Communities
are always at crossroads at election time. It’s no doubt cliché to say that
during a municipal election. There’s not, however, a better way to describe the
Village of Pemberton, which is poised to become bigger on November 15, the same
day that it will elect a new mayor and council.
Along
with its municipal election, in which two people are seeking the mayor’s chair
and six others are seeking four council seats, the Village is hosting a
referendum on boundary expansion. If successful, it will add approximately 20
new areas to the Village boundaries and remove them from Electoral Area C of
the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD).
The
referendum’s timing is impeccable, given rising concerns over governance issues
within Pemberton and the surrounding valley. It’s been one of the biggest
issues in this municipal campaign.
The
issue works something like this: if someone says they’re from Pemberton, it
doesn’t necessarily mean they live in the Village. They could just as easily
live in Area C, which includes areas such as Walkerville, Owl Ridge, and
Mosquito and Ivey Lakes, areas that lie north of Highway 99.
But
those aren’t the only parts of Area C that don’t belong to the Village. There’s
also properties along Airport Road to the south of the highway, as well as BC
Hydro Lands just adjacent to the Village.
The
whole area accounts for around 2,600 people, and none of them can vote in this
election.
But
that’s not all. North of the village there’s also Mount Currie, a Lil’wat
community that accounts for at least 1,181 people, according to a 2006 census.
Mount Currie’s elected council oversees administrative matters.
If
you include the 2,192 people who live in the Village, that’s a population of
5,973 people. Nearly 6,000 people governed by three separate jurisdictions. And
only the Village residents can vote.
A
brand new council will be taking on this issue after November 15.
But
that’s not the only issue. Pembertonians are hungry for a new recreational
facility, whether a pool, a skate park or an ice rink, all of them ideas that
have been tossed around the Village, Area C and Mount Currie for years. The
desire is one thing – paying for it is another.
None
currently seeking council seats have served on a previous council, though at
least two have had experience with others. The mayor’s seat is being sought by
two people –incumbent Jordan Sturdy and challenger David MacKenzie, who has
just completed his first term on council.
All
have committed to resolving the governance issue within the Village of
Pemberton and its outlying areas, though by markedly different means as you’ll
witness in the following profiles.
Voting
takes place Nov. 15 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. at the new Pemberton Community
Centre. Residents of the Village and non-resident property owners are allowed
to vote if they’re over 18, Canadian, and have lived in B.C. for six months
prior to registering to vote.
Resident
voters must have lived in the Village for at least 30 days, while property
owners must have owned property there for at least 30 days.
Each
voter must bring two pieces of ID showing who you are and where you live. Photo
ID isn’t necessary, but both pieces must have your name and at least one
signature.
Don’t
worry if you haven’t registered yet. The Village of Pemberton only does
voting-day registration.
--
Name:
Susie Gimse
Age:
51
Website:
www.susiegimse.com
Occupation:
Community Volunteer
Last
book read:
The Other Boleyn Girl
by Philippa Gregory
What
music are you listening to these days?
Blues
and country
Favourite
recreational pursuits:
I
just like being outdoors, working around the farm, hiking, swimming at Gates
Lake, cross-country skiing out my backdoor. I love where I live!
1)
Why are you running for council?
I
care about the future of Pemberton! I have a solid understanding of the issues
that face us and the legislation and procedures that guide us. In addition, I
have developed and maintained valuable relationships with the provincial
government and outside agencies that can assist us in achieving our goals. For
the past 15 years as the Area C Director I’ve been actively involved in
representing the interests of the Pemberton area. A seat on council will ensure
greater transparency between the two jurisdictions. As an executive member of
the Union of B.C. Municipalities for the past nine years I have participated in
several negotiations with the provincial and federal governments with positive
results. Most notably… the gas tax program that put several million dollars
back into this region.
2)
What is your vision for Pemberton?
My
vision is for a community:
-
where families can live, work and play in a safe and healthy environment;
-
that has a stable and sustainable economy, that supports the growing needs of
the community and makes living in Pemberton affordable;
-
where recreational facilities are built in a cost effective and efficient
manner;
-
where citizens have a clear a sense of community and sense of place;
-
that recognizes the need to be more gentle and kind to the earth.
