Transition Sooke General Meeting

March 4, 2020

19 attending

Opening

Territorial Acknowledgement

Added item to new business

Feb 5 minutes. Motion to accept: Bernie. Second: Paula. Approved

No significant change to financial status. Report as per Societies Act filed and was accepted

Recap of AGM. Notes to follow

New board members introduced

Policy on TS sponsorship

Heather: question as to “types” of members. Who is a member and do we need some type of policy? Discussion around what defines a member. Proposal to establish an ad hoc committee: Alan.

Membership ad hoc committee: Hester, Heather, Sue L, Susan B, Bernie

Examples of WildWise Sooke and ZWS already applying for grants using the TS society number–both are sub-groups of TS.

Finance policy and procedures ad hoc committee: Sam, David, Chris

Decision making ad hoc committee: Alan, Bernie, Hester, Susan B

Original ad hoc committee was thanked for their work and that committee (with new members) has morphed into Finance policy and procedure

Earth Day: Ann: update, call for ideas Moki: Harbourside is in for recycling display. update on April 22 event (vigil) to take place at the Baptist church sponsored by multi-faith initiative Deb: direct action and legal observer workshops are on

Climate Emergency

Green Energy action team Cheryl: presentation to council on disallowing natural gas in all new builds. Reviewed and presented to TS. Discussion around presentation. To be presented March 23 at 7:00 pm

Review of the Climate Action To-Go kit available from the library. Displayed and discussed

Break

Forest and Ocean action team: Andy McKinnon to speak at event on May 05, 7:00 pm

Green Energy action team: pocket news article recap. T’Sou-ke Nation tour had ~18 people. Life Long Learning program being developed for the fall. Sooke Green Energy Vision 2030: reduce 50% by 2030. Reduce 100% by 2050. GEAT is developing a 10-year plan and is looking for input from other teams

Transportation action team: survey ready on transportation needs and desires. To be released on the Survey Monkey platform. There was a presentation to council on cycling in Sooke.

Rainwater Harvesting action team: Contact with Gord and Ann Baird at Ecosense. Tour of off-grid house. Next meeting 15 March.

Food and Agriculture action team: Stephen Hindrichs has offered to champion. Inaugural meeting 7 March at 10 am

Divestment action team: Meeting March 5. Sending a letter to all local banks and credit unions asking about their exposure to fossil fuel companies. TS to endorse the letter: Moved Bernie. Second Jack. Approved

No report from District of Sooke Climate Action Committee

No report on Seedy Saturday (TS table)

Library has requested another craft swap. Knitters and library have joined ZWS to sponsor the event. Next one to be held during Earth Week: April 21, 2020 6:30-8:00pm

Pesticide Education Group: more signatures gathered at Seedy Saturday. To present to the Sooke District Committee of the Whole.

Wild Wise Sooke: 2020 planning meeting: 15 March 1-3 at the fire hall. In-school program continues. Focus this year on wolves following population increase. “Caution Deer” signs available

No announcements

Regular roster of TS attendance at Council meetings: Hester to champion Need words to do a callout in newsletter

Adjourned

Next meeting April 1, 2020

Transition Sooke General Meeting

Feb 5, 2020

27 attending

1. Opening

Facilitator – Alan

Territorial acknowledgement

Jan 8, 2020 minutes. Draft minutes not to be posted to social media.
When a Susan is minuted, there needs to be an initial.
Moki moved to accept minutes. Robin seconded. Approved.

2. Treasurer’s Report

No change in the financial status from last meeting. Reminder to get approval and then rent a venue. David moved for acceptance. Susan C. seconded. Approved.

3. Earth Day (ED) plans – Ann
Events will take place over several days: clean up, vigil, and event at community hall.
Action teams need to decide how they want to participate–soon!
Moki to approach Harbourside about a recycling table/display.
Funding currently under control as budget being developed.
Committee could help action teams get funding’
Moki: district grant should be pursued NOW.
Dianne: council favourably disposed to ED grant.
Yvonne to see about getting raffle status.
Questions around funding discussed generally.

