Mine project will be good for quality of life, say ‘Kamloops Business Leaders for Ajax’
(KGHM International Ajax photo)
NEWS/ AJAX — A group of business people that includes retired City CAO Randy Diehl, hockey franchise owner Tom Gaglardi, former Chamber president Bob Dieno, realtors, lawyers, plus Olympian Dylan Armstrong, have come out in support of the Ajax mine proposal.
Calling themselves Kamloops Business Leaders for Ajax, the group has sent duplicate letters signed by 42 people to B.C. Mines Minister Bill Bennett, B.C. Environment Minister Mary Polak, and federal Environment Minister Leona Aglukkaq saying Ajax will benefit the quality of life in Kamloops.
The letter, dated May 3, has also been copied to Premier Christy Clark, MLAs Terry Lake, Todd Stone and Jackie Tegart, MP Cathy McLeod, Mayor Peter Milobar and current City CAO David Trawin. A copy of the letter was obtained by The Armchair Mayor News on Tuesday.
“We fully expect, based on the efforts KGHM has made to listen to our community and address people’s concerns about air quality and dust, noise, visual impacts and other issues, that the Ajax Project will prove to be environmentally sound,” the letter says.
“We support Ajax not just for the economic reasons. We also support Ajax because of the lengths to which KGHM has gone to ensure this mine will set new standards for modern mining.”
It goes on to say Ajax has “gone above and beyond” to listen to the public.
“Ajax can and will be developed in an environmentally responsible manner, following all provincial and federal regulations. Ongoing mointoring will ensure that the environment and health of the community are protected and maintained.”
The letter says the mine will create more than 500 well-paid jobs, support 1,500 others, contribute more than $100 million in annual payroll to the community, and generate more than $950 million in tax revenues to the community, province and country.
“Our community is at a critical juncture in our history as we face a number of large employers either laying off employees or closing completely. We need your help to ensure the road we take in the future is one that is prosperous and safe.
“Opportunities such as the Ajax Project do not come very often. Let’s make sure that Ajax becomes a model that will attract new investment to Kamloops and British Columbia, and Canada, rather than a cautionary tale for investors wary of uncertainty.
“The Ajax Project is an opportunity that we should all embrace.”
The full text of the letter is below.
ArmchairMayor.ca 
I am 100 % in favour of AJAX. I am retired but I support the younger people looking for a job and a something more then travelling out of the area for employment for a job that might not last. I support real employment and good wages that support families and community that the mine will provide. If people are concerned about dust and noise take a drive to Campbell Creek where we have all of that but after awhile it become a fact of life. I like Kamloops and area and have lived here for 17 years.
LikeLike
Life in Kamloops is good, but try finding a good job… There is a reason a lot of people have to leave town for a good job. Tourism doesn’t pay people looking for certain kinds of jobs with good wages. Retired people can’t make more jobs happen with their limited incomes. Cities around the world are built and grow because of big industries that can put money into the local businesses. We need this mine to come in and Kamloops needs to show other big industries that in isn’t shutting always the door on them
LikeLike
I maintain an ‘opting in’ position on this mine proposal, until such time as information pushes me to an ‘opting out”. I have attended all the Ajax seminars and tours and must say I am impressed with the professionalism of the company staff – in spite of often rude and disrespectful behavior from some of the folks who oppose. I am duly impressed with the business leaders who have offered their tangible support – good for you all! So, I remain in favor, until scientific evidence suggests otherwise.
LikeLike
bring it on,how many cities are litterly sitting on a gold mine,go ajax….HUBERT.p..!!!!
LikeLike
Go AJAX Go. We need you for the future of our children’s, children’s, children. Keeps Kamloops in the loop, we need you AJAX.
LikeLike
Keep up the good work. D
LikeLike
I agree Kamloops needs new jobs and AJAX will help keep the community alive and growing in a responsible manner.
LikeLike
Ajax will be great for the community
LikeLike
I support Ajax.
LikeLike
We have been on both bus trips and see for ourselves that the project is a long way from town. I spoke to a women that runs cattle there and she said it’s been a mine for years, and it’s never been a problem for her or the livestock.
LikeLike
Mel:
If and when Ajax passes all required studies, I am in full support of this project. The addition of many well paying jobs for the younger folks bodes well for Kamloops.
