MOVING AROUND THE ISLAND
GETTING TO AND FROM OUR ISLAND - GATEWAYS
BUSINESS MATTERS
Transportation Gateway Issue
REGION’S NEW DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
FOLLOW US ON
September 2012
N G 12 I N 0 P E 20 , 2 O R D N BE A EM G REPT S
Let us take you to new heights in spa treatments. Sink into some of the most extraordinary spa treatments Victoria has to offer
INTRODUCING
at the new SORA spa located in the Hotel Grand Pacific. Our Asian-inspired signature treatments will take you to new heights of relaxation. As part of our Grand Opening, experience any of our spa services before October 31 and save 10%.
Member of Preferred Hotels速 & Resorts
463 BELLEVILLE STREET, VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA V8V 1X3 | T 250-380-7862 | SORASPA.CA | spa@hotelgrandpacific.com
CONTENTS BUSINESS MATTERS
September 2012 Business Matters is a semi-monthly publication of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce and a key business resource targeted to 2,000 business leaders in our community. The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is a progressive, inclusive and dynamic community leader. It is a supportive resource for business people who wish to learn, grow and create a stronger business and a more robust and sustainable community while respecting people, planet and profit. To advertise in Business Matters, contact us at: The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce #100 - 852 Fort St. Victoria, BC V8W 1H8 (250) 383-7191 chamber@victoriachamber.ca
4 Chair Remarks 5 CEO Remarks 6 Getting to and from Our Island – Gateways The region’s gateways connect our business community to the world. Learn more about these vital links and what their futures hold.
10 Member News Keep up with what’s happening in the Chamber community. 13 Moving Around the Island The Chamber looks at the important role transportation plays in our region and what can be done to improve this important part of our economy.
17 Welcome to the Region’s New Economic Development Officer Dallas Gislason has joined the Greater Victoria Development Agency as
their new Economic Development Officer. Get to know Dallas and the great services provided by the agency.
18 Upcoming Events
20 Taking the Pulse of the Local Economy
Publication Mail Poste-Publications 40005319
Don’t miss out on all the opportunities to connect with fellow business people. Our latest Economic Roundtable session included members from the academic, hospitality, arts, manufacturing and transportation sectors.
21 New Members
Studies show that people prefer to do business with Chamber members. Check out who has recently made the decision to join us.
26 Advocacy in Action
We bring important issues to the attention of leaders in a position to affect change. Find out what we are working on now.
Chair’s Remarks Since Victoria was first selected by Sir James Douglas in 1843 as the western base of operations for the Hudson’s Bay Company, our business community has been an integral part of the fabric of our community. As the voice of business in the capital region, the Chamber will celebrate 150 years of service to the community next year, and has had the distinct privilege of bearing witness and providing support to generations of Victorians as they have driven the economic vibrancy of our region and the quality of life we all enjoy. While so much has changed over the past 150 years, the nature of our geography and our place in the world remains timeless. In 1863 the region’s first “gold escort” set the stage for the region’s first wave of prosperity, ensuring the safe passage of gold to commercial hubs such as San Francisco. Today these ties remain, with trips now measured in hours not weeks. Visitors to our community continue to foster our growth and the “gold” we shepherd back and forth now travels at the speed of light as computer code increasingly becomes our local currency. What were “start-ups” at the turn of the last century, icons like the Butchart Gardens and the Empress Hotel, are now institutions of an economy that was once measured in thousands of dollars but now generates billions each year in economic prosperity. In each of these last 150 years, what has driven our transformation from a lone outpost to a diverse global exporter is the entrepreneurial spirit of our local residents. Measuring in the thousands, they rise each morning to take on the challenges of commerce and the rewards of building this community we call home. Whether they are newcomers to the community or our region’s first inhabitants, generations of sons and daughters, neighbours working together, all have laid the foundation for our next 150 years. On behalf of the Chamber and our 1,500 members, thank you to all the businesses, old and new, who have made our community such a wonderful place to live, work and invest. -John Espley, Chair, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Erik Solbakken, BA, CA
“Business IS our Business” Where successful business owners come for expert accounting, tax and advisory solutions.
Erin J. Solbakken, BComm, CA
4 BUSINESSMATTERS
tel: 250 590 5211 | 202 - 830 Shamrock St. Victoria BC | V8X 2V1 | www.solbakken.ca
CEO Remarks The cost of energy is an important issue for businesses and residents alike on Vancouver Island. Whether it is filling up at the pump or addressing your monthly gas and hydro bill, energy costs affect both business’ bottom line and the household budgets of residents in our community. Making sure that we have a competitive and level playing field for energy for everyone on Vancouver Island is extremely important to our economic prosperity, and that is why the proposal for a “common rate” for natural gas in the province needs your support. FortisBC is proposing to move to one “common rate” for the entire province, a move which will help create more rate stability and consistency, not to mention allow for simpler reporting and increased operational savings. If their application to the BC Utilities Commission is approved it will mean one rate for all customers regardless of where they live in the province. This is incredibly important for Vancouver Island, as it will result in a substantial reduction in the rates we currently pay. Unfortunately, this issue is NOT a slam-dunk, and like many things in our democracy, those who show up and speak out influence decisions. We need your support! Take just a few minutes and email the utilities commission at “commission.secretary@bcuc.com” with your support and let them know this matters to you! -Bruce Carter, CEO, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
n
ITnorth is a Microsoft Gold Partner
n
Microsoft opens an office in Victoria BC
n
ITnorth sets up shop just around the corner
‘‘
‘‘
What a year IT’s been…
“We here at ITnorth.ca are again honored to be finalists for this technology award that spans the
entire globe. To know that we’re not just a Gold Partner with Microsoft but an internationally award
winning one serves to testament that we are doing things right! We take pride in knowing we provide exceptional services wherever, whenever.”
Akos Zsufa President - ITnorth.ca
Wherever. Whenever.
ITNorth half page Mag Ad 7.0.indd 1
IT Solutions, now with a west coast flare
Unit 211, 1005 Henry Eng Place Victoria, BC V9B 6B2 www.itnorth.ca 1-888-774-3686
BUSINESSMATTERS
5
8/20/12 2:14:57 PM
When talking about transportation the Chamber often divides the topic into transportation to and from the island, and transportation on the island. The key difference lies in the gateways. Gateways are characterized by a mode change in transportation. We get off the ferry and drive, we disembark the airplane and take a cab, we step off the floatplane and walk downtown. These shifts in transportation modes provide the opportunity to have a meal, meet with friends, and buy souvenirs. From this perspective the gateways provide an economic opportunity, but what the Chamber sees as an opportunity can also be viewed as a cost. It costs more money to fly or take a ferry than it does to just drive. We know the destination is worth the trip but these gateways are the key in transporting goods, services, and people to and from the island.
