opportunities to enhance mountain biking

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Identify potential sites and collaborate on funding options

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Continued advocacy

CHAMBERS, Nathalie

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Part of recreation I see as public ammenity that I would negotiate for.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Finding appropriate areas

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Again finding appropriate locations . Support, trails corridors and multi use 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Brainstorm and realize potential. Creating a vision statement, for example, by such and such 20xx there will be a connected trail system through a list of agreed upon areas.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Prioritizing this into planning Education Mapping 

DE VRIES, Zac

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

I am a rider but can always learn more :)

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

It is a key activity for youth especially but all ages can benefit from it! I am interested in supporting a diversity of different mountain biking activities in Saanich and in the region as then there is "something for everyone" and it can also reduce car trips to these facilities if we have more.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a decision make it means investing, partnering, enabling through policy, and using other tactics to support the sport. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As land holders, parks management plan deciders, and policy makers we impact spaces currently used for mountain biking and those that could be. Saanich and Regionally we have diverse parks system; some of which are compatible with mountain biking and other not. There needs to be a diversity of meaningful and exciting places for mountain biking in Saanich and the Region. As we make decisions we cannot forget the community mountain biking has built and the difference in peoples lives the sport makes.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I am all ears and just a call away (250 634 4769) I want to partner where possible and work past barriers that might exist to realizing this vision! (see below).

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I want to work with SIMBS to tell this important story and raise awareness as well as well as look at options for trail expansion and reducing barriers to that. It can't be everywhere but certainly there is space and locations to support this growing need. 

HAYNES, Fred

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Preserving and expanding opportunities for mountain biking and enabling the mission of SIMBS on the South Island fits 100% as a key component in delivering on my vision for healthy physical, mental and nature-oriented outdoor recreation for all ages and abilities. In addition it helps address my vision for stimulating critical improvements in the economic revitalization we need.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

My track record since election to council in 2014 and then as Mayor and CRD Director in 2018 demonstrates that I am proven to deliver both the political will and innovative actions - with appropriate directions to staff to achieve the political and community visions I champion. I am also proven in building the public support required to achieve these vision. 

For working effectively with SIMBS I have already begun delivering on actions. Our new Economic Development Manager meet recent onsite with SIMBS at 731 Burnside Rd. to explore ways we can jointly facilitate access to additional areas for off-road biking. Some examples:

-1) The Tripp Bike Park is one example of the enthusiasm our community has for off-road cycling. 

2) The recently donated 731 Burnside Rd. and its dedication for a bike park by Saanich Council shows our continued support to expand off-road cycling opportunities.

3) This was coupled with my report to Council that was unanimously supported to as MOTI for a transfer of part of the adjacent land to give us more options on 731 Burnside.

1. https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/parks-recreation-community/parks/projects-in-saanich-parks/active-projects/tripp-station-youth-park.htmlis
2. https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/news-events/news-archives/2022-news/resident-donates-land-for-park-use.html

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a CRD director and a Mayor of Saanich, I see our role is to support and enhance mountain biking infrastructure included in our existing and newly acquired appropriate parkland. This political will was recently expressed at the CRD withy my full support in the Mountain Biking Guidelines.
https://www.crd.bc.ca/project/mountain-biking-guidelines

I understand there are tremendous ecological values in all our parks. These need to be respected and preserved. I believe this is best achieved with a balanced approach for all park users where sufficient space and terrain is available for mountain biking. In the absence of this being provided in an organized structured way, our experience is that unregulated trails will emerge in parks. This brings ecological damage. Our role is to ensure that mountain biking is done in an organized way, and for this we rely on SIMBS.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

As above. We need to work together to provide expanded space to grow the economic benefits of mountain biking in the region. Together with CentralSaanich we are taking the lead with Sidney BIA, Destination Victoria, Butchart Gardens, Wilson's transport, BC Ferries, Gardens at HCP and other operators on the peninsula to bring a cycling circuit. This will be on and off-road, along with food trucks, cycling repair stations and other amenities. The aim is to raise the economic value of our natural 12 month cycling opportunities as a tourism destination. This is just one of several opportunities I am working on as the Mayor of Saanich.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

On the positive economic impacts our economic development manager will be presenting to Council an overview on October 24th that addresses the immense value mountain biking brings to our area. Once adopted this plan will be promoted using our social media together with the resources identified above. 

On awareness of the diversity and positive values we are already delivering this through our promotion of Tripp Station Youth Park, which is being used by all ages. It is being promoted for its contribution to physical and mental health, joy of being outdoors and community connectedness. Additionally, as noted above, we are working with a host of regional partners to promote the awareness in this space.

To improve trail expansion in Saanich we have noted the opportunity at 731 Burnside Rd. Across the region we have the CRD mountain biking guidelines which provide the formula for successful trail expansion.

IZARD, Sasha

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Lots, I am a rider myself!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

In my platform, I have suggested that we focus bike lanes in the rural countryside so that riders experience adrenaline and fresh air, rather than choke on car fumes and face the dangers of car traffic.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

We should make mountain biking a mode of transportation in itself. Mountain bike to commute!

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

They have a clear role in that. Municipal action is necessary to achieve the support mountain biking needs across the South Island.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

If we make mountain biking a form of commute rather than mere entertainment/exercise, then of course that it is going to benefit and transmit through the economy in numerous ways and it will have major positive environmental impacts that should not be overlooked, but highlighted.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

LANGEVIN, Basil

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I envision a future where the South Island is recognized as a key destination for outdoor recreation and a region where every resident has access to a broad diversity of quality recreation options. As a popular, fun, and accessible form of recreation available to people of all ages, mountain biking is a key component of this vision, and it should be embraced by municipal governments and the CRD.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I am committed to supporting the creation of new bike parks and trails in Saanich and across the region. I will advocate for the mountain biking community to be involved as a key stakeholder in park planning, and I will advocate for more opportunities for volunteer trail builders to expand the mountain biking trail network within the region. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Municipalities and the CRD need to be partners in the expansion of mountain biking opportunities across the South Island.

We are fortunate to have an active mountain biking community whose volunteers have built and maintained trails for decades. Municipalities and the CRD should be empowering this volunteer work by: 

• recognizing the mountain biking community as a key stakeholder in recreation and park planning,
• reducing barriers for volunteers building new trails, and
• providing greater resources and support for mountain biking.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Municipal governments can better incorporate mountain biking into their tourism advertising and social media strategies, partnering with SIMBS to promote mountain biking events and opportunities. They can also work with SIMBS to get more residents interested in mountain biking, provide more opportunities for youth to get involved, and help reduce the barrier to entry for people who might want to try mountain biking.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Given the potential that mountain biking has to contribute to our local economy and community, Saanich should be embracing mountain biking.

