I am running for a position on Squamish Council in the upcoming election. I believe that a Council comprised of like minded persons, sharing a common plan, can make a positive impact on our community.
Recently at a dinner speech, Provincial Finance Minister Kevin Falcon noted that over 12 billion dollars have been jointly spent in BC on the Asia Pacific Gateway Strategy, and that BC now sends over 50% of its exports to non-US destinations. This is an opportunity Squamish is not taking part of in its current economic plan.
Squamish needs an economic plan with specific action items, not just general comments. If elected, my specific goals are;
1 Retire the Squamish Oceanfront Development Corporation, and turn the available land into a Port Corporation model. The land would then be leased to Port businesses, which would build Port facilities and thereby creating family supporting jobs in construction, operation and maintenance. This is not a new concept, and works extremely well in North Vancouver. On a similar sized property in North Vancouver, my employer is the City's largest taxpayer, employs well over 250 direct jobs holders, spends millions of dollars in contract services, and contributes hundreds of thousands into the community.
2 Revisit staff duties to ensure that a specific role is responsible as a "Squamish Events Coordinator" with responsibilities to fill the community facilities with rent paying events that bring people to town. This benefits the District as they get paid for facilities, while hotels, restaurants, stores and the real estate market benefit from the influx.
Specific examples Our ice rink sits empty for months at a time, while Whistler fills its rink with tournament after tournament that brings people to town. Destination events such as car rallies, field hockey tournaments, mini-fondo races, and the list goes on.
3 Set specific goals and time limits for the development and permitting process to attract quality developers. Development needs to pay proper fees and charges, contribute to community amenities and be fair and perceived to be fair, open and out front.
I hope that you will support these 3 concepts, if you are a voter, please come out and vote, !! If you are another candidate and you agree please identify that we collectively "Sign On" !!
Ron Sander Information:Website: www.ronsander.caFacebook: "Ron Sander for Squamish Council www.ronsander.ca"
