We would also take care around a number of different species of bush and trees.

This
would be to actually enhance some of them by pruning and make it easier to identify
them.
We ·are geared to move in tomorrow morning and carry the cleanup.

This is an FYIto advise you we are about to carry this out.

Kind Regards,

Chuck Morris, CTech

Director, Facilities Services
Greater Victoria School District
T: 250.920.3401 I F: 250.920.3461
C: 250.415.2596 I E: cmo rris@sd61.bc.ca

2
McBurney, Nita

From: Community Engagement

Sent: April-18-19 2:30 PM
To: McBurney, Nita
Subject: FW: Spring Ridge Common

Here's the email I received in community.

Lisa

From: .xc.1
~...v_1)..1-J
1

Sent: Wednesday, April 10, 2019 3:55 PM

To: Community Engagement
Subject: Fwd: Spring Ridge Common

---------- Forwarded message ---------

From: 91,11v..J ~V
Date: Wed, Apr 3, 2019, 6:45 PM
Subject: Spring Ridge Common
To: k 5{._u1utJ v

Hello,

I am a neighbor and a parent of a VHS student. I am an avid gardener and love the Spring Ridge Common
edible garden. It is a lovely and peaceful place to spend time and take a stroll ...sometimes.

Unfortunately "garden" as a relatively large group of the VHS students have dubbed it, mine included, has
become a place to hang out, vape, smoke weed, drink and listen to vulgar music, while getting high. I have also
witnessed adults using it for the same purposes. I have gone in myself a number of times and picked up broken
glass, needles, trash, etc over the past year. I noticed the "seating area" was recently dismantled and a major
pruning job occurred (Thank you!!).

Sadly, these activities deter many from enjoying the garden and in fact are destroying parts of it. I've watched
many peek in and then walk on by on the street. Moms with babes, elderly neighbors, and so on. The garden
gang can be an intimidating crowd. I know the police are aware and do drive by's from time to time and
teachers cruise through as well and this is helpful and appreciated! Post pruning and dismantling, activity
slowed but is picking up again as make shift seats and tables have been created and the trees fill in with new
growth.

Is there anything else that can be done? I look back at old photos and it was such a different place. It is sad
that it is being destroyed and seemingly taken over. I believe it is meant to be a space for the whole community
to enjoy. I would be happy to help out in any way:)

I do want to acknowledge that many of the kids from VHS have done fantastic work towards making the garden
the lovely space which it is meant to be along with many other fabulous members of our community!

1
Thanksvery much for reading!!

x 51501.v0 ,a._µ

2
Morris. Chuck

From: :y ~1:.U/UN 1JJ-J

Sent: Monday, February 4, 2019 1:16 PM
To: Morris, Chuck
Subject: FW: spring ridge commons crisis

From 51:....v
iu /v' H-J

Sent: February 2, 2019 7:51 AM

To· - 5eu 1<1N W
Subject: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi

* and I were hoping to chat with you about what is going on in Spring Ridge Commons.
It has become a consistent all day long hang out for groups doing drugs. Vic High students mixed with older
homeless men. It has always been an issue but the consistency is alarming. It is now a known place for drug
use. Our family, and our kids in particular, are being directly effected.
Can you share any insight as to what rights we have to go to the NRG Board or School Board to remove the
seating in there thereby making it less appealing for groups to "settle" in. It has become a very dirty dangerous
place - if it could get any worse it has.
The effects it is having on )( is alarming and we are quite worried. Let alone all the other school
kids that pass by daily.

At this point change needs to happen and we are willing and able to help make any change happen but we are
also not willing to tum a blind eye anymore.
Thanks for any advice,
)k

1
It has become a consistent all day long hang out for groups doing drugs. Vic High students mixed with older
homeless men. It has always been an issue but the consistency is alarming. It is now a known place for drug
use. Our family, and our kids in particular, are being directly effected.
Can you share any insight as to what rights we have to go to the or School Board to remove the
11
seating in there thereby making it less appealing for groups to settle in. It has become a very dirty dangerous
11

place - if it could get any worse it has. ·

The effects it is having on X . is alarming and we are quite worried. Let alone all the other school
kids that pass by daily.

At this point change needs to happen and we are willing and able to help make any change happen but we are
also not willing to turn a blind eye anymore.
Thanks for any advice,

2
McBurney, Nita

From: Parker, Aaron

Sent: April-18-19 7:57 AM
To: McBurney, Nita
Subject: FW: spring ridge commons crisis

From: Morris, Chuck

Sent: Monday, February 4, 2019 4:09 PM
To: Parker, Aaron <aaparker@sd61.bc.ca>
Subject: Fwd: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi Aaron
Please see bel~w concerning the small wild garden area. Mark is speaking to Victoria about it. There is mention
of Vic High students in there with some undesireables.

Regards
Chuck Morris, CTech
Director of Facilities
School District No. 61 (Greater Victoria)

Sent from my iPhone 8

Begin forwarded message:

From: \t'
Date: February 4. 2019 at 1:41:35 PM PST
To: )(
Cc: "cmonis@sd61.be.ca " <cmoiris@sd61.be.ca>
Subject: RE: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi )(

Thanks for your note. Please know that I agree with your point of view entirely. I have observed that
since the fall things have been pretty steady with the drug use and people hanging out all day. I have
had )( working in there consistently since late summer, and we have done what we can to prune the
bushes, clear the sightlines, and haul away garbage etc. but I do agree with you that things are getting
worse.

On top of that ,.ii;, has been threatened and verbally abused one of the other neighbours who also came
and yelled at me in the entry of the -he has a different perspective from you in that
he prefers it wild and feels that the people there aren't bothering anvone. I don't agree with that point
of view at all, but it just goes to show how difficult it is for X to manage the space in a way
the fits within the extremely limited resources we receive, and in a way that keeps everyone happy.

