Mayor J. Crompton read questions submitted in advance of the Meeting by email.
Brendan Ladner, 6117 Eagle Drive
Over one year ago the Big Moves were announced and we were given a presentation outlining how we plan to miss the targets. I have been waiting to hear about the plan to make up that shortcoming; I would like to help if possible! It’s now been over one year: when will the RMOW be creating a plan to actually hit our Big Moves Targets?
We've only got 8 years left be before 2030. Given that RMOW has consistently missed its GHG reduction targets, it sort feels like the Big Moves Targets are more “aspirational” rather than a clear driver of budget and policy: What clear measures of accountability has this council instructed staff to follow, For example: you must hit ________ (target) and if you don’t, then ________?
Mayor J. Crompton responded the RMOW frequently has Climate Action Coordinator present and Council pays attention to what those goals are. This is not a static process, not one single Big Move which will address the challenge. Staff work daily to reach those goals.
General Manager of Resort Experience, J. Gresley-Jones advised staff are working daily looking at regulatory tools. Also needing to keep in mind community engagement is a key factor. We have some tools to encourage and incentivize change, use this as a lens for our work. Need buy in from all members of the community.
Questions continued and were asked by members of the public.
Dawn Titus, 8440 Bear Paw Trail
Mrs. Titus asked if Dr. Harding said that COVID-19 is not spread by aerosol?
Mayor J. Crompton advised he is not equipped to speak to what Dr. Harding said.
D. Titus mentioned correspondence included in tonight's package letters regarding unvaccinated individuals coming to Whistler and asked who is specifically responsible for determining if Whistler Blackcomb should request vaccine passports?
Mayor J. Crompton advised this is within the jurisdiction of Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH). Letters will be forwarded to staff who will then share information with VCH.
D. Titus asked if Vail is following advice of the Public Health Officer (PHO), which did not mandate a vaccine for Whistler Blackcomb?
Mayor J. Crompton explained the PHO has mandated vaccines in some businesses but allowed leeway in other businesses.
D. Titus asked why she must be vaccinated to attend Meadow Park Sports Centre but not Whistler Blackcomb?
Mayor J. Crompton explained this is a question for VCH.
D. Titus asked if Council can agree the most harmful mistake is repeatedly loosening restrictions too quickly.
Mayor J. Crompton advised he agrees with Mrs. Titus' sentiments.
Matt Hall, 8233 Valley Drive
M. Hall noted sandwich boards in front of many businesses are helpful in the current climate. Mr. Hall asked if there is any way the municipality could skip enforcing the Sign Bylaw as it would be hurting businesses especially during the pandemic and difficult business environment.
Mayor J. Crompton advised they have heard similar feedback and advised Mr. Hall to write a letter to the corporate inbox for consideration by Mayor and Council as they are are willing to hear this.
Hélène Castonguay, 311-4660 Blackcomb Way
H. Castonguay asked Mayor and Council what can we do in order to avoid another wave of COVID-19 in Whistler?
Mayor J. Crompton shared in Mrs. Castonguay's concerns. He noted the RMOW will share with Vancouver Coastal Health the correspondence and concerns of the public.
H. Castonguay noted people will not get vaccinated without a mandatory requirement for this and asked for Council's opinion how this can change?
Mayor J. Crompton advised that he recommends that people continue to contact those who have jurisdiction to advocate for our community. He noted that the RMOW encourages everyone to get vaccinated, wear masks, continued vigilance to pursue the behaviours that protect us.