3)
What are the biggest issues facing Pemberton?
Our
community needs a single vision with a single strategic direction for the
community as a whole. Currently we have three. This creates confusion and
uncertainty for anyone wanting to do business or establish a business in
Pemberton. New development and a strong business/industrial tax base would
support the economy and contribute towards much-needed amenities and the
overall health of the community.
4)
How can the Pemberton Festival benefit the Village?
It
already has! It has:
-
placed an international spotlight on Pemberton;
-
created jobs;
-
injected millions of dollars into the local economy;
-
established the Pemberton Festival community fund;
-
Supported and promoted agriculture;
-
provided amazing entertainment for our residents to enjoy!
5)
How do you feel about boundary expansion?
Do
it right, do it once! We need to address the boundary issue once and for all.
Political will is all that’s required. The proposed boundary expansion is yet
another Band-Aid solution, piecemeal proposal on top of an already piecemeal
boundary and falls short of resolving the broader issues of governance, land
use, services and financial implications. In saying No to the proposed boundary
expansion, you provide Council with the incentive to move forward and address
this long-standing barrier. The Minister has said there needs to be a
collaborative approach to the Pemberton boundary issue, that will lead to “a
sensible and fair ultimate proposal that considers the interests of the
community and the region.” Therefore, I’m confident we can resolve it quickly
provided we have political will at the local level. Let’s make it a priority
and get it done!
6)
What role should Pemberton play in the 2010 Olympics?
Enhance
and promote tourism opportunities. Pemberton could be showcased through
initiatives such as Picture BC. Local businesses will benefit. The Pemberton
Winterfest supports local youth and sport and creates opportunity for the
community to gather and celebrate the winter Olympics.
--
Name:
Cam McIvor
Age:
40
Website:
n/a
Occupation:
Businessman
Last
book read:
A New Earth
by Eckhart Tolle
What
music are you listening to these days? Dave Matthews, John Mayer, John Butler
Trio
Favourite
recreational pursuits: skiing, mountain biking, hockey, snowmobiling
1)
Why are you running for council?
I
believe that everyone has an obligation in “community” to contribute through
service. I feel my background in business, finance and construction can help
Pemberton achieve the goals of having local recreation and jobs. By creating a
thriving business sector in Pemberton through the support of businesses that
create local jobs, our recreation needs will become affordable.
2)
What is your vision for Pemberton?
Vision
— farmland and the charm of the rural atmosphere needs to remain intact. A
thriving business sector that can afford the constant renewal of buildings and
local economy through reinvestment of profits, not just hanging on. Local jobs
which contribute to the local retail and service sector — the more we work in
Pemberton, the more we shop in Pemberton. A paved valley trail with bridges
over the Lillooet River for commuting and recreating. A recreation centre that
will put time and money back into families’ lives and give our children access
to facilities that communities half our size have figured out how to afford. A
recreation centre will see the convergence of communities and families whose
paths may not normally cross.
3)
What are the biggest issues facing Pemberton?
Ballast.
When a ship has less sail than ballast it cannot progress. Pemberton has plenty
of sail it just needs to be unfurled to overcome the inertia. The young
families, by continually supporting forward steps will provide the energy to
deliver a strong local economy and the recreational amenities we seek.
4)
How can the Pemberton Festival benefit the Village?
With
experience. In time, our community will learn how to: be involved with minimal
disruption; capitalize on the economic benefits; utilize the Festival’s
foundation funding and enjoy the incredibly positive experience.
5)
How do you feel about boundary expansion?
I
support it. Pemberton has talked about expanding its boundaries for well over a
decade. This expansion is a step in the right direction. This expansion puts
tax money in the Village that normally goes to the Province. In the time it
will take to execute a Governance Review, Pemberton could miss out on close to
$1 million. Anyone who is voting in the best interest of Pemberton would not
oppose this. Both mayoral candidates support it. This speaks volumes.
6) What role should Pemberton play in the 2010
Olympics?
