This past year, I had many opportunities to join you in celebrating our community. We welcomed the world to the 15th International Choral Kathaumixw, we honoured our multicultural diversity, and we commemorated 100 years of papermaking in Powell River, to name a few. These events happened thanks to the citizens and community groups who gave their time and energy so generously. Thank you—you are the heart and soul of our community.
We live in and respect the traditional territory of the Tla’amin (Sliammon) First Nation. Our friends and partners, the Sliammon First Nation, created history this year by passing the Sliammon treaty. We wish the Sliammon community peace and prosperity for the future.
Council recently completed preliminary discussions regarding the strategic priorities for the remainder of this council term. We look forward to presenting a draft strategic plan in a public forum in the new year. Council remains committed to encouraging and supporting business development in Powell River and is looking to create an economic revitalization plan for the area. We welcome your comments as we must work together to ensure a sustainable future.
To city staff, thank you for all that you do. Your continued dedication to provide services to our community is most appreciated. As council sets the priorities for the upcoming year, we know that we can count on all staff to carry out council’s direction in a professional, competent manner.
Particularly at this time of year we must count our blessings, be thankful of where we live and be kind to one another. From my family to yours, I wish everyone a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.
Cheers and God bless.
Dave Formosa, mayor
City of Powell River