4. Climate Emergency – Susan C and Jo
a) Green lifestyle–Yvonne
~ 8 people at last meeting
Discussions held at people’s homes are fruitful, this will be the ongoing model.

b) Forests and Oceans–Christina
Planning a Forests forum for April 7 (Note: now May)
Requested funds for EMCS rental, deposit, publicity, etc.
Maximum funds draw of $600 moved by Bernie. Seconded by David. Approved

c) Green Energy–Lily
Nine members after Lifelong Learning (LLL) presentation. Developing the LLL presentation into an editable, multi-audience presentation.
Working on a partnership with Sooke branch of VIRL to encourage self-education on green energy issues.
Planning presentation to council on adopting the STEP program for new housing,
Planning participation in ED.
Proposed that $50 go to a local artist. Moved by Lily. Ann seconded. Approved.

T’Sou-ke tour Saturday 08 February
Next meeting 1 March 2020

d) Divestment – Susan and Jo
LLL presentation. Research underway. Next meeting February 6,  Larger team is needed

e) Rainwater Harvesting–Robin
LLL presentation
Next meeting at Sue L’s Feb 17, 1:30-3:00
What kind of presence to have at ED to be discussed

f) Climate Angst/Connecting with youth
Local artist would like to do a mural with local students
Would like to apply to VanCity for a grant
Would like to know if TS would be a sponsor for the grant proposal
Motion proposed to create an ad hoc committee to establish criteria and procedures for TS to sponsor groups or individuals applying for grants. Jo moved. Seconded Lynne. Approved.

ad hoc committee: Lily, David M, Paula

g) Climate Angst
Next (final) group meeting is 25 February with possibility of another set of meetings

h) Transportation
February 10 a cycling proposal goes to council’s committee of the whole

5. District of Sooke Climate Action Committee (CAC) – Susan C, Diane, Christina

Christina: Council is open to suggestions from TS on policies to pursue
Patrick raised the question of a local food policy
Contact is Christina
Susan C described how the committee is set up. Pressure should be on council who will then refer it to the CAC for discussion and proposals
Next meeting date on website

6. Awareness Film Night – Jo talked about the evening on Feb 12 including a partnership with Tugwell Honey and Meadery

7. Seedy Saturday (Feb 29) – Table booked, David and Yvonne to staff it, David M and Carol to help. Questionnaire on carbon budget to be offered to attendees. Volunteers welcome

8. Zero Waste Sooke – Bernie to book hall for a Repair Cafe the day after the ED event in the hall. Talk to council about reserving land for a local recycle and composting yard single use replacement storage discussed

9. Pesticide Education Group – Alan Table at Pollinators film on Feb 12 and Seedy Saturday if possible. Perhaps share the TS table presenting the pesticide petition before the Committee of the Whole end of March

10. Wild Wise Sooke – Sam presented a quick overview of what WWS is doing. 15 people attended a recent recruitment meeting “Bear Country” sign installed by highway on eastern approach to Sooke. Signage now also in bus stops. Attend every fair and festival possible. Social media presence and web page overhaul. In-school program going very well. Working group with District of Sooke, Volunteers welcome

11. TS AGM Feb 26, 7 pm Harbourside. Susan B to be asked to run the election

12. Announcements – Proclamation from UN multi-faith initiatives. Patrick says the Eco Academy for grade 9-10 students is now in place It needs 25 students to run, so talk it up See the EMCS website

13. Arno quickly updated the group on electric cars and “harmless housing” Would be available to do longer presentations

Adjourned 9:20 pm

Minutes of Transition Sooke General Meeting

8 January, 2020

27 people attending

Acknowledgement of the meeting taking place on the traditional lands of the T’Sou-ke, Pacheedaht, and Scia’new First Nations

Introductions around the Circle.

Samantha Webb offered to take notes.

Moki asked for permission to record the session. No objections.

Some additions to the agenda accepted.

Bev moved motion to accept the minutes of the last meeting seconded by Lily.

Passed.

1. Earth Day 2020 Planning

David spoke on Ann’s behalf since she was feeling unwell. The group is still looking for input and ideas. Ann is planning to invite other team champions to offer ideas that they might want to contribute to the project. (Editor’s note: This planning group is meeting at Harbourside on Saturday, January 18 at 10 am until noon. All welcome.)

2) Treasurer’s Report – David

Because of his contribution to Sooke and Transition Sooke as a volunteer doing street cleaning, Moonfist was given funds to help him through a medical challenge recently. Two cheques for $200 were provided from the main Transition Sooke and Zero Waste Sooke accounts as approved in our last meeting.