Dave.
LikeLike
I support the AJAX project fully. It will be good for Kamloops, good for BC and good for Canada. Where can you get that much benefit from one project?…
LikeLike
Supporting the Project..we need our young people to stay and they needs jobs! Supporting the project!
LikeLike
I support Ajax as an employee of a company that supplies grinding balls to mines this project will bring good paying jobs and help to make Kamloops an even better place to live!
LikeLike
100 % in support of Ajax ! We need good paying jobs here. Mining has supported my family for the past 30 years.
LikeLike
150% behind this project!!!
I’m proud to work for a company that has supported many young families (who live on this community) in large part because of local mining! These families have bought houses, and had children that will attend our local schools, they shop at the Farmer’s market and the trendy local businesses on Victoria street, because they can afford to. They’ve bought new vehicles, eat in nice restaurants, support local sports teams like the Blazers and the Storm & support all kinds of businesses throughout this city.
So, I am on team “Let’s Go AJAX – let’s get this thing started!”
LikeLike
I am so tired of this city complaining about unemployment, can’t find a job. Ajax is beneficial to the community and they are trying to be a part of it.
Ask yourself this, If Ajax is so bad for Kamloops, why would people we trusted go to work for them?
Yves Lacasse (might have spelt that wrong) he gave up a career in the RCMP to work with them.
I get you are worried about the environmental impact, yet no one is going after Domtar for what they pump into the atmosphere, or superior propane plant when they burn off propane.
I am all for Ajax and the jobs it will create.
LikeLike
Some of the signatures are vague. Could someone break them down clearly as I want to make sure I boycott the right people.
LikeLike
We can’t see any problem with Ajax opening. Go ahead.
LikeLike
I left Kamloops years ago to find work in Alberta because there were very few good paying jobs for a young family to build a future here. I managed to get back to Kamloops after many years of training and getting a trade I found a good paying job in one of the big producers of weath for this city, Weyerhaeuser Pulp Mill . I know that just about all the young people in my neighbourhood are following the same path I took and are working in Alberta because of the lack of opportunities here. We should all be supporting and promoting more industry to locate here. I say go Ajax go the sooner the better.
LikeLike
A city born from industry and these fine business leaders know it. I’m all for Ajax!
LikeLike
I support Ajax – keep up the good work !
LikeLike
Dear Mel
Thanks for approaching another difficult subject. I have tried to follow all the information with regards to the AJAX project and feel they have gone all out to provide information about environmental issues, benefits and impacts to the community. What I have gotten is that for the most part it is a benefit to have AJAX in our community. We need the boost to our tax bases due to the large number of companies leaving Kamloops…..the call centre, Target, Domtar Saw Mill and the RIH laundry services just to name a few. We need the higher paying jobs to keep our young people home and working to build their lives in the community. This company has shown its willingness to disclose information, through open houses, information meetings and on-site tours. As long as they continue to provide information going forward I will support AJAX in our community
LikeLike
It’s amazing reading the comments showing the ideas some people have. Somewhere along the way, people have got the notion that :
– The “majority” of X area supports Ajax – was this due to the 42 signatories mentioned?
– Short-term jobs and short-term economic gain (for mining-support companies) is worth polluting the hell out of our already tainted airshed (you wonder why there isn’t more economic interest in Kamloops outside of heavy industry? Everyone knows it stinks like pulp mill many days of the year.)
– The provincial and federal environmental standards are going to keep the mine safe for everyone? Really? When the federal government won’t even look at it? Any of you proponents checked environmental issues lately – or all the problems with mines just over-reaction and fear-mongering?
If you take away the very weak capitalism argument for Ajax, you’re left with nothing but problems that will harm Kamloops forever.
LikeLike
I am writing this response from Northeastern Alberta where my wife and I, both from Kamloops, have good well-paying jobs which afford us the opportunity to raise our child, pay our mortgage and save for the future. Unfortunately, we had to leave Kamloops 10 years ago because, quite frankly, no similar opportunities exist in or around Kamloops.
While I applaude the robust discussion of the pros/cons of any project that citizens have to make decisions on, please know that the ‘anti’ movement is well-funded, often by NGOs whose interests are not yours, Kamloops. For them, it’s an either/or proposition – development of any kind and the environment are mutually exclusive. We all know that this is not true. While no industry is zero impact, issues can be identified and mitigated.