We can do this by:

• working with Destination Greater Victoria to advertise mountain biking to tourists,
• working with the CRD and other municipalities to advertise trails, events, and opportunities to residents,
• reducing barriers to volunteer trail builders so that new trails can be created and expanded,
• providing opportunities for youth to learn about and try mountain biking, and
• exploring opportunities to create new bike parks across Saanich and the region.

LEIREN-YOUNG, Mark

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

No profound thoughts on mountain biking. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I know the CRD was looking to add more trails before the world shut down - but not sure of the current status. As a CRD rep. I'd be very open to continuing this work in selected areas.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

The CRD and local governments should be looking for ways to encourage outdoor activities - while still respecting nature, wildlife and neighbourhoods. So... finding places that are best suited to various activities and supporting them.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I'm a big fun of listening and communication. Also, research. So I'd start with conversations.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Conversation and communication - sharing ideas and information.

MACDOUGALL, Jordan

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I have many friends who are involved in the community. I think it's a really big part of outside recreation on the island and in Vancouver and having areas close to home to practice and enjoy the sport is very important too many residents. It Can help maintain "green areas" and encourages healthy activity! 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I think as a council member my role would be to simply listen to the MB community. While we have some great areas already on the south island we need to stay in touch with the community and hear their voice when they speak up. We have many shops and riders in the city that give time and money and care to the sport to help facilitate it. With areas to possibly expand dwindling with time or getting pushed farther from urban areas we need to make sure that land is cared for and the community can thrive and continue having large positive impacts in our city. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Making sure that local governments plan for the continued growth of the sport as more people get into the general practice of biking will be important. If this does not happen trails could become over crowded and the voices in the area concerned with ecological damage will begin to have more power. Working with partners to plan and understand the future changing needs of the community will be important. (as covid has shown)

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Continuing to grow the economic impact of the sport will depend much on how we deal with the threats to the community. We must both ensure, trail etiquette stays up to par and respect for surrounding park space continues. We can work to understand how to better expand existing trails while looking for new areas to expand too. Balancing the Original purpose of many parks, to preserve natural ecological factors will be important in maintaining growth. Respecting the parks by making sure illegal trails are not formed threw sensitive ecosystems will help allow Governments to continue to invest in a respectful biking community. Guiding trail management together will ensure that the growing community can continue to evolve. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Evaluating the total anual economic impacts using data will allow statements to be made concerning impacts. This data can be used in press and social media. Working with the CRD and municipalities when opportunities arrive will be key in allowing healthy expansion. Advocating for this growth based on economic impact can be a driving factor in expansion as long as ecological factors are respected. Showing the Values of the community by volunteering at community clean ups can be a great way to show values, especially if they are hosted by organization like SIMBS. 

MATTE, Gregory

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Lots, I am a rider myself!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

It's yet another form of healthy and positive recreation that allows folks to explore the off-the-beaten path beauty of BC.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Being open-minded about concerns/issues and responsive in exploring what can be done based on the broader context of existing rules, regulations, other stakeholder concerns, etc.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

To be receptive to issues/concerns brought to them, open-minded in their consideration of the issues/concerns, and responsive in providing an interim reply as well as follow-up if further study, public consultations, and/or actions are required.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

By being receptive, open-minded, and responsive to issues/concerns brought to their attention.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

In addition to the many responsibilities of elected officials is that of being willing and able to explain to the electorate the nature of new issues/concerns as well as explaining the rationale for decisions made that result in changes to the extant status quo.

MURDOCK, Dean

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Mountain biking is a great, family-friendly activity that should be readily available and accessible on the South Island. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As mayor, I will work with council and the CRD to ensure that we continue to work with SIMBS to enhance mountain biking opportunities across the South Island. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

The agreement between SIMBS and the CRD is a great model that we can replicate to create more opportunities for mountain biking. As mayor, I will work with SIMBS to identify new opportunities that allow more people to enjoy mountain biking. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Mountain biking is a highly sought-after activity that draws interested users from well beyond the South Island. It has significant potential as an economic generator. By working together, we can ensure that we have the facilities and opportunities that draw more users to mountain biking. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

As Mayor, I will work together with SIMBS, council and the CRD to create a South Island mountain biking strategy that sets out opportunities for growth in facilities and future use. 

PHELPS BONDAROFF, Teale

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

I am car-free and cycle almost daily; however, my bike (named 'Ash') is a 10-speed and I don’t mountain bike.

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I am passionate about supporting active transportation, along with healthy and active lifestyles, and mountain biking is a component of this vision.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Ensuring there are adequate and well-maintained official trails and facilities at parks and trails. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

In addition to my answer above (ensuring there are adequate and well-maintained official trails and facilities at parks and trails), I would add encouraging programming and training through community centres/facilities.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

One of my goals if elected to Saanich council is to find ways to support innovative initiatives by organizations and individuals to improve Saanich as a community. I intend to advocate for the municipality to hire a social planner to support projects that build community. I would welcome proposals from SIMBS for events or projects that would encourage community connection through outdoor sports and recreation like mountain biking.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I would like to work with local advocates (potentially supported by a Saanich social planner, as mentioned above), support local outdoor recreation businesses by promoting the inclusion of affordable commercial spaces in proposed new developments, support cycling in general as both a method of active transportation and important outdoor recreation, and improve wayfinding on existing bike trails to make them more accessible to new cyclists.

PLANT, COLIN

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I believe it should be a part of the region's recreational and economic considerations. I am supportive of mountain biking and what it brings to the region. I see MORE mountain bking in my vision for a healthy and prosperous region.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As an elected official I will support efforts to bring more mountain biking opportunities forward while also taking into consideration ecological concerns. I believe a balance can be achieved.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a regional government we are able to acquire land, sign agreements to mutually work together with stakeholders (like SIMBS) and educate the public (with organizations like SIMBS) to ensure we have effective mountain biking riding in the region. 

I support the acquisition of new lands for mountain bike riding in the CRD.

I also see the need to sometimes provide enforcement as needed.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

We can have partnerships, standing meetings between organizations and provide clear guidelines and expectations for how mountain biking can occur in our regional parks. We can also offer our expertise to non-government organizations that wish to pursue mountain bike opportunities on private land.

Essentially we need to commit to providing opportunities and continuing to work together.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I will hold firm in my support for mountain biking in the CRD.

I will continue to ensure the CRD staff work cooperatively with SIMBS and other stakeholders.

I will ensure that whenever we can acquire land we CONSIDER mountain biking as a use AND that we look for properties that can accommodate mountain biking while still respecting ecological values and First Nations' traditional practises.

I want to end this survey by saying I am supportive of mountain biking, appreciate the work of SIMBS and will work with SIMBS to see more opportunities become available in Saanich and the CRD.

