www.BusinessExaminer.ca
August 2021
SUCCESSION SUCCESSFUL FOR BUTLER - 18
(left to right) Roxy, Brian and Travis Butler were honored with the Family Business of the Year award
MIKE GERIC CONSTRUCTION ACQUIRES LAND IN VICTORIA’S JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD – 12
CASTLE BUILDING CENTRE NAMED BEST OF THE CITY – 14
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With the summer coming to a close, busy season will be here soon. Right alongside the upcoming federal election. Take advantage of any downtime you have, because it’s a straight sprint until Christmas come September. Despite the uncertainty in how the province and federal governments are going to respond to the inevitable spike in COVID cases this fall, we are bullish on the future of the Island’s economy. The coronavirus is here to stay, and the way business is done will be changed forever. Sales and marketing can no longer rely on traditional approaches. Fulfillment requires ever changing adaptation, and long-term planning now means looking three months ahead, at the latest. As an entrepreneur or business leader, the decision we have made to take control of our own destiny means we take the good with the bad. Business leaders find a way to succeed and survive no matter what is thrown their way. The Island has its own special breed of businesspeople who make it through challenge after challenge, and this one will be no different. Keep battling, you are going to make it. John MacDonald, Director, Business Development Contact Us 25 Cavan Street Nanaimo, BC V9R 2T9 +1 866-758-2684 info@businessexaminer.ca www.BusinessExaminer.ca Office Hours Monday – Friday: 9:00am – 5:00 pm Saturday – Sunday: Closed Editor: Lise MacDonald (lise@businessexaminer.ca) Press Releases & Story Ideas: (media@businessexaminer.ca) Sales: John MacDonald (john@businessexaminer.ca)
6 NEWS UPDATE
9 WEST SHORE
10 GREATER VICTORIA
12 CITIFIED
14 CASTLE BUILDING CENTRE
20 OPINION
18 BUTLER BROS
22 WHO IS SUING WHOM
24 TOURISM
26 LIVING LAND DEVELOPMENTS
25 ADVISORY
28 MOVERS AND SHAKERS
NEWS UPDATE
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BC HOUSING MARKET ACTIVITY CONTINUES TREND
HOUSING INVENTORY CONTINUES TO DECLINE
The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports that a total of 9,663 residential unit sales were recorded by the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in July 2021, a decrease of 7.2 per cent over July 2020. The average MLS residential price in BC was $891,687, a 17.1 per cent increase from $761,772 recorded in July 2020. Total sales dollar volume was $8.6 billion, an 8.6 per cent increase from last year. “Provincial market activity slowed in July with both sales and listings declining on a seasonally adjusted basis,” said BCREA Chief Economist Brendon Ogmundson. “While sales remain robust, listings activity continues to be a concern as inventories trend near record lows.” Total active residential listings were down 32.2 per cent year-over-year in July and continued to fall on a monthly seasonally adjusted basis. Year-to-date, BC residential sales dollar volume was up 124.7 per cent to $73.4 billion, compared with the same period in 2020. Residential unit sales were up 85.4 per cent to 80,461 units, while the average MLS Residential price was up 21.2 per cent to $912,379.