Notwithstanding the outcome of the environmental review, and any issues found that need to be addressed/mitigated, the questions for Kamloops residents to consider are simple:
-do Kamloops citizens want economic and employment opportunities in thier city?
-if yes, pay attention to the facts (not NGO-funded hyperbole) of the environmental review and address and mitigate, accordingly.
-if no, resign yourselves to the fact that other young families, like my wife and I, will leave Kamloops for other opportunities. This will, in turn, reduce the town’s population, human capital, tax base and have a snowball effect because then existing businesses, who rely on all three, will close for lack of customers and, likely, stiffer taxes to make up for a diminished base.
Our child, who is now nearing 10, would like to get back to Kamloops to be near family (her cousins). We will be keeping our eyes on opportunities in and around the city, accordingly. We, as well, I suspect, other businessess pondering investing in Kamloops, will be watching with interest on how Kamloops and its citizens deals with this economic opportunity proposal.
Choose wisely Kamloops.
LikeLike
Interesting perspective. I have been thinking about opening a business in Kamloops but I am holding back since we are planning to leave the city if Ajax is approved. This argument goes both ways.
Also, there is absolutely no evidence to suggest there are any NGO’s who are interested in or funding this debate. We are not the tar sands. As far as I know all the money raised is local and so are the groups that are opposing it.
LikeLike
That’s the problem as I see we don’t have a choice in this matter. It (the decision) is going to made without us. By the way I had to leave Kamloops for a spell years ago until I had the ability to work here all year round. It was not the end of the world. With what I know the mine and it’s spinoff will not rise up to thousands of jobs, nor is anyone predicting that, but it certainly won’t end all the unemployment woes either. All I know you better be a journeyman as I don’t expect too many apprenticeships will be available. You may as well stay where you at (I know lots of people in your boat (family in fact) and they rather like the steady income). If all this goes forward you may not want to come back to Kamloops and breathe all the bad air!
LikeLike
I fully support Ajax. Kamloops could really us the economic boost. Especially in these times of need. With so many people out of work my self included, we could all us a job close to home.
LikeLike
As a HSE Professional in construction mining projects for the past 12 years, I have noted the Ajax project has continued to demonstrated its good corporate citizenship by involving responsible and highly knowledgeable personal from the early stages. This project will assist with the growth of Kamloops business and keep our young workforce at home with their families.
LikeLike
I support Ajax because kamloops is a dying town, it will bring back a little life and keep families together. Go Ajax!
LikeLike
I fully support the mine and the processes involved. We need Ajax for continued economic prosperity in the Kamloops area. The anti groups fear mongering just isn’t believable. In not excepting the $5000 from Ajax I believe they are going to make sure their experts are against the mine as well no matter what the report states.
LikeLike
I was born and raised in Kamloops. I’m very close with my family in the area and have plenty of friends there. After graduating from TRU with a business degree it quickly became obvious that there’s no possibility of forming a meaningful career in Kamloops due to the lack of jobs in my field. As a result I’ve moved to Calgary, AB where jobs are plentiful, even during these tough times. I would love to move back to Kamloops, but because there’s no work, there’s no future in the city. It’s sad to see people opposing the opportunities to bring families closer together because the entire province has painted industry with an evil black brush. With the backlash projects like this get, I don’t think I’ll ever make it back, I’ll just have to make a new home where I can actually build a future.
Congratulations Kamloops.
LikeLike
This mine is a no Brainerd, once it passes all the assessments there is no reason for it not to go ahead. The anti people proved they are not concerned about environmental process when they gave back the $5000. If it they truly cared they would have used that money, they do not care about the process they are anti mining-period. Go Ajax! And those that don’t like it can go as well- there are many that would be more than happy to take your place.
LikeLike
I fully support Ajax -as a miner myself I know first hand the environmental and safety controls that are put in place. This mine will benefit all in kamloops.
LikeLike
Open Ajax and save Kamloops. We need to keep our families close and working!
LikeLike
I fully support Ajax as it seems most of the community except for a select few very vocal people do. I wonder how long it will take for this small group of nimbys to realize the majority of kamloops wants this project. Hopefully this letter shows them this.