POLLARD, Art

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

A very healthy pursuit for those who do it recreationally and competitively.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Assisting in finding appropriate locations and areas which protect the natural habitat where they are located. Important that the trails are constructed safely and minimize the potential destruction of habitat.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Regional governments and the CRD have a responsibility and a duty in planning,supporting and enhancing mountain biking. They need to work with and collaborate with the biking groups and have a plan that cooperates with all user groups that are affected.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I imagine this would involve biking competitions and hosting of events on larger scales such as Provincial, National and international competitions as I believe Bear mountain hosts from time to time.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

1. Better publicity, and lobbying at different levels would be effective. Communication of the positive benefits that mountain biking brings to the community at large.
2. Emphasize that mountain biking is an all ages, all abilities recreational and competitive pursuit. Noting the popularity of parks at Topaz and the ones in the western communities.
3. Perhaps, the possibility of setting aside a portion of future park acquisition could incorporate the potential for trail expansion.

REICHERT, Jordan

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I know youth's in my neighbourhood who have been mountain biking for years and have been at the new Tripp Station Youth Bike Park almost every day throughout the summer. I also have many colleagues who have spent decades biking trails around the region and greatly enjoy the personal challenge, health benefits, and community they have gained from it. This past summer I was happy to see the excitement and economic opportunities the sport could bring at Crank Works up at Whistler. So I see mountain biking as an activity with the potential to bring people together and which promotes people getting outdoors. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a council member and CRD director my role would be to listen to what the mountain biking community is interested in doing, such as at Thetis Lake, and consider their proposals in the context of promoting healthy outdoor activity for the community, supporting the local economy, and environmental enhancement. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As we are responsible for most of the land mountain biking enthusiasts want to use, it is important that we maintain communication and work with the diverse communities that have a shared interest in land use and stewardship of these areas. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

The CRD has an incredible number of cyclists of all types and promoting green businesses that serve the needs of these active transportation enthusiasts and recreation communities is something that every municipality throughout the CRD should support. As a municipality, our main opportunities to support these communities are through infrastructure development and land use. However, we can also support the creation of more positive culture through funding and promotion of events to enhance community engagement.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Having open and constructive dialogue is the most important aspect of engagement on these issues. I would be open to exploring the extent of these barriers to the community and considering opportunities to address them in the broader context of promoting active lifestyles in the region. Thank you for the opportunity to engage with the South Island mountain bike community!

SHARMA, Rishi

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I think it would be an excellent addition

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I would like to work with the local association on creating more appropriate spaces 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

There is an advocacy role to help build awareness and to work on increasing the recreation activity

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Constant, open and transparent dialogue to help find appropriate spaces and possibly provincial funding for courses. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

As noted, let's create a better dialogue to understand the benefits, help build awareness of the health benefits and look to province for recreation funding for appropriate and safe courses

WESTHAVER, Mena

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Mountain biking is an awesome option for physical activity combining sport, the outdoors and socialization. I am an advocate of healthy living, physical activity and intergenerational opportunities. My vision includes multi-sport options including mountain biking. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Listening to the needs of the mountain biking community to support them. It's important to be aware of their presence in the community and where/when fit, provide them support. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Working together to ensure support systems are in place where and when needed. Dependent on resources, there may be options for growth, trail repair and trail upgrades to ensure safety. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Relationship building. Coming together to discuss the needs of the group and the specific needs of the riding community. Learning of the lived experiences and needs of the mountain bike riders will help council to better understand how they can be supported. A tour of their spaces and a bike ride would help to see the issues firsthand.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Exposing the mountain biking community would be valuable. Working with our Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department would be of value. Creating partnership programs would bring revenue to the group, expose the sport and attract more riders. Community Services could assist by leveraging grants for youth living in low-income homes - this would encourage physical activity, keep youth busy and support youth that may not have the means to participate due to financial struggles. Our parks department may be able to assist with trail systems or create "novice" trails systems in parks already used in this way. There are endless options - but it starts with relationship building beginning with conversations.

DILLER, Eric

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

For my community, I will work hard for infrastructure that will get people simply driving vehicles less and riding more as rolling infrastructure gets safer. Sidney doesn't have much in the way of areas to mountain bike since it is small and largely urban in nature. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Since I am aiming to represent the Town of Sidney, I will be supporting cycling as a means of transportation through advocating for cycling infrastructure in Sidney. I would hope that some folks who decide to cycle for transportation would decide to also try mountain biking.- I realize this doesn't specifically address mountain biking, but if your members want to engage with me more after the election, I would be happy to learn more and chat.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

For Sidney, see above. I would support the CRD spending resources on infrastructure to make connections from urban areas to more rural mountain biking areas better since improving infrastructure between urban and rural areas will help anyone who has to travel between these without a motor vehicle.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

SIMBS and municipal governments can work together through their recreational organizations ( Panorama recreation on the peninsula) to promote mountain biking. I have friends that have their kid do classes at Hartland and rave about it as being a good program.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Have the municipalities commit to preserving natural areas that could be used for mountain biking and not build housing or commercial developments on natural areas- basically keep development compact and encourage infill development.

DUCK, Steve

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

As an avid cyclist and founder of Cycling Without Age Society, I am a supporter of cycling opportunities and activities.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As an avid cyclist and founder of Cycling Without Age Society, I am a supporter of cycling opportunities and activities. As a potential councillor in Sidney, I can only advocate support through our CRD presence.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a potential councillor in Sidney, I can only advocate support through our CRD presence.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

There is a strong aspect of agritourism and destination development in conjunction with Destination Greater Victoria which can include moutain bikng.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Communication through complimentary cycling activities - Go By Bike Week, Ryder ride - with demos, info, opportunities.

NOVEK, Richard

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Sidney is basically flat, by the ocean so not much mountain biking but I'm sure there are citizens who enjoy the sport

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

There's really not much that I can do in Sidney

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

They have a role to support all outdoor activities to the extent feasible.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Joint promotions and weekend festivals

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Work to publicize the sport and keep interest high with special events.

O'KEEFFE, Terri

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

We are a small municipality and have no areas suitable for mountain biking, and it's not something that has been raised by our citizens as a need, so mountain biking hasn't fit into the vision this far

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Raising awareness of the local trails.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I think mountain biking is an excellent outdoor activity and I'm in favour of the CRD supporting and enhancing access and trails for mountain biking

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

If SIMBS has info on the economic impacts of MB, provide that to municipal governments so we can look for a way to incorporate into our economic development strategies. Connect you with our Visitors Services so they can include MB as an attraction in our area.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Be open to SIMBS coming to our Council to hear about the economic and other benefits of MB and look at how this might be incorporated into our Economic Development strategy. Connect SIMBS with our Visitors Services so they can include Mtn biking as a local attraction. Suggest to SIMBS that they create a Mountain Biking brochure that provides a list/map of all MB trails in the Greater Victoria area, that could be used by our Visitors Services to market our area. Also provide that to our local bike shop.

