City Councillor in Victoria, BC, Canada. Advocate for walkable cities, housing, public spaces, music, youth, and climate action. Dad x 2. He/Him.
#yyj
#bcpoli
🤬Anti-mask family did NOT notify us about their COVID diagnosis. We heard through the grapevine, then were forced to confront them. They went out in public while sick, then didn't quickly notify others. How will the pandemic end with this much selfishness out there???
Grrrrrr the anti-mask, anti-vax mom at my son's school just notified us that her family has COVID. We saw them at the stake park on the weekend so are getting tested tomorrow. Thank god for being vaccinated. Trying to hold back the vulgar language at the moment 🤬🤬🤬
Just found out the BC public service pension plan has roughly ~450M invested in the Russian state owned or oligarch backed companies. Primarily oil & gas, banks and mining, including Gazprom. Divest this now!
#bcpoli
It’s official!! 🏘 The City of Victoria has passed the “Missing Middle Housing Initiative.” This change permits 6-units on every single-family lot in the city. This innovative policy will build more housing, address climate change, and create vibrant neighborhoods.
#yyj
#bcpoli
Families go to McDonalds so kids can play at the Playplace. We need more public indoor activity centres that aren't based around eating fast food. For example, this unit costs $25,000 and could easily be in a community rec centre, library or public space. Kids love this stuff!
We've been ordered to quarantine at home for 2 weeks. No school, baseball, swimming, friends etc. Kids are really upset. There will be lots of TV and video games, when they should be at school learning. All thanks to an anti-mask family🤬. The pandemic isn't over, stay safe!
#yyj
The City of Victoria will allow townhomes, duplexes and 6-units on every lot in the city. This is a game changer for housing diversity, affordability, climate and vibrant communities!
@timescolonist
#yyj
#bcpoli
#cdnpoli
#vanpoli
This used to be an asphalt “slip-lane”, and now it’s a safe pedestrian space, with greenery and two new trees. There are so many opportunities to do this!
The anti-vax community has decided that a having a corner store in your neighbourhood is a WEF world order. Props to this Edmonton planner for his patience with these conspiracy theorists: "the policy doesn't say we won't neuter your chinchilla either." Legend!😂
#yeg
Units in one of Victoria’s most popular AirBNB buildings are coming up on the long term rental market. $1700 for a waterfront unit will definitely work for somebody.
#yyj
I have a crazy idea - what if we build incredible amenities for kids in the centre of the city, to attract families back downtown?? Nice work Vancouver on the incredible “Rainbow Park” - we loved it!
#yvr
#vancouver
Sneak peek of the brand new AAA protected bike lane along Fort Street in Victoria. This new route should be opening soon, providing a safer route to a middle school, the hospital, and downtown. I hope to see many more of these protected lanes in the future.
#yyj
People wonder why it’s not safe for kids to walk/bike freely around the neighbourhood?
21-year old kid doing 128 km/h in 50km/h zone on Foul Bay (4 blocks from my house). Fine should be $4000, not $400. 🤬
A huge number of children are addicted to screens and not able to independently explore their neighbourhood due to excessive vehicle speed and poor urban design. It’s a crisis that no one is talking about. I’m not surprised that teachers are seeing this trend. We can change this!
Something is happening with B.C.'s youngest students. CityNews has launched an investigative series -- The Kids Are Not Alright -- to find out what is going on.
Part 1 of this series looks into the rise of concerning behaviours in elementary classrooms.
I spoke with a young mom today about Victoria’s new missing middle housing policy.
She’s absolutely thrilled, as she wants to build a shared home with a suite for her aging mother, a suite for her sister’s family, and a suite for her older brother. Shared housing is important!
😡200kmh in a 90kmh zone!? 100kmh over the limit... And you guessed it, only a $368 dollar fine. Something needs to change ASAP, before more people are killed on our roads.
With unanimous 9/9 approval, Victoria will be getting a floating sauna in the inner harbour! My first public hearing was jam packed and lively, with great speakers for/against this. Congrats to this local business on a successful application and very cool project.
#yyj
Victoria City Council approved an innovative car-free building tonight! 633 Belton is a car-free 6-plex that will replace a single home. This is exactly the type of sustainable & affordable density we need. This is the model, let’s do more.
#yyj
Victoria’s “Bike Valet” service is a massive success. It allows people to bike downtown and store their bike securely. It’s a free service, open 7:30am-6:30pm mid week. We need to keep this service going!
#yyj
#victoriabc
🤬My situation shows the damage that one anti-masker can cause. This family exposed our school on May 10/11. Then, despite symptoms, they went to public park on May 16th and played with my son. Island Health said its a complex case with many links Don't let your guard down yet!
