Ken Melamed

for your Mayor

Strong Leader, Clear Vision, Whistler Values

Category Archives: Local Economy

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.

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.

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.

Whistler U

The proponent has been trying to gain community support for some years. They have yet to submit an application for a rezoning. When the rezoning application is submitted, it will be reviewed fairly and according to our established development approval process.

I will keep an open mind and consider the opinions of council and community members. The proposal will be reviewed in consideration of the community adopted policies set in out OCP and Whistler 2020.

FULL DISCLOSURE; I have seen several development proposals from the land owner over the last 23 years. I have questioned the development’s ability to comply with the OCP policies on increasing the Bed Cap and environmental impacts. I have also questioned the economic viability and the likelihood of delivering the promised amenities. I would support the concept of a university, at the right time and in the right place, assuming that there would be general support from the community. I completely support the current recommendations to advance opportunities for Post Secondary Education.

Cheakamus Community Forest

I share the community’s interest about the protection of Old trees and the economics of the CCF. The Provincial government has certain expectations for local timber harvesting. Either we have some say in the process or we watch someone else do it.

We have successfully reduced the cut volume from 40,000 m3 to the current 20,000 m3. With about 15,000 hectares of working forest and a cut rate of about 40 ha/yr there is ample time to develop a responsible operating model and comply with our Ecosystem Based management objectives.

We have adopted the most environmentally responsible practices possible for the working forest, while protecting the remaining about 16,000 hectares in various age classes.

With applications going back to the mid 80’s, the province has granted the community, in partnership with our First Nation neighbours, the greatest level of control available over this critical resource.

Post Secondary Education

I am fully committed to this exciting direction for Whistler. The recently received assessment has confirmed that there is an opportunity to grow in the area of Educational Tourism and product diversification.

The Academia Group Study recommends a strategic and incremental approach. We have a graphic example at Quest of the financial challenges and a standalone university is not viable at this point in the early development of our strategy. While I can see the future possible merits of a university in Whistler; the model, timing, and location has to be right.

I agree with the recommendation to establish partnerships with various institutions to develop educational programs. The report suggests that the first programs should be offered within the existing inventory of space in the village.