A total of 835 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this July, 14.7 per cent fewer than the 979 properties sold in July 2020 and 11.4 per cent fewer than the previous month of June. Condominium sales were up 18.8 per cent from July 2020 with 284 units sold. 16 per cent fewer condominiums sold in July 2021 than in the previous month of June. Sales of single-family homes were down 29.2 per cent from July 2020 with 396 sold. 10 per cent fewer single-family homes sold in July 2021 than in the previous month of June. There were 1,270 active listings for sale on the VREB MLS at the end of July 2021, 52.1 per cent fewer properties than the 2,653 available at the end of July 2020 and 7.6 per cent fewer than the 1,375 active listings for sale at the end of June 2021. The MLS Home Price Index benchmark value for a single-family home in the Victoria Core in July 2020 was $909,900. The benchmark value for the same home in July 2021 increased by 18.9 per cent to $1,082,000, a 1.7 per cent increase from the previous month of June. Full Report here August 2021
NEWS UPDATE
SHERINGHAM POINT LIGHTHOUSE GETS UPGRADES SOOKE – The Sheringham Point Lighthouse, a key historical landmark in Shirley, is receiving funds from the Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET)’s DIVERSIFY Capital and Innovation Program to improve its visitor experience and reach by adding historical elements, interpretive information and access improvements. Led by the Sheringham Point Lighthouse Preservation Society (SPLPS), enhancements to the public use site will help transform a devolved National Heritage Lighthouse into a vibrant tourism asset. The yearround amenity, located in the area known as the “Graveyard of the Pacific”, has attracted 25,000 sightseers annually over the past three years. Increased use has highlighted the need and opportunity to capitalize on this, more than century-old, structure. The Sheringham Point Lighthouse Historic Site Enhancements project includes several components that will expand the visitor experience. To create a more enriching and unique visit, a new Interpretive Centre will be built to hold and display key historical artefacts, including a reconstructed Fresnel lens and restored foghorn. Outside, a covered display will be built to showcase larger historical artefacts. To facilitate movement from the Centre to the viewpoints, two additional trail spurs will be constructed, as well as a new wheelchair accessible viewing platform and reconfigured site entrance. The existing interpretive plaza will be expanded and enhanced. Full press release here WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
CE BRANDS AND EBUYNOW ANNOUNCEMENT VICTORIA - CE Brands Inc., a data-driven consumer-electronics company, and its wholly-owned subsidiary eBuyNow eCommerce Ltd., announced 4 new distribution and retail agreements, in line with the goal to become leaders in manufacturing, brand licensing, and global product distribution. The retail and distribution agreements cover India, Japan, Central Europe and Eastern Europe: A direct vendor relationship between eBuyNow and The Flipkart Group, one of India’s leading digital commerce entities and includes group companies Flipkart, Myntra and PhonePe. Started in 2007, Flipkart has enabled millions of consumers, sellers, merchants, and small businesses to be a part of India’s e-commerce revolution. An exclusive distribution agreement between eBuyNow and GT COMPANY for Germany, Italy, France, Austria, Netherlands, Belgium and the UK as well as non-exclusive in The Czech Republic, Poland and Hungary. A distribution agreement with eBuyNow and SYNNEX Japan for the Motorola range of branded Smartwatches and Wearables manufactured under the eBuyNow License agreement. A distribution agreement for the Kodak range of Baby Monitors, Security Cameras and Air Purifiers between eBuyNow and FORMA VS for Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Montenegro and Romania, Serbia, Kosovo and Croatia. See full report here.