LikeLike
Forty two business people already know this project will improve the quality of life in Kamloops. That is interesting. Whose quality of life? Their own? What about the rest of the community: 90,000 less 500-1000 people? Especially those with health issues. First, the environmental assessment application is not out yet so it is not based on full information. Secondly, the 2014 business listings in Kamloops from the business directory indicates 5284 businesses for 2014. See annual listing PDF file:http://www.kamloops.ca/blicensed/businessdirectory.shtml What is 42 out of 5284? Less than 1% (.8% to be precise). This is not only a very small sample representation but it is also biased. It is biased as it is not a randomly selected sample. It was signed by invitation from KGHM Ajax is my understanding.
Also note that one of the signatories according to Crown Lawyer Kier is known for “build first and then ask questions”:
http://www.cbc.ca/m/sports/hockey/nhl/dallas-stars-owner-tom-gaglardi-to-be-sentenced-for-damaging-fish-habitat-1.2815885
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/dallas-stars-owner-fined-for-polluting-kamloops
Do we want to built the open pit mine first and then ask questions ? Is that what we want?
LikeLike
And apparently only one of these “leaders” is a woman…
LikeLike
lets see the facts and then decide if it’s beneficial or not to our quality of life. The world is full of capitalists and are in every line of professionalism including doctors. In the end the majority will prevail
LikeLike
A little troubling that KGHM wrote the letter the folks signed…..thanks Mel for digging this up. Those signatories lost a lot of credibility with me.
If the mine is approved some of those folks will be either working in a senior management position with the mine or as a board member…I’ll bet my “performing arts centre” referendum “NO to the Milobar Manor” vote on it.
Come one folks let’s be transparent!
LikeLike
I support Ajax.
LikeLike
I don’t see any local doctor or First Nation Chiefs signatures.
I thought the folks that signed the letter that KGHM wrote could speak for them selves….since they are the so called ” business leaders” or are they followers.
I wonder how the same folks that signed the letter will vote for the “Milobar Manor” aka
Performing Arts Centre referendum to raise their taxes.
LikeLike
So these business leaders signed a letter affirming that they believe that “Ajax can and will be developed in an environmentally responsible manner, following all provincial and federal regulations. Ongoing mointoring will ensure that the environment and health of the community are protected and maintained.”…. and how will they know that? What credentials do they have to back up that statement? What do these business leaders know about environmental stewardship, air quality, leaching of contaminants, etc…? The signatories of this letter know how to sell real estate, sell cars, install fences, buy into subway making franchises, and a lawyer. Sounds like folks who intend to turn a quick buck with this proposed mine… the almighty dollar. Capitalists, for the most part, are not known as being good stewards of the environment.
LikeLike
It’s great to see which community members are able to see the benefits that all residents will enjoy from this project. I for one am completely in support of Ajax.
LikeLike
As a current employee of an existing mine that is next to our city. I fully support the Ajax project. I already see what our mine does to keep dust levels down and believe that Ajax will do the same if not better because of the scrutiny from the anti-Ajax people as well as the company’s own environmental policies. Our city needs these jobs to add to our economy and to keep our families together.
LikeLike
We have all lost our minds??? Every city is moving forward , and Kamloops is moving backwards. To all council members- you should all be shamed of yourselves; and every persons who thinks a mine in an urban area is a good proposal should throw themselves off Peterson Creek bridge. Thanks Mel for having a voice. To the rest of you, when every young talented person has left this city ( along with doctors, lawyers and other professionals) I hope you end up in the dumpster.
LikeLike
I believe the Ajax mine will be extremely beneficial for kamloops and surrounding areas I currently work at a mine and see first hand how stringent the ministry of mines environmental policies are mines are a great way to boost our local economy with jobs that pay a decent wage that provide for the community I for one believe in the Ajax project. And fully support it
LikeLike
I am happy to see Ajax employing people in the province . As I will not be hired at Ajax do to not having my grade twelve but some young people will . You could not ask for a better place for a mine. Our city need tax revenue kamloops will not see a dust problem there as winds do not come from that derection . I want this in my back yard not some one else’s.
LikeLike
I’m 100% for Ajax. Us young families need work in our own town not elsewhere.
