In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1983. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: The Council elected in 1982 was the first to be led by someone other than Pat Carleton (Mark Angus was elected as Mayor) and had only one councillor who had previously served on Council (Terry Rodgers joined Council in February 1982, ahead of the election, to fill the seat left vacant by Al Raine and Mark Angus had previously served as a councillor). The Council was faced with a major recession and a struggling Whistler Village Land Company, as well as the more usual business of running a municipality. Some of their decisions, such as the decision to charge fees to use the trails around Lost Lake, were controversial while others, such as the decision to open meetings to the public, were generally welcomed. To see some of the issues that appeared during the first year, take a look back through the Whistler’s Answers of 1983.
Question: What do you think of Council’s first year in office?
Fred Barter – Businessman – Emerald Estates
I think they’ve done an excellent job under the circumstances. If any council is perfect I’d like to meet them. There’s always room for criticism and improvement.
Ruth Peterson – Housewife – Whistler Cay
Committee of the whole being open is a tremendous step. If you know the background of issues it makes a tremendous difference because input before a public hearing is very important. I have had a lot of differences with council, but it’s a matter of opinion. This council inherited a legacy which has limited things because the land company went down the drain under the previous council.
Drew Meredith – Executive Director, Whistler Resort Association
Under the unsettled circumstances surrounding Whistler I think they have done a reasonable job. My perception is, however, that council has not communicated enough amongst themselves on longer term issues.