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 1986. 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 November 1986, voters in Whistler elected Drew Meredith as their new mayor and put Jeff Wuolle, Sonya McCarthy, Paul Burrows, Craig MacKenzie, Diane Eby, and Ted Nebbeling on council. Of those elected, only Paul Burrows and Diane Eby had previously served on council. This was also the first where six councillors (or aldermen as they were then called) were elected, as previous councils had had only four.
Question: What do you think of Whistler’s new mayor and council?
Bill Irwin – Carpenter – Emerald Estates
I would say it’s good. Meredith took a strong stance on gambling, and it will be interesting to see if that remains. I think it’s a good change, generally. I find it humorous that all you have to do to become alderman practically is to run for it.
Colleen Fraser – Registered Massage Therapist – Whistler Ridge
I don’t think the two candidates for mayor were in conflict with each other. Drew Meredith won because of his own popularity, his high profile in the chamber and WRA, not because of a lack of good wok that Rodgers has done. Before one alderman could swing the other three, but now it will be hard for even a strong person in council to swing the others. So, I’m all in favour of a six-person council.
Harry Smith – Store Owner – Black Tusk
I’m glad to see they have some of the old members back and some new, aggressive ones coming in. It’s going to be an interesting session. And Whistler is growing so fast, I think it’s time we had the extra people. I like the idea of having new people, of a change. I think a new broom always sweeps a little better.