Editor:
Re: "It's not a competition, Tretick tells Weston" (Coast Reporter, March 1)
You're darned right, it's a competition.
Yes, we are all one country, but the reality is that, in the case of economic programs, all are over-subscribed. A great example of leveraging relationships to increase the likelihood of success was when the newly elected Gibsons mayor and council asked that I support a funding application for an initiative with the Gibsons Landing Harbour authority. Thankfully, that project funding was granted to Gibsons.
Similarly, a program under which the Sunshine Coast Regional District recently sought support for upgrades to the Gibsons ice arena. We saw this time and again under the Economic Action Program, when our riding attracted an extraordinary amount of federal stimulus investment, typically matched by provincial and local funding. These successes only occur when there is good communication and close cooperation among government representatives of the different levels.
I thank Gibsons, Sechelt and the SCRD for working so closely with my team to attract such investment so we can focus on jobs, economic growth, seniors programs, the arts, environmental stewardship and other programs.
Yes, it is a competition. With good cooperation and communication, we'll have our share of wins.
John Weston, MP West Vancouver - Sunshine Coast - Sea to Sky Country