Bank balances: Main TS Account: $4,939.11; Zero Waste Account: $1,197.51; Special Events Legacy Fund: $1,314.40

3) Webpage update -Alan

Thanks to Christina Schlattner for filling in while Alan was away. Recent growth in “membership” numbers amounts to 418 subscribers many of whom sign up on the website. They average over 40% opening of e-mails which is a high number. Alan explained about what’s involved in being on the active members list which allows more dialogue between active members. He also mentioned that he has set up a page for Climate Emergency that summarizes the 13 Action Team Initiatives. Internet security issues were raised and discussed.

4) Considering EngageBC and CleanBC – Moki

Moki and Susan pointed out some of the limitations of the CleanBC proposals for tackling climate disruption put forward by the NDP government.

To quote from an email from Susan and Diane: “The government wants a document to show that they are moving ahead with adaptation to climate change and it asks constituents to answer questions on how the government can help with the consequences of the very fossil fuels it is supporting”. It shows that this government is playing the very same game as the Liberals. Supporting and subsidizing the fossil fuel monster while promising to cut emissions in other ways. It is as if “they can have their cake and eat it.”

There is a seven-page article by staff lawyers Andrew Gage and Deborah Carlson entitled “Tell the BC government we need a REAL plan to prepare for climate change” put out by West Coast Environmental Law. Now this is more like what we really need! Go to their website: www.wcel.org

5) Climate Action Team reports:

Green Energy

Lily reported that this team had had three meetings and came up with 4 goals:

1] Advocate for a Green Energy vision for Sooke;

2] To develop an education and communications plan;

3] Watching brief to vet policy changes in Sooke working with Council;

4] Carry out the necessary research.

Members are: Lily, Sheryl, Andrew, Keiffer (Elliott) and Beth (Lange)

The team meets on the first Monday of every month. They found out that Sooke has a 2013 Community Energy and Emissions plan designed to get to zero emissions in the DOS operations by 2020! Fat chance! The DOS is doing an emissions inventory now and this team will look into this matter. Sheryl is also going to speak with Tony St. Pierre, chairperson of the Sooke Region Climate Action Committee, who told her to do more research on the case for reducing or banning the use of natural gas in new buildings. Once that is done, the next step is to prepare a policy to be vetted by the membership of Transition Sooke at a general meeting before presenting it to the DOS Council.

In discussion with Jeff Bateman, it was revealed that the DOS is looking at the B.C. Step Code with step 1 being education and awareness raising. Out of this idea came a proposal to work on building a collaborative relationship with the T’Sou-ke First Nation. It is proposed to have a Solar Panel Tour and Workshop (including an indigenous ceremony ) hosted by Andrew to take place on February 8. Maximum number of participants is 25. Sign-up sheet circulated.

Lily also mentioned that several NGOs and educational groups are collaborating on producing a handbook on how to create a sustainable community in the context of climate change. They have a Powerpoint program that they will be using for their presentation to the Life Long Learning (LLL) program at Seaparc. It will also be available for other showings – maybe even to a General Meeting! They are also working on a newspaper article about what they are doing.

Fossil Fuel Divestment – Susan C and Jo

The team is preparing to do a presentation for the LLL program. After that they will be meeting to develop a workshop.

Transportation – Susan Belford

The team (8 members at this point) meets on the first Monday of the month. They are also doing a presentation for the LLL program. They are planning to develop a display table set up for showing at community events dealing with transportation issues in our region. One person came to one of our meetings with well thought out ideas and designs for bicycle infrastructure on Highway 14 and Otter Point Road.

Rainwater Harvesting – Sue Lidster

Their team just delivered a presentation at the LLL program. They want to follow the example of the Nanaimo Regional District by encouraging citizens to take rainwater harvesting seriously to bring this idea to the Capital Regional District and the Juan de Fuca Electoral District. They want to get Tony St. Pierre on board as well as possibly the District Climate Change Action Committee.

Climate Angst and Healing Circle – Moki

The healing circle is due to start on January 14 and go for 4 sessions until February. 10 people are signed up. (Editor’s note: First session had to be postponed owing to inclement weather. We plan to go ahead on the 21).

Zero Waste Sooke

This group is proud to announce that the two grocery stores have stopped using plastic bags. A proud moment!

Diane Bernard requested support for Climate Change Action Committee as it appears before Sooke Council on January 13. (Editor’s Note: This request was withdrawn.)

BREAK

6) Some words from the President – Moki

He asked if anyone is interested and willing to facilitate these general meetings. Alan and Susan Belford would be good choices with their professional backgrounds. It was agreed that they try rotating the role with Alan, Susan and Moki and see how it works. He also announced that the AGM would beheld in late February. Moki spoke of the possibility of stepping down as President at that time. At the same time, he said he intends to continue to be involved in our mission together.