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NEWS UPDATE
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PORT ALBERNI - Devon Transport Ltd. announced that Port Alberni-based owner and operator Lady Rose Marine Services has accepted its Letter of Intent to purchase its operating business ensuring the continuity of ferry service to the Alberni Inlet and Barkley Sound on the MV Frances Barkley ferry. As a result of the difficulties presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Lady Rose Marine Services, which has been in business for 75 years, was due to close its doors by the end of this month. With its last sailing scheduled for August 31st this deal arrives just in time to save this much relied upon transport lifeline for the area. Devon Transport owners Greg Willmon and Barrie Rogers recognized that the ferry service was far too valuable to the region and one that was deeply relied on by the remote communities and businesses of the inlet and sound. Greg and Barrie are originally from Nanaimo and Victoria respectively and currently reside in Nanaimo. They have deep ties to Port Alberni and Bamfield, and are champions of the local Island communities they live and work in. They operate both a Budget Rent A Car & Truck and Budget Self-Storage location in Port Alberni and have many close local partnerships in town. Full Press Release here August 2021
WEST SHORE
THERE’S A LOT GOING ON! OH, AND A PANDEMIC…
JULIE LAWLOR WEST SHORE - There have been various times during the last 16+ months that a functional crystal ball would have been extremely helpful. As I write this article at the end of the July for publication in August, I am feeling this once more. Since COVID-19 restrictions relaxed on July 1, BC’s case count has started to trend upwards, particularly amongst the unvaccinated. The race is once again on between vaccination and variants, with full economic recovery very much hand in hand with our achieving herd immunity through vaccination. Many chambers including ours are looking forward to and trying to plan for in person events starting in September… while keeping a wary eye on case numbers in our area. I also keep hearing that a federal election announcement is likely to come in August. If that happens, by the time you read this campaigning will have started and staff in chambers across the country will be working to provide all-candidates forums. Speaking for myself, this will be added to the list next to “trying to take some summer holiday” and as I’m sure many can WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
relate “seeing family and friends I haven’t been able to see in a really long time.” The federal government has also announced that money will be made available out to provincial and territorial chambers for shop local campaigns. There is a tight turnaround for this, so the campaigns themselves will likely take place in November and December with an application, approval, and start-up process before that. Collaboration amongst chambers and other organisations will be necessary to get these projects up and running so do check in with your local chamber, relevant non-profit or business improvement association for the latest information. And last but certainly not least, voting for the Best of the WestShore Awards is open until Labour Day and you can show your support for local businesses by voting for your favourites. To access the voting platform, please go to goldstreamgazette.com and click on “Contests.” To further connect with the WestShore Chamber, you can sign up for our e-news on our “Contact Us” page at westshore.bc.ca or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Let me know if your crystal ball is better than mine. Julie Lawlor is Executive Director at the WestShore Chamber of Commerce.
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GREATER VICTORIA
AS ECONOMY RECOVERS, WORKER SHORTAGE IS BACK IN FOCUS
10 BRUCE WILLIAMS
GREATER VICTORIA - I was out for dinner recently, enjoying a wonderfully prepared meal. The service was friendly and efficient, and our server noted we’d come at a good time. Sure enough, as we paid our cheque and got up to make our way into the warm evening, a rush of diners had arrived. The staff put on their best face but it was a challenge for them to get tables cleared and to seat and serve all of their new customers. For the most part, patrons were patient and understanding. But one or two became vocal about having to wait a few extra minutes, chastising employees who were clearly working as fast as possible.
Knowing how hard it is for so many employers to find and keep staff, I decided I couldn’t let the grousing go unchallenged. In my most disarming voice, I reassured the grumpy party that the meal was worth the wait and reminded them about endemic staffing shortages and the need to be grateful to those people who showed up to work. We’re facing a crisis as our economy recovers and businesses reopen with fewer restrictions. Many employers are trying to meet the demand of a public that’s longing to reconnect and renew relationships. However, with not enough available workers, we’re seeing reduced hours at restaurants and hearing about delays with construction projects. Even BC Ferries was forced to cancel sailings one evening because of staffing shortages. Some of these challenges are temporary and represent growing pains that come with suddenly ramping up our social lives. In a matter of weeks, we’ve gone from Zoom calls in our lounge pants back to lunch meetings at our favourite downtown diner. With so many employers trying to quickly find staff, we can expect some adjustments as businesses compete for talent while sorting out what payroll they need to meet demand over the short, medium and long term. There is no simple answer. It’s convenient to blame low wages, or government relief programs that pay people not to work, or to August 2021
