We love James Bay. James Bay is not just a neighbourhood; it bursts at the seams with heritage, community, and nature. 

If the proposed Victoria Official Community Plan is implemented as it stands, our beloved James Bay is at risk of losing existing affordable housing, heritage houses and mature trees which beautify and oxygenate our surroundings. 

James Bay is the oldest residential neighbourhood on the West Coast north of San Francisco and is one of the most densely populated neighbourhoods in Victoria. Yet, it manages to retain a unique character, rooted in its diversity of income-levels and housing types and densities, including heritage houses and lush green streets.  We have the largest group of 65+ residents in Victoria. Approximately 70% of residents rent their homes; many of them are long-term tenants with affordable rents.

We want balanced development that protects affordable housing, preserves our heritage, and maintains our green spaces. We want Victoria City Council to take these concerns into account and make necessary amendments to the new OCP to:

-       Strengthen renter protections like the City of Burnaby has done

-       Make affordability a higher priority

-       Protect James Bay’s heritage buildings

-       Strengthen protections for existing trees and greenspace

James Bay is a vibrant, historic community that deserves thoughtful, inclusive planning – not rushed upzoning that disregards its residents.  Join other James Bay residents and supporters and urge Victoria City Council to save what we love about James Bay by signing this petition.  

(Note:  no donations requested; any donations on this site go to Change.Org.)