Laura Hanlon is one of the new board members who has joined the Whistler Housing Authority Board. We're excited to have her on the team, and we took a few moments to get to know Laura.
Tell us about yourself, how long have you been living in Whistler?
I've called Whistler home for fourteen years and became subject to the classic cliché of coming for a season but wanting to stay much longer. I'm an avid skier, hiker, swimmer and music lover. Whistler's active lifestyle; like-minded people; supportive community; and work-life balance are key components of my happy life here. Originally from the North of England; my accent is much diluted: with even an adopted Aussie upward inflection, ha!
You may me know me from the local airwaves and my podcast the Whistler pulse.
What drew you to become involved with the Whistler Housing Authority board?
I was drawn to be involved in the WHA board by a passion for the community; it's hard-working populace; and through a want to help represent other renters. Getting educated on the processes and challenges facing the WHA, I hope to help convey that knowledge and alleviate some of the misinformation that can circulate locally. As a new member of the board, I hope to bring increased perspective and representation of the rental sector and be approachable to those with questions and provide a line of enquiry.
If you could snap your fingers and “fix” one thing in Whistler, what would it be?
If I could snap my fingers and fix one thing in Whistler, it would of course be housing its younger populace in a sustainable way. With jobs continuing to increase in Whistler, there remains a big need for increased access to affordable housing solutions as workers are finding themselves priced out of the private rental market. As part of the WHA board, my goal is to help fix that so that people could continue to save and reach their goals and not feel so inundated with housing security anxiety.
What advice would you give to a community member interested in contributing to the WHA and Employee Housing programs?
As a very new member to the Board, I am cautious about giving advice. However; I believe being a good-listener and being open to new perspectives with a desire for increased knowledge and information - is crucial to acting with the most integrity in these kinds of roles. I am grateful for the opportunity to have a voice and elevate others in this new position.