7) Lifelong Learning (LLL) collaboration – Chris

Chris gave a glowing report on how well the Lifelong Learning program is going with special mention of the series of presentations by our action group champions under the banner: “Toward a green economy – Climate Champions.”

He also talked about some of the other offerings. Moki mentioned the Transition Town presentation by Mary Coll who knew Rob Hopkins in Ireland in the early days of what became the Transition Town movement – that’s us folks.

8) Two-hour workshop on Volunteering Trends. Samantha will attend this workshop put on by the Sooke Region Volunteer Centre and report back.

9) Need to have access to a sandwich board. Moki put out a request for a sandwich board to be made by a willing person to be used for TS events. Chris Moss volunteered. Thanks Chris.

10) Seedy Saturday – February 29, 2020

There was good energy and enthusiasm to go ahead and have a table at Seedy Saturday on February 29. Yvonne and David will take this on with support by

others pitching in to do shifts.

Announcements:

Saturday January 11 – rally at the Legislature – Susan

Local Gov’t Interface Network – Susan

United Nations Interfaith Harmony event on 5 February at EMCS – Don

Next meeting set for Wednesday February 5, 2020 at Harbourside at 7 pm.

SPECIAL NOTE: The Sooke Transition Town Society Annual General Meeting will take place on Wednesday, February 26 at 7:30 pm in the great hall at Harbourside Cohousing when all Board members step down and a new Board is elected.

Minutes of Transition Sooke General Meetingheld4 December, 2019

20+   attending plus new attendee Kiefer Elliott

Acknowledgement of the meeting taking place on traditional lands of the T’Sou-ke First Nation.

Introductions around the circle.

Request for changes to the agenda.

Motion to accept minutes of the last meeting with two corrections. Moved by Moki and seconded by David. Passed.

President’s Christmas Address

Moki talked about the unique circumstances of this time in the human journey and as we move into 2020 we begin a decade that will determine the future of our civilization – for better or worse. We have this incredible opportunity to work together to make a difference right here in the Sooke region.

Treasurer’s Report

David stated that our current balances in our accounts are basically unchanged. We received a request from several members to make 2 donations of $200 to the Moonfist Support Fund to help with his medical costs. Moonfist is connected to ZWS being a tireless volunteer cleaner who has kept Sooke’s streets tidy. He also participated in the formation of the Sooke Multi-Belief Initiative. There was a unanimous response to provide the funds: $200 from our main account and $200 from the Zero Waste Sooke account. Treasurer’s confirmation letter on file. 

Earth Day Planning Group

Ann Clement spoke for the group about being at the brainstorming stage. She is looking for multi-group collaboration to make it possible to include an eco-fair component to the day supported by Transition Sooke. She is proposing a study group based on the work of Starhawk through her empowerment program to help the group come together. Several people expressed interest. It was also mentioned that Starhawk may be once again teaching at the Eco-Village near Shawnigan Lake about this time. Stephen Hindrichs and Jeff may be able to make contact with her.

The question was raised about the actual date of the celebration. Ann suggested that on April 22, which is a Wednesday we will feature a vigil honouring our home the Earth.  The main event will take place on Saturday April 25. There were some suggestions about including collaboration with local First Nation people as well as offering some activist training. The Lifelong Learning (LLL) organization may be involved.

Community Action Workshop Action Teams

Note: 13 action teams were identified following the September workshop. Five groups checked in this meeting. Future general meetings will continue to follow the progress of the action teaams and we hope that each initiative will be represented by a champion or contact person. Please let Moki know if you have anything to report on so we can include it in the agenda.

Team 3 (Habitat and Species Protection of the Forest and Ocean)

Christina spoke for this group with some helpful input by Kara and Ocean Dennie. This is a huge area to deal with but very timely given the sad state of the fisheries and the forests. This group, while still forming, is looking at the possibility of holding a “forest” focused town hall which would invite experts and local politicians to address where things stand and what needs to change. Some concern was expressed about the Sooke Hills Highway proposal to upgrade the Malahat portion of Highway #1.

Team 4 (Divestment from Fossil Fuels Companies)

Jo spoke about the research that she and Susan Clarke are working on. A workshop on this topic is being developed.

