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File no. UO 33

February 13, 1981

Mayor George Laking
City of Port Coquitlam
2272 McAllister Avenue
Port Coquitlam, 8.C.
V3C 2A8

Dear George:

Recently you and your Council received a memorandum from W. TT, Lane,
Commissioner of Regional Development, bringing you up to date on the proposal
to establish a regional economic development agency. I would appreciate your
personal assistance in resolving this issue. I believe that it is possibie
to establish a regional economic development agency which will] “earn its
keep" by facilitating more and better types of economic activity in this
region without intruding on the autonomy of municipalities. The Task Force
which recommended this agency laid particular stress on the need to establish
Clear objectives in an annual marketing plan which could be used to measure
the, department's performance.

From my experience as a former Chairman of the Greater Vancouver Industrial
Development Board, I know that such a body can onty be successful df it
enjoys wide support and commitment. It is clear that such support exists,
for the most part, among the business community. Municipal support is also
strong, but the GYRD Board is reluctant to proceed without the backing of
Port Coquitlam and the other municipalities which have indicated they are
unwilling to participate in the function.

The revised proposal which is under consideration by the Planning Committee
would place a “sunset clause" jn the resolution or letters patent
establishing the economic development department, requiring that its
continuation after three years would have to have the support of 2/3 of the
member councils, as well as 2/3 of the members of the Board having 2/3 of the
votes. We believe that this proposal provides an adequate safeguard to
ensure that the agency is effective and responsive to the wishes and needs of

local government.

I know the proposal has your personal support, and I hope your colleaques
will be able to see the advantages which would accrue to your residents as a
result of the additional employment and tax revenue which the econonic
development function could stimulate.