Evan Parliament is the Chief Administrative Officer of the District of Sooke, BC. 

Here is the community leadership message that Evan Parliament contributed to MapleLine Magazine's Winter-Spring 2010 issue (released Feb.3, 2010):

"There is a wide scope of activity when it comes to administrating a municipality. I have worked in several towns in BC, and in Sooke there is a special flavour of cooperativeness and industriousness that I enjoy. There are several key aspects of community well-being that I deal with in terms of policy input to Council, developing and adhering to guidelines and plans, and in the day to day management of the municipal hall. There is always a balance needed between the visions of Council (and the community plan) and the practical execution of directives and policies that end up affecting this community in many ways.

The District of Sooke (DoS) has adopted several plans and specific policies that promote active living in a sustainable community. For example, for all multi-family developments, the District may request the proponent provide bus passes and/or recreation SEAPARC family passes to new buyers who purchase a unit. Our amenity policy allows the DoS to foster active living and encourages mass transit as a means of transportation. Siting future developments on major transit routes are a priority with our district.

Another example is our new Parks and Trails Master Plan that provides the framework for future trails and linear parks to be built; the trails and parks encourage walkability and pedestrian traffic to converge in our new downtown and near or on the water. Connecting Ayre Manor via new sidewalks to the water via the boardwalk is a prime example of improving the overall well-being of seniors. The current enhancement of Ed Macgregor Park and the Spirit Square project is another example of a community gathering place located near the water and connected to our boardwalk.

Finally, there is an effort to build a connector trail that will bring the popular Galloping Goose and its pedestrian and cyclist traffic to our new downtown. And it will allow residents to bike, walk, and hike the trail from their backdoor to Leechtown! In addition to these plans, efforts are now being focused on a new seniors drop-in centre to be located in Mariners Village (next to a new Medical clinic) as the District continues to discuss exciting new initiatives with the developer.

The next few years will see exciting new growth in our community, a process that unfolds through careful attention to the needs of all our residents, businesses, and community groups. I see 2010 as being a
cornerstone year in which many of our advancements will take shape or move forward."

~ Evan Parliament, CAO

LEADERSHIP PROFILE ~ MM