GREATER VICTORIA scapegoat young people and lament society’s lost work ethic, but those aren’t solutions. The struggle to find and keep workers was a problem well before the pandemic and is forecast to get much worse in the next 10 years. With tens of thousands of new jobs being created on Vancouver Island and an aging population retiring en masse, we need investments that will make our region more enticing for people looking to set up roots. Targeted immigration is one way. Accessible child care is another — this could be a huge opportunity if we treat it as an incentive to draw young families to the Island. And, of course, affordable housing is a major part of the puzzle that requires thinking outside the box. We definitely need more housing supply, as well as better transportation planning to ensure as much of our region as possible is accessible to commuters. An example of opportunity is the creation of workforce housing on the Saanich Peninsula. There is a significant concentration of workplaces and jobs in that area of the Capital Region. However, insufficient nearby housing supply means workers must travel a distance to work, creating traffic issues and unnecessary vehicle emission. Non-market housing that decouples the cost of living in our region from the cost of real estate is another approach. Think of this as investments in student and workforce housing that allows young people to find a home that fits their modest budgets. Even traditionally middle-class occupations such
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as teachers, police officers and government workers require homes they can afford. We’re seeing some innovative approaches to this in the private sector and need to keep encouraging policies that support housing for all income levels. All of these must be priorities in the months and years ahead. For now, we can start to make a difference by understanding we are in a crisis, and all of us need to show respect and admiration for the folks who show up to do jobs in high demand. A little gratitude goes a long way to making someone’s day a little brighter. The person doing the work will thank you for the courtesy, and their employer will too. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Chamber Events: Check out details for our upcoming mixers and mingles at victoriachamber.ca/events
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Citified.ca
A rendering depicting the Craigflower Community & Performing Arts Centre as seen from the Craigflower Manor House at the Craigflower Manor House National Historic Site in View Royal. The project is targeted for a mid-2022 completion. © Victoria Highland Games Association / D’Ambrosio architecture + urbanism
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MIKE GERIC CONSTRUCTION ACQUIRES LAND IN VICTORIA’S JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD Sponsored by LANGFORD Langford’s award-winning #MyBelmont community on the former Belmont Secondary School lands is celebrating the launch of its third phase of condominium pre-sales at the master-planned project. Developer Ledcor Property Investments’ new release, known as Reunion at #MyBelmont, begins sales at the end of the summer with next-generation suite designs and an amenity package curated for a post-pandemic shift in real-estate trends. The third phase of Langford’s Triple Crown condominium development near Costco is moving forward with over 120 modern suites in its final phase of construction as demand for West Shore housing continues to outpace supply. Constructed as two buildings, ‘Residence III’ on Whirlaway Crescent will be comprised of 64 homes with 15 in one-bedroom configurations,
35 available in two-bedroom, two-bath layouts, and 14 in floorplans spanning three-bedrooms and two-baths. ‘Residence IV’ along Pharoah Mews, earmarked for a site adjacent to Residence III, will include 59 suites in a mix of 13 one-bedroom layouts, 34 as two-bedroom, two-bed offerings, and 12 in three-bedroom, two-bath configurations. SAANICH Details have emerged surrounding an updated residential and final phase of Uptown Shopping Centre. Shape Properties Corp, which overtook Uptown’s management, leasing and development services from Morguard in 2017, is pursuing amendments to the mall’s fourth development phase on Ravine Way at Carey Road that secured municipal approvals several years ago in the form of an 11-storey mixed-use tower with ground floor retail spaces and approximately 130 rental suites. August 2021
Citified.ca The current iteration calls for a height of 24-storeys and a density of over 350 homes coinciding with an urban planning vision released by Saanich in 2020. VICTORIA Council has approved an Old Town development proposal over a decade in the making. Development firm Reliance Properties’ plans to restore the duo of Northern Junk Buildings – at 1314 and 1318 Wharf Street – and redevelop adjacent lands into a mixed-use project are going to proceed following the second phase of a public hearing held August 5th. Mayor Helps said she was “very happy” with the proposal and mentioned the public considered it “supportable,” and that it respected heritage “in a very sensitive way.” In a statement issued on the morning of August 6th, developer Jon Stovell said his company is “relieved” to receive approvals. Meanwhile, Reliance Properties has unveiled a redevelopment concept that could replace a mid-century apartment complex in Victoria’s James Bay neighbourhood. The developer is seeking municipal approvals for a rezoning in order to replace a 1965 vintage 16-unit, three-storey rental building on Dallas Road at Lewis Street with a six-storey new-build containing over 50 residences. The development would retain an adjacent 12-storey rental tower dating back to 1963 on Dallas Road at Menzies Street. Development and construction contracting firm Mike Geric Construction (MGC) has acquired a large land assembly in Victoria’s James Bay neighbourhood, and plans for the property indicate a landmark project is in the works. 412 & 420 Superior St Victoria, BC
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Investment & Development Opportunity Opportunity to purchase a well maintained walk-up apartment building and an adjacent duplex in Victoria’s foundational James Bay neighbourhood.