1
One thing ·you may not know is that this piece of property is caught up in the proposed land swap
between the School District of Greater Victoria (the current owner) and the City of Victoria, who may
end up owning it at some point in the relatively near future if the whole deal, which is subject to a
rezoning, goes through. r-ernwood NRG has been leasing the property since 2011, but our most recent
lease expired in the fall of 2018, and has not been renewed. So right now, full responsibility for the site
rests with the School District.

Above, you'll note that I have cced Chuck Morris from SD61. He is new to the role of Director of
Facilities but ultimately he is the person you should be talking to about your concerns.

I have forwarded your note to him already, and I am introducing you to each other via this email.

\\' will be happy to support any positive investment or direction from the School District in
managing the site until while its long term future is being resolved. We are also happy to make space in
the 'k for the school district or others to communicate any decisions or outcomes to the
neighbourhood.

I'm sorry that I don't have any concrete solutions for you, but it is not our responsibility at this time. I
would still urge you to call the police anytime you observe anything that makes you or anyone else feel
unsafe.

From; )(
Sent: February 2, 2019 7:51 AM
To:· )(
Subject: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi )J.

',,I.> and I were hoping to chat with you about what is going on in Spring Ridge Commons.
It has become a consistent all day long hang out for groups doing drugs. Vic High students
mixed with older homeless men. It has always been an issue but the consistency is alarming. It
is now a known place for drug use. Our family, and our kids in particular, are being directly
effected.
Can you share any insight as to what rights we have to go to the . · · · or School Board to
remove the seating in there thereby making it less appealing for groups to "settle" in. It has
become a very dirty dangerous place - if it could get any worse it has.
The effects it is having on is alarming and we are quite worried. Let alone all
the other school kids that pass by daily.

At this point change needs to happen and we are willing and able to help make any change
happen but we are also not willing to tum a blind eye anymore.
Thanks for any advice,
V

2
Morris, Chuck

From: Parker, Aaron

Sent: Monday, February 4, 2019 4:37 PM
To: Morris, Chuck
Cc: Koutougos, Christopher ; Moore , Alissa
Subject: RE:spring ridge commons crisis

Hi Chuck.

We are well aware of the space and how problematic it is/has become. The garden is a cesspool, spawned from an
extreme libertarian vision that ignored public safety and accountability, a belief widely held by the community that
undermines responsible governance. The specifically, are outstanding, community focused partners in
Fernwood. Having said that the idea of a locally cultivated park/garden space in that location is a predictable disaster.

I am happy to be a part of a conversation about curtailing the regular illegal and unsafe behavior but am not convinced
we will be able to detour these behaviors with the garden in its current state. Our administrative team is frequently
confronted by non-student 'locals' when we attempt to supervise our students in the area. We are constantly
challenged with statements to the effect that the space is an inclusive 'healing' space were public drug use is accepted
and should be free from judgement.

If you want to meet in person I am happy to give you my unfiltered, less diplomatic opinion.

Aaron

From: Morri _s, Chuck

Sent: Monday, February 4, 2019 4:09 PM
To: Parker, Aaron <aaparker@sd61.bc .ca>
Subject: Fwd: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi Aaron
Please see below concerning the small wild garden area. Mark is speaking to Victoria about it. There is mention
of Vic High students in there with some undesireables .

Regards
Chuck Morris , CTech
Director of Facilities
School District No. 61 (Greater Victoria)

Sent from my iPhone 8

Begin forw arded message:

From.
Date: Febru ary 4, 2019 at 1:41 :35 PM PST
To:
l
Cc: "cmorris @ d61.bc.ca" <cmorris @ sd6l.bc .ca>
Subject: RE: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi

Thanks for your note. Please know that I agree with your point of view entirely. I have observed that
since the fall things have been pretty steady with the drug use and people hanging out all day. I have
had ~ working in there consistently since late summer, and we have done what we can to prune the
bushes, clear the sightlines, and haul away garbage etc. but I do agree with you that things are getting
worse.

On top of that, :-iasbeen threatenPrl r1ndverbally abused one of the other neighbours who also came
and yelled at me in the entry of * -he has a different perspective from you in that
he prefers it wild and feels that the people there aren't bothering anyone. I don't agree with that point
·x
of view at all, but it ju st goes to show how difficult it is for to manage the space in a way
the fits within the extrem ely limi ted resources we receive, and in a way that keeps everyone happy .

One thing you may not know is that this piece of property is caught up in the proposed land swap
between the School District of Greater Victoria (the current owner) and the City of Victoria, who may
end up owning it at some point in the relatively near future if the whole deal, which is subject to a
rezoning, goes through. Fernwood NRG has been leasing the property since 2011, but our most recent
lease expired in the fall of 2018, and has not been renewed. So right now, full responsibility for the site
rests with the School District.

Above, you'll note that I have cced Chuck Morris from SD61. He is new to the role of Director of Facilities
but ultimately he is the person you should be talking to about your concerns.

I have forwarded your note to him already, and I ani introducing you to each other via this email.

))('.. will be happy to support any positive investment or direction from the School District in
managing the site until while its long term future is being resolved. We are also happy to make space in
the X · for the school district or others to communicate any decisions or outcomes to the
neighbourhood.

I'm sorry that I don't have any concrete solutions for you, but it is not our responsibility at this time . I
would still urge you to call the police anytime you observe anything that makes you or anyone else feel
unsafe.

