Ken Melamed

for your Mayor

Strong Leader, Clear Vision, Whistler Values

Governance

Q : In-camera meetings have increased; your thoughts?
A : The municipality follows the prescripts of the legislation to the letter. This term council has had to deal with a higher number of legal and personnel issues; Asphalt plant litigation, law suits, labour and Olympic dealings. The number of in-camera meetings reflects the issues of the day and an increasingly litigious environment.

How should the RMI fund be spent?

Q : How should the RMI fund be spent?
A : It is positive that we have this revenue and we can have a deeper discussion on how to invest it resort tourism. The initiative is still in its infancy and continues to evolve. The RMI provincial grant comes with conditions. The first rule is to respect the provincial interest so as to retain the funding. We are evolving the program and broader engagement is already in place and will continue. Accountability is key, and together the community will determine the best uses and delivery models.

Illegal space

Q : What is your position on illegal space in Whistler and what, if anything, should be done about it?
A : Illegal space (like dorms in attics without proper access or windows) is being enforced, and must continue for public safety. Non-conforming space will be addressed this term through a revision of our bylaws. It is stifling investment and sales. The process to date has been productive, and admittedly slow (Olympics, lack of consensus, etc), but is nearing completion.

Whistler 2020

Q :Whistler 2020 – is it adequate as is for our community’s guiding document?  What, if anything, needs updating?
A : Prior to t he OCP review the precepts in W2020 were reviewed and tested with the community. It required few changes and the OCP has re-enforced all of the directions. The community is well aligned on vision and policy; we now need a Resort Business Plan to focus effective actions.

Callaghan Valley

Q : What’s your view on development in the Callaghan Valley?
A : Whistler has a well articulated vision and policies which are designed to support the resort’s success. It will be important to include our input into development decisions. Much of the land under consideration for development is in the SLRD. It will important to continue our good relationship at the regional board. I do not support any type of sprawl development at the base of the Callaghan.

Entrepreneurial government

Q : Should the RMOW be competing against businesses? If so, why?
A : Municipalities across Canada are being entrepreneurial in an effort to lessen the burden on the property tax base. Generally government should not be in competition with business unless there is a compelling need and the business community itself is supportive.

Asphalt plant

Q : What’s your view on the asphalt plant?
A : The plant will move. Council has started the process to seek a remedy through the courts, as requested by the residents. Until the residents moved in, the level of dissatisfaction with the neighbouring uses was not anticipated. I am committed to finding a solution and the fulfillment of my dream in creating this incredible new neighbourhood.

Pay Parking

Q : What’s your view on pay parking?
A : We will monitor the response from guests and on business levels. The alternative of higher taxes is unacceptable. Variable pricing options are now available to provide affordable options for all users. Opportunities exist to start a new conversation with owners of the parking under the village businesses which are most convenient for their customers.

Financial health

Q : How will you address the financial health of the community?
A : Reduce municipal costs an keep taxes down; renew the RMI tourism stimulus funding agreement with the province and adopt a Resort Business plan in consultation with the community to identify and focus on effective next steps. Salaries at the hall seem to be a hot topic; are they? If so what are your plans? Under my leadership we have completed Phase 2 of 5 in a detailed service and organization review. We have cut $30 M in capital, $2.5 in operating and more savings will be found. We have returned staff to 2007 levels. We are not expecting any wage increases at this time.

Class 1/6

Q : Class 1/6 – do you think class 1 property owners should have to pay commercial taxes if they rent out their units on a nightly basis?

A : This has been the thinking of a number of the resort stakeholder groups. We are hearing a clear message from the Class 1 owners to consider their situation. I am keeping an open mind to possible solutions which will be the outcome of a new engagement process.