6 BUSINESSMATTERS
Great Gateways The best gateways are almost transparent; what they lack in transparency they make up for with positive experience. In this regard I must commend BC Ferries; the vessels and terminal are well maintained, the staff is welcoming, and long waits for sailings are seldom seen. On top of that the trip itself is gorgeous, often with killer whales entertaining the passengers. Every year over $11 billion passes through our gateways, supporting 85,000 household sustaining jobs in the region. Whether by ferry or airplane, barge or flatbed, almost everything we use and produce relies on the gateways to our community. So what is happening with these important economic assets and what are their future opportunities to continue building our region? We examined each of our gateways for a picture into the region’s future.
Victoria International Airport Victoria is home to Canada’s ninth largest airport, which supported over 137,000 “aircraft movements” in 2011 alone. This activity brings millions of people to and from the region, and connects our Island economy with major North American centres including Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, Las Vegas, Seattle, and San Francisco. Since 2003, Victoria International Airport has shown steady growth each year in its number of passengers; from approximately 1,180,000 passengers in 2003 up to slightly fewer than 1,500,000 in 2011. An increase is anticipated in the number of passengers annually through 2025 to a projected number of 2.3 million. We already have a great airport, but we must continue to maintain and develop this critical gateway. Plans include changes to improve flow in terminal passenger areas and to better accommodate the increasing jet aircraft service. The Airport Authority is examining runway length; expansion would open up new markets in Europe and Asia. Gateways also provide interface with Customs and
GETTING TO AND FROM OUR ISLAND GATEWAYS written by Bruce Carter
Got a case of the Mondays? Escape with a Tropical Dream Torte Vanilla sponge cake moistened with Grand Marnier and layered with vanilla buttercream, whipped cream, fresh papaya and fresh pineapple.
H ea ve n ly!
Treat yourself and your cube mates today. And Monday, too.
themarketstores.com
903 Yates At Quadra | 250.381.6000 7 am - 11 pm 125-2401 C Millstream Road | 250.391.1110 8 am - 11 pm PREPARED FOR: MARKET STORES PUBLICATION: CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INSERTION DATE: MARCH SIZE: 4.9” x 4.7”
Immigration staff; the Airport has long term plans to improve this service. As volumes grow it may be possible to clear US Customs in Victoria prior to boarding, allowing flights to be considered domestic arrivals in the US. This would make travel much easier and open a wider range of US destinations including Palm Springs and Palm Desert. Immediate plans include attracting direct flights to Los Angeles to complement the region’s successful San Francisco route, and new connections to Europe and Asia.
Ferry Services Victoria is fortunate to have three categories of ferry services that support our region. Each service is designed for a specific purpose. Black Ball Ferries, Washington State Ferries and Victoria Clipper provide a direct connection to the US. This direct connection is extremely important and incorporates the same Customs clearance that the airport hopes to achieve someday. These ferries service a population of approximately 14 million people in the Pacific Northwest and have tremendous potential for increased traffic.
BUSINESSMATTERS
7
Seaspan operates a little known ferry service mainly for trucks to and from the Lower Mainland. This service is critical to our region because it’s the only way to move a refrigerated truck (fresh food) to and from the mainland. Little known, but critically important.
offering to meet the needs of this important group. The gateway is only as good as the destination!
BC Ferries is both the highest profile and largest carrier to the island. The quasi-crown corporation operates three different route systems: the northern routes, the Gulf Islands, and mainland routes. Their business model offers a challenge; the mainland routes are the only profitable ones, subsidizing all the others. While a noble pursuit, the rates on the southern routes have grown to such a point that this gateway is perceived by many to be too expensive (based on decreasing ridership). As the northern and Gulf Island routes rely heavily, if not solely, on taking a mainland route first, there exists a structural challenge that must be addressed.
Overall we are fortunate to have a variety of gateways that meet our region’s needs. The airport has significant plans for expansion and will have to work to get support from government to bring them to fruition.
Gateway Strategy is Important for Everyone
is critical and will have to continue to operate efficiently. The cruise terminal is in great shape but long-term planning around the services required to support its visitors is necessary. Great Gateways will lead to great experiences.
The structural challenges of BC Ferries must be addressed as we have witnessed the evidence of decreased ridership. Our inner harbour airport
Yes, we have two airports in our city; Victoria’s downtown seaplane terminal and the harbour have their own control tower and is an actual airport. The service provided by the variety of float plane companies and Helijet provide crucial transportation to support Victoria’s knowledge-based economy. These services provide the necessary transportation for government and private sector workers to reach clients in the Lower Mainland and Pacific Northwest. Without these highly efficient services we could not support the knowledge based industries that are vital to our island economy.
Cruise Terminal (Ogden Point) Ogden Point brings 229 cruise ship calls and 475,000 passengers to our community; such numbers visibly demonstrate what an important role a vibrant working harbour plays in our economic prosperity. Ensuring that we can keep this valuable hub open for business is critical to many of the region’s most important industries. The cruise ship industry is significant for the economic impact of services to the ship alone. In addition, cruise passengers represent potential repeat visitors; they get to see what a great place Victoria is to visit and will consider coming back and spending more time here. The cruise business will evolve over time and we need to ensure our service evolves,
8 BUSINESSMATTERS
Mike Doehnel and Bryce Rashleigh
Inner Harbour Airport
“We have a great opportunity with our climate here. Water is just one of many pieces of the puzzle”. — Mike Doehnel, Saanich Pennisula Water Commission and the Water Advisory Committee
Our region is at a great advantage. Food systems require a lot of energy, but many overwintering and legume crops require no additional irrigation – in fact, growing food in our climate requires approximately four times less water than equivalent crops grown in hotter areas of North America. And that’s great news, not just for local farmers, but for our environment. In our communities, people and organizations are taking a new interest in supporting local farms and sustainable food options. Growing food in our mild climate is just one of the ways we can reduce the impact of food production on climate change. For more information on irrigation and water saving tips, visit www.crd.bc.ca/ici
www.crd.bc.ca
The Times Colonist iPad app
Download it today!
Member News Chamber Mourns the Passing of Lifetime Achievement Winner John Chew The Chamber mourns the loss of John Chew, a long-time Chamber member and winner of the Chamber’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. Chew, who started one of the Island’s largest excavation companies, will be fondly remembered for his many contributions to the region’s business community and the community at large. The Chew Group of Companies - Chamber members since 1962 employ over 100 people on Vancouver Island and have diverse interests which include construction, contracting, maintenance and other property interests. Chew is survived by his wife Shirley, four children, and four grandchildren.