LikeLike
I’d be more impressed had KGHM not written the letter themselves and just asked people to sign it on the way out the door.
LikeLike
Robert Koopmans of KGHM declined to discuss with us today the question of who wrote and distributed the letter, but one of those who signed it confirmed that those attending a meeting of business people hosted by KGHM in April were asked to sign. Koopmans said he would respond to the question tomorrow.
LikeLike
I wonder why he couldn’t answer today…..
LikeLike
He got back to me with a response and I’m working on an update.
LikeLike
Glad to see business leaders stepping up to the plate.Ajax will be held to the strictest environmental standards and the mine will be a much needed shot in the arm for the economy of Kamloops.
LikeLike
its so easy for all the anti miners to be negative towards the impacts of mining. It’s always easier to be negative as you have nothing to loose. I don’t see the party of anti protesters coming up with better ideas to support our encomy they take for granted. Let’s hear some ideas as to an alternate method of contributing 100million into the town of Kamloops without the use of natural resources? Anyone against mining natural resources and voicing their opinion threw Facebook is a hypocrit. Without the people that extract natural resources from the ground your life as you know it would not exist!
LikeLike
I don’t think that most people concerned about this project are actually anti-mining. We all use minerals in our day to day lives.
The concern with this particular project is that it is right next to a thriving city and community. I am concerned about the impacts to the citizens (especially quality of life or health related) that live here.
Canada is a vast place – there are many places rich in natural resources. This deposit is low grade. We don’t have to support a mine right here to recognize the importance of mining.
Asking hard questions and demanding complete information is part of a healthy democracy. If you work in mining, you know that companies make mistakes and everything is not always done perfectly. Understanding and elucidating these risks is very important!
LikeLike
Were you as equally concerned when Afton Mine was in operations in the 80’s and 90’s? Where was your soapbox then? Are you aware that the mine has been there for a hundred years? WE built a city next to a mine….
LikeLike
I was five years old. Who knows maybe the smelter is the reason I have allergies and asthma. Hard to know in retrospect, isn’t it?
We know WAY more about the impact of pollution/industry on health and wellness now, than we did back then. Do you really think it wouldn’t have been wise to locate the pulp mill farther from the city? When is enough, enough? How much evidence do you need?
The tailings, waste, and pit are all WAY bigger than the prior pit that was there, and the tonnage is WAY higher. The old pit and new are not the same at all, and the EAO would not be involved if it was. There is a huge difference. Debate the merits if you will, but don’t mislead people!
LikeLike
Let’s keep families together. … mines are our future…. 100% support in the Ajax mine!
LikeLike
As a young tradesman, homeowner and a resident of Kamloops Iam very excited that we have a opportunity to have a large mine right here in kamloops. Working out of town and spending my income elsewhere, is something I don’t want to do but most young people like myself are doing the same thing! Let’s change this! GO AJAX!!
LikeLike
Good on these fellows for stepping up.
LikeLike
I support AJAX :)
LikeLike
Wow. Talk about shooting yourself in the foot. Wasn’t Tom Gaglardi found guilty of polluting Kamloops Lake –
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/dallas-stars-owner-fined-for-polluting-kamloops-lake/article22071809/ –
-so I guess it makes sense that KGHM want him on their team – “But he did it first!”
LikeLike
With respect to the last paragraph of your original comment, which doesn’t appear above, I’m holding off on it until I can get clarification — I think that’s only fair. The parties you mentioned are out of town for a few days; when I get the answer I will post it.
LikeLike
No problem! Glad to see you being thorough in your moderation.
LikeLike
I whole heartily agree with this. AJAX will be good for our community. With all the companies and big business that have shut down. There is a high unemployment rate in Kamloops we need a major employer.
LikeLike
Kamloops started out as a mining town and will THRIVE as a mining town!!! It’s what this community needs!!! I supportive Ajax 300%!!!
LikeLike
I Support Ajax mine and the quality jobs it will provide for kamloops! Support the process! My husband works in mining, it is an integral part of BC and Canada’s economy- a happy community is an employed community.
