After a see-saw discussion, the Capital Regional District's parks committee passed through a motion to implement a management plan for Island View Beach in Central Saanich.
The points of contention were recreational use versus environmental use as it has been throughout the long process.
Chair Mike Hicks says the plan identifies what needs to be protected while allowing for recreational uses.
“I like a lot of this plan,” said Hicks. “I like almost the entire plan and I think it creates a balance.”
Director David Screech was against the motion, citing the dogs-off-leash issue.
“To me having virtually the entire park off-leash for dogs is not balance,” said Screech. “It is catering to what was a very loud vocal minority group.”
The Mayor of Central Saanich Ryan Windsor promised his municipality would continue to look into the mosquito and migratory bird issues.
The controversial plan still has to go through at the CRD Board stage.