Page One Publishing Inc. Promotes Slavens to Managing Editor for Douglas and YAM Magazines Page One Publishing Inc. announced that Kerry Slavens has been promoted to Managing Editor with responsibility for overseeing the editorial team for Douglas, Victoria’s business magazine, and YAM, Victoria’s lifestyle magazine. This promotion consolidates Slavens’ role as YAM editor with the Douglas editorship previously held by Brian Hartz, who has moved back to Indiana to be closer to family. “Kerry has proven that she understands how we want to evolve our magazines,” says Lise Gyorkos, President of Page One. “She was instrumental in YAM’s major growth last year — and with her energy, community involvement, and business knowledge, Douglas is well-positioned for growth this year.” “We have a very strong vision at Page One for where we want to take
I believe Victoria is a great conference destination because … “There is no place I’m aware of that bundles so much together including flourishing landscapes, mountain vistas, the Inner Harbour, great attractions, moderate climate, fine cuisine, shopping, and a gateway to Vancouver Island. This, combined with a community that embraces hospitality, is why Victoria is a special place for conference delegates.” REID JAMES
General Manager, Hotel Grand Pacific Proud to be a Victoria Business Ambassador
Every delegate spends $350+ per day in our community. Help us to identify future business. Call me and become a Business Ambassador. Brenda Anderson Director of Sales & Marketing Direct: 250-361-1035
10 BUSINESSMATTERS
PREPARED FOR: VICTORIA CONFERENCE CENTRE PUBLICATION: CHAMBER BUSINESS MATTERS INSERTION DATE: SEPTEMBER 2012 SIZE: 7.5” X 4.7”
Douglas and YAM magazines,” says Slavens. “I am passionate about both magazines and I’m thrilled about leading our very talented team of writers to create content that excites, informs, and engages our readers.” Visit Pageone Publishing at www.pageonepublishing.ca.
BC Hazmat Expands Programs and Moves into New Offices B.C. Hazmat Management Ltd. is expanding its training programs after signing a lease on 5,000 square feet at 6-10114 McDonald Park Rd. in North Saanich. David Rogers said the company - founded 12 years ago and now the largest environmental and safety training facility on Vancouver Island - can accommodate both small groups and larger classes up to 15 students. Call 250-656-3382 or visit www.bchazmat.com
MD Charlton Featured in Two Trade Publications Chamber member M. D. Charlton was recently featured in two prominent
Member News industry publications, Business Review Canada and Manufacturing Digital for its role as a premier military and law enforcement distributor for over 30 years. Providing customers with product lines in an exclusive capacity, M.D. Charlton prides itself on the quality of its merchandise. Always interested in providing customers with the most up-to-date products, M.D. Charlton constantly considers new technology in the selection of its suppliers. After leaving the RCMP, Murray Charlton started M.D. Charlton out of humble beginnings starting out of a garage in 1980. Charlton originally specialized in firearms repair and accessory sales, but has since grown its products and services with offices across Canada. Visit M.D. Charlton at www.mdcharlton.ca.
Daniels Electronics Purchased by Australian Company Codan Limited of Australia has announced the acquisition of local technology company Daniels Electronics Limited, a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of land mobile radio communications (LMR) solutions in North
America. Codan designs, manufactures and markets a diversified range of highend, value-added electronic products, with three key business divisions: radio communications; metal detection; and, mining technology. Daniels offers a broad range of land mobile radio communications used by specialised market segments, such as public safety, which requires high performance and high reliability private communications networks. Key clients include fire service organizations, police, ambulance and other emergency service providers, military, forestry organizations, highways and road contractors, and mining and exploration companies. “Originally a family owned business, Daniels is very happy to be acquired by an Australian company that shares a similar history and culture and that will continue to grow the opportunities for our LMR products” said Daniels Electronics President and Chief Operating Officer, Robert Small. With over 100 years of combined history and innovation in the radio communications market, the integration of Daniels into the Codan Radio Communications Division provides
Codan with an established North American market and the opportunity to bring Daniels’ product offerings to Codan’s global distribution networks, especially in the emerging world.
Ocean Networks Canada Announces New CEO The oceans are changing so quickly it is vital that scientists and governments around the globe work together to better understand them, says the new head of the University of Victoria organization. Dr. Kate Moran, an internationally renowned ocean engineer, has taken over as president and CEO of Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) for a fiveyear term. Managing the region’s world-leading VENUS and NEPTUNE Canada subsea networks, she replaces founding president and CEO Dr. Martin Taylor, who retired on June 30. ONC is a non-profit agency created by UVic in 2007 to develop and manage the Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) Observatory, made up of the VENUS and NEPTUNE Canada networks. The observatory uses innovative
geoffmclean.com
Special Central Saanich $ 1,149,000 Acreage with OCEAN VIEWS!
Stunning Bear Mountain Home $ 983,000
Esquimalt Lagoon $ 759,000
3 bedroom + den and bonus room
Unparalleled ocean + mountain views
Over 4700 sq. ft. of custom built luxury 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms + office .82 acre private property, gorgeous landscaping Designed by Ben Levinson to be timeless Watch the Butchart fireworks from the hot tub Separate in-law accommodation
Open concept main floor with designer kitchen & Carrera marble
3 bedrooms all with ensuites
Another fine home built by Terry Johal
Main floor master with 5 piece ensuite
MLS 31078
MLS 3125555
Finalist - 2010 Victoria Homebuilder Awards 2/5/10 New Home Warranty
Geoff McClean & Associates Personal Real Estate Corporation
Steps from 2 kilometres of sandy beach Wrap-around decks to enjoy the views
MLS 310787
Visit geoffmclean.com for more on our current homes for sale!
BUSINESSMATTERS 11
Member News engineering, data communication and sensor technologies to gather realtime data and images from the ocean depths. ONC also manages the ONC Centre for Enterprise and Engagement, which promotes commercialization and outreach opportunities arising from observatory research.
New Thrifty Foods Distribution Centre Opens Sobeys Inc. President and CEO Marc Poulin and Thrifty Foods President Jim Dores welcomed guests as they officially opened the docks at the 152,000 square foot Retail Support Centre (RSC) near the Victoria International Airport.
sustainability and energy-saving features integrated into the natural landscaping, state-of-the-art lighting, water, waste, and energy monitoring and recycling systems. Thrifty Foods was founded in 1977 in Victoria. Today, Thrifty Foods is a banner of Sobeys Inc. and has a total of 28 retail grocery stores in the Lower Mainland and across Vancouver Island.
eGurus Technology Tutors Expands Services into the Mid Island.
The facility will employ about 50 people in 2012, with steady growth predicted for 2013. The Victoria airport location will service 19 Vancouver Island stores, one on Saltspring Island, eight Lower Mainland locations and, through a wholesale division, more than 40 independent grocers province-wide.
eGurus is now serving Duncan, Chemainus, Ladysmith, Nanaimo, Parksville and Qualicum. Cited by Douglas Magazine as a business embracing the redefinition of “golden years”, and featured in the Times Colonist as “the business that brings enrichment to lives” with their online and on-site tutoring systems, eGurus specializes in teaching older adults to effectively use technology to enhance their lives.