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Comprised of five parcels at 205 Quebec Street, 507 Montreal Street and 210-218 Kingston Street, the 36,000 square foot acquisition is one block from the shores of the Inner Harbour, and within walking distance of downtown Victoria. Its current use is as a surface parking lot. A proposal for the land is expected to emerge soon. In keeping with its calls for building up the downtown core, the Downtown Victoria Business Association is highly supportive of a redevelopment effort that could deliver not only the tallest residential tower on Vancouver Island (proposed at up to 32-storeys), but also more than 1,500 purpose-built rental apartments to Harris Green on lands currently occupied by an automotive dealership and a strip mall home to several high-profile retailers (including The Market on Yates and London Drugs). Developer Starlight’s five-tower Harris Green Village project between the 900 and 1045-blocks of Yates Street is headed for a public hearing by late summer or early fall, and has garnered support from Jeff Bray, head of the downtown business advocacy group, and groups championing purpose-built rental housing in the city. VIEW ROYAL Construction has begun on the Victoria Highland Games Association’s (VHGA) Craigflower Community & Performing Arts Centre on Old Island Highway at Admirals Road. VHGA’s 10,000 square foot Scottish cultural and community complex is slated for excess land adjacent to Craigflower Manor House at the Craigflower Manor House National Historic Site overlooking the shores of Portage Inlet. Mike Kozakowski is with Citified Media and can be reached at mike@citifiedmedia.com 1450 Government St Victoria, BC Exceptional Retail Investment Opportunity Retail strata investment opportunity spanning an entire city block in the heart of Victoria’s downtown core. Fully tenanted by MEC.
Shawnigan Industrial Park
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Industrial Land Sale We are pleased to announce the completed sale of a 15 acre Industrial Park in the Malahat/Shawnigan Lake area.
GREATER VICTORIA’S TOP COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE TEAM IS GROWING! Ross Marshall
Personal Real Estate Corporation Senior Vice President CBRE Investment Properties Group 250 386 0004 ross.marshall@cbre.com
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Chris Rust
Personal Real Estate Corporation Senior Vice President CBRE Investment Properties Group 250 386 0005 chris.rust@cbre.com
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CBRE Limited, Real Estate Brokerage 1026 Fort Street, Victoria, BC | 250 386 0000
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FEATURE STORY
The Bay Street location of Castle Building Centre
CASTLE BUILDING CENTRE NAMED BEST OF THE CITY COOK AND BAY STREET LOCATIONS ARE POPULAR WITH HOME BUILDERS AND RENOVATORS 14 VICTORIA – A home is often referred to as a castle, and in Greater Victoria, Castle Building Centre is a preferred choice to build and renovate them. Frank and Vicki Hagel own and operate two locations, Cook Street and Bay Street, and came out of a challenging pandemic year by being voted Best of the City as the number one home improvement store. “While the company’s growth had been steady…the pandemic took the company to new heights,” says Vicki, noting that as an essential business, they were able to stay open. “We saw so many new faces, as a generation of people learned to build, paint, grow and cook. We were able to showcase our expertise and help people with their projects.” The Hagels have been serving Victoria for
Castle Building Centre owners Vicki and Frank Hagel
August 2021
FEATURE STORY
Customers can drive in to the Bay Street location to pick up their supplies
almost 40 years, as Frank began working at Cubbon Home-all in 1982 then became manager. Vicki was managing a retail clothing store, and shortly after Frank and Vicki were married, they purchased shares in what was then known as Cook Street Home Hardware in 1987. They later rebranded it as Cook Street Do-It Centre
and joined the Castle buying group in 1993, rebranding the store as Castle in 2009. “Castle is a group of approximately 300 independent building supply retailers from across Canada who pool their buying power to negotiate competitive pricing from vendors,” states Vicki, adding she has served on Castle’s Board
Vancouver Island owned and operated CONGRATULATIONS TO COOK & BAY STREET CASTLE ON ALL YOUR SUCCESS!
