I love Esquimalt- the mix of people, strong sense of community and “live and let live” attitude.
I’m running for Esquimalt Council because I want to help our community actively tackle our housing and climate crises and make Esquimalt an even better place for families, children, and seniors to live in and get around.
Over the next weeks, I’ll be out talking to Esquimalt residents about what they see as our community’s priorities, and showing that I can be a positive advocate for your aspirations for Esquimalt.
My Priorities
Housing Affordability
Like everywhere in BC and Canada, too many people in Esquimalt are struggling to find affordable accommodation. Too many families and individuals are having to leave Esquimalt because they are unable to find housing that meets their needs and/or income levels. While affordable housing is largely a provincial and federal jurisdiction, there is a lot Esquimalt can do to help make housing more affordable.
Climate Change
Esquimalt, like many governments, has a long history of setting ambitious climate change targets, and then not doing much to ensure we actually meet them. Rather than making a big deal of our targets and intentions, I’d like Esquimalt to start developing some concrete actions and policies to match its ambitious plans and targets.
Safe Streets and Active Transportation
Esquimalt is a great place to walk and bike: but it could be so much better! There are many areas that lack sidewalks, and many vehicles don’t respect speed limits or stop signs in residential neighbourhoods. Where they do exist, many of our sidewalks and overall street design does not meet current standards for safe and comfortable pedestrian areas. We need to make Esquimalt’s streets feel safer for children and adults so more people feel comfortable walking and biking in our community.
Good Governance and Financial Management
The most important role of a council is governance and financial management. Council sets priorities and ensures that progress is being made towards these priorities. Taxpayer funds are limited, especially now given the economic climate, and need to be used with great care. Careful alignment of budgets with priorities is important.
Latest Updates
- Priority: Responsible FinancesEsquimalt has seen several years of high property tax increases. The 2026 budget was particularly difficult. Increases at this level are not sustainable and cannot become normal. At the same time, we need to be honest about what is driving them. A recent Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce review called Esquimalt the region’s most disciplined… Read More »Priority: Responsible Finances
- Recent advocacy for provincial library fundingAs part of my role as elected board chair for the Greater Victoria Public Library, I’ve been working with library leaders across the province advocating for increased provincial funding for public libraries. The Province’s annual funding for public libraries has remained at approximately $14 million since 2010. While it has provided some one-time grants since… Read More »Recent advocacy for provincial library funding
- Announcement- Mayoral CampaignAn announcement: I’ve decided to run in the fall to be Mayor of Esquimalt. Esquimalt is a special place. Over the past four years on Council, I’ve worked hard to move forward on specific issues in a practical and thoughtful way, and I’ve become convinced that Esquimalt needs a clear vision for where we’re headed… Read More »Announcement- Mayoral Campaign
- Budget Thoughts 2026 – Part 3: The Operating BudgetA closer look at Esquimalt’s operating budget, where our costs differ from neighbouring municipalities, and what is driving the proposed tax increase.
- 2026 Budget – Capital BudgetEsquimalt council is once again in budget season, and dealing with a difficult 13% draft budget that staff have presented. A big part of the proposed budget increase (3% of that 13%) is related to increases in funds being set aside to support the Township’s capital budget. I will be making another post soon detailing some of… Read More »2026 Budget – Capital Budget
Contact Duncan
I’m often out walking in Esquimalt with our lively dog, Poppy. Please feel free to stop me to chat!
I’m also happy to meet anyone for tea or coffee – drop me an email at duncan@duncancavens.ca or send me a direct message on Social Media.
Feel free to leave me a message on 250.412.3830