The Retail Support Centre was designed and constructed according to LEED-level principles, with
Jennifer Cairns, founder and CEO of eGurus Technology Tutors launched her company in 2006 (formerly known
How’s your Corporate Culture? A Corporate Membership at the Royal BC Museum gives organizations of any size the opportunity to support one of the foremost cultural institutions in the world. Your support enables us to care for our collections and archives, to bring in exciting travelling exhibitions and offer educational programming. Perfect for corporate gifts, employee incentives or year-end bonuses. Discover all the ways it pays to be a member. Contact Jennifer Vanderzee, 250 387-3287, membership@royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
12 BUSINESSMATTERS
as Computer Tutor for Seniors), after identifying a massive need among older adults. Since starting her company, Cairns has personally taught many hundreds of seniors, crafted comprehensive, online programs, and trained tutors who share her mission. eGurus provides set-up, training and support on computer and related technology products such as smartphones, iphones, eReaders, digital cameras, printers, scanners - you name it, they can teach you about it - in the privacy and comfort of your home. Their highly trained tutors will arrive at your home, assess your training needs, recommend a personalized training plan, and deliver services based on your pace and learning style. Visit eGurus at www.egurus.ca.
New Community Relations Manager for Broadmead Care The Broadmead Care Society is pleased to announce that Kathy Baan, Cert. PR, has accepted the position of Community Relations Manager. Most recently, Kathy was the Director of Family Relations, Administration and Communications for the David Foster Foundation where she was part of the team that raised $4.6 million at the David Foster 25th Anniversary Celebration in May. Prior to this, she was the Promotions Director for the Times Colonist where she managed the annual Raise-A-Reader event, raising over $1 million for literacy. She came to the Times Colonist from C-FAX 1070 where she was the Promotions Director responsible for the annual C-FAX Community Awards and hundreds of promotions. Kathy has a Certificate in Public Relations from the University of Victoria, an extensive volunteer background, and has organized and executed more than 500 events. In her role at Broadmead Care, Kathy will oversee all society and third party events, and manage communications and donor relations.
Moving Around the Island In an earlier article we talked about Gateways, modes of transportation to and from the Island. Just as important is how well the transportation system works once here. Let’s face it, prairie towns have it easy: flat land, no ocean, no harbours - OK maybe they have to cross a river once or twice but those bridges don’t have to lift to let ships through! The West Coast of this nation has strikingly beautiful shorelines and majestic mountains rising from the sea, which make transportation a real challenge. It would be much easier to drive to the Westshore if we didn’t have to go around Esquimalt harbour… But we do!
Improving Quality of Life Transportation is a key component in quality of life. If we can ride our bikes safely and efficiently as we travel around town we are likely to be more physically fit and happier. If we are able to travel efficiently in our car to and from work, soccer practice, the grocery store, the doctor’s office etc. we’ll be able to get our chores done without becoming overstressed. If we can send
kitchen cabinets from Keating Cross road to a Westshore development without traffic delays we will save time and money. All of these relate to overall quality of life and an efficient transportation system is needed so that we can benefit from that quality of life.
What do we have right? Compared to many other centres Greater Victoria has done some things very well. Our transit system has great coverage and service in the entire region. The transit system has a modern environmentally conscious fleet and is staffed by people who truly care about their riders. Parking - yes that’s right parking! - we have good availability of affordable parking throughout our region. Though Victoria is the only municipality that charges for parking,
Last year, BC Transit made 25 million round-trips in the region the rates are reasonable and supply is plentiful. We also have significant bike and walking trails in the region that serve us very well. As we assess what we have right, our local transportation infrastructure looks good compared to other jurisdictions around the globe.
written by Bruce Carter
What next? For all that we have right there are still areas that require work to improve services and allow for inevitable growth. In order to maintain our quality of life or improve it we need to include transportation in our plans.
Transportation Strategy We talked earlier about the challenges our geography poses; an integrated transportation plan, to move goods and people through our region around its natural features, is key. To move forward we need an integrated transportation strategy for the region. A municipal boundary is not a geographic barrier to good transportation but everyone has all too many examples of when it seems that way. Municipalities only control roads in their jurisdiction and even then some of the major routes are controlled by the Province. This results in bike lanes that end suddenly, major routes constricted by planters and traffic calming, and a desperate need for improvement of intersections that municipalities don’t control! In addition, our transit system is experiencing significant delays and requires traffic signal priorities, bus bypass lanes, and HOV lanes to regain
BUSINESSMATTERS 13
some of its previous efficiency. The creation of a Regional Transportation Authority that controls major routes and transit is vital in achieving our transportation goals.
Population & Trip Growth
Colwood Crawl Our region has naturally adapted to the high cost of housing in the core by developing more affordable housing in the Western Communities. Unfortunately this trend in land use has advanced much more quickly than the transportation system. The significant delays on this route used to be only at the rush hours. However, now it seems this route is becoming a bottle neck for much longer periods. Access to the region’s supply of affordable housing needs to be improved and that means addressing the Colwood route. A solution for improving the road system is dealing with problem intersections, thereby reducing bottle necks. Encouraging a modal shift for commuters is possible as well. It’s quite a ride from the Western Communities to the University of Victoria; though it is possible to convince some folk to ride their bikes, it would only be a limited number. However, increasing bus ridership would help tremendously in easing the traffic challenge.
In order for the bus to be attractive it must have a faster travel time than cars and provide service at a reasonable rate. In order to achieve shorter commute times buses need greater priority on the roadway: HOV lanes, intersection bypasses, and priority traffic signals.
“Cycling Capital of Canada”. Ridership currently stands at just over 3%, but according to studies conducted in other jurisdictions, it may have the potential to reach 15% of regional ride-share if continued investment in trails and infrastructure continues. A recent CRD report highlights a potential investment of up to $275 million over the next 20 years is needed to create such systems in the region. Light Rapid Transit Any discussion of transportation solutions in the Western Communities could not possibly be complete without addressing the light rapid transit notion that has been discussed at length in our region. I have called this a notion to make the point that all we have at this stage is a notion or a concept. The development of a full blown plan is tens of millions of dollars and a number of years in the future. A rapid transit system in the region may have real benefits and may be cost effective but there is no way of knowing that yet. I appreciate the opinions of those who are sure it will be highly beneficial as much as I do those that are positive it’s a waste of money. In my opinion we simply don’t
14 BUSINESSMATTERS
have enough information yet to make that call. I do know that ridership is the key. It will be easy, if not a natural transition, to move people from buses to rapid transit. It will be extremely difficult to get people to abandon their cars for a seat on a rapid transit system. This is why it’s so important to increase our bus ridership (through HOV lanes etc.) now.
Esquimalt Harbour Ferry Over the past few years a number of different projects have popped up to attempt cracking the transportation nut. A good example of one such project is what had been dubbed the “blue boat”. Operated by CFB Esquimalt, the service ferried employees from the western communities to their work at the base in Esquimalt. This helped ease the burden on one of the region’s most used transportation arteries and literally took hundreds of cars off the road each day. While the service was discontinued by the military, a private sector operator has stepped up to fill this need in the market. Best known for their yellow harbour ferries, the Victoria Harbour Ferry Co. has replaced the 50-year-old blue boats with a new service named the “Baseline Connector”. This is an innovative private sector solution and a few more like it may be possible.
support commuters and the operation of the system may not be cost effective either. Experts agree that ease for users and frequency of movement are significant factors in increasing ridership on any route. Even with these expensive improvements, it is difficult to imagine how the E&N corridor will attract sufficient ridership to make it a worthwhile investment. The Island Corridor Foundation has a lot of work ahead of it to make the overall business case for commuter rail.