ARNOLD, Lorien

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Lots, I am a rider myself!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

it's intrinsic- mountain bikers as a group are the most active stewards of trails systems out of all the various user groups, generally speaking. I see it as being a piece of a larger strategy of building a constituency for the outdoors, helping to preserve and protect our forests from the rapid expansion of the population, while providing a layer of stability to the financial security of more rural places.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As the founder of The Sooke Bike Club, and former president of SIMBS, I understand the massive role that volunteerism plays. Volunteers need encouragement and support, and that's provided by groups like SIMBS, so local governments can help by supporting organizations, even if it's just moral support. I'd want to go further, and develop memorandums of understanding which integrate groups like SIMBS into a process that involves local and First Nations governments by building strategies that lead to high quality, volunteer stewarded trail systems. Maybe more important is policy. I had a major role in drafting the notice of motion which lead to the creation of CRD Parks' MTB policy, and feel that this type of legislation must be adaptable and open for change as the need arises.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

For a long time, CRD Parks has put mountain biking on the back burner, but a lot has changed in recent years for the better. That said, more can be done, specifically working to align the interests of all the various stakeholders by focusing on the positives related to mountain biking in any given community. Because the CRD is an amalgam of municipalities, filling more municipal seats with mountain bikers will help to inform and shape decision making when it comes to the use of public lands for recreation.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

As a volunteer and small business owner, I was instrumental in bringing the first Mountain Bike Tourism Symposium to Sooke. Mountain bike tourism is inherently low impact, especially when it's more localized. Riders doing day trips from Victoria to Sooke, for example, can help sustain local businesses year round without much investment at all. That being said, municipalities like Sooke, which actually have a bona fide CRD Park open to mountain biking can and should do so much more to market the area as a destination for the not insignificant population of island riders. The riders will take it from there- helping steward that tourism message in a way that resonates globally. First Nations have a major role to play, and we have seen the kind of successes achieved across our province resulting from collaboration. I think we've just scratched the surface and that there is much more that can be done.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

This field kind of answers itself. With increased awareness, those barriers will be reduced. We have to prove to people who don't already know what mountain biking's attributes are, and the way to do that is to create a message through our efforts and all the positive outcomes that result. To me, the number one major focus should be on youth- getting them involved and opening doors to kids who may not otherwise be able to afford to participate. We all know that mountain biking can and does change lives, and the sooner that change occurs in someone's life, the better.

B, Mike

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Lots, I am a rider myself!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

So important as economic driver as well as mental health and wellness

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Support families and young riders to be safe on the trails and pursue a lifelong activity

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Access to rideable areas. Support of local trail associations to manage and sustainably develop trails. Promote riding for tourism opportunities.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Marketing. Better trail management. Local trail agreements. Promote families!!

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

CRD and associated unions need to admit they do not have the expertise to develop and manage these trail networks. Allow local associations to guide this work and train or develop skills necessary in CRD employees. Take a POSITIVE attitude about what mountain biking is and can be (Cumberland, Hammerfest, Nelson, Rossland, Penticton, Vernon)

BELFORD, Susan

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I think mountain biking has a role to play in fitness and recreation.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a councillor I would consider any additions suggestions to mountain bank trails in the Sooke local area.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Be great if we could link trails up 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I need to explore this further, and will do so. I can see mountain biking and expanded trails as being an important part of a suite of active transportation tourism resources. But I need to learn more.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

SIMBS should come to Council and make a presentation about these barriers so that Council can include it is its Parks and Trails master plan. 

BORDUS, Karine

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Keep parks and trails available for recreational use.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

In developing the Sooke official community plan, I believe it is important to engage all stakeholders including groups like yours to ensure that we offer our community different avenues for youth to engage in physical activities and nature.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Create awareness, provide opportunities fir education and protect what is current in place

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Engaging with your group in the development of our official community plan and protecting the current parks and trails.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Education at the higher school and middle school and during the family day 

MILLARD, Sean

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I think it's a great way to get some exercise. I have some friends who do it. Most of my riding is along the goose. I'm also a straight shooter so to be perfectly honest I haven't really included mountain biking into my "vision". That isn't to say that I wouldn't be interested in hearing what your vison, or SIMBS' vision is and seeing if it isn't something that could be looked into.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

My role would be (if elected) listening to the needs and desires of your club and working together to see what is needed and how we can best get that to you. I'm not going to lie and tell you that you will get everything you ask for and that I would spare no expense, but I promise to listen and do my best to support you in enhancing your sport in your community.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

The role of the municple government is to listen to it citizens, provide funding if possible and to keep the trails safe, and accessible.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I think working together SIMBS and the local governments could try to promote the sport. It could provide income to local businesses if we could develop a "destination" grade series of trails and balance it with community benefits. Volunteer work Partys could work. I would prefer if possible that dedicated areas be used for mountain biking rather than redesignating existing hiking trails to bikes. Expansion of one hobby shouldn't infringe on another. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I think as I said above that the attraction of athletes from outside of the community would be hugely beneficial. for example, look at Tofino and surfing.

I honestly believe that spreading awareness about a sport fall to the members of that sport. The municipality can provide the venue or forum.

I think most of the area's that you would like to expand into is provincially controlled. if a good case is made the municipality could back a request for expansion into some provincial spaces.

Best of luck to you guys. I'm sorry if you didn't get the exact answers, you were looking for or if they seem vague but I will always be willing to entertain any reasonable ideas and at the very least even listen to the bad ones. Sooke is a great west coast destination and I would love to see us become a destination for all outdoors sports (Mountain biking, Kayaking, Camping, Climbing, ect.. It makes sense and would help everyone.

NOSEWORTHY, Adam

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

The building and maintenance of multi use trails to me is imperative to allieviating traffic congestion and encouraging a more active lifestyle amongst our populace. Connecting people to the serives we all require.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Council can help to ensure connectivity with trails in new developments by making it a part of some plans where it makes sense to do so. We could do our best to protect exisitng trails and see if theres funds we can contribute to the buiding of new trails and the maintenance of exisitng ones. Also remain open to proposals from the public and groups re trails.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As above.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Partner up. Invite SIMBS proposals. Lots to learn so be interesting to see how local gov can support such endevors. Wide open to it. Great excuse to protect what we have and encourage people to get out and be active.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Perhaps maps of local trails to give out to the public. I know I want one. We can always ask to use idle land or make proposals/deals to land owners where it seems fitting.