From;
Sent: Februarv 2. 2019 7:51 AM
To )-<
Subject: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi

X. and I were hoping to chat with you about what is going on in Spring Ridge Common ·s.
It has become a consistent all day long hang out for groups doing drugs. Vic High students
mixed with older homeless men. lt ha s always been an issue but th e consistency is alarming. lt is
now a known place for drug use. Our family, and our kids in particular, are being directly
effected.
2
Morris. Chuck

From: Morris, Chuck

Sent: Monday, February 4, 2019 2:32 PM
To: Mark Walsh (mwalsh@sd61.bc.ca)
Subject: FW: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi Mark,

This sounds like it is getting out of hand. ~ phoned me today and introduced himself to me then went on to give me
some sort of history of the little garden area.
Then the neighbor phoned here but I was busy.
I need a little info and maybe what COV is going to be doing or is that far down the road.
Should we be going in as landowners and trimming lo branches and cleaning the place up in general?

Kind Regards,

Chuck Morris, CTech

Director, Facilities Services
Greater Victoria School District
T: 250.920.3401 I F: 250.920.3461
C: 250.415'.2596 I E: cmorris@sd61.bc.ca

From: __ _
Sent: Monday, February 4, 2019 1:47 PM
To
Cc: Morris, Chuck <cmorris@sd61.bc.ca>
Subject: RE:spring ridge commons crisis

Hi '

Thanks for your note. Please know that I agree with your point of view entirely. I have observed that since the fall things
have been pretty steady with the drug use and people hanging out all day. I have had \l--working in there consistently
since late summer, and we have done what we can to prune the bushes, clear the sightlines, and haul away garbage etc.
but I do agree with you that things are getting worse.

On top of that, )( has been threatened and verbally abused one of the other neighbours who also came and yelled at
me in the entry of the -he has a different perspective from you in that he prefers it wild and feels
that the people there aren't bothering anyone. I don't agree with that point of view at all, but it Just goes to show how
difficult it is for to manage the space in a way the fits within the extr emely limited resources we receive,
and in a way that keeps everyone happy.

One thing you may not know is that this piece of property is caught up in the proposed land swap between the School
District of Greater Victoria (the current owner) and the City of Victoria, who may end up owning it at some point in the
relatively near future if the whole deal, which is subject to a rezoning, goes through. Fernwood NRG has been leasing the
property since 2011, but our most recent lease expired in the fall of 2018, and has not been renewed. So right now, full
responsibility for the site rests with the School District.

Above, you'll note that I have cced Chuck Morris from SD61. He is new to the role of Director of Facilities but ultimately
he is the person you should be talking to about your concerns.
1
I have forwarded your note to him already, and I am introducing you to each other via this email.

will be happy to support any positive investment or direction from the School District in managing the
site until while its long term future is being resolved. We are also happy to make space in the k for the school
district or others to communicate any decisions or outcomes to the neighbourhood.

I'm sorry that I don't have any concrete solutions for you, but it is not our responsibility at this time . I would still urge
you to call the police anytime you observe anything that makes you or anyone else feel unsafe.

From: *
Sent: Februarv 2. 2019 7:51 AM
To:
Subject: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi l,

..)()and I were hoping to chat with you about what is going on in Spring Ridge Commons.
It has become a consistent all day long hang out for groups doing drugs. Vic High students mixed with older
homeless men. It has always been an issue but the consistency is alarming. It is now a known place for drug
use. Our family, and our kids in particular, are being directly effected.
Can you share any insight as to what rights we have to go to the )( or School Board to remove the
seating in there thereby making it less appealing for groups to "settle" in. It has become a very dirty dangerous
place - if it could get any worse it has.
The effects it is having on · is alarming and we are quite worried. Let alone all the other school
kids that pass by daily.

At this point change needs to happen and we are willing and able to help make any change happen but we are
also not willing to turn a blind eye anymore.
Thanks for any advice,
-:',(

2
Can you share any insight as to what rights we have to go to the )((' or School Board to
remove the seating in there thereby making it less appealing for groups to "settle" in. It has
beco me a very d.irty dangerous place - if it coukl get any worse it has.
The ffects it is having on . _ is alarming and we are qui le worried. Let alone all
the other school kids that pass by daily.

At this point change needs to happen and we are willing and able to help make any change
happen but we are also not willing to turn a blind eye anymore.
Thanks for any advice,

3
Kind Regards,

Chuck Morris, CTech

Director, Facilities Services
Greater Victoria School District
T: 250.920.3401 I F: 250.920.3461
C: 250.415 .2596 I E: cmorris@sd61.bc .ca

From
Sent: Monday, February 4, 2019 1:42 PM
To: -.
Cc:Morris, Chuck <cmorris@sd61 .bc.ca>
Subject: RE:spring ridge commons crisis

Hi

Thanks for your note. Please know that I agree with your point of view entirely. I have.observed that
since the fall things have been pretty steady with the drug use and people hanging out all day. I have
had -X working in there consistently since late summer, and we have done what we can to prune the
bushes, clear the sightlines, and haul away garbage etc. but I do agree with you that things are getting
worse.

On top of that, )..( has been threatened and verbally abused one of the other neighbours who also came
and yelled at me in the entry of the )( ·-he has a different perspective from you in that
he prefers it wild and feels that the people there aren't bothering anyone. I don't agree with that point
of view at all, but it just goes to show how difficult it is for -~ to manage the space in a way
the fits within the extremely limited resources we receive, and in a way that keeps everyone happy.

One thing you may not know is that this piece of property is caught up in the proposed land swap
between the School District of Greater Victoria (the current owner) and the City of Victoria, who may
end up owning it at some point in the relatively near future if the whole deal, which is subject to a
rezoning, goes through. Fernwood NRG has been leasing the property since 2011, but our most recent
lease expired in the fall of 2018, and has not been renewed. So right now, full responsibility for the site
rests with the School District.

Above, you'll note that I have cced Chuck Morris from SD61. He is new to the role of Director of Facilities
but ultimately he is the person you should be talking to about your concerns.