Peninsula Highway Driving to and from Sidney is very important in our region. The additional development of industrial lands around the airport and continued growth in the Keating area will add significant demands to this corridor. There are intersections that need to be improved, particularly Sayward and Sidney, but the solution may reside in some land use planning on the peninsula. There will be increasing demand for housing on the peninsula. More housing (increased density) in the Sidney, North Saanich and Central Saanich areas would greatly ease the burden on the transportation system.
The Plan By examining the transportation options above, a path really becomes quite clear. We need to develop HOV lanes, bus bypasses and priority signals to improve our transit system and increase ridership. We need to create a Regional Transportation Authority to control the major routes and to ensure destinations are connected. We need to fully develop the business cases for Light Rapid Transit and the E&N corridor, so that we can make informed decisions about the best uses of our limited tax dollars.
The region spends over $108 million on public transportation in all its different forms.
Heavy Rail – E&N The E&N corridor has been promoted as a solution to many of our transportation problems by potentially reducing traffic on the Colwood route and connecting communities north of the Malahat. The corridor is in terrible shape technically and significant investment is required to restore its capacity to carry heavy rail traffic again. In addition to the rail bed improvements, there may be a requirement to improve safety at many of the urban railway crossings. Once the expensive improvements are complete, a commuter service using heavy rail components is envisaged. Unfortunately heavy rail components don’t provide an ideal technology to
Rail commute estimated at $22 to $38 per passenger trip, according to a report authored jointly by B.C. Transit and the E&N rail line’s owner, the Island Corridor Foundation.
Expert Cleaning Service
Canada's innovation leader providing cleaning services to Victoria and Area
Over 40 Years Experience And Canada’s Largest Janitorial Service Provider
Certified • Experienced • Sustainable Industrial Commercial Institutional Educational Retail
For more information:
www.bee-clean.com Victoria Office: 526 Comerford Victoria B.C. phone:250-381-7566 fax:250-381-7570
THE CONTRACTORS’ CHOICE
BUSINESSMATTERS 15
Customer Service equals Delta Victoria “Learning about teamwork which is about building a community which is what Delta stands for,” is how Hospitality Management student Peggy Liu, describes one of the many benefits of her co-op work term at the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort and Spa. Delta Victoria recently completed a $14 million renovation of 240 guest rooms and Liu, working in the Food and Beverage division, has been involved in helping to reorganize the department as well as overseeing the hotel’s mini-bars. This is no small task as it means checking the mini-bars in every room, every day! Liu’s path to the co-op program began when she was studying to be an accountant and working part-time at a local restaurant. She realized that she really enjoyed her restaurant job because it gave her the opportunity to work with people. A friend suggested that she look into the two year Hospitality program at Camosun, advice that was confirmed by the many positive things she heard from people in her community. And what does Delta Victoria think about Camosun and the co-op program? Jennifer Woppenkamp, Outlets Manager, and Jackie Spencer, Director of People Resources, are satisfied customers. The co-op work term coincides with the summer busy season and for Delta that’s a big bonus. Not only do they have access to students that have been pre-screened by the Co-op Education department but the Camosun students are ready to put their schooling into action. As Spencer says, “We get excited to give students the opportunities who want to work in the industry. Because they’ve gone through a year of schooling, they have some understanding of what our industry is.” Liu, Woppenkamp and Spencer all agree that co-operative education is a smart investment. Liu particularly likes the fact that the co-op work term allows her to put into practice the concepts that she learnt in her academic program. As for Woppenkamp, “it’s shocking to me that every university or college program doesn’t have co-op.”
16 BUSINESSMATTERS
Q: What’s missing
from your workplace?
A:
A co-op student with the skills to speed up your projects. Contact us today to learn how our students can contribute to your workplace. Work terms normally begin in January, May and September. Co-operative Education and Student Employment www.camosun.ca/cese 250.370.4410 Co-operative Education Program and Career Services www.uvic.ca/coopandcareer/employers learninginmotion.uvic.ca 250.721.7628
For more information about co-operative education at Camosun, call 250 370 4410 or visit:www.camosun.ca/coop
A New Economic Development Officer for the Greater Victoria Development Agency In July, the board of the region’s economic development agency announced the addition of Dallas Gislason to the organization as Economic Development Officer. Dallas Gislason has enjoyed an eight-year career in the economic development field, working at both the regional and provincial levels—mostly in the province of Saskatchewan. Dallas’ background positions him well to make a smooth transition into his new role, with tremendous experience supporting local businesses and bringing all the various institutions together in order to be more responsive to the needs of the business community. “Since establishing the GVDA in 2007 we’ve made significant progress,” says Mike Weston, Chair of the Greater Victoria Development Agency and
founder of Cube Global Storage, “We are delighted that Dallas Gislason has joined our agency to build on this progress and continue enhancing our region’s competitive position on a national and global scale.” “It is really exciting for me to be involved in making Greater Victoria a more competitive place to do business and invest,” says Gislason, “Like many others, I see our region as having many unique attributes that position us on the world stage. With continuous positive progress, the region will remain vibrant for years to come.” Sasha Angus, who helped start the GVDA in 2007 as its inaugural economic development officer, will take on the role of CEO of the Nanaimo Economic Development Corporation starting in September. This announcement presents an opportunity
By Dallas Gislason Economic Development Officer, Greater Victoria Development Agency for the Victoria and Nanaimo region to work more closely on broad regional issues like island transportation, as well as to compete for large projects—like international sports competitions or projects requiring large access to the south-island’s diverse talent pool. The GVDA is an industry-led organization representing the major industries and academic institutions of the region. The GVDA seeks to ensure that Greater Victoria remains a vibrant place to live, work and invest. An important mandate of the GVDA is to further strengthen economic conditions throughout the region so emerging and established firms can survive and succeed. The GVDA also encourages new investment and business from across North America and around the world.
There’s Advice, then there’s Sound Advice! If you are looking for ways to grow your business but you have more competitors and fewer buyers, you need to subscribe to Sound Advice. A FREE weekly 30‐second growth tip emailed right to your inbox. Email us at soundadvice@theq.fm to find out more.
