The city of Port Alberni’s economic development office now has two full-time employees, says economic development manager Pat Deakin.
Deakin’s 1.5 full-time employee office—which has himself as manager and Stephanie Stevens as assistant—received an extra 0.5 full-time employee during the budget process earlier this year.
As a result, Stephens’ job will now be considered full time. The extra time will be well utilized, Deakin said.
“It mean faster responses to enquiries, extended coverage for the economic development office and greater ability to take part in opportunities that market the city,” he added.
There was $50,000 earmarked during last January’s city budget process towards adding a halftime employee or extending Stevens to full time.
At the time, director of corporate service Theresa Kingston said that some of that money could go towards benefits and expenses usually given to full-time but not part-time employees.
reporter@albernivalleynews.com