Team 7 (Transportation)

Susan Belford spoke to this initiative. 7 people are interested in this area. Mention was made of the latest moves by B.C. Transit to up their game in the Sooke area. The master transportation plan for the Greater Victoria will need to be reviewed. This initiative may cover more than public transportation by including trails, cycling infrastructure, ridesharing, encouraging electric vehicles, etc. Working with Sooke District Council and staff will be important.

Team 10 (Climate Angst and Focus on Youth)

Moki announced that he will be running a healing circle as part of addressing the human challenges that climate change brings.

Group 12 (Direct Action)

Jack Gegenberg

Lifelong Learning with Transition Sooke – Towards a Green Economy with Climate Champions

Chris Moss announced that this series of talks will be go ahead January 8, 15 and 22 at Seaparc with group champions sharing their intentions and knowledge about their chosen initiative.

Draft Version 5 Proceedings Report – From Sooke Town Hall to Action Teams

Congratulations to Susan Belford for her hard work to get this 31 page document done. Capturing the collective wisdom and creativity of the groups

is such an important piece.

Wild Wise Sooke

Samantha Webb reported that all is well with WWS. Stable funding and expansion of services to Metchosin, etc. were mentioned.

Meeting adjourned. Next meeting is at 7 pm, Wednesday, January 8, 2020

Minutes of Transition Sooke General Meeting held 6 November 2019

~22 attending

Acknowledgement of the meeting taking place on traditional lands of the

T’Sou-ke First Nation.

Introductions around the circle.

Request for changes to the agenda (none)

Motion to accept minutes of the last meeting (2 October, 2019)

Moki moved/David M seconded/passed

Treasurer’s report

Sinclair moved the purchase (at Alan D’s request) of two flip chart holders.

Total cost ~$120

Dianne B seconded/passed

Treasurer’s report presented by David and accepted.

Report about Rainwater Harvesting workshop by Sue Lidster

Ken Nentwig presented a practical and detailed workshop to a diverse and keen group of 43 participants plus 10 TS members. Kudos all round for a job well done especially by organizers Sue Lidster and Robin Zabloski. It is worth noting that attendee Tony St. Pierre is also on the CRD Water Committee.

Reports requested from other 13 action teams coming out of the Community Action Workshop

(9) Green Energy (GE) group – Andrew Moore and Lily Mah-Sen

Green energy group doing a Lifelong Learning (LLL) session. Also in talks about a GE handbook in conjunction with the T’Sou-ke Nation. Proposed study tour of the GE initiatives on the T’Sou-ke lands. Meeting to be held first Monday of each month. Proposal for a GE library.

(11) Green Lifestyle (individual action, reskilling for resilience) – Yvonne Court

Planning meeting upcoming

(10) Climate Angst/Youth Outreach – Jo, Moki, Diego

-Healing circle: 4 sessions from 19 Nov to 10 Dec. 5 people registered. Will take place downstairs at Harbourside and is based on the book “Active Hope”.

-Youth outreach in the new year 2020

(7) Transportation with Heather Phillips, Bob Stamp, Susan Belford, Ivan Harrison and David Mallett

Have met. Looking at various projects (info/polling table, bike paths).

(5) Zero Waste Sooke (ZWS) – Wendy O’Connor, Bernie Klassen, Paula Johanson, Ivan Harrison

Ongoing projects. Excellent attendance at Craft Materials Swap evening. Proposed clothing swap. Repair cafés.

(13) Water (conservation, grey water, sewage) – Diane Bernard, Don?, Sheryl Travis, Tony St.Pierre

– *Tony on CRD Water Committee. CRD to do workshops

NOTE: 5 groups did not check in – they are:

Food security and local agriculture

Habitat and Species Protection – Christina Schlattner, J.Ocean Dennie

Divestment from fossil fuels – Susan and Jo

New Economic Model – Alan Dolan

Direct action – Jack Gegenberg

Report from the Community Action Workshop is on draft v.4 Due for release soon. Susan Belford handling this. Much appreciation to Susan!

Establishment of a 2020 Earth Day working group: Champion: Anne Clement with 5 volunteers

Lifelong Learning and Transition Sooke – TOWARDS A GREEN ECONOMY

Collaboration to create a series of short presentations (30 minutes) by Climate Champions to highlight what various action teams are doing- January, 2020

Christina Schlattner is substituting for Alan Dolan until ~10 December

Wild Wise Sooke- no report available

Multi-Belief Initiative/Compassion Charter: plaque unveiled at town kiosk on November 6. Ongoing initiatives

Car Share initiative: presentation to council should be prepared so grant money can be applied for – Paula?

