Times Colonist, Opinion.
Letters July 30, 2025
At 5032 Wesley Rd. in Saanich stands an iconic, 100-year-old big leaf maple. Neighbours were surprised when a notice was hammered into the trunk of this tree by Saanich advising that within 10 days, the tree would be cut down to facilitate a developer’s connection to underground sewer services.
When asked how this decision was arrived at, Saanich advised they undertook a cost-benefit analysis, and it was cheaper for the developer to connect into existing services near the tree’s base than to route around the tree. Also, Saanich cited the health of the tree itself.
Neighbours took action and solicited three independent arbourist opinions, who all said the tree, with some minor remediation, was healthy.
They collected more than 700 signatures asking Saanich to change their decision. Letters were sent to the mayor and council were sent. A media and social media campaign began. Also, neighbours offered to pay for the remediation themselves.
None of this mattered. The decision stood and the tree was going to be cut down.
As a last effort, Bartlett Tree Experts offered to undertake remediation of the tree at their cost as part of their community contributions. Finally, Saanich agreed to not cut the tree down.
This experience raises many questions.
Why did the community have to go to such great efforts to get Saanich council and leadership to do the right thing? Why does Saanich prioritize developer profits over trees, the environment and the wishes of hundreds of voters?
Why does Saanich spend millions on bike lanes, but will not spend one penny on saving a tree of significance?
Why do our taxes rise at three times the rate of inflation, yet Saanich spends tax dollars on creating intentional road congestion and vehicle chaos?
If this is not the type of Saanich that voters want for another four years, I urge you to make your voice heard at the next municipal election in October 2026.
Lorne DeLarge
Saanich