April 2020 Virtual Forum Review

Physical distancing restrictions due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic created a new experience for the Howe Sound Community Forum event. Forty elected officials, staff, and other observers made time to join the two-hour Zoom virtual meeting on April 24th from their homes.

The Forum members shared updates and highlights from local governments in West Vancouver, Bowen Island, Lions Bay, Squamish, Whistler, Gambier Island Local Trust Area, and Howe Sound communities within the regional districts of Metro Vancouver, Sunshine Coast, and the Squamish Lillooet Region. Provincial MLAs Jordan Sturdy and Nicholas Simons, and Federal MP Patrick Weiler were listening in and reflected on what they are experiencing in their constituencies.

Common challenges during this time are the importance and focus on food safety, and impacts on landfills already under stress as people clean house and garden while at home. Each of the communities is facing challenges being in such a desired location and Vancouver’s backyard adventure playground. Disrespect displayed by visitors to the region is adding to existing pressures in the corridor. The members anticipate the pandemic situation will carry on for a while, presenting an evolving set of challenges and opportunities. The elected officials mentioned each of these challenges will continue to receive attention beyond this pandemic.

Other updates included the ongoing Howe Sound related projects the Forum members have been following. Click here for a summary of the updates and links to the information referenced.

During the introductions, the forum members expressed 1-3 words to describe how they are feeling/coping during this time of COVID-19. “Grateful” popped out in this word bubble below due to the generosity of people and organizations within each community solving social challenges. Grateful also for the cooperation, communications, and support between all levels of government. On top of the difficulties of adjusting budgets, work processes, and expectations due to the impacts of physical distancing during COVID-19, other emergencies such as the serious fire in the Squamish Valley required immediate attention. All of these experiences have highlighted the value and importance of good working relationships with First Nations, the community, and all levels of government pulling together.

If all goes well, the next forum will be hosted by the Resort Municipality of Whistler at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre on October 23rd.

Capturing the feelings of Howe Sound government representatives during the COVID 19 pandemic