In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1982. Please note, all names/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Question: Would you mind paying a four percent resort tax on everything you buy here to help pay for public facilities?
Ron McCready – Manager of Nasty Jack’s – Alta Vista
Yes. The locals are just simply overtaxed. In order to keep the type of people we need to make this valley work – waiters, waitresses, people to service the businesses – we need to grant them some sort of concessions.
Even if they make a good wage, they find it difficult to live here.
It’s time something was returned to the residents.
Sonya McCarthy – Deli Clerk – Emerald Estates
No, I wouldn’t mind paying it as long as the revenue collected is kept in the Whistler area.
I also think Council would have to make a very close accounting as to where the money is spent.
The money could be used in many ways, but I think one of the most important uses would be to get the Sports & Convention Centre finished and start a public transportation system.
Isabel Niederlich – Drugstore Clerk – Alta Vista
I’d be both for and against it. On one hand I’d like to see the rec centre finished and other recreational projects in this town.
But then things are so expensive here already, I think it might be too much to add another four percent. Ultimately, though, I think it would be worth it.
Kari Surridge – Housewife – Vancouver
No. But since it’s public revenue, I would want to make sure it goes to public needs.
I don’t think people who live here should have to pay it, though. They should be issued some sort of identity card so merchants wouldn’t charge them the extra tax.
Harry McKeever – Vending Machine Operator – Alpine Meadows
Absolutely. Basically we are overtaxed and overpriced already.
We already pay far more for everything here than anywhere else in the province.
Dale Steel – Sales rep for David L. Jones – North Vancouver
No, I wouldn’t mind it at all, providing I knew it was going towards the betterment of the community – the arts, public transportation.
This place is beautiful and should be kept looking like this. It will soon look like a slum if they don’t collect some sort of revenue and use it to keep things up.