About the Alternative Approval Process

Under the Community Charter, local governments such as the District of Sooke may use an Alternative Approval Process (AAP) to directly engage citizens about a proposed bylaw or other matter requiring elector approval. An AAP can be used for various initiatives to undertake long-term borrowing, a boundary extension, or other matters requiring approval of the electorate.

An AAP is an alternative method to assent voting (referendum) that may be used in certain cases to seek approval from the electors.  Through the AAP, if more than 10% of electors express their opposition, the District cannot proceed without first obtaining elector approval through assent voting.

How an AAP Works

A staff report is provided to District Council that describes the plan for conducting the AAP. It includes key information about the proposed elector approval process to ensure elected officials fully understand the implications of using an AAP to obtain approval. The report also provides staff with an opportunity to plan the process to conduct the potential AAP.

Elector response forms are made available at Municipal Hall and on the District’s website. Signed forms received after the deadline has passed cannot be counted. If, by the deadline, 10 percent or more of the total number of estimated eligible electors sign and submit response forms, local governments cannot proceed with the proposed matter without first holding an assent vote (i.e. referendum).

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Status of Alternative Approvals in the District of Sooke

An Alternative Approval Process regarding a LONG-TERM LEASE OF PORTION OF JOHN PHILLIPS MEMORIAL PARK was conducted from August 12, 2021 to September 15, 2021 at 4:00 p.m.

A report regarding the results of this AAP can be found on the September 20, 2021 Regular Council meeting agenda, including options for consideration.

On September 25, 2022, the Sooke Lions will host a town hall event on their proposal. The event will take place at the Sooke Community Hall, located at 2037 Shields Road, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 25th, 2022, with a complementary information station in the park at the same time.

After the event, an online survey will be available until October 10th, 2022 as another opportunity for persons to provide their input on the potential project.

After the Town Hall event and online survey closes, the Sooke Lions’ will present to Council on what they heard. Both parties, the Sooke Lions and District Council, will then determine whether or not they wish to proceed with the project and enter into a lease arrangement. A date for this meeting is not yet available.

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