Next meeting to be a Christmas potluck at 5:30 pm-meeting to follow at 7 pm

Meeting concluded ~8:45 pm

1. Welcome. Indigenous Territorial acknowledgement. Round of names.

2. Agenda had 2 additions. Minutes of the last meeting on September 19, 2019 were approved by motion to accept said minutes: moved by Moki and seconded by Robin. Passed.

3. Review of the 29 September Community Action Workshop: 70-75 people attended with lots of enthusiasm and creativity in the air. The table facilitators went through a brief training session the day before. Thanks were expressed for the three keynote speakers in the first hour or so. While the morning session carried on, quite a few people left to attend the Orange Shirt ceremony organized by the local T’So-uke First Nation nearby at the kiosk in Evergreen Mall. This event was meant to remember victims of the 60’s scoop and well as the residential schools all over Canada. Kudos go to Bernie and the kitchen crew who prepared an excellent lunch. Much appreciation goes to Alan and Susan Belford for facilitating the whole day and making it a fine success.

The afternoon was made up of 13 tables each with facilitators and several participants, some of whom came and went. The session ended with a plenary part where the champions of each table briefly covered what went on at their table. All of the flip chart records of the day were assembled by Susan Belford who agreed to compile the written record of every group for future work. Overall the day seemed to go very well and now the real work begins as we seek and figure out what comes next. How will the 13 teams move forward?

4. Financial Report – David

Treasurer went over our balances held in three main accounts: main Chequing; Zero Waste Sooke; Special Events (related to Earth Day event for April 2020.) with a grand total of $7830. Donations collected amounted to $245 cash. Genrally we are in decent shape.

5. Any feedback and comments about previous recent events: Speed-dating for Sooke council candidates: a moderate success with about 50-60 people dropping in to talk with the candidates. 27 September Climate Strike in Victoria in front of the legislature: estimated crowd of 20,000 with many of us in attendance – quite a thrilling event! Sooke Council approves the sign about Sooke as a Compassionate Community to be displayed at the kiosk in Evergreen Mall: 4 members of our Sooke Multi-Belief Initiative were present when the Sooke Council approved it.

6. What lies ahead and needs to be organized: October 3: All Candidates debates on Climate Change for our riding. One of over 100 debates happening all over Canada. Metchosin Community Hall from 6-30 to 9 pm. October 9: Awareness Film Night c/o Jo Phillips presents a film PUSH October 11: Federal All-Candidates meeting made possible by the collaboration of Transition Sooke’s Multi-Belief Initiative and the Sooke Region Chamber of  Commerce. This is designed to be a non-confrontational debate. EMCS Theatre 7 – 9 pm. Decided not to have a TS display table. October 16: Crafting supplies swap and ZWS meeting October 20: Zero Waste Sooke Repair Cafe November 2 Workshop on Rain Water Harvesting by Ken Nentwig championed by Sue L and Robin. Budget estimated at $400. Support?

7. Other business: What’s next on Ridesharing Initiative? It was suggested that Paula should invite some more people to work together on this idea. Then they could prepare a proposal to bring back to the general meeting for support and approval. It would include a presentation to the Sooke District Council.

What’s next on the Pesticide Education Group? The petition to ban cosmetic pesticides now has 250 signatures. Maybe we can take the issue to Council in January?

Chris Moss on behalf of Lifelong Learning told us that three spaces have opened up in their January schedule; January 8, 15 and 22, 2020. He invited us to come up with a program possibly based on the activities of the 13 action teams formed on September 29. Several people have stepped forward to get involved so we can take advantage of this opportunity.

8. Getting photographs of our activities: It was suggested that we encourage the taking of photos of our activities and that we ask someone to do this at every event.

Next meeting: November 6 at Harbourside, 6683 Horne Road.

Adjourned.

Concerned about our water supply in the Sooke Region?  Come to Transition Sooke’s Rainwater Harvesting and Management Workshop on Saturday November 2, 1-4 pm at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 1962 Murray Street in Sooke.

This workshop explains the rationale for rainwater as a resource and gives instructions on Best Practice HOW-TO’s in developing a workable and sustainable harvesting system. Applications such as irrigation and other outdoor uses, as well as indoor and potable uses for rainwater and water management, are covered. The workshop is based on the CSA B805-18 / ICC 805 2018 “Rainwater Standard” which is expected to become a prime reference document for municipalities across Canada.

