The regional district committee of the whole supported a motion from Courtenay director Manno Theos, who wishes to salute three of the Valley's finest athletes — Olympians Cam Levins, Martin Reader and Geoff Kabush — with a certificate or plaque in recognition of their accomplishments at the Summer Games that recently concluded in London, England.
"How many areas the size of the Comox Valley sent three athletes to the Olympics?" fellow Courtenay director Starr Winchester said.
Though not big on the idea of a gift, Courtenay director Jon Ambler endorses a plan to acknowledge the trio of athletes publicly. He feels the gesture would inspire others, namely children, to follow in their footsteps.
• • •
The committee approved tax exemptions for the Sunnydale Golf Society and the Union Bay Historical Society.
Under the Local Government Act, Sunnydale qualifies for an exemption because it occupies property ‘principally for public athletic or recreation purposes,’ a report states.
The Historical Society has requested a tax exemption for the post office building and gaolhouse in Union Bay. The society funds, operates and maintains both community landmarks. An exemption for 2013 would reduce provincial and rural taxes by more than $7,000.