There were a few changes in the announcements made during City of Powell River’s inaugural council meeting, but there was no doubt where the focus would be for the next three years.
Mayor Dave Formosa changed portfolio assignments very little, which allows elected officials to use their skills, experience and expertise in areas that are now familiar to them. The two new councillors, Russell Brewer and Myrna Leishman, picked up some assignments from departing councillors and some from current councillors who were given different tasks.
Formosa took on inter-governmental relations, which previous mayor, Stewart Alsgard, held, but assigned Councillor Debbie Dee to transit, another Alsgard portfolio.
In keeping with his campaign promise of concentrating on Powell River’s economy, Formosa announced he would be establishing a Mayor’s Economic Development Advisory Committee. Much of Formosa’s inaugural speech was directed to the need to strengthen the community’s economy, which left no doubt where his focus will lie.
Formosa appointed Dee and Councillor Chris McNaughton to the committee. As well, they are sharing the portfolios Formosa held: corporate and community industry development; airport; small business; agriculture; forests and lands.
One significant change was the appointment of Maggie Hathaway and Jim Palm to Powell River Regional District. This is the only change on the regional board, as the incumbents all returned, by either acclamation or winning the election.
Overall, the portfolio assignments create an impression of continuity and stability, two attributes, along with council’s track record for creative thinking and commitment to achieving results, that will be crucial as developments unfold in the new year. Europe’s debt crisis has stressed the global economy, leaving investors wary and stock markets dropping. The demise of the euro could deliver a significant blow to the Canadian economy, leading to less trade, higher unemployment and a possible recession, according to financial experts. Closer to home, the community waits to see what the future of Catalyst Paper Corporation will be.
The broader economic challenges will be reflected in the community and the new mayor and council will need all their talents, resources and determination to lead Powell River through the uncertainty that lies ahead.
