News

Updated: On April 5, 2026, Sooke Fire Rescue crews responded to a structure fire in the Rhodonite Drive area at approximately 5:00 a.m. Crews conducted a coordinated response to suppress and extinguish the fire. During suppression and search efforts, two occupants were located. One individual succumbed to their injuries at the scene, and another was transported to hospital. The cause remains under investigation.

The District of Sooke invites residents to a drop-in Budget Open House on April 8, 2:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Municipal Hall (Council Chamber) to learn about the proposed 2026 budget, service impacts, and how community feedback has helped shape priorities and financial decisions.

The District of Sooke has appointed Jeff Miller as Director of Operations. With over 30 years’ experience in engineering and municipal operations, he brings strong leadership and infrastructure expertise from roles across Alberta and Vancouver Island. Jeff will begin with the District on March 30, 2026.

The District of Sooke has received the Canadian Award for Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association, recognizing excellence, transparency, and a strong commitment to full disclosure in its annual financial reporting.

Applications for Sooke’s 2026 Community Grant Program are open March 1 to April 8. Eligible non-profits can apply for up to $5,000 in seed funding for new initiatives benefiting Sooke residents. Apply online at sooke.ca/community-grant-program.

For 18 years, volunteers have removed invasive Scotch broom from Whiffin Spit each spring. Led by local stewardship groups, work parties from March 1 to April 15 help restore native plants and protect one of Sooke’s cherished natural spaces.

Notice of a Special Council Meeting on February 23, 2026, at 4 p.m. The meeting will be closed under Community Charter s.90(1)(e) regarding land acquisition or disposition.

The District of Sooke has launched an online Development Permit Area (DPA) Viewer to support Official Community Plan (OCP) implementation. The tool helps applicants screen properties for applicable DPAs, understand permit requirements, and access guidance before advancing project design and applications.

Sooke Region Food CHI has named The Greener Side Farm and farmer Lo Shrum as the second 2025 Farmer Bursary recipient, supporting local food production, sustainable agriculture, and farm infrastructure that strengthens the food system.

Mayor Maja Tait proclaims February 16–22, 2026 as Heritage Week, celebrating Sooke’s people, places, and stories, and encouraging residents to explore local history and community activities through the Sooke Region Museum and Visitor Information Centre.