Divisions of the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group
BUSINESSMATTERS 17
September & October Events Six for Lunch
Wednesday, September 12, 2012 12:00pm – 1:30pm Location: The Gatsby Mansion Restaurant Members only please
Prodigy Group September Mingle
Thursday, September 13, 2012 5:00pm – 7:00pm Hosted by: Earls Kitchen + Bar Members & their guests only please
September Business Mixer
Thursday, September 20, 2012 5:00pm – 7:00pm Hosted by: University Club of Victoria Members & their guests only please
Six for Lunch
Tuesday, October 9, 2012 12:00pm – 1:30 pm Location: Vista 18 Restaurant Members only please
Prodigy Group October Mingle Thursday, October 11, 2012 5:00pm – 7:00pm Hosted by: Pizzeria Prima Strada (Bridge Street Location) Members & their guests only please
October Marketplace Mixer Thursday, October 18, 2012 4:00pm – 7:00pm Title Sponsor: Times Colonist
Building Momentum SeriesEnsuring the Sale of Your Business Thursday, September 27 , 2012 10:30am – 12:30pm Sponsored by: KPMG
visit us on the web at www.chinookbusinessbrokers.ca Chinook Business Brokers is a full service Business Brokerage offering businesses for sale on Vancouver Island. We specialize in valuating, packaging, listing and selling existing business opportunities, new business opportunities, and franchise opportunities. Chinook Business Brokers provides comprehensive personal support to our clients through every stage of the transaction. From the initial business valuation, through the due diligence process, to signing the final documents, Chinook Business Brokers offers guidance every step of the way. We create an environment where you can access the information necessary to make decisions, enabling you to maximize your investment and minimize your risk.
For a free, no obligation Courtesy Business Valuation please contact Keith MacKenzie, CBB at (250) 710-3265 or email kmackenzie@chinookbusinessbrokers.ca
18 BUSINESSMATTERS
QUEEN VICTORIA HOTEL & SUITES
Building your business is challenging. We have your solutions. • Customized Business Account Packages
• Small Business Online Banking
• Community Accounts
• Financing and Lines of Credit
• Cash Management Services
• Credit Cards
• Foreign Exchange Services
• Investments
• Point of Sale Services
• Insurance Services
◆ Located steps from the Inner Harbour
and Beacon Hill Park ◆ Standard, One and Two Bedroom
Suites, Spa Suites, and Penthouse Suites - All with Balconies ◆ Samuel’s by the Park Restaurant ◆ Complimentary Local Calls, Wireless Internet, and Business Centre ◆ Meeting Room (up to 45 people) ◆ Complimentary Downtown Shuttle Service ◆ Indoor Pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna and Fitness Centre 655 Douglas Street Victoria BC V8V 2P9 1-800-663-7007 Tel 250-386-1312 Fax 250-381-4312 www.qvhotel.com
Contact your local branch or visit iscu.com/business
Business Mixer + Chamber Tradeshow = One POWERFUL networking event!
MARKETPLACE MIXER Thursday, October 18, 2012 4 - 7 pm Harbour Towers Hotel & Suites
Be there.
ViCTOriaChamBer.Ca
BUSINESSMATTERS 19
Economic Roundtables The Chamber and GVDA started hosting Economic Roundtables early in 2012. The discussions involve representatives from a cross-section of Victoria’s various business sectors over a 1.5 hour period. The insight shared by these individuals continues to be both fascinating and valuable.
Hospitality Sector Though the tourism industry injects $1.95 billion into the local economy, it’s important to note that our favorite local restaurants rely as much on our continued patronage as they do on the visitor dollar. Recent challenges in the tourism industry (like a rising Canadian dollar, USA “protectionism” and Canada’s expansion of duty-free US shopping) mean that it is imperative for Victoria’s local hospitality sector to innovate. Moving forward, watch for more publicity from restaurants who serve locally-sourced ingredients, and look for increased packaging options amongst local attractions and hotels, as well as more niche products - like micro-breweries - to pop up. The tourism industry is growing more than
20 BUSINESSMATTERS
2% per year globally and will remain strong as baby-boomers retire Victoria must be positioned as a leader.
Education Greater Victoria remains one of the most attractive places in the world for post-secondary education. Our three higher-education institutions are complemented by local innovators that provide English as a Second Language (ESL) training, customized training for local businesses, and other support services. As an education destination world-wide, Victoria needs to make continuous strides with marketing, student housing, and ensuring that students from diverse markets can get here (e.g., VISA approvals from Mexico). We must also engage students in our region and help them get their careers started right here in Victoria. This will help us expand education’s current $2 billion impact on our community.
Arts and Culture Victoria’s arts and culture industries are not only vibrant components of the region’s quality of life equation, but they also contribute to the region’s
economy (to the tune of $170 million per year!) Victoria was named the most cultured city in Canada by MacLean’s magazine. From small performance venues to a youth-oriented music scene - including well-established arts/ music programs in local schools, to renowned art galleries and exquisite performance halls, the quality-of-life here is drastically improved by the arts and cultural components.
Manufacturing Local businesses recognize a need to look in greater depth at the region’s “supply-chains” across many different sectors. They see this as a way to not only increase efficiencies by replacing imported inputs with locally-supplied products (and services), but also as a way to compete internationally by focusing on world-class quality, rather than price. Because 68% of our population has a post-secondary education, our talent-pool is well positioned to innovate, create, and deliver worldclass products and services.
Transportation As an island economy, transportation is always top-of-mind. All sectors of the economy are ultimately linked to our region’s ability to move people and products to and from the region and efficiently within it. The integral balance between cost of transport and the amount of discretionary spending available to both visitors and residents alike is critical. For example, if the ferry cost is perceived as high, a visitor will spend less during their stay - and may not come back. Therefore, if prices are out of our control, we must focus on a perceived value proposition. A visitor must believe in his or her mind that the cost of getting here pays huge dividends through their positive experience!
Advice Scene
Real answers from real lawyers and a family talk show hosted by Sitting Judge Justice Harvey Brownstone. (250) 590-3060 www.advicescene.com
Alina Anapreitchik Acupuncture
Alina’s holistic approach combines acupuncture treatment with dietary and lifestyle counseling to effectively help patients prevent and treat disease, alleviate pain, normalize sleep and digestion, elevate moods and improve their overall well-being. (250) 384-8038 www.acupunctureinvictoria.com
Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre - Goosey Gander Kinder. Association
Down to Earth Gardens & Nursery
NEW MEMBERS
Our nursery and greenhouses are full of unusual and interesting perennials, fruit and ornamental trees and shrubs. We also offer Victoria’s only Bark Blowing machine applying 3x more mulch than an average 6 man crew. (250) 391-9366 www.downtoearthgardensandnursery.com
Edge Office Solutions Inc.
“Breathe™ is a (patent pending) simple system for incorporating plants into DIRTT Walls. Breathe™ mounts to the tile layer of the wall, can be retrofitted on existing DIRTT walls, and mounted to any flat, vertical building surface. (250) 475-8855 www.edgeofficesolutions.ca
Edwin Del Carpio CPA
For all your accounting needs. (250) 381-9056
Ethos Career Management
Successfully delivering comprehensive services to workers seeking selfemployment, career direction, job search, training & job maintenance through 1-to-1 coaching, group services, online, in-class & with employers and employees at the workplace. (250) 741-8116 www.ethoscmg.com
Howie’s Car Corral Ltd.
