Airport AGM returns directors to oversee their legacy

All nine appointed members of the Nanaimo Airport Commission Board of Directors were returned to their posts at the airport’s Annual General Meeting. Directors set the airport’s strategic direction. In a nutshell, they are people who live and work in our communities making decisions that benefit everyone who lives and works here. They also ensure that systems are in place to protect airport operations and finances.

Their long-term vision, laid out in a 20-year terminal master plan, led to the $15-million infrastructure investment. It will expand the airport’s capacity and stimulate regional economic development. The commission broke ground last month on the project, which will enlarge the Air Terminal Building by 60 percent

Directors bring a range of experience and skills to their work, and they are all active in their communities. Five are appointed the City of Nanaimo, Regional District of Nanaimo, Cowichan Valley Regional District, Town of Ladysmith and Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce, with four other directors representing the community at large.

Lucie Gosselin (at large) returns as board chair. She’s a chartered accountant and certified management consultant. Vice-chair Wendy Clifford (at large) is a partner in a law firm. Secretary Al Tully (RDN) was an operational air traffic controller and manager. Mike Brown (at large) has practiced law for many years and grew up in an aviation background. Ray Gauthier (at large) oversees a First Nations economic development agency as its CEO. Colleen Johel  (CVRD) is the managing partner of a Duncan law firm.Mike Kandert (Nanaimo) has more than 30 years of international aviation experience. Alex Stuart (Ladysmith) has a background in technology, environmental management and local government. And David Witty (Chamber of Commerce) is a university provost and vice-president with a background in urban planning.