Pemberton can make the Winterfest a great
showcase for Pemberton and entertain the world. At this time Pemberton can
provide services to the operations of the games through: accommodation,
entertainment, volunteerism and local supply of goods and services.
--
Name: Peter
Pocklington
Age: 50
Website:
www.peterpocklington.ca
Occupation:
businessman/contractor
Last book read:
Pathfinders
by Phillipe Armesto
What music are you
listening to these days? Classic rock
Favourite recreational
pursuits: Hockey, horseback riding, fishing, snowmobiling
1) Why are you running
for council?
With all the
developments coming forward, including IPP projects and Village boundary
expansions, I feel council could use my expertise in negotiations and planning.
2) What is your vision
for Pemberton?
One government for all
of the valley, all the way to Birken. Completing the recreational master plan,
including an ice arena and pool. Create affordable housing and more seniors facilities.
3) What are the
biggest issues facing Pemberton?
Stagnant local
economy, rental housing shortages. Two government bodies having to finance
amenities and infrastructure. Little to do for our youth and seniors.
Flat real estate market.
4) How can the
Pemberton Festival benefit the Village?
International
awareness of Pemberton, thus increasing tourism and investment. Its funding
contribution to our non-profit groups and societies. Opportunities for the
retail sector.
5) How do you feel
about boundary expansion?
As a resident of the
Squamish Lillooet Regional District, residing two kilometres from town, I feel
I am not represented adequately by a board from outside our community. One
government in one community will allow issues to move forward, without the
obstacles seen in the past. The control of revenues in our area will allow the
freedom of choice.
6) What role should
Pemberton play in the 2010 Olympics?
As
ambassadors to the Whistler games, Pembertonians should be recognized as major
contributors to the success of Whistler. Those of us who work in Whistler
should advertise Pemberton as a community of wealth and opportunity. Those who
remember Expo ‘86 will remember the benefits that came afterwards. Take
advantage of this golden opportunity.
--
Name:
Lisa Ames
Age:
40
Website:
www.ibelieveinpemberton.com
Occupation: Realtor
Last
book read: Pemberton Regional Airport Authority Project Definition Report
What
music are you listening to these days? Jack Johnson, Neil Young, Carole
King, Coldplay, James Taylor
Favourite
recreational pursuits: Chasing my daughters on land or water
1)
Why are you running for council?
I
want to contribute to my community and have a voice in how our community is
managed. I think it is important that there is female representation on council
as well as someone representing the interests of the many young families in
Pemberton.
2)
What is your vision for Pemberton?
A
place where people enjoy living, have jobs and business opportunities and
access to a wide variety of recreational pursuits. A community that is safe,
clean and meets the expectations of its residents socially, economically and
environmentally.
3)
What are the biggest issues facing Pemberton?
Managing
growth in a way that benefits our community and is fiscally responsible.
4)
How can the Pemberton Festival benefit the Village?
The
festival is a gift. It brought the entire community together and instilled a
sense of pride in our community that I don't think we have experienced in the
past. The media exposure that it brought to the area is immeasurable and it
created jobs locally and regionally. The festival also created the legacy of a
community foundation and brought renewed interest and recognition to our
agricultural sector.
5)
How do you feel about boundary expansion?
I
am in favour of boundary extension. I think the current proposal is a great
first step. The $180,000-$200,000 per year in additional tax revenue will go a
long way in our community; this is a substantial increase from out current
annual municipal revenue of $912,000. A longer term plan such as a complete
boundary restructure should be initiated, but this will take several years to
complete (estimate of four to six years) and will involve several hundred
property owners with many different opinions. While this future boundary
re-structure study is taking place, we can use the increased tax revenues from
the current boundary extension to fulfill many of our immediate financial
needs.
>
6)
What role should Pemberton play in the 2010 Olympics?
Our close proximity to Whistler puts us in a
unique and enviable position. There are still going to be many
opportunities, including business opportunities, associated with the 2010
Olympics that Pemberton can take advantage of. We should be innovative and
quick to think on our feet when any of these opportunities come our way. As
residents we will be able to experience a once in a lifetime event where we can
participate in many ways… as part of the workforce, as volunteers, as spectators
or as community ambassadors.
