Business community, think regional

Cranbrook and area community leaders agree that a regional approach to economic development is a good one

(L to R) Community leaders from RDEK, Cranbrook and Kimberley joined in a panel discussion of economic development, challenges and opportunities. — Kimberly Shellborn photo

The Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce held its March luncheon and general meeting at the College of the Rockies (COTR) gymnasium, as a prelude to the annual career fair co-sponsored by COTR, the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce, Jim Pattison Broadcast Group and Kootenay Business magazine.

After a luncheon catered by Pita Wrapbit, chamber president Dave Struthers and COTR president David Walls spoke briefly to the luncheon guests. The keynote presentation was a panel discussion involving acting mayor of Cranbrook, Wesley Graham; executive director of the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce, David Hull; mayor of Kimberley, Don McCormick; and vice-chair of the Regional District of East Kootenay, Wendy Booth. The discussion was moderated by Keith Powell of Kootenay Business magazine.

The panel discussion revealed a shared interest in collaboration and pooling of resources, and an understanding that progress for one community results in spill-over benefits to others.

Graham made the point that a regional approach to economic development is efficient—it eliminates duplication of effort and minimizes financial costs. Booth said that while the board of the Regional District of East Kootenay is made up of representatives from individual communities, they strive to meet the best interests of the region as a whole. Hull believes that for the most part, the communities in the East Kootenay share an economy, so it makes sense for them to work as a team to grow and improve that economy.

The panelists all encouraged participation and engagement among community members in order to build momentum and achieve goals of mutual benefit. McCormick said that the East Kootenay needs to hear from the region’s young people.

“We need your ideas, enthusiasm and involvement,” he said. “Participate. Speak up.”

Graham’s message to the business community, on behalf of Cranbrook City Council, was, “We’re listening. The business community has a voice and we want to hear from you.”