I have forwarded your note to him already, and I am introducing you to each other via this email.

will be happy to support any positive investment or direction from the School District in
managing the site until while its long term future is being resolved. We are also happy to make space in
the for the school district or others to communicate any decisions or outcomes to the
neighbourhood.

I'm sorry that I don't have any concrete solutions for you, but it is not our responsibility at this time. I
would still urge you to call the police anytime you observe anything that makes you or anyone else feel
unsafe.

2
Morris, Chuck

From:
Sent: Monday, February 4, 2019 1:42 PM
To:
Cc: Morris , Chuck
Subject: RE: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi

Thanks for your note. Please know that I agree with your point of view entirely. I have observed that since the fall things
have been pretty steady with the drug use and people hanging out all day. I have had ~ working in there consistently
since late summer, and we have done what we can to prune the bushes, clear the sightlines, and haul away garbage etc.
but I do agree with you that things are getting worse.

On top of that, V has been threatened and verbally abused one of the other neighbours who also came and yelled at
me in the entry of the k -he has a different perspective from you in that he prefers it wild and feels
that the people there aren't bothering anyone. I don't agree with that point of view at all, but it just goes to show how
difficult it is for to manage the space in a way the fits within the extremely limited resources we receive,
and in a way that keeps everyone happy.

One thing you may not know is that this piece of property is caught up in the proposed land swap between the School
District of Greater Victoria (the current owner) and the City of Victoria, who may end up owning it at some point in the
relatively near future if the whole deal, which is subject to a rezoning, goes through. Fernwood NRG has been leasing the
property since 2011, but our most recent lease expired in the fall of 2018, and has not been renewed. So right now, full
responsibility for the site rests with the School District.

Above, you'll note that I have cced Chuck Morris from 5D61. He is new to the role of Director of Facilities but ultimately
he is the person you should be talking to about your concerns.

I have forwarded your note to him already, and I am introducing you to each other via this email.

will be happy to support any positive investment or direction from the School District in managing the
site until while its long term future is being resolved. We are also happy to make space in the - for the school
district or others to communicate any decisions or outcomes to the neighbourhood.

I'm sorry that I don't have any concrete solutions for you, but it is not our responsibility at this time. I would still urge
you to call the police anytime you observe anything that makes you or anyone else feel unsafe.

From· 'u.
Sent : February 2, 2019 7:51 AM
To : _k
Subject: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi X..

')( and I were hoping to chat with you about what is going on in Spring Ridge Commons.

1
From:·
Sent: February 2, 2019 7:51 AM
To:
Subject: spring ridge commons crisis

Hi

and I were hoping to chat with you about what is going on in Spring Ridge Commons.
It has become a consistent all day long hang out for groups doing drugs. Vic High students
mixed with older homeless men. It has always been an issue but the consistency is alarming. It is
now a known place for drug use. Our family, and our kids in particular, are being directly
effected.
Can you share any insight as to what rights we have to go to the _ • or School Board to
remove the seating in there thereby making it less appealing for groups to "settle" in. It has
become a very dirty dangerous place - if it could get any worse it has.
The effects it is having on is alarming and we are quite worried. Let alone all
the other school kids that pass by daily.

At this point change needs to happen and we are willing and able to help make any change
happen but we are also not willing to turn a blind eye anymore.
Thanks for any advice,

3
 Morris, Chuck.

From: Morris, Chuck

Sent: Wednesday, February 6, 2019 12:24 PM
To: Mark Walsh (mwa1sh@sd61.bc.ca)
Subject: Spring Ridge Commons

Hi Mark,
A heads up in case you have information I don't; tomorrow morning we are going into the Spring Ridge Commons to
· clean up the area of benches etc. and create better sight lines as per Vic PD.
We will be in there 8 or so in the morning.

Kind Regards,

Chuck Morris, CTech

Director, Facilities Services
Greater Victoria School District ·
T: 250.920.3401 I F: 250.920.3461
C: 250.415.2596 I E: cmorris@sd61.bc.ca

1
Morris, Chuck

From: Morris, Chuck

Sent: Wednesday, February 6, 2019 1:37 PM
To: Trustees
Cc: Green, Shelley; Mark Walsh (mwalsh@sd61.bc.ca); McPhail, Lisa
Subject: Spring RidgeCommons

Good Afternoon,

I have recently been made aware of Spring Hill Commons near Vic High. The last wooden school was demolished in
1968. Fernwood Community Association had a lease on the property and maintained the area to the best of their
al:)ility. Their lease has run out so we are now responsible to do something with this green space.

I became aware on Tuesday because of a number of complaints from neighbors in the area about people gathering in
groups and doing drugs, leaving behind a mess. Someone has brought in old wood furniture so they can gather around
in the center. Vic PD are involved as well because some neighbors have contacted them. They would like it cleaned up
too.

Myself and staff have looked at the site this morning and determined we can make sight lines much better (per Vic PD)
and also a clean-up getting rid of the makeshift seating etc. that has been brought in by people.

We would also take care around a number of different species of bush and trees . This would be to actually enhance
some of them by pruning and make it easier to identify them.
We are geared to move in tomorrow morning and carry the cleanup.

This is an FYIto advise you we are about to carry this out.

Kind Regards,

Chuck Morris, CTech

Director, Facilities Services
Greater Victoria School District
T: 250.920.3401 I F: 250.920.3461
C: 250.415.2596 I E: cmorris@sd6l.bc.ca

1
Morris, Chuck

From: Reed, Darren

Sent: Wednesday, February 6, 2019 7:38 PM
To: Morris, Chuck
Subject: Sprin Ridge Commons

Hi Chuck,

Sorry to bother you outside of work hours, but I was wondering about the work at Spring Ridge Commons and
if I can dispatch a crew there tomorrow morning if I don't hear anything by 6:30 - 7:00a.m.

