Sherry Keane

My contribution to climate action has been practical rather than through a formal environmental advisory committee. Through my work in housing and interior design, I have seen how thoughtful planning, energy efficiency, durable materials and decisions that reduce unnecessary waste can improve a building’s long term environmental performance. Personally, I drive an electric vehicle and try to make lower emission choices where practical.

My community involvement has also strengthened my appreciation for West Vancouver’s natural environment and the importance of protecting it responsibly. As a candidate, I am advocating for updated assessments of wildfire, flooding, slope and shoreline risks; proactive drainage maintenance; professional tree assessments; climate resilient building design; and better transit, walking and cycling options.

I believe climate action should be practical, measurable and evaluated for both its environmental benefit and its cost to residents.

As a longtime resident raising my family in West Vancouver, I care deeply about protecting both our community and the natural environment that surrounds us. Climate risks are no longer distant concerns. Extreme heat, wildfire smoke, intense rainfall and flooding are already affecting how communities plan and prepare.

I would advocate for an updated assessment of West Vancouver’s wildfire, flooding, slope, shoreline and extreme heat risks, with the findings used to guide infrastructure investment and emergency planning. We need proactive maintenance of drainage systems and culverts, stronger FireSmart initiatives, professional tree assessments and development standards that reflect current climate risks.

I also want residents to know what to do when an emergency occurs. Evacuation routes, alert systems, cooling locations and severe weather information should be clear, accessible and widely communicated, with particular attention given to seniors, people with disabilities and others who may require assistance.

I would ask for measurable resilience targets, public progress reports and strong coordination with emergency services, neighbouring municipalities, First Nations and other levels of government. My approach would be practical: identify the risks, prioritize the most urgent work and ensure climate preparedness is included in long term infrastructure and financial planning.

The safety of West Vancouver residents must be fully considered before any Woodfibre LNG expansion is approved. Although marine shipping is primarily under federal jurisdiction, I would advocate strongly on behalf of our community throughout every regulatory review.

I would call for an independent marine risk assessment examining increased vessel traffic, potential anchorages near West Vancouver, collision risks, emergency response capacity and interactions with BC Ferries and recreational boaters. The findings should be made public, and West Vancouver residents should have meaningful opportunities to participate before decisions are made.

I would also ask the District to review its emergency plans, communication systems, evacuation procedures, equipment, training and coordination with the Coast Guard, Port of Vancouver, neighbouring municipalities and First Nations. Any additional local preparedness or infrastructure required because of an expansion should be funded by the project, not downloaded onto West Vancouver taxpayers.

I would not support an expansion proceeding until the risks are independently assessed, clear safety measures are established and the agencies responsible demonstrate that they have the resources and plans necessary to protect our shoreline and residents.