Times Colonist: Aug 8, 1980

Indians firm in marina opposition

   The Tsawout Indian Band will oppose a proposed marina development in Central Saanich, Chief Louis Claxton said Thursday.

   Saanichton Marina Ltd. has re-applied for a foreshore lease to build a 400-berth marina. The original application for a 1,200-berth marina for the Saanichton Bay area was turned down in 1974 by then resources minister Bob Williams.

   Williams said the band’s tranquil lifestyle would be disturbed by a marina development.

   George Wheaton, who with Victoria Ald. Robert Wright, is a principal in Saanichton Marina Ltd., resubmitted the amended application two months ago.

   A meeting of the band council scheduled for Thursday was postponed until today because of the absence of some members, Claxton said.

   “We’re still opposed to the scheme,” he added.

   The area is zoned for marina use in Central Saanich’s community plan, said Mayor David Hill, but the municipality has referred the matter to Lands, Parks and Housing Minister James Chabot.

   The company owns a narrow piece of land above the foreshore and intends to dredge the land to accommodate marina facilities.