I'm thinking about joining in on the activities as well so that we can have three horticulturists getting the
pruning and specialty work done asap.

Cheers,

Darren Reed
Grounds Foreman (acting)
GVSD 61

1
Morris, Chuck

From: Morris, Chuck

Sent: Wednesday, February 6, 2019 8:16 PM
To: Reed, Darren
Subject: Re: Sprin RidgeCommons

Yes you may. I have heard from one Trustee who said thank you for the info so its a go.
I have emailed Vic PD constable as she requested just to let her know.
I want some photos as well.just Mark Peaty know (he may want to be there).
Thanks Darren

Regards
Chuck Morris, CTech
Director of Facilities
School District No. 61 (Greater Victoria)

Sent from my iPhone 8

On Feb 6, 2019, at 7:38 PM, Reed, Darren <dreed @s d6l .bc.ca> wrote:

Hi Chuck,

Sorry to bother you outside of work hours, but I was wondering about the work at Spring Ridge
Commons and if I can dispatch a crew there tomorrow morning if I don't hear anything by 6:30 -
7:00a.m.

I'm thinking about joining in on the activities as well so that we can have three horticulturists
getting the pruning and specialty work done asap.

Cheers,

Darren Reed

Grounds Foreman (acting)

GVSD 61

1
Morris, Chuck

From:
Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2019 6:45 AM
To: Morris, Chuck
Subject: springridge

Hello
I wanted to thank you for cleaning up Spring Ridge Commons. It has been such a relief this last
week. Unfortunately some more furniture has been dragged in to create a makeshift seating area.
Thank you again for addressing our concerns,

1
Morris, Chuck

From: Morris, Chuck

Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2019 6:47 AM
To: Peaty, Mark
Subject: Fwd: spring ridge

Mark
Please see below and have staff go haul away. Thanks Mark.

Regards
Chuck Morris, CTech
Director of Facilities
School District No. 61 (Greater Victoria)

Sent from my iPhone 8

Begin forwarded message:

From7
Date: February 19, 2019 at 6:44:38 AM PST
To: cmorris@sd61.bc.ca
Subject: spring ridge

Hello
I wanted to thank you for cleaning up Spring Ridge Commons. It has been such a relief this last
week. Unfortunately some more furniture has been dragged in to create a makeshift seating area.
Thank you again for addressing our concerns,
~v

1
Morris, Chuck

From:
-
Sent: Wednesday, March 13, 2019 6:04 PM
To: Morris, Chuck
Subject: springridgecommons

Hello
The after school crowd is back. When your staff have come to clean up they seem to leave the large rock and
concrete makeshift seats in the centre where the kids congregate. I think they should be removed to deter the
drug use.
Thank you for your time,

1
Morris, Chuck

From: Peaty, Mark

Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2019 8:41 AM
To: Morris, Chuck
Subject: Re: spring ridge commons

Roger.
Grounds will remove the offending rubble.
MP

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 13, 2019, at 6:41 PM, Morris, Chuck <cmorris@sd61.bc.ca> wrote:

Guys
Please remove the rocks as well

Regards
Chuck Morris, CTech
Director of Facilities
School District No. 61 (Greater Victoria)

Sent from my iPhone 8

Begin forwarded message:

From:
Date: March 13, 2019 at 6:04:02 PM PDT
To: cmorris@sd6l.bc.ca
Subject: spring ridge commons

Hello
The after school crowd is back. When your staff have come to clean up they
seem to leave the large rock and concrete makeshift seats in the centre where the
kids congregate. I think they should be removed to deter the drug use .
Thank you for your time,

1
McBurney, Nita

From: Walsh, Mark

Sent: April-18-19 8:05 AM
To: McBurney, Nita
Subject: Fwd: Spring Ridge Common

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

From: Community Engagement <Community@sd6 l. be.ca>

Date: April 15, 2019 at 4:01 :30 PM PDT
To: "Morris, Chuck" <cm01ris@sd6l.bc .ca>, "Walsh, Mark" <mwa1sh@sd6l.bc .ca>
Subject: FW: Spring Ridge Common

From: )(_
Sent: Wednesday, April 10, 2019 3:55 PM
To: Community Engagement
Subject: Fwd: Spring Ridge Common

---------- Forwarded message ---------

From: >l'
Date: Wed, Apr 3, 2019, 6:45 PM
Subject: Spring Ridge Common
To:·

Hello,

I am a neighbor and a parent of a VHS student. I am an avid gardener and love the Spring Ridge
Co~mon edible garden. It is a lovely and peaceful place to spend time and take a
stroll. ..sometimes.

Unfortunately "garden" as a relatively large group of the VHS students have dubbed it, mine
included, has become a place to hang out, vape, smoke weed, drink and listen to vulgar music,
while getting high. I have also witnessed adults using it for the same purposes. I have gone in
myself a number oftimes and picked up broken glass, needles, trash, etc over the past year. I
noticed the "seating area" was recently dismantled and a major pruning job occurred (Th.ank
you!!).

Sadly, these activities deter many from enjoying the garden and in fact are destroying parts of
it. I've watched many peek in and then walk on by on the street. Moms with babes, elderly
neighbors, and so on. The garden gang can be an intimidating crowd. I know the police are
aware and do drive by's from time to time and teachers cruise through as well and this is helpful
1
and appreciated! Post pruning and dismantling, activity slowed but is picking up again as make
shift seats and tables have been created and the trees fill in with new growth.