The workshop will be facilitated by Ken Nentwig, an educator with Gaia College (courses also offered through Royal Roads University) and a consultant with the Canadian Association for Rainwater Management.  Ken develops and facilitates online courses in Rainwater Management and the CANARM RWH Certification Program for Canada.

Sue Lister, one of the organizers from Transition Sooke, explains the need for this workshop: “I’ve experienced well water running dry in seasons lacking rainfall and I see the benefits of harvesting.  I am concerned about the effects of climate change on the rainfall pattern in the Sooke Region.  Instead of the slow but steady rainfall throughout the winter months, we are now seeing shorter, but more torrential rainfalls. This type of rainfall does not allow water to penetrate into the ground. Groundwater wells, especially in the Otter Point area, are running dry. We need to look at ways to capture and conserve rainwater for irrigation and potability.” 

This workshop falls within Transition Sooke’s goal of drawing on local knowledge, skills, and resources to lessen our dependence on fossil fuels and to deal with the impacts of climate change, thus building a more resilient and sustainable community.

Anyone  interested in the topic of capturing and conserving rainwater is welcomed to attend. Donations will be gladly accepted.

Save the date! Sunday, October 20 from 10 am to 2 pm at the Sooke Community Hall is set for our sixth Sooke Repair Café. Expect familiar and new friendly faces with the tools and know-how to turn your potential recyclables into revitalized treasures.

This family friendly event welcomes everyone in town to bring items for repair.  Anything that is broken is fair game — lamps, hair dryers, clothes, fabrics, electronic appliances, furniture, bikes, toys, teapots and crockery included.  No guarantees, but more than likely these items can be repaired.  Learn new skills, meet your neighbours, and enjoy some coffee (or tea) and cookies.  Nothing to repair? Just drop in and join the fun.

 “If you can carry it through the door, someone will try to help you repair it!”  says Bernie Klassen of Zero Waste Sooke. “At the last café, a child brought in her precious toy for us to look at.  She shed happy tears when it was fixed!  Maybe we can help fix something precious to you.”

Our event is timed to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Repair Café International. The first Repair Café was held in Amsterdam in 2009. Since then, Repair Cafes have been popping up all around the world.  Zero Waste Sooke, a working group of Transition Sooke, operates this event under licence with Repair Café International. 

TRANSITION SOOKE GENERAL MEETING – Minutes 04/09/19

~22 people attending

GETTING STARTED

Acknowledgement of meeting on the unceded territory of the T’Souke First Nation. Agenda approved. Minutes of last meeting (July 3) accepted after 3 corrections. Alan moved, Sinclair seconded. Approved

After the introductions were made around the circle, the financial report was given by David, who moved to accept it. Bernie seconded. passed. A cheque to pay off the cost of updating our website was struck with thanks.

UPCOMING KEY EVENTS

Summer slowed a lot of activities. No table at the fall fair, no table in Metchosin.

GREEN NEW DEAL

The local GND Town Hall meeting is to be held 29 Sept. in the dining room at the community hall from 10 am to 4 pm. Lunch will be organized by Bernie (volunteers to help make sandwiches and/or help wash up are still needed). Next organizational meeting is set for 11 Sept at Alan and Sue’s. A budget of ~$250 was approved. Draft press release to Lily. Dianne pursuing endorsements from other local groups.

MEET WITH SOOKE BY-ELECTION CANDIDATES

Speed Dating event to meet Sooke by-election candidates at the Community Hall upstairs 2 – 6 pm on Sunday, 15th September. TS table needs volunteers to greet attendees.

(Federal meet-the-candidates event cancelled. Don Brown would like to set up another  meet-the-candidates event, for which TS expressed its support.

(See below.)

STRIKE IN VICTORIA

Global Climate Strike September 20-27 with gatherings all week. SeaParc sign announcement arranged for GVTA (Greater Victoria Teacher’s Association) Teach-In rally at the Legislature on Monday, 23rd September from 1-30 pm to 3 pm. No one from TS available to attend the organizational meeting in Victoria.

FEDERAL ALL-CANDIDATES DEBATE (part of “100 debates” all over Canada on the same day)

An all-candidates climate change debate for the Esquimalt/Saanich/Sooke Electoral District is being held on October 3 at the Metchosin Community Hall from 6-30 pm to 9 pm. It will be live-streamed. Can we put together a local live-stream watching event? Might be possible. Anyone wanting to help should contact Bernie.