--
Name: Ted Craddock
Age: 59
Website: n/a
Occupation: retired
realtor/developer
Last book read:
Into
Thin Air
by Jon Krakauer
What music are you
listening to these days? Blues
What are your
favourite recreational pursuits? Jogging, skiing, golf
1) Why are you running
for council?
To help make a
difference, I enjoy meetings, the challenge of decision-making, understand
local issues and listen well. I have the time, experience, knowledge, and
leadership as an independent voice, representing you on all issues on council.
2) What is your vision
for Pemberton?
A vibrant, walkable
community retaining its country appeal while moving forward with
sustainable growth. Attracting new business and jobs to the industrial
park, providing us with the tax base necessary to build recreational
facilities. An opportunity to work together with Area C and the First Nations
to create a unified voice with one government.
3) What are the
biggest issues facing Pemberton.
Not having a clear picture for
the future, we need to develop a new Official Community Plan, our road map and
vision going forward. That vision will include:
- initiatives for
seniors to stay in Pemberton
- plan for employee
rental housing
- sustainable growth
- protect trails,
parks and waterways
- expansion of the
Airport, how do we want to proceed
- expansion of
recreation facilities including a water park
- manage income and
expenditures through a wise use of taxpayers money
4) How can the
Pemberton Festival benefit the Village?
The festival has been
generous in providing funds to the community, clubs and organizations. We
need to welcome the guests to our downtown by creating a carnival atmosphere
over the three-day event, a great opportunity to showcase our community.
5) How do you feel
about boundary expansion?
I would prefer to lead
a positive boundary expansion, combining Area C and Pemberton into a
regional municipality, one government, one voice, for the benefit of
all. We need to create an initiative that will be acceptable to the
provincial government, and will have the support of residents of
Area C , the First Nations and Pemberton.
6)
What role should Pemberton play in the 2010 Olympics?
A
host community providing lodging, land, our usual warm welcome, energy and
enthusiasm to meet and greet people from all around the world.
--
Name: Alan LeBlanc
Age: 53
Website: n/a
Occupation:
Self-employed entrepreneur
Last book read:
Bull
of the Woods
by Gordon Gibson
What music are you
listening to these days? CFPV FM Spud Valley Radio and New Country
Favourite recreational
pursuits: Anything outdoors. I love my children, hanging out with them and
their friends, our dogs and horses.
1) Why are you running
for council?
I've lived in
Pemberton since 1959, have raised three children and have owned
several successful companies. Pemberton has been good to me. I want to
engage the youth in our community, as well as promote a healthier business
environment. I now have the time to give back to our valley.
2) What is your vision
for Pemberton?
I love the safe
country ambience. Make good on some of the broken promises to our youth (the
skateboard park etc.) A few years ago Pemberton was a self-sustaining
community. The money that was made here stayed here and was circulated here. I
would like to see us reach that point again.
3) What are the
biggest issues facing Pemberton?
I feel the biggest
issue we have is our three local governments Mt. Currie, Pemberton and the
SLRD. We need cooperation and devotion for the full benefit "of
all the citizens in our area." This area has now grown to a
population of over six thousand people, together we can grow and achieve many
of the goals that seem out of reach. LET’S WORK TOGETHER.
4) How can the
Pemberton Festival benefit the Village?
In many, many ways!
Letting our youth experience this world-class event, having the
opportunity for local talent to participate, as well as all of us sharing
and enjoying this exceptional performance right here in our
backyard. It invites people to see and be a part
of our beautiful valley. As well, it seems to be another good use for that
particular piece of land. And of course, the huge financial boost to the
business economics of our area, to mention a few.
5) How do you feel
about boundary expansion?
I support boundary
expansion. As we all know, Pemberton needs a stronger tax base. But equally
important, we need a healthy business economy because what good is one without
the other?
6)
What role should Pemberton play in the 2010 Olympics?
I
think the only role left for Pemberton to play is that we have area for
storage, parking, housing, and labour. Alexandra Ross, our economic
development officer, has been working diligently on this. Unfortunately we
missed any Olympic legacy but we must act today for any benefits, political
support is crucial.