District of Squamish Economic Partner Forum announced

The District of Squamish has formed an Economic Partner Forum as part of a new governance approach for Economic Development. The voluntary group will provide a collaborative framework to share expertise, knowledge and resources in an effort to fulfill on economic development strategies, plans and actions outlined in the District of Squamish 2019 - 2022 Strategic Plan. The group’s focus will support strategic goals related to target sector growth, employment lands and space, local job creation and climate action targets.

“The combined knowledge and expertise of these partners is critical to our success in achieving our economic development goals. Building a vibrant local economy with a diversity of local job opportunities will require collaboration and each of these partners playing to their strengths and contributing their insights and talent. Building back from the pandemic and achieving our long term goals means that we need these voices at the table to deepen our understanding of the current business climate and develop plans to address the opportunities and challenges," says District of Squamish Mayor Karen Elliott. "I have no doubt our community will benefit greatly from the collective insights of this team as we continue to navigate the best way forward." 

The Economic Partner Forum is comprised of representatives from 11 partner organizations, including public and private sectors, and not-for-profit organizations, listed alphabetically:

The group will be joined by the District’s Economic Development Officer and up to two additional District of Squamish staff. Mayor Karen Elliott, or a designate from Council, will also serve in an ex-officio capacity.

The Economic Partner Forum will be integral to and aligned with the District’s annual planning cycle, identifying areas for District action, mutual collaboration, and actions to be led by partner organizations.  The group will also support the Economic Leadership Team’s understanding of the local business climate, and associated opportunities and challenges.