Former Cumberland mayor Fred Bates has been appointed to the Comox Valley Airport Commission board of directors.
“I have known Fred for many years and it is with great pleasure that I confirm his appointment to the CVAC board of directors,” said chair Linda Oprica in a news release. “Fred’s knowledge, integrity and leadership will be a huge asset to our organization and I am extremely optimistic about the diverse and experienced team that we have moving forward.”
Fred brings 15 years of political experience in the Comox Valley with him to the position. As the mayor of Cumberland for three terms, he was responsible for overseeing its transition as a community. He was also chair of the regional district and the regional hospital district.
Fred received the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal in 2012 for his work in local government and promoting stronger economic relations with Central Vancouver Island and China.
“The airport is one of the largest economic drivers in the Comox Valley,” said Bates. “I am so pleased to have the opportunity to contribute to such an important organization. I look forward to collaborating with the CVAC board to help ensure the airport’s long-term success.”
In addition to his political career, Fred spent 30 years with the British Columbia Ambulance service, including serving as executive director for the province. He was inducted into the St. John’s Order of Canada in 1991, the same year he returned to Cumberland and became involved in local politics.
Fred will serve as a member at large, filling the vacancy left by long-serving member Russell Irvine. He attends his first board meeting later this month.
The Comox Valley Airport Commission is the governing authority for the operation of the Comox Valley Airport. The nine-member commission is broadly representative of the Comox Valley community. Its members are nominated by the City of Courtenay, the Town of Comox, the Village of Cumberland, the Comox Valley Regional District, the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Comox Valley Economic Development Society.
CVAC is a federally incorporated, non-profit entity. It was established through letters patent in 1996.
— Comox Valley Airport Commission