LikeLike
Finally great to hear from the leaders of business and opportunity in this city in regard to the Ajax Project. So tired of the same old chicken scratch – no opportunity other than mine crowd. Bravo to KGHM for offering to fund other science to back up what research will reveal. The tired old – same old nimby self motivated watch out for my view or land development for me and mine crew should be ashamed. All they are proving is what they accuse KGHM of and that is that they hope to be able to pay for a biased assessment in their favour. By accepting KGHM’s offer there might have been some believable alternate science but they have put the end to that idea. Kudos to KGHM for being a good corporate citizen before they are even established and shame to everyone who refuses to acknowledge their efforts.
LikeLike
Mel, I had all but given up on you. Refreshing to see an article on your site that isn’t pushing the anti ajax agenda. It’s super nice to see some of many businesses who support the process finally speaking out. Way to go Kamloops!
LikeLike
Mr Rothenburger, it’s nice to see you finally print an article that shows the other very strong supportive side to the Ajax Project. I can finally say you’ve written an piece that feels unbiased despite your normal Anti Ajax printings. You might just be a reporter after all ;)
LikeLike
Is this the same letter that Ajax themselves produced, then asked the signatories for signatures at the free breakfast and lunch propaganda meetings? This article makes it sound like a grass roots group, but I heard from a friend that the COMPANY actually created and marketed the letter.
LikeLike
Reply to Carol: I wonder why the mine is bothering to do this. I believe that it was a done deal from the start that Ajax is going in. All the environmental assessments, in my opinion, are only window dressing. It will be a few years before the people who are in favor will realize what propaganda they fell for. Meanwhile the people who will be making a profit probably have pulled up their tents and moved. All one has to do is look at Butte, Montana, to see what happens to cities this close to a huge mine. It would be interesting to see if all those benefits to business that Ajax will supposedly be bringing, will result in nobody having to work for minimum wages and be paid a living wage.
LikeLike
You seriously have zero idea what you’re talking about. Environmental assessments window dressing??? I’m embarrassed for you.
LikeLike
Nadia, I desperately hope I am wrong, but if the environmental assessments come up as anything but positive for Ajax, it would be a miracle. Not sure if you are the Nadia that works for Ajax, but if you are you should know that the Afton mine you mentioned earlier has not much similarity to what Ajax proposes.
LikeLike
Was this letter written by KGHM? It’s pretty sad when our “business leaders” are willing to sign their names to BS like this.
On the plus side, I now know which businesses I won’t be frequenting in the future.
LikeLike
Nice to see the majority of Kamloops supporting Ajax. Unfortunately we cant please everyone but once they see that the mine is passed by the environmental assessment, more and more people will fully support the Ajax project. Support the Process
LikeLike
Kym Behrns signed this letter… doesn’t he work for Ajax? Why don’t they mention in the letter that one of the “business leaders” who signed it is actually an employee of Ajax? Is it kind of misleading to have someone who works for KGHM Ajax sign the letter and not disclose the fact that he works for them?
LikeLike
Kym Behrns’ LinkedIn profile says he has a public relations contract with KGHM Ajax to assist with public information sessions and mine site tours (rather than being an employee). The letter is signed as president of KN Rentals, listed as a rental and leasing company. I have a call in to Kym for further clarification.
LikeLike
Kym Berhns confirms he is a contractor to KGHM on the Ajax tours and open houses. He also contracts to other businesses/groups for similar services, and bills through KN Rentals, a company he established some time ago and now uses for his consulting work.
LikeLike
Thank you very much for publishing this Armchair Mayor! I hope Kamloops This Week does as well, but if not I can understand their business being dependent on advertising. This gives us the opportunity to choose which businesses to support or not.
LikeLike
Since when is digging a giant hole next to city “required”. Mining isn’t the only game in town and it won’t be our salvation.
LikeLike
Kamloops has been a mining city for over 100 years and it will continue to be one… We are reopening the existing mine, namely Ajax… That’s it that’s all, other than we are also going to have hundreds of jobs in every sector of Kamloops that the mine will create not just for direct and indirect employees but in all sectors from daycares, hospitality, building, real estate etc etc etc… The list is endless of the jobs that this mine can and will bring to Kamloops. Go Ajax !
LikeLike
Polak, The Queen of Bio waste, will just be in love with these people.
LikeLike
Dear Mel:
Wasn’t the relocation of facilities at the site more to do with them being on top of valuable stuff? As long as we all are honest, truly honest, then I am happy.
LikeLike