Whistler Real Estate Co Ltd, #137- 4370 Lorimer Road, Whistler, BC V0N 1B4

With the municipal election coming up Nov. 19, The Question asked each of the seven candidates for Pemberton council to respond to the following question: “What is the biggest issue facing Pemberton in the next three years, and how do you intend to address it at the council table if elected?”

Here are their responses:

Ted Craddock

The biggest challenge facing Pemberton is keeping property taxes at a reasonable level. My understanding of finances, budgets and our five-year plan is the basis for a solid foundation for investment in Pemberton's future. I want to keep tax increases to a minimum while achieving completion of many recreational projects and capital purchases, all of which will be paid from reserve accounts, thus using your money wisely.

Our tax rate for commercial business has been reduced over the past three years and is now below the provincial average. We need to work to find ways to further reduce this rate and to encourage new business to locate here, which in turn will create new jobs for our community. As chair of the Finance Committee, I would continue to bring initiatives to council which would support keeping residential, commercial and industrial taxes to minimal increases each year.

Alan LeBlanc

I feel that a stable economy is the most important issue for Pemberton’s future. Our village has been growing — not at the rate of a few years ago, but still growing. Now, Pemberton is approaching a size where new business and jobs are needed to maintain our infrastructure.

The pieces are in place — the OCP, the village boundary expansion, the Pemberton airport and the Pemberton business park — now all we have to do is take advantage of the opportunities that are available. The village staff are more than capable to achieve this new plateau. I would like to work with them and for you to make this next phase of Pemberton happen.

Vote for a healthy, balanced community.

James Linklater

The retention of business and job creation, while capitalizing on our existing assets — the industrial park, airport, village, agriculture and tourism.

I will support the Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Pemberton, local businesses and residents with the creation of new and the improvement of existing resources that are inclusive, innovative and can leverage support for business, training programs and job creation.

I will also look for opportunities to diversify and attract other types of business, using our varied and skilled population to understand what products and services could be developed here.

The independent school I see as a catalyst for development, education, recreation and strengthening our connection with Mount Currie.

I’ll work in a collaborative manner to bring local government, business and our community together. The goal being: A service culture with a can-do attitude that says, “Pemberton is open for business.” Finally, completing the revitalization of the village core will create an inviting environment, making it more attractive to business.

Mike Richman

The challenge is encouraging and managing growth and development. To ensure long-term jobs for locals, we must liaise with industry members to promote a variety of growth in Pemberton; including our agricultural industry, tourism, education, training and forestry.

Let's look toward new industries like mining and energy to examine their potential without compromising our green values, and optimize use of our airport and industrial park. We must continue to vitalize downtown and create a process that assists our youth in investing in Pemberton and supports investors through the bureaucracy in setting up business.

The other side of the growth coin is ensuring the housing and infrastructure development that arises reflects the needs and character of Pemberton. Although it can be time-consuming, it is important to welcome public consultation. Consultation ensures the provision of appropriate services and maintains the rural identity that drew many of us here without compromising our values in the name of development.

Robert Szachury

The largest issues that I see in our community are economics, construction and development. All of these tie into one another.

The want circle is large, with trails and outdoor recreation at the forefront of the wants of the community. But if there is no money to develop or maintain the trail grid then it will just be a dream of many.

The Pemberton Festival was a huge draw for our little town and needs nurturing to move it along. It has been almost four years since we had the biggest party this town has ever seen. I will try to assist in its return.

Jessica Turner

Pemberton's economic environment plays a large role in the future of our community. A viable and strategic plan for economic growth is needed.  

I would like to see the Economic Development Commission brought back to life to continue what was started. A marketing package to draw new, small business to the area would be ideal, including commercial tax incentives. Local business and the Chamber of Commerce need to be included in the dialogue.  

Being able to communicate a vision of a strong future draws people to our community and, most importantly, gives people a reason to stay.

Niki Vankerk

When asked what keeps people in Pemberton, the most common answer I hear is the amazing sense of community that exists. I think this is an important issue facing Pemberton — to keep our citizens here, living in a happy and healthy community.

Some actions I will take at the council table if elected will be to support commuter trails and improvements to transit that help connect us, both within Pemberton and with the surrounding areas. I will support events that promote our town and create opportunities to get involved. Encouraging practical and consistent bylaws for business development and ensuring our current infrastructure is maintained are key functions for council. I will also encourage and support projects that create a walkable and bikeable community with an inviting downtown. 

I feel lucky to live in Pemberton and will do my best to help the community thrive while meeting our basic needs.