Dear editor,
The Comox Valley Airport Commission’s Board of Directors (CVAC) is reviewing its recruitment and retention practices, including the issue of compensation, as part of its succession planning for the future.
Given that we have five board members with a term expiring within the next two years, we feel now is an appropriate time to consider these issues and whether or not the compensation of board members should play a part in CVAC’s future.
Our board members are aware that compensation is a subject with controversy attached to it in this community. This is an important topic that should not be overlooked because it is difficult.
It is our responsibility as a board to plan for the future of our airport. Given that the majority of airports across this country do compensate their board members, it is only fair that we examine whether we should consider doing the same.
To help make an informed decision about whether or not to consider compensation of its members, the board commissioned the research firm of Sierra Systems to conduct a review of board structures for airports and transportation organizations of a similar size and business model to CVAC.
I invite anyone who might have an interest in this issue to view the report on our website at www.comoxairport.com under about us/publications.
Upon reviewing the findings of this report, our board members voted to seek the input and advice of our nominating entities (the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Comox Valley Economic Development Society and the local governments, which are comprised of the Town of Comox, the City of Courtenay, the Village of Cumberland and the Comox Valley Regional District) on the subject of compensation.
This process is now underway and I understand the Town of Comox and the Village of Cumberland discussed this item earlier this week.
This issue is by no means decided. The appropriate mechanism for discussion is taking place and the matter will be put to a vote once we receive input and advice from our nominating entities and have a fulsome debate within our board.
Linda Oprica,
Editor's note: Linda Oprica is the chair of the Comox Valley Airport Commission.