Phil Turner, a former Mayor Squamish, who brought transit to town and created the first economic development office, has passed away.
Philip Arthur Turner passed away on July 15 in Saint John, New Brunswick at the age of 75, according to an obituary posted in the Telegraph Journal.
Turner served as Mayor from December 1988 to 1990, and it was during his time that an agreement was signed between the District of Squamish and BC Transit to implement the town’s first transit system.
It was during this time that funding was secured to construct Brennan Park pool, and a lease agreement was signed with the West Coast Railway Association to support their plans to build the West Coast Railway Heritage Museum, the District of Squamish noted.
“The district wishes to acknowledge his commitment to public service and extend sincere condolences to his family,” the district said.
Local historian and Councillor Eric Andersen said there were some expectations about economic development when Turner was elected in 1988.
“It was under his time that the first economic development office was set up in the Chieftain Centre mall with Tom Bruusgaard as economic development officer,” Andersen said.
“The town’s first economic development strategy was completed during this term — still a good read,” Andersen said.
Other achievements include an endorsement to create Smoke Bluffs Park and a major Downtown Revitalization Project — the streetscape, sidewalks, benches and enhancement of Stan Clarke Park. It was during his tenure that the district created the first parks and recreation master plan.
Turner was born in the small community of Cupar, Saskatchewan, and moved to Squamish with his family in 1981.
“Many locals will remember him as their insurance salesman or when they use some of the things, he was proudest as Mayor to implement, particularly the transit system and the new pool complex,” wrote his daughter Alison Turner.
Former Mayor Corinne Lonsdale said Phil was a very personable, good man who strove to move the community forward.
“The most notable project undertaken during his term as Mayor was the initiative to add an indoor swimming pool to the recreation centre. Phil, along with a couple of local businessmen, lobbied hard to get the large provincial grant that enabled its construction,” she said.
“I think it unfortunate Phil had no previous Council experience as he found it frustrating to deal within the perimeters of the Municipal Act and as a result chose not to run for re-election,” Lonsdale added.
Phil is survived by his daughter, Alison Turner; his brothers and sisters, Joan Turner, Barbara Thompson, Robert Turner, Alan Turner, Iona Glabus and Heather Turner; and numerous nieces and nephews.
