Increasingly the size and cost of government has come under scrutiny and there is an ever greater desire for accountability and transparency over how and where tax dollars are spent.

There are sound reasons why the operating budget has increased. Staffing levels and budgets have increased due to increased service demands. We have seen growth in summer business; we have more roads, more parks, more trails, and new neighbourhoods; we have an expanded new library; new higher capacity Waste Water Treatment Plant and composter for bio-solid treatment; bigger and more buses; increased fire and police services.

Now that the Olympics are behind us it is time to reduce costs in local government to reduce the tax burden. Work began last year on a comprehensive Organizational and Service Review, and the first phase report is just out. Staffs levels are now back at 2007 levels, and $1.2 million in potential savings for 2012 have been identified, with more to come.

Whistler has a unique business model and resort structure which is difficult to benchmark and requires innovative solutions. The RMOW plays a critical role in the resort’s success and we have had great success working with our key partners. In speaking with community leaders there is shared optimism for the future. TW is forecasting a 5% increase in visits for this winter season.