Frank Leonard stepped into his new job as chair of the Agricultural Land Commission last month with a millstone wrapped around his neck. The B.C. Liberal government had just fired his predecessor, Richard Bullock, for being too outspoken in the defence of farmland. Mr. Leonard’s challenge is to establish his independence.
The former mayor of Saanich and onetime president of the Union of B.C. Municipalities has a CV that is long on governance but short on agricultural experience. He grew up with cows across the fence from his home, but he has not made a living in the sector. Now, he is tasked with overseeing the biggest overhaul of protected farmland in 40 years.
The Agricultural Land Reserve is in transition, having just been carved into two zones. The commission, an independent tribunal that is responsible for preserving agricultural land, is now required to provide more flexibility in land use in Zone 2 to allow activities such as oil and gas development. If Mr. Bullock was too steadfast about keeping farmland in the ALR, what are the expectations for Mr. Leonard?
JUSTINE HUNTER – Globe and Mail – June 02, 2015.
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