Oct 20 - Douglas College instructor to help determine city's economic footprint

A Douglas College marketing instructor has been appointed as member of the City of New Westminster's Economic Development Advisory Committee.  

David Moulton has taught at Douglas since 2004, and steps into his new role Friday.

The Economic Development Advisory Committee provides guidance to City Council on New Westminster's Economic Development program, as well as building and promoting awareness for the program both in New Westminster and beyond.

"My role will be to give Council some input into how to develop the economic footprint of the city," Moulton says.

The committee is composed of 10 members, including Wayne Wright, mayor of New Westminster.

Moulton has extensive experience in sales and marketing, owns his own consulting company, and sat on the executive committee of the North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce for six years.

"I'm no Donald Trump," Moulton says, "but I appreciate the fact that the Economic Development Office obviously values my skill set, and that they asked me to participate."

Moulton's appointment underlines Douglas College's commitment to play a strong role in local communities.

"Douglas College is pleased to offer whatever expertise we can to further the continued economic and social development of the City of New Westminster," says Scott McAlpine, President of Douglas College. "We know that David brings significant knowledge, expertise and energy to the task, and we thank him for stepping up and volunteering his participation."

During his tenure with the advisory committee, Moulton says he will personally look at how to help small- and medium-sized businesses thrive in New Westminster.

"When you look at statistics, it really is small business that makes any economy tick and grow," he says.

Moulton also pointed out one of the challenges the advisory committee faces: how to revitalize downtown New Westminster.

"There's always the challenge of trying to change with the times," he says. "I've heard someone say that Columbia Street could be the next Robson. Someone else said it could be the next Yaletown. The question is: How do we position downtown New Westminster as to what the future's going to look like?"