Rob Douglas
for North Cowichan Mayor 

A strong local economy creates opportunities for everyone. By supporting local businesses, attracting new investment, and building the infrastructure needed for future growth, we can create high-paying jobs while strengthening North Cowichan's tax base. My priorities are to:

 

• Work with the private sector and senior levels of government to advance redevelopment of the Crofton mill site, creating opportunities for investment, jobs, and community benefit. 

• Advance infrastructure investments that unlock economic opportunities, including servicing the Highway 18 industrial lands and supporting residential, commercial and institutional development around the new hospital. 

• Implement our new Economic Development Action Plan focused on attracting investment, supporting local businesses, and strengthening key economic sectors. 

• Encourage higher-density growth in appropriate locations, including established town centres and areas around the new hospital, to support housing choices, vibrant communities, and local businesses. 

• Revitalize Chemainus, Crofton, and the University Village area through strategic investments in streetscapes, public plazas and squares, waterfront improvements, and community amenities that attract residents, visitors, and businesses. 

• Advocate for the restoration of rail service on Vancouver Island, including passenger service between Victoria and the Cowichan region and freight operations across the Island, to improve connectivity and support economic development. 

• Collaborate with the Province, First Nations, workers, industry, small manufacturers, and other Vancouver Island communities on a forest strategy that supports a sustainable forest sector, encourages local manufacturing, and creates more value-added economic opportunities close to home. 

• Invest in parks, trails, recreational facilitie, and community amenities that enhance quality of life, help attract and retain young families, and support a skilled workforce. 

• Support local entrepreneurs and small businesses by reducing barriers, improving municipal processes, and creating an environment where businesses can grow and succeed.

• Advocate to BC Transit and the Province for funding to expand and enhancer our public transit system in the Cowichan region, including introducing a new route to the Quw’utsun Valley Hospital.