Track Record | RobDouglas For Mayor

A Strong Track Record

Led creation of new Economic Development Action Plan as Chair of the Economic Development Committee, setting priorities for investment, employment, business growth and economic diversification.
Advancing further development of the Highway 18 industrial lands, with $500,000 in provincial funding secured for detailed design and infrastructure planning to help make the lands ready for development.
Keeping the future of the Crofton mill site at the centre of our economic planning, advocating for redevelopment that can support jobs, investment and long-term future.
Established the Mill Closure Response Working Group following the closure of the Crofton pulp mill and continued curtailment of the Chemainus sawmill.
Standing up for forestry workers and families affected by mill closures, pressing provincial and federal governments for income supports, retraining and employment opportunities.
Brought labour, industry, community and senior-government partners together to coordinate support for affected workers, families and businesses.
Supported significant housing growth, with building permits for more than 1,120 homes since becoming Mayor.
Strengthening sport tourism in North Cowichan through our partnership with Rowing Canada and continued development of the National Training Centre on Quamichan Lake.
Advocated for lower tax increases, bringing forward proposals during the annual budgeting process to reduce the tax burden on residents and businesses.

Defended our Official Community Plan, listened to residents, opposed proposals to unnecessarily expand the growth boundary, and protected rural values.
Passed the Biodiversity Protection Policy, which includes actions to defend and restore the natural environments of North Cowichan, including forests, wetlands, streams, shorelines.
Partnered with the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society and other community organizations on restoration and water-quality initiatives in the S’amunu/Somenos watershed.
Made Quamichan Lake water quality a priority. Following years of scientific study into phosphorus, sediment and oxygen levels, North Cowichan is now testing aeration and nutrient-binding technology in 2026 to improve lake conditions and reduce recurring cyanobacteria blooms.
Passed the Climate Change Risk Assessment and Adaptation Strategy, which will help prepare North Cowichan for climate risks to infrastructure, the environment, the economy and community well-being.
Secured a distinct North Cowichan postal address, giving residents and businesses an identity that better reflects our municipality.

Brought 92 affordable co-operative homes on Sherman Road to the construction stage, providing much-needed affordable housing for North Cowichan families.
Led the development of North Cowichan’s first Affordable Housing Policy and Implementation Plan, creating a long-term framework to increase affordable housing and protect existing rental housing.
Pressed the Province for action to address issues with homelessness and street disorder, including calling for investments in supportive housing, addictions treatment beds, and appropriate facilities and services for people living with severe mental illness.
Collaborated with Parkside Academy and CCSA Eagle Tree to build more than 200 childcare spaces through new facilities in Crofton and on Kingsview Road, fully funded by the Province.
Invested in the Cowichan Sportsplex, including a new fieldhouse with additional community space, washrooms and changerooms.
Strengthened recreation and accessibility through improvements to the Cowichan Aquatic Centre, Fuller Lake Arena, playgrounds and community facilities.
Working with Island Health, the Province and regional partners to prepare for the opening of the new Quw’utsun Valley Hospital in 2027, including the infrastructure needs around the new facility.

Approved increasing investments in roads, bridges, water and sewer infrastructure, addressing critical needs and improving reliability.
Supported a new $45.6-million RCMP detachment, providing a modern facility and strengthening public safety.
Passed a new Master Transportation Plan, providing a long-term framework for transportation throughout North Cowichan.
Advancing safer walking and cycling infrastructure, improving transportation options for residents of all ages and abilities.
Pushing for greater provincial investment in regional public transit, including a new connection to the Quw’utsun Valley Hospital.
Supported a new Crofton Fire Hall, providing a modern facility for North Cowichan firefighters.
Modernized waste collection, introducing automated garbage collection along with organic and yard-waste pickup.
Supported enhancements to core municipal services, including police, fire protection and bylaw enforcement.