Current Mayor & Mayoral Candidate
What are your big three ideas?
>Your name says it all – Whistler really is awesome! Election campaigns sometimes get bogged down in negativity, so it’s great to have groups like yours help keep things in perspective. Yes, we have pressing issues and real concerns to deal with, but we should always remember how lucky we are to live in such a great place. For details on issues and priorities, like taxes, parking and the economy, go to kenmelamed.ca. Here are three ways I think we can make Whistler even better in the next term:
- Build a standing surf wave in a local river.
- Refreshing the skateboard park and finding a location for an all weather park.
- Adding useable ski-outs to as many subdivisions as possible.
What is the best thing the previous mayor and council were able to achieve?
>We delivered a phenomenal Olympic Games on time and under budget during an economic downturn while maximizing the long term benefits to Whistler. What a terrific return for the $6.5M we invested directly, without a penny coming from property tax revenues. Those who chose to stay had the time of their lives and Whistler came alive as it was designed to be. Canadians sang the national anthem, en deux langues, with renewed pride and understanding of why. Canadian athletes did us proud and are working now to show the world again in Sochi.
What is the best thing the next mayor and council could achieve?
>Work together to continue the evolution of the community, led by a leaner & more efficient local government – more positive support from citizens – various agencies working together to strengthen & maintain a vibrant economy while keeping it the best place in the world to live.
Return trust in government, more participatory democracy and return to a prosperous and confident business climate. Find more ways to engage the younger members of the community who do not generally do so.
Why do you think Whistler is awesome?
>The people, the community. There is a common bond that bridges across ideologies and creates a unique spirit of community. We live close to edge, very intimately with nature and our environment. This is a great equaliser and it is where we find our heart and soul.
I love the fact that my ski and bike time is appreciated and respected. I feel like I can connect with a greater number of people by getting out and enjoying what Whistler has to offer, Whistler has almost 100 community groups and is alive with volunteer and community spirit. We live with an energy of innovation, creativity and caring.
Whistler or Blackcomb?
>I missed the best early years at Blackcomb and I come to love the mountain, but my heart is with Whistler, I have worked on the mountain from the day I arrived 36 winters ago.
Contact Ken:
Website: kenmelamed.ca
Twitter: @whistlermayor
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