Is there anything else that can be done? I look back at old photos and it was such a different
place. It is sad that it is being destroyed and seemingly taken over. I believe it is meant to be a
space for the whole community to enjoy. I would be happy to help out in any way:)

I do want to acknowledge that many of the kids from VHS have done fantastic work towards
making the garden the lovely space which it is meant to be along with many other fabulous
members of our community!

Thanks very much for reading!!

2
McBurney, Nita

From: Walsh, Mark

Sent: April-18-19 8:05 AM
To: McBurney, Nita
Subject: Fwd: Email from a concerned student - Spring Ridge Commons

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

From: "Walsh, Mark " <mwalsh@sd6l.bc.ca>

Date: March 17, 2019 at 9:38 :36 AM PDT
To: "Morris, Chuck" <cmorr is@sd6l .bc.ca>
Subject: Fwd: Email from a concerned student - Spring Ridge Commons

Lets chat about this next week

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

From: "Watters , Jordan" <jwatters@sd6l.bc.ca>

Date: March 16, 2019 at 11 :47:35 PM PDT
To: "Walsh, Mark" <mwalsh@sd6l.bc.ca>
Subject: Fw: Email from a concerned student - Spring Ridge Commons

Can you please follow up with \_.I. ?Y'J-.-7

Jordan Watters

Chair, Board of Education

Greater Victoria School District No. 61

Cell: 778 .977.2309

From \\-- 5~~..,,.:_;

'Y1..J
Sent: Saturday, March 16, 2019 4:40 PM
To: Watters, Jordan
Subject: Re: Email from a concerned student - Spring Ridge Commons

Dear Jordan ,

1
Thank you for getting back to me, I am overjoyed to hear that the Commons are
not for sale. I would love to be kept in the loop about any plans or decisions the
school board makes. Perhaps there could be some community involvement in
discussions about the Commons?

As for where I heard about the plans to sell the garden, I can't be too sure, as me
and my friends spoke to many people and organizations in the area. However I
am looking to correct this mix:up by informing everyone that I can that this was
incorrect. Those who I hav e told so far ar similarly ecstatic to hear that no plans
exist to sell the land.

I also wanted to inquire about something else we were informed of. A friend of
mine reached out to the grounds director, who told him that any structures in the
Commons would be removed on a weekly basis by the school district. This is
understandable , however there are certain areas of the garden that require to be
surrounded by small fences to protect the plants growing inside, most importantly
the area of the Commons referred to as the Garry Oak Meadow, in which two
Garry Oaks grow. Garry Oak trees are, of course, a protected species. We wanted
to ask if we had permission to build a small fence around said areas, or if this
would be not allowed.

Ultimately I think a continued dialogue between the school board and local
volunteers is both important and beneficial.

Thanks so much,

Sincerely,
'k d--,'J,

On Thu, Mar 14, 2019~ :46 PM Watters , Jordan, <jwatters@ sd6l.bc .ca> wrote:
Hi ~ ----J

Thank you very much for your email. Spring Ridge Commons is not for sale. While the
District is currently in discussions regarding a variety of land in the area, the intent of
those discussions is to preserve the Spring Ridge Commons site as public land.

If you wouldn't mind, if you could indicate where this information is coming from, I will
ask administration to reach out to ensure accurate information is being provided.

Thanks so much for sharing your concerns with the Board.

Yours,
Jordan

: Jordan Watters

2
 Chair, Board of Education

Greater Victoria School District No. 61

Cell: 778 .977.2309

From . .
\ \, G • J ,.,_
.ll(,VV"V~
").A-,/
Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2019 1:56 PM
• To: Watters, Jordan
Subject: Email from a concerned student - Spring Ridge Commons

March 13 2019

Dear Jordan Watters,

I am writing to you to express concern over the fact that the land the
Spring Ridge Commons resides on has been put up for sale .

This space has great importance to the surrounding community, as a

local food forest , and as a gathering place. Places such as the Spring Ridge
Commons foster a sense of community, and serve to create meaningful
connections between people of all ages and backgrounds. It also encourages
people to appreciate the beautiful natural spaces this area has to offer, as well
as allowing people to nurture a love of gardening, and the process of caring for
a food garden.

I first started visiting the Commons over 4 years ago, when I was 13
years old . Over the years, I have learned so much about the plants that grow
there, and have met so many lovely, devoted volunteers and others who
regularly visit the garden.

As of recently, I and a group of friends have been volunteering at the

Commons a few times a week. We have been picking up garbage, pulling up
weeds and grass growing in the plant beds, even planting seeds, such as local
wildflowers, and some vegetables.

In conclusion, myself and so many others care about this space to the
utmost degree. Every Fernwood local who walks through the garden while we
are working stops to tell us how important the Commons are to them, and how
devastated they would be to see the space disappear . The Spring Ridge
Commons is an integral part of the community, and a true staple of the area. To
lose such a unique and incomparable place would be a tragedy. I urge the
school board to please reconsider selling this land.

Sincerely ,

3
Morris, Chuck

From: Walsh, Mark

Sent: Sunday, March 17, 2019 9:39 AM
To: Morris, Chuck
Subject: Fwd: Email from a concerned student - Spring Ridge Commons

Lets chat about this next week

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

From: "Watters, Jordan" <jwatters@sd61.bc.ca>

Date: March 16, 2019 at 11 :47:35 PM PDT
To: "Walsh, Mark" <mwalsh@sd6l.bc.ca>
Subject: Fw: Email from a concerned student - Spring Ridge Commons

Can you please follow up with $"~

Jordan Watters

Chair, Board of Education

Greater Victoria School District No. 61

Cell: 778 .977 .2309

From: \<'
Sent: Saturday, March 16, 2019 4:40 PM
To: Watters, Jordan
Subject: Re: Email from a concerned student - Spring Ridge Commons

Dear Jordan,

Thank you for getting back to me, I am overjoyed to hear that the Commons are not for sale. I
would love to be kept in the loop about any plans or decisions the school board makes. Perhaps
there could be some community involvement in discussions about the Commons?

