The Wetaskiwin Regional Chamber of Commerce is seeking solidarity, with the goal of creating a platform that the new Reynolds-Alberta Museum warehouse project recognizes the importance of “buy local”, using local businesses and labour pool.
The Wetaskiwin Regional Chamber of Commerce hopes to gain the support of the Town of Millet, the City of Wetaskiwin and the County of Wetaskiwin is it approaches the Government of Alberta.
Chamber members presented a letter with this idea to the Town of Millet council during its May 24 meeting; they were also looking for council to provide a separate letter of support to the provincial government.
Council approved the request unanimously.
Mayor Tony Wadsworth says support for the chamber’s cause would be an endeavour in supporting local businesses and local laborers.
Chamber president Wayne Di Lallo says it would be a shame if the $39.5 million project solely utilized large, out of region companies. “We know we’re going to be crossing some lines, there’s free trade,” said Di Lallo.
“We know it’s a stretch but you’ve got to start somewhere,” he added.
Wadsworth asked Di Lallo what response the chamber hopes to generate from the letters.
“It’s really for the awareness,” said Di Lallo.
The Wetaskiwin Regional Chamber of Commerce is requesting a consideration that a certain percentage of the project be reserved for local input. “We don’t want to put a percent and cut ourselves short. But even if it was 50 per cent,” said Di Lallo
The chamber also presented to the City of Wetaskiwin council May 23. Council received the presentation from the Chamber as information by resolution.
“There will be further discussion on what will be put forward to the Province in the form of a letter from the City regarding the future Reynolds–Alberta Museum construction project” said city manager Dave Burgess in an email to the Pipestone Flyer.
On June 6 the Wetaskiwin regional Chamber of Commerce will appear at the County of Wetaskiwin council meeting, requesting the same moral support.