Today, council expressed a strong desire for car-lite development. Why do we force people to pay for parking and garages, if they want to be car free? Why encourage space for vehicles in a climate emergency? Less parking/cars = more trees, gardens and beautiful neighborhoods
#yyj
Penticton is banning talk of bike lanes, other places are removing them, some places haven’t heard of them. Victoria will keep expanding our world class cycling network as fast as possible. Ridership is growing rapidly. Kids, families, seniors, tourists - they’re a hit!
penticton banning all debate on separated bike lanes for three years is certainly a choice
but when you watch the vancouver park vote five times in three years on a single bike lane, with no conclusion in sight, you can see the appeal
We hired a new guy at work who "enjoys painting." Modest guy apparently, as he's done some of the BEST paintings of
#victoriabc
I've seen in a long time. Gonzales Bay below. Check him out here:
#yyj
#painting
#canadianart
Here is the full list of condo buildings in Victoria that allowed short-term rentals, due to the legal non-conforming use (grandfathering) that local governments did not have authority to regulate. Many of these are full of AirBNBs/VRBO units. This will end May 1st 2024.
#yyj
Hey
#yyj
, thank you to the 13,899 people who supported me yesterday. It’s a surreal feeling, and I’m excited to get to work to build a better city. We have an optimistic and pragmatic new Council that I’m excited to work with over the next 4 years! P/1
#yyjpoli
Well, it finally happened. I got absolutely rocked by a car door while biking on Oak Bay Ave. It happened in a split second, and my neck bounced off the top of the car door and I flung backwards into the road. I crashed onto my back and landed only 2 feet from a… p/1
My thoughts: “Our land-use decisions in the city need to recognize that if we limit growth in the city, we are encouraging sprawl and environmental destruction outside of the city.”
#yyj
#bcpoli
This used to be an asphalt “slip-lane”, and now it’s a safe pedestrian space, with greenery and two new trees. There are so many opportunities to do this!
Victoria council has significantly amended the Missing Middle Housing Initiative (allows up to 6 units on SFH lots) to encourage more new housing in Victoria! We made major changes to increase height, reduce setbacks, cut fees/rules & more. Bring on the new housing!
#yyj
The new Fort Street bike lanes are absolutely beautiful. They’re the best bike lane design I’ve ever seen. Here is a photo of a “bike interchange.” Also, see the old light rail tracks that existed here, before being replaced for the personal vehicle (gas station in background!)
New vegan fast-food place "Meet" is almost open in Victoria, at the old Boston Pizza on Hillside. I went to the Vancouver location recently and had the "triple bacon cheeseburger," which was amazing. I hope this place does well!
#yyj
#victoriabc
More great news! Today, we committed to investing $13-$14 million dollars to upgrade 18 public washrooms in the city, to ensure they meet highest-level accessibility standards. Better pathways, lighting, cleaning and accessibility design!
#yyj
#victoriabc
Helping my buddy move today. The investment condo they were living in sold. This is their fourth move in 6 years (w/ kid). Our rental market is far too tight. We need more rental units across the entire CRD, with a focus on 3+ bedroom units. People are struggling.
#yyj
Sending positive thoughts to all the Canadians whose weekend is ruined by the anti-vax convoy. It’s a national embarrassment. An anti-science temper tantrum by those that don’t care about their fellow citizens. Go home and let’s get through this final stage safely!
#Clownvoy
Neighbour ripped up his boulevard and is planting a full native garden. $700 in soil and $1500 for 400 plants. This will beautify our whole block and helps the bees. Mine might be next :)
#yyj
#gardening
#garden
A “traffic playground” is an excellent way to give kids a safe place to learn about road safety. I wish we had something like this when my kids were young!
Very happy that Council approved this incredible 540-unit mixed use development on Caledonia/Douglas. This project includes TWO BC Housing buildings, and a massive spectrum of affordable housing. Grocery store, daycare, office and more. This is the model!
#yyj
Victoria needs 1000s of new rental units built in the next 5 years. I want them to have incredible amenities for residents. This new rental building in Victoria has a huge jam space for musicians. It’s underground (soundproof) and free to use. More stuff like this!
#yyj
#yvr
Whoa whoa whoa - this is not a "worker uprising," this is an anti-vax uprising. This is not a "freedom" convoy, it's an anti-vax convoy. Big difference.
There is a solution to this:
✅build more residential units in the downtown core
✅invest in amazing public amenities that bring people to our downtown: Ship Point, Centennial Square, new public library and downtown playground
✅improve transit and active transportation
It’s official! The City of Victoria has passed the transformative Harris Green development in downtown Victoria. This is housing action!
✅1584 new rental homes
✅80 BC Housing units
✅20,000 sqft plaza/park
✅community centre & daycare & trees.