As for where I heard about the plans to sell the garden, I can't be too sure, as me and my friends
spoke to many people and organizations in the area. However I am looking to correct this mixup
by informing everyone that I can that this was incorrect. Those who I have told so far ar similarly
ecstatic to hear that no plans exist to sell the land.

I also wanted to inquire about something else we were informed of. A friend of mine reached out
to the grounds director, who told him that any structures in the Commons would be removed on a
weekly basis by the school district. This is understandable, however there are certain areas of the
1
garden that require to be surrounded by small fences to protect the plants growing inside, most
importantly the area of the Commons referred to as the Garry Oak Meadow, in which two Garry
Oaks grow. Garry Oak trees are, of course, a protected species. We wanted to ask if we had
permission to build a small fence around said areas, or if this would be not allowed.

Ultimately I think a continued dialogue between the school board and local volunteers is both
important and beneficial.

Thanks so much,

Sincerely,

On Thu , Mar 14, 2019, 2 :46 -PM Watters , Jordan, <jwatters @sd6l.bc.ca > wrote:
Hi · 't c1--;;;LJ

Thank you very much for your email. Spring Ridge Commons is not for sale. While the District is
currently in discussions regarding a variety of land in the area, the intent of those discussions is to
preserve the Spring Ridge Commons site as public land.

If you wouldn't mind, if you could indicate where this information is coming from, I will ask
administration to reach out to ensure accurate information is being provided.

Thanks so much for sharing your concerns with the Board.

Yours,
Jordan

Jordan Watters

Chair, Board of Education

Greater Victoria School District No. 61

Cell: 778.977.2309

From 'W - -V.U

-
Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2019 1:56 PM
To: Watters, Jordan
Subject: Email from a concerned student - Spring Ridge Commons

March 13 2019

Dear Jordan Watters,

2
 I am writing to you to express concern over the fact that the land the Spring Ridge
Commons resides on has been put up for sale.

This space has great importance to the surrounding community, as a local food forest,
and as a gathering place. Places such as the Spring Ridge Commons foster a sense of
community, and serve to create meaningful connections between people of all ages and
backgrounds. It also encourages people to appreciate the beautiful natural spaces this area
has to offer, as well as allowing people to nurture a love of gardening, and the process of
caring for a food garden .

I first started visiting the Commons over 4 years ago, when I was 13 years old. Over the
years, I have learned so much about the plants that grow there, and have met so many lovely,
devoted volunteers and others who regularly visit the garden .

As of recently, I and a group of friends have been volunteering at the Commons a few
times a week. We have been picking up garbage, pulling up weeds and grass growing in the
plant beds, even planting seeds, such as local wildflowers, and some vegetables .

In conclusion, myself and so many others care about this space to the utmost degree.
Every Fernwood local who walks through the garden while we are working stops to tell us how
important the Commons are to them , and how devastated they would be to see the space
disappear. The Spring Ridge Commons is an integral part of the community, and a true staple
of the area . To lose such a unique and incomparable place would be a tragedy. I urge the
school board to please reconsider selling this land.

Sincerely,

3
Morris, Chuck

From: Morris, Chuck .

Sent: Monday, April 15, 2019 6:49 PM
To: Taylor, Justin; Peaty, Mark
Subject: Fwd: Spring Ridge Common

Gents
Any idea how to help out?
Will it take two patrols per week to ensure it remains cleared out?
This is important to these people and to the district as druggies destroy the tranquility of the commons it further
deteriorates 'the community access.

Once Victoria gets involved with their housing it may clear by then but until then it may behoove use to stretch
our resources to ensure nothing is being set up for the druggies to relax and shoot or smoke up.

If you need to chat with me see me in am.

Thank you both.

Regards,
Chuck Morris,CTech
Director of Facilities Services
Greater Victoria School District No.61
Cell: 250.415.2596
Cell: 250.415.2596

---------- Forwarded message ----------

From: "Community Engagement" <Comrnunity @sd6 l .bc.ca>
Date: Mon, Apr 15, 2019 at 4:01 PM -0700
Subject: FW: Spring Ridge Common
To: "Morris, Chuck" <cmorr is@sd61.bc.ca>, "Walsh, Mark" <mwalsh @sd6l .bc.ca>

Fyi

From. ¥
Sent: Wednesday, April 10, 2019 3:55 PM
To: Community Engagement
Subject: Fwd: Spring Ridge Common

---------- Forwar ded message --------

rom: 'k' ~,-)cY.}-' · ·
Date: Wed, Apr 3, 2019, 6:45 PM
Subject: Spring Ridge Common
To: · . f f;e_ptJ;,,J?-{)__,,
1
Hello,

I am a neighbor and a parent of a VHS student. I am an avid gardener and love the Spring Ridge Common
edible garden. It is a lovely and peaceful place to spend time and take a stroll. ..sometimes.

Unfortunately "garden" as a relatively large group of the VHS students have dubbed it, mine included, has
become a place to hang out, vape, smoke weed, drink and listen to vulgar music, while getting high. I have also
witnessed adults using it for the same purposes. I have gone in myself a number of times and picked up broken
glass, needles, trash, etc over the past year. I noticed the "seating area" was recently dismantled and a major
pruning job occurred (Thank you!!).

Sadly, these activities deter many from enjoying the garden and in fact are destroying parts of it. I've watched
many peek in and then walk on by on the street. Moms with babes, elderly neighbors, and so on. The garden
gang can be an intimidating crowd. I know the police are aware and do drive by's from time to time and teachers
cruise through as well and this is helpful and appreciated! Post pruning and dismantling, activity slowed but is
picking up again as make shift seats and tables have been created and the trees fill in with new growth.

