Everyone acknowledges the backlog of sidewalks in Saanich -- but only three council candidates unequivocally call for more spending to speed up the process.

"We have to create a higher quality pedestrian environment," said Vic Derman. "We could easily double or triple the amount we now spend."

In recent years, Saanich has built an average of about four kilometres of sidewalks each year at an annual cost of approximately $980,000.

The spending is not adequate, agrees Paul Gerrard.

"I would increase a dedicated line in the budget for funding pedestrian and cycling infrastructure with sidewalks and bike lanes on major roads," Gerrard said. "Saanich should also be aggressive in going after grants, such as Local Motion Grants, GST and Gas Tax rebates (and) Money for Cities from senior levels of government."

Saanich's population is aging, said Vicki Sanders. "We need to look at what could be changed to direct more funds to creating a safe pedestrian environment."

Four other candidates prefer to re-prioritize how sidewalk funds are allocated.

"Most of Saanich’s sidewalk improvements are focused around new development projects," said Dean Murdock, who's championing a 10-year revitalization plan. "This ignores areas with crumbling or non-existent sidewalks that are not the subject of new development."

Instead of piecemeal sidewalk construction, mayoral candidate Harald Wolf said vibrant, pedestrian corridors need to be part of planning.

Victor Hughes said a list of dangerous routes and major thoroughfares should dictate where sidewalk funds are allocated first.

What’s missing, said Judy Brownoff, is a strategic plan to address new sidewalks rather than just maintaining existing ones. "Without a business plan (though) it’s hard to decide if $100,000 or $980,000 is sufficient," Brownoff said.

Fiscal responsibility weighed more heavily than sidewalk spending for remaining candidates.

"All of us would like to see as much built as possible but few would advocate for higher debt and taxes," said Frank Leonard.

"I am prepared," said Susan Brice, "to consider an increase in spending on sidewalks after reviewing all the public works proposals that council will receive at the time of budget deliberations."

While supporting improved streetscapes, Wayne Hunter says we need to balance our wants and needs. "Excess borrowing is not what I see as the answer," he said.

The primary source of revenue in Saanich for new infrastructure is property tax, said Leif Wergeland. "This must be kept affordable particularly with the current world financial situation."

Other responses included:

• Rob Wickson: Over the short term, maintaining the budget for sidewalks is a must. Any and all opportunities for funding partnerships need to be explored.

• Patrick Chénier: Many factors must be taken into consideration by Saanich Council prior to investing more in sidewalks including restoration of existing sidewalks, priority areas and financing solutions.

Part two of a three part series where the News explores council candidates' ideas and positions. Part one asked candidates for ideas on ensuring a green future for Saanich. Part three looks at candidates' strategies on how to maintain a balanced budget during difficult financial times.