Dear Editor:
Re: Happy Trails, May 20 Viewpoint
You said you wanted to hear from us. In future, we might suggest that you fact-check before advancing an opinion. Grouse Mountain has offered to provide land owner Metro Vancouver with trail management services for free since 2003. All overtures, including our most recent in 2014, have not been taken up.
Further, on every Grouse Grind response our staff are involved, either as Good Samaritan first responders, as co-ordinators of the various emergency responders that attend, or by providing our staff and equipment as support. All this even though we are not the occupier of the vast majority of the lands in question.
Before assuming what our benefits are, perhaps balance this with the ongoing services that we provide.
With a wholesome view, you would determine that Grouse Mountain is actually contributing far more than it is receiving.
We have tens of millions of dollars of capital invested in our business, we employ hundreds of well-paid and talented staff, and we have contributed an immeasurable amount to the well-being of residents of the Lower Mainland. Oh, and yes, we pay a rent to Metro Vancouver on every download ticket sold, the 21 per cent regional parking tax and municipal property taxes.
We are pleased to continue to play our part in making the Grouse Grind the most-climbed mountain in the world.
Stuart McLaughlin, owner and president, Grouse Mountain Resorts
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