Is there anything else that can be done? I look back at old photos and it was such a different place. It is sad that
it is being destroyed and seemingly taken over. I believe it is meant to be a space for the whole community to
enjoy. I would be happy to help out in any way:) ·

I do want to acknowledge that many of the kids from VHS have done fantastic work towards making the garden
the lovely space which it is meant to be along with many other fabulous members of our community!

Thanks very much for reading!!

2
Morris, Chuck

From: Morris, Chuck

Sent: Thursday, April 18, 2019 1:37 PM
To: Justin Taylor Gtaylor@sd61.bc.ca); Mark Peaty (mpeaty@sd61.bc.ca)
Subject: Spring Ridge Commons

Gents,
Someone has broken into the small building on site and sleeping in it, partying with others. They are in there now. I am
on hold with VIC PD but we wil need to nail or screw the access shut until we can make it stronger. See me next week
about signage as well please.

Kind Regards,

Chuck Morris, CTech

Director, Facilities Services
Greater Victoria School District
T: 250.920.3401 I F: 250.920.3461
C: 250.415.2596 I E: cmorris@sd6l.bc.ca

1
Morris, Chuck

From: Peaty, Mark

Sent: Thursday, April 18, 2019 2:15 PM
To: Taylor, Justin
Cc: Morris, Chuck
Subject: Re: Spring Ridge Commons

Roger. Just met police on site no one here.

At least they did not respond to our knocking on the shed.
Shed locked. No keys.
Police have left.
MP

Sent from my iPhone

On Apr 18, 2019, at 2:12 PM, Taylor, Justin <jtaylor@sd61.bc.ca > wrote :

Pause that. I have Paul taking care of it.

Justin Taylor
Manager of Building Maintenance
Greater Victoria School District #61

On Thu, Apr 18, 2019 at 1:55 PM -0700, "Peaty, Mark" <mpeaty@sd61.bc.ca > wrote:

Darren Reed enroute

to nail it shut.

Sent from my iPhone

On Apr 18, 2019, at 1:36 PM, Morris, Chuck <cmorris@sd61.bc.ca > wrote:

Gents,
Someone has broken into the small building on site and sleeping in it, partying with
others. They are in there now. I am on hold with VIC PD but we wil need to nail or
screw the access shut until we can make it stronger. See me next week about signage
as well please.

Kind Regards,

Chuck Morris, CTech

Director, Facilities Services
Greater Victoria School District
T: 250.920.3401 I F: 250.920.3461
C: 250.415.2596 I E: cmorris@sd61.bc.ca

1
Morris, Chuck

From: ~ ~7)/JJ
Sent: Friday, April 26, 2019 9:27 AM
To: Morris, Chuck
Subject: spring ridge commons
Attachments: Fernwoord_logo-01.png; Fernwoord_logo-01.png

Hi Chuck,

\s~~ I just wanted to update you since we last spoke about the shed etc. The group that is
hanging out there took the boards down about an hour after it was put up. We now have a group that hang out
there every day from early afternoon till evening drinking smoking etc. They have an aggressive dog and have
basically rendered the space unusable by others. The police have indicated that signage is essential to them
enforcing any kind of trespassing rules. The last several days the police have come but been unsuccessful in
breaking up the party because they don't have any posted rules to enforce. They are left trying to persuade the
group to move along which has stopped working.

We really appreciate how proactive you have been so far with this issue and hope to get it resolved so we can
stop having to bother you with it.

1
Morris, Chuck

From: ;i.,~ ;)
Sent: Tuesday, April 30, 2019 6:13 AM
To: Morris, Chuck
Subject: Re: spring ridge commons
Attachments: \<5~---;)-e-)

Hi Chuck,

The police have been super helpful and responsive and the signs will make their job easier. It is really nice to
see people enjoying the space to stroll with their kids and walk dogs.

Cheers,

'k )/J-J

On Fri, 26 Apr 2019 at 09:30, )( f~ -J;} 'Nrote:

Great! Good to know the wheels are in motion.

Thanks again.

On Fri, Apr 26, 2019 at 9:29 AM Morris, Chuck <cmorris@sd6l .bc.ca> wrote:
Hi
I spoke to Vic PD late yesterday and she has sent me some wording. Our sign crew will make these up but
likely will not get them up until until Monday

Regards,
Chuck Morris,CTech
Director of Facilities Services
Greater Victoria School District No.61
Cell: 250.415.2596
Cell: 250.415.2596

,,.., I.J -, /,1. ., )

On Fri, Apr 26, 2019 at 9:27 AM -0700, ' ' vJ (.Y\_/ vrote:

Hi Chuck,

I just wanted to update you since we last spoke about the shed etc. The group that
is hanging out there took the boards down about an hour after it was put up. We now have a group that hang
out there every day from early afternoon till evening drinking smoking etc. They have an aggressive dog and
have basically rendered the space unusable by others. The police have indicated that signage is essential to
them enforcing any kind of trespassing rules. The last several days the police have come but been
unsuccessful in breaking up the party because they don't have any posted rules to enforce. They are left
trying to persuade the ·group to move along which has stopped working.

1
We really appreciate how proactive you have been so far with this issue and hope to get it resolved so we can
stop having to bother you with it.

Thank s,

2
McBurney, Nita

From: Parker, Aaron

Sent: April-18-19 8:06 AM
To: McBurney, Nita
Subject: Spring Ridge Commons

Hi Nita,

I do not have a record of calls or conversations I have had with members of the public but can recall at least two phone
conversations about the space.

Aaron

Aaron Parker
Principal
Ecole Secondaire Victoria High School
''Proud History, Strong Future"
250 388-5456