ZERO WASTE SOOKE

October 16 there will be a crafting supplies swap event from 6-8 at the Sooke library during the Zero Waste Sooke meeting. The next Zero Waste Repair Cafe is scheduled for Oct. 20 at the Community Hall 2-5 p.m.  Christina, Dave & Carol have volunteered to help with greeting the attendees. Jo to put up signs. More volunteers welcome.

SOOKE MULTI-BELIEF INITIATIVE

Don Brown representing this initiative about making Sooke a more compassionate place wanted to see if it was possible for that group to hold a more respectful candidates debate focused on values and what it means to be a compassionate community.

Don was asked to provide a proposal to us which includes how the session would be facilitated and what the rules are. This event to be offered in October.

RAIN WATER HARVESTING WORKSHOP

Planned for early in November. Request to go to council for municipal sponsorship. Ken Nentwig charges $250/3 hours. $400 tentative budget approved. Sue Lidster and other interested folks encouraged to go ahead.

WEBSITE

Website update: status, done! Paid for at less than budgeted. ~350 people on TS email list, with a very high ~50% opening rate on emails.

PESTICIDE GROUP

Pesticide group has about 200 signatures currently on the petition. They are close to ready to present to council.

RIDESHARING – UPDATE

Rideshare exploratory group: looked into Kootenay Ride-share and found that their fee to run a website for Sooke Ride-share (connected with other Ride-shares across BC & Alberta) would be $1500.00 a year. That’s not an unreasonable fee for managing the website with all the rides being requested and offered by signed-in members. We could approach the CRD and District of Sooke to contribute to this fee in lieu of setting up a purely local website at about the same cost but with no connection to the Ride-share network. It could take about 300 rides a year to feel like Sooke was “getting its money’s worth.” We need to talk with users of Cowichan Ride-share to see how they like being part of this network. An alternative that involves no yearly fee is Poparide. That website pays its bills by taking a percentage from each fee paid when a driver and a passenger agree on a fee.

FINALLY

Monthly meeting name to be changed to something more inclusive so how about General Meeting with the tag “everyone is welcome to attend”.

Adjourned.

GMSept.19B

18 attendees

1. Agenda change and approval of minutes.

For the agenda: item 7 moved to 2

Minutes of May 1 meeting; moved by Michael and seconded by David – approved

2. Financial Report:

Things are fine – report moved by David and seconded by Alan – approved

3. Speakers Series:

Dahr Jamail to speak also to members of Council and staff

Holy Trinity rental $50; Event insurance $50—but covers Transition Sooke for all events at Holy Trinity Anglican Church for rest of year

Donations at the door. All donations to go to speaker. If our share of expenses is higher, we’ll cut a cheque at the time.

Volunteers needed for handling the welcome table, selling books, setting up

the sound system and serving refreshments.

Arrangements have been made for Dahr to meet Jeff, Tony and a staff person from the District of Sooke on Thursday

4. Climate Café:

Discussion about how to move forward – pending the presentation of the next item

5. Report on the Green New Deal Town-Hall in Fernwood

10 people from Sooke. More than 300 in attendance

Deb report: very exciting!

Diane report: Does TS need to get more political? More pressure on local and provincial government?

Discussion returned to Climate Café

The next climate cafe set for June 13 at Harbourside could be an organizational meeting for Sooke Green New Deal Town Hall or a debrief of the Dahr Jamail event. To be determined

6. Forest Action

Michael talked with Bruce Fogg (John Horgan’s Executive Assistant) as a representative of Transition Sooke expressing our opposition to the cutting of 4 blocks of old growth forest near Port Renfrew. One such block was very close o the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. We understand that the auction was stopped. Kara (Sierra Club) and Debb (Dogwood Sooke) did not attend.

7. ZWS – Bernie (Wendy away) Council was approached about-single use plastic ban. Staff to delay by “studying” sample bylaw to make sure what is most effective. Council itself seems onside.

8. Website – Alan      In final stages of upgrade

9. Other business:

Several people including Michael and Wendy have applied for the DOS Climate Change Action Committee

Event insurance ~$200/event or $1000/year. We will continue by event.

Caitlin put forward a proposal for the creation of a Sooke Rideshare based on Kootenay Rideshare. Web infrastructure CC licensed. Decision to move forward with this.

Eco-Home tour to be postponed for a year.

Adjourned 8:50 pm