Pre owned Car, Truck, SUV Dealer. Two Time BBB Torch Award Winner Sales and Service centre. (250) 478-1879 www.car-corral.com
Half & full day preschool available. Join us at the Grove where your child’s learning is nurtured through exploration, discovery and creative expression. (250) 477-3731 www.arbutusgrove.ca
Big Bang Communications
Big Bang is your communications catalyst. Getting your message to your audience. (250) 415-7020 www.bigbangcommunications.ca
Birgit Piskor Fine Sculpture
Sculpture serves to slow the visual movement of the eye, creating moments wherein we feel compelled to pause. Birgit Piskor’s work provides that and more. (250) 858-4334 www.birgitpiskor.com
Crankset Group
We help business owners make more money in less time, get off the treadmill and get back to the passion that brought you into business in the first place, so you can build a Mature Business that fits in with and supports your Lifetime Goals. (250) 532-1066 www.cranksetgroup.com
Direct Response Media Group
DRMG provides direct mail and integrated marketing services that enable small, medium and large businesses to activate their marketing communications across multiple channels. (250) 634-4501 www.drmg.ca
BUSINESSMATTERS 21
NEW MEMBERS Inlingua Language School
Redefining the art of language training. Redefining the look and feel of a language college. Learn the language by speaking the language at inlingua Victoria. (250) 590-4805 www.inlinguavictoria.com
Integra Support Services
A local agency which provides community living supports to children and adults living with developmental disabilities in the South Vancouver Island Region. (250) 721-5584 www.integrasupportservices.com
ITNorth
An award-winning technology solutions provider serving small to mediumsized business in BC & Alberta, we help organizations by simplifying the Strategy, Procurement, Implementation & Support of all their computer hardware and software requirements. 1-888-774-3686 www.itnorth.ca
Jade Electrolysis
We may not be your first attempt at hair removal... but we will be your last. Guaranteed! Jade is the only company to guarantee that you will have hair free beautiful skin within 1 year of regular treatments that lasts a lifetime... or your money back. (250) 590-4084 www.hairfreeforlife.com
TD Canada Trust
We’ve got the right mortgage for you Together we can identify the home financing solution that meets your needs.
Call me, Bruce Read Mobile Mortgage Specialist Tel: 250 514 1026
JMJ Holdings Inc.
Biophysical models, analysis and project management for forest industry and clean energy development. (250) 217-7671
Kano/Apps
KANO/APPS creates mobile and social games. We know how to connect people through play, and that’s why our games have earned a loyal fan base encompassing millions of worldwide players across multiple social networks like Facebook and Myspace. www.kanoapps.com
Kids and Company
Kids & Company is dedicated to providing corporate employees with reliable, flexible and unique, superior quality child care solutions to suit the needs of each individual child, parent and employer, creating a healthy worklife balance. 1-866-MY KIDCO www.kidsandcompany.ca
Knickerbocker’s Home Decor (250) 658-5578 www.knickerbockers.ca
Recruitment with great taste! Staffing professionals who go the extra mile to match the right candidate with the right employer.
Call us today 250.381.3254 Main Floor, 1124 Fort Street Victoria, BC Celebrating 15 Years of Business in Victoria - September 2012 www.pgstaff.com New Look. New Site. Check us out online.
22 BUSINESSMATTERS
Krystle Gill, Associate Lawyer at Hart Legal
MazoMedia
NEW MEMBERS
(250) 885-5758 www.mazomedia.ca
I practice family law, civil litigation & personal injury law. I am passionate about justice & finding efficient solutions to legal problems. I believe that everything happens for a reason, & that conflict can turn into positive resolution. (250) 388-9477 www.hart-legal.com
McRae’s Restaurant Ltd.
A uniue neighbourhood gathering place - great food with an original west coast bistro slant. (250) 590-6944 www.mcraesbistro.com
Michal Negrin Canada
LC Coins Ltd.
LC Coins is Vancouver Island’s premier coin, gold and silver exchange. With our primary location in Victoria, we serve all of BC, as we travel the province for collections and estates, large and small, and are always buying. (250) 590-4653 www.lccoins.ca
Ogden Point Buffet
London Drugs - Tillicum Store
Delicious assorted foods at a value price and a priceless view. (250) 386-8080
London Drugs is 100% Canadian owned and is focused on local customers’ satisfaction. We serve our customers better through innovation, and a continued involvement in the communities we service. (250) 360-2654 www.londondrugs.com
Orr’s Family Butcher
London Drugs Store - Quadra St London Drugs is 100% Canadian owned and is focused on local customers’ satisfaction. We serve our customers better through innovation, and a continued involvement in the communities we service. (250) 727-0246 www.londondrugs.com
London Drugs Store - Yates St
London Drugs is 100% Canadian owned and is focused on local customers’ satisfaction. We serve our customers better through innovation, and a continued involvement in the communities we service. (250) 360-0880 www.londondrugs.com
For over 2 decades we have been creating romantic, vintage-inspired designs for women of all ages and for all occasions. We use high quality materials, Swarovski crystals and offer a life-time warranty. (250) 385-8400 www.michalnegrin.com
Our Scottish family butcher shop prides itself on homemade specialties including sausages, haggis, puddings, pies, bridies and scotch eggs. (250) 590-8067 www.orrsbutchers.com
Pirate Adventures
Ahoy Maties welcome to Pirate Adventures at Fishermans’s Wharf. A unique, unforgettable experience for the entire family, aboard a pirate ship in the heart of downtown Victoria, BC. (250) 858-7535 www.pirateadventures.ca
Plan B Imprinting Ltd.
We supply custom advertising specialties and promotional products, bringing some of the least expensive, yet the newest, most fun and most effective advertising products to the smallest home-grown business and to the largest corporation. (250) 382-7323 www.planbltd.com
Prototype Equipment Design Are you facing real Engineering Challenges?… Problems Solved! (250) 381-6868 www.engineersmachineshop.ca
RateMiser Mortgage Advisors
Using a mortgage broker is the ideal way to arrange a new mortgage. Click to make your dreams into reality. (250) 590-5931 www.ratemiser.ca
Rethink Learning Inc.
Assisting public and private organizations in evaluating their training needs and offering valuable educational solutions through consultation, outstanding customer service and cutting edge technology. (778) 747-0144 www.rethinklearning.com
River Rock Casino Resort and Hotel
Stay, play and get away from it all. Over 15,000 sq ft of meeting space, River Rock has your events and business needs covered! (604) 247-8900 www.riverrock.com
Royal Canadian Legion Trafalgar
Full-service facility with meeting and banquet rooms available for rent. Join now, it’s easy! Be a part of helping our community and our veterans. (250) 384-7814 www.rcl292.ca
Staples Business Depot Tolmie Ave.
Staples, the world’s largest office products company, is committed to making it easy for customers to buy a wide range of office products, including supplies, technology, furniture, and business services. (250) 383-8178 www.staples.ca
The real people behind computer support
www.tecnet.ca Work from virtually anywhere and on almost any device. From Office 365 mobile work force solutions to full computer and systems management and with over 37 years of experience Tecnet has an innovative service solution to keep your computers and systems running at peak performance keeping your staff effective and productive. For more information call 250-475-6066 ext 3 or email sales@tecnet.ca
BUSINESSMATTERS 23
NEW MEMBERS Sweet Escapes Travel Company Follow your heart on an epic journey, follow your heart and soul. Follow Annie to the best shopping in town. (250) 884-9220 www.sweetescapestravelco.com
Treehouse Media Inc.