PAUL, Trevor

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I enjoy surfing, hiking, and back country camping so mountain biking fits my vision of the South Island, and specifically Sooke as an outdoor playground for everyone to experience and enjoy responsibly.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

If elected, my role as Councillor will be to act in the best interests of Sooke families. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I would say that local governments should engage with mountain bikers and mountain biking advocacy groups to better understand their perspective before considering changes to existing parks/trails or when creating new parks/trails.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Great question! I would say it is the role of SIMBS to come to local governments to explain the positive economic impacts of mountain biking in the region. If I am elected in Sooke, I would love to talk and see if there is a way we could coordinate an annual mountain biking event in the Sooke hills that might bring people to our community who will spend money in town and support local businesses/jobs.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I would suggest that SIMBS develop a broad communications plan that will help increase awareness of your first two bullets so that you might be more effective when advocating for opportunities to increase trails in the region. I would certainly be open and enthusiastic about exploring potential trails in Sooke.

PEARSON, Kevin

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

As a high priority, energy and environmental stewardship is clearly demonstrated by all mountain bikers I have met . I am an avid hiker I. The Sooke hills and come across many riders I am always impressed by their professional approach. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Looking for opportunities to support this growing sport. Consider mountain biking when making decisions with regards to green space. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Ensuring multi use is in the design phase of regional parks, including biking as a tables take. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Have a council rep for a liaison with SIMBS to have regular conversation and communication. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Ensure Mountain Biking is considered with regards to economic growth. I believe that all economic development staff and councillors must have a solid understanding of the benefits of a regional approach to enhancing Mountain Biking in our area. 

RUSSELL, Anna

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I'm very interested in protecting and expanding park space in Sooke, and I see mountain biking as one of the important outdoor activities we offer on the South Island. I know that mountain biking groups are important partners in the effort to preserve parkland and promote access for community members .

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

My family is heavily involved in mountain biking, with my son and husband riding regularly, and my husband a Board member of the Sooke Bike Club. See below.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Cooperating with local mountain bike societies in identifying and securing appropriate areas for this use, and balancing different interests around land use in natural areas.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Ensure mountain biking activities and venues are visible and support small business development (although local governments are prohibited from supporting any particular local business). 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

In Sooke, future opportunities for trail expansion likely don't exist on land owned by the District mostly because Sooke has not been banking land or funds for new parks, so any future opportunities would depend on forming partnerships, and ensuring there is enough community support to help maintain trail expansion. 

However there's another important barrier to the potential of mountain biking and that's the high cost of entry into the sport. Many of the trails in the region are really only accessible with a full suspension bike. Our family can outfit two people (bike, helmet, pads) but not three and I consider us fortunate to do so. Even then, an accident can create a sudden, un-budgeted expense to replace a full-face helmet. I'd like to see all of us consider this barrier as well to make sure more people can participate. 

Finally, as we rise to the intense challenge of climate change (which threatens the integrity of the trails and the forests through which they run), we will need to figure out how we address transportation to the trails. At the moment, it's often individuals arriving in their own gas cars or, (more often), trucks because that's what makes it easy to transport the bikes. We're no different -we have an EV but keep a gas car largely for this purpose as our EV can't hold a bike rack. I think we're also going to need to address this barrier to expansion as a community. I'm glad there's such an active mountain biking community with which government can collaborate.

SANTOWSKI, Britt

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

I have physical limitations and cannot mountain bike. I am very aware that Sooke has incredible trails, and that mountain-biking is an excellent eco-griendly tourist attraction.

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I would like to contribute to Sooke being a "go-to" destination instead of a "drive-through" destination, and mountain biking is definitely a viable community endeavour and an excellent tourist attraction.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I would definitely champion mountain biking activities in Sooke, be it trail maintenance and/or expansion, supporting organized competitions, and promoting what we currently have available in Sooke. Of course, my current opinion would be informed by expert reports and community input. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Municipalities can work in partnership with various cycling organizations through endorsements, creating awareness of existing trails, providing funding where available (and if requested through the appropriate application channels), and championing the sport as a viable community activity and tourist attraction.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Explore the tourism potential, explore hosting of events, promote local trails within the community.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

ALVAREZ, Julia

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Any kind of minimal destruction activity or sport practised in nature is to be promoted and preserved.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Is coastal biking a thing? Regionally, I'll be happy to promote mountain biking trails.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Help promote and organize tour races.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Collaborate on mapped trail information brochures for visitor booths.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Spread more awareness and help youth transit users take free rides on transit to reach trails.

ARTHUR JOHHSTON, David

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

We may very well be entering a time when there is no more mass produced rubber.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

By not tyrannically arbitrarily preventing it.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

see above

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

A Madmaxian Rivendell is more conducive to a mountain biking lifestyle than a dystopian 1984 world.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I enjoy the idea of rail sail bikes.

CARADONNA, Jeremy

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

It’s an essential part of active lifestyles and a good use of public park space. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

On the CRD, I would have influence over expansion of mountain biking infrastructure. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Facilitating it by expanding the biking network in ways that are safe and limit adverse impacts on natural ecosystems. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I don’t know, but I’m interested in learning more! 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Organize a new CRD-backed awareness campaign about the joys and benefits of mountain biking and the need to organize new trails to limit in sanctioned or unsafe trail usage. 

DELL, Matt

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Lots, I am a rider myself!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

My campaign is focused on investing in parks and recreation, building a better city for kids and families, and expanding our active transportation system. Great recreation culture, including mountain biking, is a personal passion of mine, and one of the reasons I'm running for council. People need great outdoor and recreation opportunities in the South Island for three reasons: mental health, physical health, and building community. I'm strongly supportive of all initiatives to expand bike culture and mountain biking in the region. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I'm a mountain biker myself, and regularly visit the popular riding trails in the South Island. I will continue to promote bike culture, advocate for expanding urban bike networks, and raise the profile of biking and mountain biking through riding and sharing this sport on social media. I'm not personally running for CRD, but I will push the local CRD representatives to support mountain bike culture and acquire new land for more terrain. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Victoria City Council should work to expand the AAA bike network, and ensure all bike networks are regionally connected. A person should be able to travel from Downtown Victoria, all the way to any key destinations in the South Island, including the popular mountain bike areas in the area. I also support expanding urban bike parks, like the new one at Topaz Park. We need to ensure the Directors on the CRD work hard to invest in land for recreation, and support organizations like SIMBS to improve existing areas. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Local Government can work to promote mountain bike culture as a tourism activity. This can be done by highlighting bike parks, AAA bike networks, and mountain bike opportunities in city materials. I'm supportive of initiatives like the new "Bike Valet" service at city hall, which reduces barriers to biking. I would like to see the city invest in rental e-bikes system. I would like to hear from SIMBS, the experts in this area, about other things the city can be doing. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I support the City building more urban bike parks (like the new Topaz park), to highlight the popularity of biking and promote it as a sustainable recreational opportunity for the region. The city should allow for more events and festivals at Topaz Park, including music, demo days, or national competitive events, to bring awareness of the sport. To promote diversity, the City could help sponsor bike camps, or training session days, for new riders, female riders, or learning sessions for people from other diverse groups. The city could partner with bike stores to allow new people to try the sport. As for trail expansion, I strongly support the expansion of the AAA bike network in Victoria. We don't have a lot of space for off-road trails in the city, but protected urban streets are great too! Thanks SIMBS for all the work you do. 

