Squamish's council has compiled a list of projects and priorities that it aims to tackle this year.
At the top of the 2012 Strategic Priorities list are economic development, bettering and exploring alternative modes of transportation, and streamlining the municipality's business processes.
"Improving economic development in Squamish is a community-wide effort and we look forward to continuous engagement with the community to make it happen," Mayor Rob Kirkham said.
The foundation for building Squamish's business climate began last year with the adoption of the Economic Development Plan. Now entering Phase 2 of a three-stage process, the plan includes the Business Retention and Expansion program, Kirkham said, adding it has received support from the business community.
"Moving forward, the subsequent phasing of the plan will enhance our partnerships and allow us to define and implement an investment attraction program," he said.
In the coming year, council has promised to hold transportation workshops for citizens. Lawmakers will review the current system and explore partnerships, as well as various opportunities related to commuter and corridor-wide services, Kirkham said.
As for the municipality's business processes, the district started combing through its practices last year, beginning with the building and planning departments.
"Extensive interviews with the development community and staff identified that improvement to the district's business processes were not just necessary, but crucial," Kirkham said.
While council is in agreement over its priorities, the way they are interpreted can differ, Coun. Ted Prior said, especially in regard to economic development and streamlining municipal processes. He said he's excited to roll up his sleeves and get to the heavy lifting.
"I want to see the transit workshops happen sooner rather than later," Prior said, adding that he expects the priorities' timelines to be ironed out in the near future.
- Rebecca Aldous
