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: Bill Vander Zalm was sworn in as premier in August 1986 after winning the leadership race for the Social Credit Party. His party was then re-elected in the election in October. Vander Zalm remained premier until his resignation in 1991 following a provincial conflict of interest report regarding the sale of his Fantasy Gardens theme park.
Question: What do you think of the premier’s first months in office?
Lew Mearnes – Ski Tender – Nesters
Good. He is doing a good job. He’s positive. He has his pros and cons, but there are decisions that have to be made and it’s tough for anybody. He’s good with carrying on the Expo tourism tradition. And it he puts gambling up in Whistler, so be it, it will enhance the area economically. Yes, Bill and Lillian will do a fine job. I dressed up as Lillian on Halloween.
Vic Doyle – Hotel Maintenance – Village
I think he has done pretty well with what he had to work with. When anybody steps into a beehive, he’s going to get stung for a while. I don’t think there was much he could have done about the strike. I think they have a good man in there.
Elspeth Crickmore – Nurse – Vancouver
I think it’s too early to tell. He helped the forestry dispute along to a settlement, which is good. He’s very diplomatic, though hasn’t really said that much yet. His style is a good thing. I enjoyed him when he hosted the first minister’s conference in Vancouver. What he said to the other premiers and the prime minister regarding BC in the future was very impressive. He had some precise recommendations and issues at the conference.