ELARID, Jalal

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Although I don't ride now but I used to and I loved it, In Victoria the is no mountain biking trails as far as I know, any sport is very important to the health of our youth, health minds and body we will have a healthy community. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I will support more trails across the CRD like the Saanich by the Hartland Dump, the only one I know off.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Unfortunately, Victoria is Politicly and Geographically is land locked by the other surrounding if I was elected as City Counsellor and a CRD Director I will advocate and support for Mountain Biking trails across the CRD.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I believe the municipalities and SIMBA has to work together to have the CRD directors educated and informed.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

FUENTES, Rafael

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I support what SIMBS does and it is part of recreation for the South Island .My son had a teacher at Cedar Hill Middle School (Paul Hayes) . He would take the students once a week to Hartland /Durrance area for mountain biking and I would pick up my son. He enjoyed it . In my mid 20’s , I was an recreational mountian biker .

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I would be a supporter by promoting mountain biking . I was a recreational rider. Also, my experience that my son had with his school/school teacher/students seemed positive. . 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Providing adequate land, maintenance, funding and promotion. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

By encouraging the public to become members of SIMBS, to volunteer and to encourage people to ride again. Like myself , who hasn’t ridden for awhile. Also, to encourage to shop local for mountian bikes,, gear and maintenance.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Consult with everyone on the potential of trial expansion including. First Nations within CRD. Consult with the schools to encourage mountain biking like my son’s teacher did. But not just during the school year but year round (during the summer ). Perhaps, encourage Spring Break , Christmas time camps at school or at mountain bike shops . Providing low income kids/families a mountain bike at low cost or free. And providing low cost or free transit to all areas of mountain biking as a group to be more efficient . As kids under 18 get free bus passes for the year in CRD ,they can take transit when parent/teaches are not available.

HARSYMOW, James

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I'm a big fan of outdoor activity parks that encourage fresh air and exercise, and don’t cost parole anything!

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I am on board.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Help find some space. I was talking to one of the people helping to spread the word on this subject, and I was saying I love the idea of using part of the rocky section in Beacon Hill Park. It perfect, and far from all the creatures.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

One step at a time. Start by getting some advocates in there. I’ll be one!

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

If you build it, they will come.

Isitt, Ben

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

We need a network of high-quality, fun, challenging, properly designed and maintained mountain biking trails and areas on the South Island. This includes building upon the existing strengths of the Hartland and Harbourview areas, while establishing a third signature mountain biking area within the Capital Regional District Parks system.

We also need to improve trails and corridors within a between all regional parks, to ensure that people can get from their homes to the trails without the need for a motorized vehicle.

Finally, we need to strengthen relationships between the CRD, SIMBS and other organizations, to ensure that SIMBS and other groups have support to do their important work, and to ensure high quality design and maintenance of trails to protect ecological values.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Continuing to advocate for high quality and properly designed and maintained mountain biking facilities as a member of the CRD Board and CRD Regional Parks Committee.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Regional government in outlying areas of the Peninsula and Western Communities, as well as the CRD Board, have an essential role to play working with SIMBS and other organizations to designate areas for mountain biking and support the development of a network of high quality, properly designed and maintained trails within and between those areas.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

We can build on the strengths of our existing designated mountain biking areas -- and expand those areas, while creating new ones -- to attract mountain-biking tourists as well as regional, provincial, national and international mountain biking competitions and events. These events have an economic impact in the tourism sector, with additional hotels stays, restaurant visits and other activity, and then have a positive impact on the sporting events sector, as well as the bike sales and maintenance sectors, creating sustainable local employment.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

The City of Victoria and CRD can partner with SIMBS and other organizations to raise public awareness about the values, economic benefits and personal health and wellness benefits of mountain biking.

The CRD can also partner with SIMBS and other organizations to expand mountain biking opportunities throughout the region, as discussed above.

JANZEN, Sandy

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I haven't been mountain biking for years but I am a nature fanatic and a fitness enthusiast so I think it's important to encourage people to get outside and stay fit!

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Namely letting people know that it is an affordable, healthy activity, which in theory should be accessible by individuals on a lower income. Also by looking at initiatives, proposals to increase more participation and interest in mountain biking.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Making sure trails are as accessible as possible, making sure that the public is aware that it is a cost-effective outdoor activity. Perhaps collaborating or participating in promotional events.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I'm not entirely sure what you mean by economic impact In this regard, do you mean how to increase Revenue from Mountain biking? I can only assume that if there's more promotion of mountain biking through community engagement, advertising, events etc.. then there would be more Revenue flow.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Think it has to start with awareness a good campaign highlighting the above mentioned points.

JONES, Jason

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

It fits with being a great vessel for active and healthy living. While building friendships that span likely across our South island communities, pulling them closer.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

This is your passion and hobby, I support your right to it. While understanding a healthy outdoor activity needs growth time to time as the community expands. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

The roles of regional municipal governments like Victoria or Sooke, varies truthfully a fair bit due to geographical placement and development. Leaving the CRD that has to soften or unlock land its sheltering. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

There is a number of ways I feel this can happen, though open and respectful meetings. Then there is the development of extending trails to adding new trails with a lift service. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

There is a number of things that come to mind. 1- Society literature or flyers handed out at South island bike shops, while to slipping some among tourist brochure racks.
2- Interacting with other local cycle groups, the Fish & Wildlife Club or Evasive Plant Life Removal (FNSP - Friends of North Saanich Parks) 3- Vote in Mayors, Councilors as well CRD directors, that you can trust to work for the communities you live in and they serve.

KIM, Susan

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I have a vision for a healthy, active community that is connected to each other and a healthy environment. As an activity, I think mountain biking fits into this perfectly. I’m also eager to see mountain biking expanded and made more accessible for urban youth as an opportunity to encourage physical activity within natural settings, and build up the next generation of bikers and conservationists!