Providing advice that is insightful, innovative and independent of media ownership. Treehouse Media provides media strategy, planning and buying services for a wide variety of clients and a select group of creative agencies. (250) 472-1417 www.treehousemedia.ca
Wild Coffee
Wild Coffee is a West Coast themed coffee shop located at the corner of Yates and Broad in the heart of downtown Victoria. (250) 590-8585 www.wildcoffee.ca
Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre
Enhancing your home or office with a water feature? Choose us to provide the expertise to create your own water paradise. (250) 658-5415 www.wildwoodoutdoorliving.com
It’s simple. Hire a WorldHost Training Services student. See results. It’s simple. We provide affordable, relevant and quality customer service training solutions for front-line staff and managers to excel at customer service. (250) 356-2868 www.worldhosttraining.com
Zenmed
Zenmed - troubled skin is our thing. Professional grade, doctor formulated for effectiveness - fusing the best of what nature offers and science has proven. (250) 589-6765 www.zenmed.com
Hire a student. See results.
Co-op students have the skills and energy to help your workplace excel.
Contact us today
to hire a student. Work terms normally begin in January, May and September.
Co-operative Education and Student Employment www.camosun.ca/cese 250.370.4410
Co-operative Education Program and Career Services www.uvic.ca/coopandcareer/ employers learninginmotion.uvic.ca 250.721.7628
24 BUSINESSMATTERS
Where emerging business leaders need to be.
Did you know‌
As a Chamber member, you can send your employees to our monthly mingles for free? Every second Thursday of the month from 5-7pm, promote your company to this key demographic of emerging business leaders. Thurs Sept 15, 5-7pm Thurs Oct 11, 5-7pm
RSVP to mingles@prodigygroup.ca / for more information visit us at prodigygroup.ca
. . STICKY WICKET
. .
LUNCH DINNER LATENIGHT
CLUBHOUSE GAMES ROOM
fall IN LOVE WITH OUR COMFORT FOOD
THE STRATHCONA 919 DOUGLAS STREET STRATHCONAHOTEL.COM BUSINESSMATTERS 25
ADVOCACY IN ACTION
hughes designs for men & women
f a s h i on s f o r a l l o cc a s io ns
Chamber Rallies Support for Common Rate The Chamber has been very active of the past few months rallying over 125 organizations and individuals to support an important application from FortisBC. The company is proposing to move to common natural gas rates and services across the province, a shift made possible by bringing together its three natural gas utilities into one legal entity. Bringing all three natural gas utilities together will allow FortisBC to offer consistent natural gas rates, and facilitate the expansion of services for all customers across the province, eliminating the current rate discrepancies. If the application is approved, each customer in a given customer class will be charged the same rate, regardless of where they live. Over the long-term, this provides significant benefits to a sizable portion of their customers, most notably, those on Vancouver Island. Using the proposed FortisBC 20122013 revenue requirement rates prior B Utilities Commission approval to calculate costs for average consumption, typical residential customers on Vancouver Island would see a decrease of approximately $244 to their annual bill. Without common rates, Vancouver Island, Sunshine Coast and Powell River customers will see large rate increases over the next three to four years, as a result of the expiration of the Royalty Revenue agreement with the provincial government that ended in 2011. Your feedback is very important to ensure that rates remain affordable for businesses and residents. Send your thoughts and support on this to the BC Utilities Commission at commission.secretary@bcuc.com.
Chamber Meets with Minister Jason Kenney on Local Economic Issues
FALL 2012 style · service · sele ction 564 yates st 7 days a week 250-381-4405 hughesclothing.com
26 BUSINESSMATTERS
As part of our ongoing advocacy and policy activities, the Chamber was happy to host Minister Jason Kenney for a roundtable discussion with regional stakeholders about issues that are key to our economic prosperity. As the federal minister for immigration, Mr. Kenney outlined a number of important changes already made, as well as underway to help Victoria businesses access the global talent they need to continue growing. Economic Immigration has been identified by local businesses and industries as
an important issue in helping to address the ongoing challenge in finding and attracting talent. In addition, the Chamber raised the issue of workforce housing and its impact on our local economic prosperity. The Chamber and Victoria Real Estate Board have been leading the charge on changes at the federal level to support workforce housing in the region. Check out this important issue in the last edition of Business Matters.
Minister Steven Fletcher Addresses Chamber on Infrastructure Programs The Chamber recently hosted the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State for Transportation at a luncheon for community and business stakeholders. The Minister outlined the federal government’s current plans to renew the Build Canada Fund, which is an important source of infrastructure funding for municipalities across the country, including the capital region. Due to expire in 2014, the Minister reiterated the federal government’s commitment to new funding for local governments for the 2014 building season. The Chamber has been a leading advocate for sustainable municipal infrastructure funding that supports our economic growth.
Chamber Reiterates Call for Regional Transportation Authority The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce reacted to the release of the BC Transit Review Committee, reiterating the call for a regional transportation authority to address the region’s transportation planning and service delivery. The report released by an independent panel highlighted the pros and cons of three different models, including the status quo, a reformed regional transit commission, and moving transportation planning to the CRD. The Chamber is encouraged by many of the committee’s recommendations to strengthen the system’s accountability and reporting to local taxpayers. The Chamber continues to urge all parties to move forward in establishing a regional transportation authority capable of delivering an integrated approach to the region’s transportation needs. The Chamber supports the goals of public transportation and the principles of sustainability, including interim transportation measures to facilitate better transportation connections between the core and western communities.
Your Community.
Your
WE BUILD STRONG KIDS, STRONG FAMILIES AND STRONG COMMUNITIES YMCA-YWCA Greater Victoria • 851 Broughton Street, Victoria • Ph: 250-386-7511 • www.victoriay.com
Kids & Company
Saanich Location Opening Soon! 3500 Uptown Boulevard
Top 10 Reasons to Love Kids & Company
1) Loving, caring and qualified staff
6) Guaranteed child care when you need it (within six months of registering)
2) Offering full-time, part-time and/or emergency back-up child care
7) Alpha-Mania – literacy program
3) Nutritious and healthy meals & snacks
8) Mini Masters – art program
4) No late fees
9) Munchkinetics – physical activity and movement program
5) Web cameras (password protected website)
10) Consistent services and operations coast to coast
Kids & Company, proudly Canadian, works with family-oriented companies to develop progressive child care options that help address employees’ work-life balance and productivity. By partnering with Kids & Company, companies from a variety of industry sectors are able to add child care assistance - including full-time, part-time and emergency back-up care to their suite of employee benefits. To learn more about the special arrangement for Chamber of Commmerce Members, please call Denise Kelly at 604-786-4047 or email dkelly@kidsandcompany.ca. For general information, please visit our website.
www.kidsandcompany.ca