Westerner Park

John Harms

Chief Executive Officer & General Manager & Corporate Secretary

Westerner Park has always been a hub of activity, but this year was particularly notable. We not only hosted the usual array of great events (large and small) but we made real progress on the transformation of our site, as envisioned in the Strategic Development Plan.

As of August 2009, our staff have had the pleasure of working in the spacious and efficient quarters provided by the new Donald Administration Building. We are now able to meet with sponsors, host volunteer functions, hold committee and Board meetings, and accomplish our administrative tasks in a well-designed building with attractive workspaces. The building is also an investment in our future, as it will serve the organization for decades to come.

In 2009, we also began to reshape our site to fit the vision of the Strategic Development Plan. These relatively straightforward changes in parking, entrances, and walkways will form the foundation for new features that could include a conference and meeting centre, trade and exhibition space, a hotel, and an expanded ENMAX Centrium in the coming years.

Our community partners are responding to Westerner Park's new direction. We are working actively with government officials, corporate sponsors, and community organizations to collaborate on planning and implementing the growth of central Alberta's "Destination for Celebration."

I would like to thank President Wendy Barnes and our Board of Directors for their support and guidance throughout the year. Our great team of staff and volunteers is also to be commended for jobs exceedingly well done.