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 1984. 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: In February 1984, Mayors Mark Angus (Whistler) and Shirley Henry (Pemberton) traveled to Ottawa to lobby to make the existing Pemberton airport into a commercial airport, providing a more direct route for travelers to both Pemberton and Whistler, especially as more visitors were expected in the region during Expo ’86. During this visit, the delegation met with officials and BC Senator Jack Austin, but no official decisions were made. At the time, the Pemberton airport was deemed “unflyable” by Visual Flight Rules about half the time but it was thought that a Microwave Landing System and upgraded approach lighting, beacons, and more could turn it into a viable commercial airport in time for Expo ’86.
Question: What do you think of the mayor’s trip to Ottawa to lobby for improved airport landing equipment?
Volker Niederlich – Taxi Driver – Alta Vista
I think it’s good that he went over there. I don’t think the government listens to small towns enough. The question is, do we really need that landing strip? I think we need it because a lot of people are reluctant to travel the Squamish highway. If we had good transportation like that it would improve business a lot.
Jerry Kazman – Labourer – Whiski Jack
I hope they don’t take a negative attitude because it’s such a small place. The federal government has a habit of filing away small matters in file “X”. If going to Ottawa is the only way Angus can deal with the government and if Whistler is behind it then I’m behind it 100 per cent. As for the airport (Angus met with transport officials about the Pemberton airport), working Canada Customs out of Seattle along with direct flights to Pemberton would enormously increase business.
Stephanie Sloan – Ski Instructor – Alta Lake
If it’s an important enough issue and we can afford it, fine. If not, he shouldn’t be going. I think that an airport in Pemberton would be great, and if the trip to Ottawa helped, it was worth it.