White Rock will strike a Marine Drive Business Task Force in the wake of recent media reports of declining commerce on the waterfront.
The task force was approved in principle at Monday’s council meeting, however, terms of reference for the group have yet to be set, and membership is still to be appointed.
Council decided to defer further discussion of the measure on the recommendation of Coun. Grant Meyer, who suggested it should follow input from a joint meeting of the South Surrey White Rock Chamber of Commerce and White Rock Business Improvement Association on the same topic.
The task force, to be chaired by Coun. Bill Lawrence, is to have representation from both organizations, as well as city staff.
It is to also include all members of the city’s economic investment committee, which Coun. Lynne Sinclair said would be a key element in addressing business concerns, as it represents both landlords and tenants.
Also suggested as members of the task force are Couns. Megan Knight and David Chesney, although the latter asked that his name be removed, citing additional council responsibilities and personal commitments.
“I’m not sure that I would be able to dedicate the time that would be necessary,” Chesney told council.
Terms of reference for the task force will be brought forward at a governance and legislation committee meeting, after which it must be ratified at a regular council meeting.