Lyonel Doherty, Times Chronicle

Hiring a new project coordinator is on the budget radar for the Town of Oliver.

Chief Financial Officer Wayne Anderson presented this “early approval” request at the Jan. 23 meeting where it was debated.

In his report, Anderson outlined the need for a full-time resource to act as a central point of contact for various social issues that impact citizens. These social issues include affordable housing, crime, homelessness, childcare, and healthcare shortages.

Anderson said the project coordinator would also be responsible for researching and applying for grants for the town.

Last year a business case was brought to council for hiring an emergency management coordinator (EMC) who would also look after airport administration. This was to be funded through COVID reserves ($15,000) and the existing airport manager budget ($30,000). However, the hiring was put on hold until completion of council’s strategic planning in 2023. It was at this session that a social development advocate and grant writer were identified.

Anderson said current staff do not have the capacity to take on these functions. It was proposed that the EMC, social development, and grant writing be molded into one role.

Anderson said the position would cost $91,300 per year in 2023, and $96,800 in 2024. He noted the breakdown in time spent would be 25 per cent on emergency management, 25 per cent on grant writing, and 50 per cent on social development.

Mayor Martin Johansen said he was struggling to see how this new position would be a full-time role.

“We need to see what value this position would bring first.”

Councillor Aimee Grice disagreed, saying she assumed it would be a full-time job.

She noted that residents have told her they need help navigating social issues.

Chief Administrative Officer Ed Chow suggested they could start with eight hours and add more if necessary.

Petra Veintimilla agreed it made sense to combine the positions. For example, when the employee is not working on emergency management, they could focus on grant writing and social development. 

Council voted to discuss the issue further during budget deliberations.