Judicious planning will ease pains
Sparwood may weather the downturn better than many will
David Wilks, Mayor of Sparwood —Photo by Tanya Laing Gahr
Sparwood mayor David Wilks is confident the community will remain strong and viable during and following the economic downturn. “I don’t think our economy will be affected as badly as others only because, looking at the coal industry, it appears that it will weather the storm,” said Wilks. “Teck is a fairly substantial company on the world market and they’ve set themselves up to weather that storm.” As well, Wilks said Whiskey Jack Resort—which has been a self-funding endeavour—is on track to begin construction on Phase 1 of the housing development this year. On the topic of federal stimulus, Wilks was unhesitant about where he believes the government should spend money to speed economic recovery. “Infrastructure, infrastructure, infrastructure,” he said. “Certainly, from the District of Sparwood’s perspective, we have several projects that are shovel-ready (for which) we have made applications to the federal government for their stimulus package—if you want to call it that, or financial budget—that will be dealt with shortly.” Sparwood has also been proactive in its approach to a cyclical economy, said Wilks, and he believes the community will be able to sustain itself while waiting for the inevitable upswing. “We’re a community that is probably unlike many other communities in Canada because of our healthy reserve funds,” he said. “That being said, we are cognizant of the fact that we have to be conservative in what we do. But because we’re in a world recession doesn’t mean that the world stops going around, so we’ll take this opportunity to complete some of the projects in the hopes the government will match us (in investment).”
Key Sparwood contacts
Cranbrook, BC
A global leader in the production and sale of hard coking coal
Our company is a global leader in the production and sale of hard coking coal...a relatively uncommon mineral that is essential in the production of steel. With six mines in two Canadian provinces, more than 3,000 employees and a business focused on supplying world steel producers, our company is strongly positioned in a very competitive market.
Cranbrook, BC
We pride ourselves on quality parts, service and products.
At Rocky Mountain Diesel, we pride ourselves on making quality repairs to all makes of trucks and trailers. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains we know the tough conditions that your truck is put through every day. As a Western Star Trucks dealer we are committed to providing our customers with the latest in diagnostic equipment and highly trained technicians. Our up-to-date facility can accommodate even the longest configurations. The trucks you operate are a big investment, and we want to help your company be successful. Call or stop by and see for yourself why we have been keeping trucks like yours on the road for over 20 years.
Cranbrook, BC
Cummins: Providing the best in the diesel business.
Cummins Western Canada is the distributor for Cummins Inc. in Western Canada and we were recently recognized as one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies. Cummins Inc. manufactures the world's best and most complete line of diesel engines. Cummins serves a wide variety of customers and we provide power for all types of vehicles and equipment, including heavy duty trucks, mining, oil and gas and logging equipment, generator sets, boats, buses, RVs and pick-up trucks.
Cummins Western Canada is dedicated to providing the best products, service and support in the business. Our staff continually strives to improve our service to customers, and keeps a relentless focus on quality and excellence.
Richmond, BC
PHONE: 1-800-663-2872
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Welling, AB
Phone: (403) 752-3775
Ag-Steel Ltd. -
Sparwood, BC
Phone: (250) 425-7772
Garrett Ready Mix
Vital statistics
- Population :: 3,954
- Number of businesses :: 250
- Supporting industries :: Mining, tourism, construction, logging/forestry, transportation
Vital contacts
- District of Sparwood :: www.sparwood.bc.ca
- Mayor :: David Wilks
- Sparwood & District Chamber of Commerce :: www.sparwoodchamber.bc.ca
- Manager :: Katrina Cohrs
- Phone :: 1-877-485-8185
- CDO :: Sandy Hansen
Biz Blog :: Keith Powell
A regular report on newsworthy business developments in the Kootenays.
Kootenay Insights :: Tanya Laing Gahr
An inside look at the initiatives and developments that help shape Kootenay communities.
At Work :: Sandra Albers
One-on-one with some of the Kootenay’s business leaders.
Biz Edge :: Danielle Cameron
The faces behind Kootenay businesses.