#yyj
#yyjpoli
#victoriabc
Heading to City Hall today for a full day of meetings. I’ve been asked a lot about how we can plant more trees in the city. This bike lane shows how we can include more green space and new trees in our existing roadways.
#yyj
The City of Victoria is reducing traffic speed across the city, which will make our streets safer for everyone.
If walking and hit by a vehicle at 50km, you have 80% of being killed. If the vehicle is going 30km, you have 90% chance of surviving.
#yyj
#victoriabc
Starting with
#HillsideQuadra
in May, speed limits on all local streets in Victoria are being lowered from 50 km/h ➡️30 km/h to reduce the number and impact of crashes. Major roads will not be affected.
Learn more:
#yyjtraffic
Does anyone remember when this new Dallas Road Multi-Use Pathway was hugely controversial? People said it would ruin the ocean front. Today, it’s busier than ever and widely loved. Change brings exciting opportunities in a city! I’m optimistic about the future.
#yyj
#victoriabc
I’m deeply disturbed at the anti-trans and anti-2SLGBTQI+ protests taking place across Canada today. I can’t imagine a more hateful way to spend your life. Im standing in solidarity with all my friends, family and community members who this bigotry is directed at.
huge delivery truck. The bike is bent and the car paint took a beating. I remember when people fought against protected bike lanes on Oak Bay Ave in 2016, which is extra frustrating today. The city still isn’t safe for cycling, but thankfully I’m OK today. Be careful out there!
My house is really cold right now, thanks to the new heat pump. I bought it for winter, and didn’t even realize it’s a powerful AC. Why even make fossil fuel heated homes anymore? Total cost was $2500, after $8500 BC Gov and
@bchydro
grant.
#yyj
#bcpoli
Victoria City Council made a big commitment to summertime water access: more swim docks, kids splash pad, and eventually an outdoor pool. This work starts now, with a massive new swim dock in the Gorge (Bamfield Park) for June 2024. It's beautiful!
#yyj
I made a short movie about our bike ride to school. I wish my son (9) could do this on his own, but I just don’t trust the drivers. All kids should feel safe walking or biking to school! It’s good for climate, mental health, and their own growth.
#biking
#safestreets
Hello Victoria! I am excited to announce that I am running for Victoria City Council. I want to tackle the affordability crisis, strengthen our communities, and invest in the city’s future. I’m ready to listen, work hard, and build a better Victoria.
#yyj
#victoriabc
#yyjpoli
1/6
MAJOR news for arts and culture in Victoria! The City of Victoria has acquired the Hermann’s Jazz Club, one of the most iconic music venues in BC, to help preserve one of the few remaining venues in the city. The potential for arts, city revenue, and downtown are huge.
#yyj
p/1
The city keeps blocking my short cut routes! How am I supposed to cut through a residential neighbourhood to shave 20 seconds off my trip time??? (Also: please do this in my neighbourhod)
This is a very common message we receive about Victoria's Bike Valet, which is located at City Hall, free to use, and has accepted over 20,000 bikes this year.
This couple:
-Live outside the city
-Over 60
-E-bike revolution
-Bike in weekly, spend $200+ on dinner/shopping.
#yyj
It’s official - Victoria council has unanimously declared Victoria as the CYLCING CAPITAL OF CANADA! We have the highest percentage of people that bike to work in Canada, a beautiful AAA bike network, free bike valet services, and beautiful weather and ocean-side trails.
#yyj
Hey
@BCTransit
- why can’t we tap a credit card to pay for bus fare in
#yyj
?
Public transit works best when it’s quick and convenient - many people don’t carry bus tickets or exact change, so a CC tap would be huge help :)
#transit
#bctransit
#victoriabc
As the heat wave scorches the city, we should ask:
-Can families bike safely to the beach?
-Is water available at all public places?
-Are there enough splash parks?
-Would an outdoor pool help?
-Are dense city centers welcoming on hot days?
If not - this is our winter project!
Wharf Street in
#yyj
- our only ocean side boulevard, currently used largely for cars. Is green space, patios, and public space a better use? What do we think
#victoriabc
?
🌳Tomorrow at Victoria City Council, I have a motion (w. Cllr. Caradonna) directing staff to explore options to convert underutilized roads into new community places, urban gardens, or parks. We love the plazas we have (Fernwood Square), but could build more around the city!
#yyj
🚴♀️Yesterday, we announced the new 2.7 km Fort Street AAA bike lane network. Today, work completes on the Kimta E&N bike connector!
Victoria is making incredible progress on our bike network, and this won't slow down! I'm thankful to live in a city that loves cycling :)
#yyj
🎉 The Kimta E&N Connector is now open! Construction is complete on a new multi-use pathway, protected bike lanes, crosswalks and more. This joint project with
@crd_bc
connects the E&N Regional Trail with the City’s cycling network. Check it out next time you're in
#VicWest
.
