IN THE NEWS: Savoie calls for probe into marina lobbying

Developer says opponents have done more lobbying than they have
By Carla Wilson
The Times Colonist
February 11, 2010

Victoria MP Denise Savoie is calling for a federal investigation into allegations of political insider lobbying involving a proposed marina for luxury yachts in the city's harbour.

A letter was sent to Karen Shepherd, Commissioner of Lobbying in Canada, following concerns raised by constituents and at public meetings on the marina issue, Savoie said.

Citizens need to have confidence that the government is conducting itself to the highest standard, she said in her Jan. 29 letter.

Bob Evans, a partner in the planned Victoria International Marina, said he rejects a suggestion that the developer "... has done anything other than follow the law. If she has an allegation otherwise, let her state what it is.

"There has been no improper conduct on the part of our company, our associates, and we have always and remain eager to brief any elected official about our project."

Evans is partners with Western Asset Management Development Group of Alberta in a planned $20-million, 52-slip marina for 20- to 40-metre pleasure boats in the waters in front of Songhees and Lime Bay Park in Vic West.

Their company, Community Marine Concepts, is aiming to open the marina next year. The proposal is being vetted by municipal, provincial and federal governments and no approvals have been granted. A provincial water lot lease is needed for the slips.

The proposal has sparked an outcry among citizens and groups, including local residents, some former city mayors and members of the paddling community.

Opponents cite environmental concerns, a lack of public process, loss of views and worries over safety because of extra activity in the already-busy harbour. Proponents say a public process took place when the site was zoned, and that the big boats would bring economic benefits to the community and increase tourism.

At stake is what happens in Victoria's harbour -- featured as an iconic image in tourism promotions around the globe.

The amount of lobbying carried out by opponents likely far surpasses any by the developer, Evans said.

"A very simple factor is the law, which states lobbying is not illegal."

Savoie said yesterday that the letter followed public concern about the issue, and stories written by various news organizations.

"I felt that constituents deserve to know that the approval process is of the highest integrity and being made in the public interest," Savoie said.

In the letter, Savoie said many constituents have contacted her about the issue. The allegations "... warrant investigation by your office so that the public can be reassured that this important development is being evaluated properly."

Savoie also said that she spoke with the federal transportation minister's office last week and was told that a meeting will be arranged with the minister in early March. In October, Savoie sent Minister John Baird, whose department is the lead federal agency on the plan, a report outlining community concerns.

Savoie has earlier urged the federal government to hold an independent public review into the marina proposal.

cjwilson@tc.canwest.com

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