Forestry Request

At last Monday's meeting of Council, there was a delegation from Bob Brash (Truck Loggers' Association), Doug Pauze (Coastland Wood Industries), Daryl Jones (Jones Marine Group), and Paul Sadler (Nanaimo Forest Products). They spoke to the challenges facing the forestry industry in BC, the social and economic impacts, and of a new initiative to raise awareness about the critical role that forestry plays in the well-being of communities. Their ask was that Council send a general letter of support to the provincial government. While I must respect the will of Council, I am personally embarrassed that the request was voted down. Following a speech by Councillor Geselbracht on the evils of the forest industry, the only Councillors in support of the letter were myself, Councillor Armstrong, and Mayor Krog. I can only hope that this matter will be re-considered at a future meeting, so that we can provide some token of support to a major contributor to our local economy.