IPG to be Dismantled
Prince George, B.C. – It is now official. Initiatives Prince George will not have its service agreement renewed at the end of this year.“I think the message is that we are not doing away with economic development ” says Mayor Lyn Hall, “We are just changing the structure of it.”
It is believed the move will streamline economic development activities, giving business direct access to the decision makers at City Hall.
It is thought the change will save the City about $500 thousand a year.
Mayor Hall says City Manager Kathleen Soltis will be delivering a report to Council on Monday night that will outline the transition period . A select committee will be established to take a look at how best to make the transition.
City Manager Kathleen Soltis says a maximum of four jobs will be lost, and severance is not expected to be an issue given the time frame of notice. The economic development services will report directly to Ian Wells, Director of Planning and Development Services who in turn reports to Kathleen Soltis.
“Council did not make this decision lightly, as we have had excellent service from IPG and its staff,” says Hall. “Council firmly believes that this move will save money, while directly involving Administration in the economic development of our city, and enabling it to provide Council with important, timely information. I would like to extend Council’s wholehearted thanks to IPG CEO Heather Oland, to the equally talented and hard-working IPG staff, and to IPG’s Board of Directors.”
Comments
Ian Wells….is this the same guy who thought that buying up every piece of property they could get their hands on in the downtown core so they could “bundle them for developers”? City largest landholder in the CBD getting squat for taxes on it. Any progress to report or big announcements forthcoming Ian?
This should turn out well…or should it be-wells should be turned out:P
Wow, somebody listened!
My question is, “How does Tourism PG fit into the new picture?” … IPG took over TPG years ago in a political end run .. at one time (late 80s, early 90s) TPG was member funded at the 65% level” and this was prior to the room tax levy.
I agree Hart Guy. Somebody is listening.
Tourism BC is now funded from the PG Hotel tax to the tune of $500,000.00 per year.
Sparrow, I think there is no one else to give it to but Wells at this time. I suspect this will be given to vanAdrichem when he steps over to the City in September. It fits in quite well with what he was doing at UNBC.
Agree gopg2015,he will take the lead for sure when on board
Back and forth every twenty years. Only thing that stays the same is change.
I like Mr. VanAdrichem and glad he given the new Job. I agree with getting rid of IPG, maybe they could put a nice coffee shop ,gift store, ect. in the space.
What will L&M do without their employees running IPG and handing them work?
Not to worry PG101.
Is Oland not a shareholder in L&M?
I would wager a bet that Soltis will be giving her a top position with a very nice paycheque at Prince George City Hall?
Did Oland not take a trip to China with Soltis–a preliminary bonding experience? I am not certain-so who can enlighten us?
The public has to realize that the whole crew is so attached and involved with one another that it is difficult to break that attachment. They are what could be referred to as “blood brothers!”
I believe Oland has hung on with all her might–and she is now justly rewarded for her endeavors. She will be well aware of the errors of her ways-but will she have the guts to give a strong voice to change the manner in which this city is run?
This maneuver is nothing less than what the public expected?
With the change–can they expect more??? Interesting!
I am not holding my breath????
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