ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

Date: November 30, 1998
Author/Local: Estelle Lo/7610
RTS No. 393
CC File No. 3251

TO: Vancouver City Council

FROM: City Manager

SUBJECT: Membership in the Vancouver Board of Trade

RECOMMENDATION

THAT Council authorize the General Manager of Corporate Services Group to become a member of the Vancouver Board of Trade at a 1999 cost of $675.00 and thereafter an annual cost of $520. Source of funds is from the Corporate Services Training Account.

COUNCIL POLICY

There is no applicable Council policy.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval for the General Manager of Corporate Services Group to be a member of the Vancouver Board of Trade.

BACKGROUND

With the change in the local economy, Council is increasingly concerned to support the economy and economic development. The Board of Trade is an organization that promotes and facilitates the development of the region as a Pacific Centre for trade, commerce, and travel. It provides a forum for City Staff to participate directly in dealing with emerging economic development issues and to ensure long-term economic growth.

DISCUSSION

With the economic, social and environmental challenges facing the city, it is important for the Corporate Management Team to be in tune with the initiatives undertaken by the Board of Trade and to reach the common goal of enhancing the economic viability of our city. Ms. Estelle Lo, the General Manager of Corporate Services Group, is a key player in the City's long-range planning and is recommended to be a member of the Vancouver Board of Trade.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATION

The annual membership fee is $520.00 with one-time enrollment fee of $155.00. It costs another $185 for each additional member. Funding for Ms. Lo's membership is available in the Corporate Services Training Account.

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(c) 1998 City of Vancouver