Tag: Ruth Peterson

Whistler's Answers

Whistler’s Answers: December 15, 1983Whistler’s Answers: December 15, 1983

December 15, 2022 Whistler Museum 0 Comments

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.

Whistler's Answers

Whistler’s Answers: March 3, 1983Whistler’s Answers: March 3, 1983

March 3, 2022 Whistler Museum 0 Comments

Some context for this week’s question: In February 1983, the council began reviewing policy guidelines for the construction and operation of pensions (the kind in which visitors stay, not the kind paid out after retirement) within Whistler. Among the concerns presented were the impact pensions could have on residential neighbourhoods, such as increased traffic and noise and the possibility of disturbances from commercial bars and restaurants that could be permitted within pensions. The proposed guidelines attempted to address these and other concerns but the debate on pensions continued through the spring.

Question: What do you think pensions would do for Whistler?

Rod Harman – Sheet Metal Contractor – Alpine Meadows

I think they’re a great idea for Whistler because it could become known as an affordable place to stay. A few guidelines should be laid down though like ensuring that neighbours are consulted before approval for a pension is given. I definitely don’t think they should be licenced. They should be non-drinking establishments set up to provide accommodation and maybe a meal.

Ruth Peterson – Housewife – Whistler Cay

I think they would be a great asset to Whistler if they are set up in the European context – that is as small family operations. Keeping them small takes away any parking problem and would not affect the property value. By no means should they have licenced bars as they would create noise and traffic. I also believe the neighbours within, say, 500 feet should be consulted before approval is given as well.

Mike Lindsay – Contractor – Alpine Meadows

It’s such a popular form of accommodation that I think it will pop up all over illegally if proper allowance isn’t made soon. It would be a really good thing for this town, but they’d need strict rules about size. Liquor could be a problem too. Perhaps a renewable liquor licence would be a good idea as a method of keeping tabs on each operation.