I would like to offer my support for Rick Karp in his bid to secure the mayor’s chair in the fall municipal election. I worked with Rick for a number of years, principally on labour market issues.
Rick understands better than most the labour market shortages that the city and territory face and the intense competition they face from other provinces. He knows that a mixture of immigration, local training and strong recruiting efforts have to be made if the city and territory are to grow.
But without housing, attracting workers, skilled and otherwise, could become a moot point. I endorse his position that affordable rental units should be a priority.
Rick is also, not surprisingly, a strong proponent of small business as a key driver of economic growth for the city. He worked closely with government, for example, to establish the Business Training Fund, which will assist small businesses with ongoing training that will allow them to remain competitive. Rick is innovative and represents the kind of person with fresh ideas that we need on council.
Finally, I support Rick because he has a good track record in working with all levels of government. The Partnering for Success initiative is evidence of that track record. I think few voters could argue that our overabundance of politicians at all levels need to learn to pull together for the city and territory to progress.
I think Rick Karp would make an excellent mayor for Whitehorse and encourage voters to give him their support.
Brent Slobodin
Whitehorse