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: As mentioned last week, in the March 29, 1984 edition of the Whistler Question an article was published that announced a new sales tax to be levied by resort municipalities. In the editorial announcing the article as an April Fool’s joke, the editor wrote: “We wanted to plant the seed of an idea that not only the provincial government should seriously consider, but one that Whistler, as a community, should ponder. Should resorts have special taxing powers to provide all the necessary tourist amenities that make European and American resorts tick?” Throughout April, the Question ran a multi-part series on the idea of such a tax in Whistler, looking at where Whistler’s money came from, how such taxes worked in American resorts, and more.
Question: What do you think of the Whistler Question’s April Fool’s stories on user pay taxes?
Mark Angus – Mayor – Gondola Area
I am always one for April Fool’s. As long as you take it lightly no damage is done. People in Victoria reading the paper might react. It might put some ideas into their heads.
David King – Surveyor – White Gold
As long as everyone knows afterwards that it’s a joke it’s all right. It’s up to you guys who are writing the stories. I did a couple of jokes on some friends this year myself.
Craig Stephen – Carpenter – Whistler Cay
My roommate believed it. I think it’s great. I remember the one you did on Drew Meredith (donating $2 million lottery winnings to the municipality). The was hilarious. I have seen user taxes happen in other resorts so I guess I’d believe it.