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Since most of the trails are outside of the city of Victoria, my role would involve working across the CRD to support responsible growth and management of trails and working with people in the mountain biking community to grow the sport in our region. This should be done in consultation with local First Nations to respect and protect their areas of significance.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Opening discussion with Mountain bike groups and builders such as SIMBS to benefit from their knowledge and direction, allowing trail expansion and growth within already designated mountain bike areas and exploring the possibility of opening new environmentally appropriate areas where historically mountain biking has occurred.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Vancouver Island has an excellent reputation as a world-class mountain biking destination. Victoria can use this to its advantage by promoting it as part of our thriving tourism industry and by responsibly expanding new trail systems, which would further grow the sport and opportunities for visitors. Victoria’s successful road biking events are an excellent example of the power of governments working together with people who are passionate about their sport.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

The majority of mountain bikers take pride in the areas and trails they use and regularly work on the trails to maintain them. One of the major appeals to mountain biking is being out in nature, so most mountain bikers appreciate the land and try to keep their impact minimal. Many people not involved in the sport may not know this and may have the idea that mountain bikers are out there doing irreparable damage to the forest. Better education between the mountain biking community and the larger population about the benefits and responsibilities of mountain biking would help bridge that divide, which in turn would make it easier to allow trial builders to create even more exceptional trail systems.

KING, Anna

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Mountain biking is a well-loved form of recreation on the South Island. I'm glad that we are close and have access to such wonderful trails. My husband, neighbours, and friends all mountain bike and love it very much. It's a fabulous community activity and builds friendships well.

Personally, I'm a beginner cyclist currently after a traumatic accident several years ago and only recently started biking again in Victoria's awesome protected bike lane network. I might work up to mountain biking in the future, which would be a dream come true for my husband. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

My role as city councilor in Victoria would be to support CRD directors advocating for the maintenance and expansion of the mountain biking trails across the South Island. Further, I would be in favour of promoting urban mountain biking such as pump tracks like the new one in Topaz Park and the existing track at Cecile Ravine Park. Encouraging people of all ages, especially children to try mountain biking will create a connection with nature and promote healthy, active recreation. Being outdoors helps mental health and overall well-being, therefore it's important to continue enhancing mountain biking across South Island. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

It is the role of regional municipal governments and the CRD to maintain and expand the current mountain biking trails. Working with and listening to mountain biking organizations such as SIMBS and local individuals who mountain bike is necessary. Ensuring trail pakring remain free is important to remove any barriers to the sport for low-moderate income folks who would like to participate. 

Further, mountain biking is a valuable attraction for tourists. What an opportunity we have to create a vast network of mountain biking trails to attract more people to Victoria and the CRD area! 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Bringing in tourists to use our mountain biking trails is a positive economic impact SIMBS and Victoria can have. Promoting the trails will increase business at local bike shops and hobby shops for those that want to gear up for the ultimate mountain biking experience. Bike rental shops that include mountain bikes are another business that would benefit from mountain biking in the region. We're seeing more ebikes on the mountain biking trails allowing more people who previously were not able to access the trails to do so. There are many more industries that can benefit economically from mountain biking. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I am in favour of advocating for a holistic view of mountain biking that includes its mental health and economic benefits in addition to recreation and lifestyle benefits currently known. I am in favour of adding pump tracks when considering the development of parks in Victoria. I'm in favour of keeping parking free around trails and parks. 

MADDOCK, Jeremy

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I support mountain biking as a form of transportation and exercise.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I support enhancing the safety and efficiency of existing bike lanes, by adding a passing lane and ensuring that all bicycles are moving in the same direction as traffic.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I support bike paths in parks.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I am ready and willing to hear your ideas.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I support accessibility for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike. My priority is the greatest accessibility for the greatest number.

ORCHERTON, Steve

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

It is a great way to commute, and recreate

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I need more information on what that would mean. I think this may be a regional role falling under the CRD 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Coordination and allocation of park or other space

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Happy to meet with your organization if elected and begin a dialog

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I am not expert on this topic and would like to hear from your group on ideas you may have .

PARENTEAU, Emmanuel

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

We need low cost, high access recreational options. Nature has already given us our terrain, the mt biking sport/hobby is affordable for most and we don't need infrastructure. And what's more BC than mountain biking. I'm all for preserving and expanding trails.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Whatever is in the Victoria jurisdiction and within the purview of council.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

land designation, funds for maintenance is purview of councils.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I want to keep it free, so perhaps property tax incentives for developers to keep more greenspace?

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

No one knows where these trails are. Why not slap a "eco trail" webpage on the city's website and let people know where they can go?

WIBOLTT, Michelle

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

No mountain so, bike ridership suggest exciting other options, hopefully. SWOT analysis please if submit idea’s.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I haven’t seen/heart proposal so, no ideas that for the bike riders to present 🎁 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Ridership would have ideas? Submit simply comprehensive solutions, ideas, which are actionable.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Unless ridership providers some achievable solutions I don’t know cause we ain’t got no mountain?

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

How do expand non existent trail’s, that’s for u to submitting?

WILLIAMS, Janice

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I believe we have an incredibly amenity that is regionally available and an asset to our community. I think it makes our community an attractive tourist destination for mountain bike enthusiasts.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Being available to listen to the concerns of those who partake in this sport and other stakeholders. Being supportive of mountain biking events that occur on the south island.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Being aware of the stakeholders involved and open to engaging with them on this issue. Supporting mountain biking events on the South Island. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Be supportive of local businesses that provide goods and services to the mountain biking community, work to resolve conflicts and expand opportunities to raise awareness about the sport.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I'd really like to know what ideas SIMBS has for how a municipality can help them reduce these barriers.

BROWN, Don

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Mountain biking is a great way to stay fit and healthy. Also great for commuting which takes vehicles off our already busy roads. We need more infrastructure to increase road safety for cyclists.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Supporting the development of more trails and safer roads.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Building more trails especially ones that will allow access to all ages and abilities. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Grants and working with SIMBS on planning trails and events like trail grooming parties.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Purchasing large tracts of land when available like the CRD has already done. Promote biking on social media and publications that are distributed widely. Promote special events to encourage more riders.

KOWALEWICH, Damian

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Some, I have family/friends who ride

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Mountain biking offers an option for residents to stay active year round.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As a local politician, I can encourage and enable residents about the benefits of biking.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

To listen to advocacy groups and support them when able. If many residents call on government for any services or activity, it is our job to listen and act.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I would need to learn more about SIMBS but I am happy to do so.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Groups like SIMBS do a great job of sharing their passion with others. As local government, we can enable and support such groups when / as needed.

MACKENZIE, Alison

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

In general, I support activities that encourage and allow View Royal residents to be active and enjoy the outdoors. Given my limited knowledge around mountain biking, I would appreciate meeting with you to learn more, and engage with residents on the topic. 

