Squamish Oceanfront Development Corporation maintains strong leadership continuity
June 19, 2010
The Squamish Oceanfront Development Corporation (SODC) is wholly owned by the District of Squamish. Its vision is to deliver a vibrant, innovative, sustainable, world-class "work-live-recreate" community showcasing the spirit, cultural heritage and values of the people of Squamish. This vision has been encapsulated within a comprehensive land use, experiential and economic plan for the Squamish Oceanfront that has been developed over the past year. The guiding themes for this plan include: Community First, Oceanfront Alive and Inspired Living. The expected outcomes of the plan include extensive public beaches, parks, walkways and open spaces, and an artful integration of residential, educational and commercial developments that will provide over 2,000 full-time jobs on the oceanfront at build-out.
SODC is governed by a thirteen-member board of directors. At its Annual General Meeting on June 15, 2010, six directors had terms expiring. The shareholder expressed its confidence in the board by re-electing four of these directors for another term of two-years, while also electing two strong new members to the board. Joining the board are Matt Fraser and Gregg Smyth. Mr. Fraser is the President of a growing, lifestyle business (YYoga) and holds an MBA in addition to an undergraduate degree in urban geography. Mr. Smyth is a chartered accountant and, until recently, held senior government positions relating to infrastructure projects.
The SODC board met on June 17, 2010 to welcome and orient the new members. At this meeting the board also voted to elect its Chair and Vice Chair for the coming year. There was unanimous approval to renew the appointments of Bill McNeney and Michael Hutchison for these positions, respectively, based on the excellent leadership that they have consistently provided to SODC. Mr. Smyth was also elected to chair the Finance Committee.
The board also discussed a management transition plan. With the business plan fully developed and the land use approval process largely in the hands of the District, there are no pressing short-term issues. It is an ideal time to implement a longer-term resource plan. As this develops, there will be no lags or impacts on SODC. Current CEO, Drew Stotesbury will begin to transition his duties as he takes on a new project out of the country. Senior management, David Greenfield and Trevor Dunn, will continue to lead specific project initiatives. And Heather Dunham will maintain her strong control over all administrative responsibilities.