Saltair and the Gulf Islands continue to rank the lowest for bylaw complaints and infractions, according the new data released by the Cowichan Valley Regional District.
Investigations increased by 14.25 per cent in 2016 compared to the previous year, representing a total of 286
There was an increase of files for bylaws such as: Development Permit Areas (mainly riparian areas), Unsightly Premise, Parks, Dog Control, Noise and Building.
Electoral Area G had eight infractions while Electoral Area B (Shawnigan Lake) had 60.
According to the CVRD’s Manager of Inspections and Enforcement Robert Blackmore, the overall numbers don’t reflect “ the many issues resolved informally over the phone or matters that investigation is not requested.”
Bylaw Enforcement is comprised of two full-time officers as well as four building inspectors who assist in some investigations.
Saltair and the Gulf Islands required the services of those building inspectors on three occasions last year, tied for the most of any electoral district with Mill Bay/Malahat.
A report presented to the Electoral Area Services Committee last week suggested air quality complaints had decreased across all areas likely due to the CVRD advertising and informing landowners of suspected clearing burns when large piles are noticed.
Another highlight was that dog licences increased by 100 in 2016 for a total 2,690 sold
“A change in the software for recording dog licences took place improving customer service by streamlining the dog licence purchase and renewal process and alieving line ups at vendor locations, generally making it easier to purchase a licence,” Blackmore said.
With regards to dog control, that is contracted to the SPCA who handles all initial complaints before handing any irresolvable cases over the the CVRD’s bylaw officers.
The three year contract set between the region and SPCA is set to expire at the end of 2017.