There seems to be some perception that I have not been concerned about nor fought to change the decision around the Scotiabank closure in the Village of Pemberton.
For clarity’s sake, I would like to let people know that when the decision surfaced that I, alongside many of our residents, have protested and fought to keep the bank here.
Mayor and council sent a formal letter to Scotiabank head office, I have had a number of phone meetings including with the VP of operations and have sent a number of emails. On each occasion I have explained the deep impact to many of our community members especially vulnerable populations, those living more remotely, seniors etc…, I reiterated the history of the bank in our community and also highlighted the fact that our community is growing at such a rapid rate this it seems like a faulty business case to make this decision at this time.
The other night, after two hours of listening to the ScotiabankTownhall meeting and hearing very unsatisfactory answers that were being provided by Scotiabank representatives, I thought I would ask for some computers as a benefit to our community at the very least. It seemed apparent to me at that point that there is no willingness, even if there is an ability, for the Scotiabank to change the course of their decision.
I have been very vocal as to the impacts that this will cause many people in our area and I think it’s an unfortunate and inappropriate decision. Having said that, in my mind there does not seem to be any appetite at all to reconsider the decision from their end. I too am frustrated and will continue to try to draw any support I can from Scotiabank for our community. Ultimately, they are a private business and the wishes of Mayor and Council are not something they are required to consider.
As always, if anyone has any questions or things they’d like to discuss I post my contact info quite regularly and it’s on the VoP website – mrichman@pemberton.ca or 604-966-6309
Thanks,
Mike