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

Although I am not a mountain biker, I enjoy cycling around View Royal. I imagine a big barrier, especially for younger mountain bikers, would be riding on safe bike lanes to travel to the mountain bike trails. One of my campaign commitments is to improve cycle safety and connectivity in View Royal and neighbouring communities. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

As someone who hikes frequently, including on some trails where mountain bike trails exist, I see a role for municipal governments to provide clear communication for both bikers and hikers on what is permitted, when and where on trails to reduce confusion and maximize the safety and enjoyment of all. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

To attract mountain bikers and the related economic benefits to the Greater Victoria Area, I feel that cross-municipality collaboration would be required. Therefore, I would suggest SIMBS promote its cause to a wider forum, such as the CRD. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I would encourage SIMBS and members of the mountain biking community to share their views and ideas with Council by participating in View Royal’s engagement on the Official Community Plan and the Active Transportation Network Plan. 

ROGERS, John

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

It is one part of an integrated, balanced, careful and respectful use of our recreational trail network in the CRD. Like other uses, it depends on the trail limits of terrain, narrowness, and high demand use of various recreationalists, and ecological preservation of any at risk/ high value habitat.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

To listen, consider mountain biking where appropriate and best suited, ensuring that the sport does not damage sensitive ecosystems and habitats, and can safely co-exist with other recreational uses such as equestrian and hikers. 

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

To evaluate and permit dedicated trails which have safety in mind, well marked / designated, has minimal ecological footprint, is not in conflict with wildlife and other recreational uses, does not dominate the landscape (soil compaction etc), has sufficient parking and necessary amenities like washrooms and toilets. 

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Depends where. Some parks are strictly for threatened wildlife habitat and sensitive ecological preservation. Bikers and all recreationalists need to be responsible and respect this. Rare instances of trespass can be very negative PR impact on the sport. Maintenance and especially expansion will be based on planning, budgets, and resources required to build and maintain. Independent fund raising always helps. SIMBS can help monitor, enforce and prevent excessive damage, undue risks / conflicts, and instances of incursions into prohibited areas to ensure trails do not get closed. 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Proactive planning that assess pros /cons and addresses the issues, objective research how biking affects the land, best practices to prevent conflicts, repair trail damage and stop ecological intrusions. Working cooperatively with the various grass roots organizations who are equally keen to protect a quiet, slow, pedestrian habitat. There are positive economic benefits for both on the local economy. Lastly, active fund raising that will supplement the regional parks budgets.

TOBIAS, Sid

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Lots, I am a rider myself!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

Before I answer I will admit I am not a good mountain bike rider. My friends would invite me along as a source of amusement for how not to do tactical riding. As a result I got repeatedly injured…no like every time I went out.

That said I think mountain bike riding and associated trails are an incredible way to get in touch with nature without destroying it. I love the hit of extra oxygen you get in the forest with tears rolling out of your eyes because you are going down hill fast. Until you hit the tree that came out of nowhere.

I also believe there is an under appreciation of how much tourism there is associated with it, no brainer for me. Support it and work with the land to ensure you work with nature. Volunteers and passionate riders support the trails and it is a really fun way to commute.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I would be a willing advocate to support Mountain Bike Riding initiatives in my municipality if elected and facilitate discussion with other groups to ensure that getting people out to nature does not threaten it

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I believe they should support it absolutely! It is fun, low investment on tax payers, great for physical, mental and spiritual health as well as tourism. Just about every ferry you see has a cars with mountain bikes,

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

I think having trails with exits to existing businesses particularly coffee shops and restaurants would be a great idea but willing to listen to more. I think a competitive event in the region would be great similar to Victoria Marathon 

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

I think I would be willing to facilitate that discussion and open it up to residents and other NGOs for input. I think plans also need to be included to make hybrid options to active transportation lanes such as the Goose. I like the facility at Hartland it is world class but lots of folks still take the road to get there which is kinda dangerous with traffic or they drive which kinda defeats the purpose of exercise. Be nice if they had more options to ride there by bike through the woods

SALSMAN, Shaunna

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

I love to ride my moutain bike (mostly on the Goose).

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

The outdoors has played a key role in raising our family on the island, the abundance of nature and opportunities to enjoy it has been what keeps us here in the JDF area. Our environment is also what motivates a lot of people to come and spend time here, which we all benefit greatly from. I believe mountain biking can be part of our strong economic growth and supports a healthy lifestyle.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I will work with devote members of our community such as the South Island Mountain Bike Society and others to address their needs and issues. I will take community-led initiatives and work diligently on their behalf to advance both recreational and transit corridors throughout the region.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I believe the role of the CRD is to manage and develop land use responsibly with a focus on the quality of life, environmental impact and economic benefits. Mountain biking offers positive outcomes in these responsibilities and should be promoted in our region.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Engaging with community members, businesses and land owners in meaningful communication to ensure continual success, growth and education of mountain biking.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

Ecotourism is a booming industry, and the positive impacts surrounding mountain biking are so apparent, it is unfortunate there is a still lack of awareness. Awareness through educational campaigns and positive promotions in media outlets will hopefully increase understanding. With the abundance of nature on the south island, there really should be nearly endless opportunities for trail expansion in the JDF area. We should engage in meaningful communication with stakeholders and landowners for trail development/expansion. We can educate and relay to them the positive effects of mountain biking for the whole region. 

SINCLAIR, Sandy

Q: How much awareness do you have about mountain biking on the South Island?

Not much, but I am keen to hear more!

Q: How does mountain biking fit into your vision for the South Island and your community?

I am running for the JDF Electoral Area Director. We have twice the land area as all the municipalities of the CRD put together. I am pushing for more access for lands for a number of groups. Your group would be one. I want to add foraging for food as another, possibly adding it and yours to BCWF membership so you get covered by their $2m liability insurance.

Q: What do you see as your role in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

If I get elected as JDF Director I would be setting up a direct line for promoting access and land issues with Mosaic and other land owners and I would be the chair for Parks.

Q: What do you see as the role of regional municipal governments and the Capital Regional District in supporting and enhancing mountain biking across the South Island?

I would speak up for promoting your activities as well as other groups.

Q: How can municipal governments and SIMBS work together to maintain and expand the economic impact of mountain biking in the region?

Promote more exposure and awareness is the benefits of riding bikes for health and environment.

Q: Some barriers to realizing the potential of mountain biking on the South Island include lack of awareness of the positive economic impacts mountain biking has on the local economy, lack of awareness of the diversity and positive values of the mountain biking community, and limited opportunities for trail expansion. What ideas do you have to help reduce these barriers?

More linking to Facebook areas and other communication groups. Have your group show more stewardship on leaving trails clean with less damage to bush. I have seen motorcycle trail rider trails the hardly leave a mark. One of my big ideas for JDF would be to have a streaming internet channel for promoting local groups and keeping the community informed of what the JDF is up to.