It’s done! Beautiful urban art project for about $500 total cost. It says “Thank You” in 22 languages for the health care workers next door :)
#yyj
#victoriabc
Got my haircut by an 18-year old who fled the war in Ukraine 4 months ago. What a great conversation and awesome young guy. Go give him some support and a big tip :)
#yyj
#victoriabc
Victoria council will NOT ask the Province for an extension of the May 1st Short Term Rental ban. Council expressed a strong preference for housing for local residents. Very happy to see Tofino prioritizing housing for locals too.
#bcpoli
#yyj
#yyjpoli
Breaking news: no municipality in British Columbia is building enough housing. We need 1000s and 1000s of new units, preferably in walkable communities that are close to transit. Every region needs to help resolve this crisis!
#bcpoli
It’s official! I submitted my papers to run for Victoria City Council. I’m ready to advocate for housing, climate, parks, and a city that works for the next generation.
#yyj
#yyjpoli
My wife offered to drive me to City Hall today, but honestly there is no better way to start the week than a bike ride. The streets were packed with cyclists this AM. I’m thankful for these amazing AAA bike lanes that make the ride more enjoyable :) Have a great week all!
#yyj
I saw the Pixies and Deftones at the Victoria Curling Club 15+ years ago. It's a great space for local music, and I'm happy to support changes that will allow more live music to happen. Badly needed in
#yyj
#victoriabc
@timescolonist
If your gym, rec center, or favorite restaurant emails you about the new vaccine passport rules, send them back some positive words of support. This is hard for them, and they're taking lots of abuse from anti-vaxxers. Positive support helps!
#VaccinePassports
#bcpoli
HUGE NEWS for housing affordability in British Columbia! New changes to "allow three to four units on a traditional single-family detached lot and even higher density permitted in areas close to transit hubs."
#yyj
#bcpoli
#cdnpoli
#HousingCrisis
I want Victoria to be an incredible city for biking. Kids should be able to bike to school safely, and new bikers should feel safe. Expanding the AAA bike network is a crucial way to reduce urban emissions and improve our health.
#yyj
Council unanimously approved 46 units of housing at the corner of Pandora & Camosun Street in Fernwood. This replaces three homes with 46 new units, including 3-below market units, a $150,000 contribution to the city's parks & housing reserve, a MODO car, and 13 new trees.
#yyj
✅Keep the bike valet free
✅Keep the bike valet open year-round
✅Support downtown business
✅Support climate action
✅Support community & healthy lifestyle!
Comment: Bicyclists should not have to pay for downtown parking
#yyj
We desperately need more townhomes. A frequent critique I hear is “families don’t want townhomes as they don’t have yards.” This sentiment is completely wrong - check this one out!
#yyj
Should Centennial Square in Victoria BC have a water feature that kids can play in? This could be a huge draw for downtown
#yyj
. Here is a similar public space, Grand Park in Los Angeles, which invites the public to utilize the space.
#victoriabc
Was going to rage on my friend that texted at 2:30AM last night, but then realized it was just the BC Gov sending me a booster shot invite. Allllllll good :) Booked for tmrw!
#yyj
#bcpoli
The highlight of my week was testing this
@EvoCarShare
electric bike. This thing is FAST and comfortable. It has advanced GSP, so uses a "digital docking" system. To reduce theft, it's self-locking, very heavy and GSP-tracked. I'd love to see an e-bike share in
#yyj
ASAP.
Teens are often forgotten in discussions about city design, public amenities and cultural opportunities. It would be great to design communities and parks/playgrounds that reverse this trend.
Teens who meet up with their friends 'almost every day' is down from 50% in the 90s to 25% today.
Falls off a cliff around 2010, alongside the rise of smartphones and social media.
Victoria BC is named the
#1
"most walkable city" in the world, outside the USA!
Victoria is ranked ahead of London, Paris, Amsterdam and more. Thank you to Travel Awaits magazine for this prestigious award!
#yyj
#victoriabc
#britishcolumbia
#beautifulbc
Should Millennials and Gen-Z’ers just fully get into lawn bowling? These places are everywhere, seem underused, and have been gardens. I’m ready to commit - whose with me!?
Splash Pad Watch 2022 continues. We will update daily with new information on whether or not there is a splash pad.
Update: there is still no splash pad.
I’m very impressed at the missing middle housing in Seattle residential neighbourhoods. Lots of well-designed 3-6 storey buildings that fit nicely into traditional neighbourhoods. This is how we build more affordable housing & walkable/green neighbourhoods! P/1
#seattle
Council approved an innovative, car-lite, rental housing project this week.
The building has 9 parking stalls for 34 units, which works because it’s located on a transit corridor and AAA bike network! This is how we will tackle the housing/climate crisis!
#yyj