Proud supporter of Cook & Bay Street Castle! Aquila Cedar products availalbe in-store.
19950 - 101 Avenue Langley, BC V1M 3G6 T: 604.882.5500 | F: 604.888.5242 ME TRIE.COM
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sales@aquilacedar.com | www.aquilacedar.com
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FEATURE STORY for seven years, including Chair during Castle’s 50th Anniversary in 2013. “Our independence allows us to make timely decisions, source local product and react to current conditions,” she adds. “We don’t have a head office making choices for us. . .we are head office.” The Hagel’s purchased the remaining shares of the business in 2012, and acquired the former Rona outlet at 220 Bay Street in 2015 for their second location. “This larger location allowed us to continue servicing the Victoria market, taking some of the pressure off the Cook location as our growth was continuing,” Vicki notes. “The Cook Street location is surrounded by apartment buildings and their caretakers needed volume purchases. They were having to go to multiple stores to get
16
Reimagine your world
www.para.com
Lumber and materials in the yard at Bay Street location of Castle Building Centre
the quantities they required. “We started stocking larger quantities of their basics and became a reliable destination for them. Today they are an important customer base for both locations. Do-it-yourself customers and contractors/renovator completes our customer profile.” Both yards carry a complete selection of building supplies, lumber, plywood, insulation, concrete products, moldings, metal goods (gutter, wire fencing) and drywall. Inside
C gr i s Your Su e ! Castle Building Centres Group would like to congratulate Cook Street & Bay Street Castle on their tremendous success and continued growth. Your dedication to outstanding service and connection to your community is a shining example of the Spirit of the Independent.
Let Cook Street & Bay Street Castle help you make your home a Castle! https://cookstreetcastle.ca/
August 2021
FEATURE STORY
The Cook Street location of Castle Building Centre
the stores they carry, tools, hardware, plumbing and electrical supplies, garden products, paint and housewares. “We have a fabrication shop in lower Hillside that produces cedar panels, lattice, trellis and planters,” Vicki says, adding they began wholesaling their products to local garden centres this year. “This shop also produces our pine furniture category, as we make fully assembled solid pine bookcases in assorted sizes and take custom orders too.” Castle Building Centre also has a strong door division, where they amalgamated the door business for both stores in one location at Bay Street. “We have fantastic staff in both shops that pride themselves on the quality workmanship they produce,” Vicki adds.
Staff in both locations have been a major contributor to our success. “We have many long-term employees and are grateful for their service,” Vicki notes. “Our General Manager, Brent Cowling, has been with us for well over 20 years and has led the company through many of its achievements. Anita Stewart manages our accounting and been with us for 20 years…we have outstanding assistant managers, sales people, cashiers and yard staff. All are dedicated and committed to our success.” www.cookstreetcastle.ca
Available in-store at Cook & Bay Street Castle | www.minwax.ca
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17
OFF THE COVER
SUCCESSION SUCCESSFUL FOR BUTLER TRANSITION EARNS LONG-TIME FIRM FAMILY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR TITLE
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VICTORIA – Family businesses are the backbone of every economy. Working closely with siblings and parents has its unique rewards and challenges, and succession plans that transfer company ownership from one generation to another can be complicated. The Butler family, a long-time, successful Victoria-area operation, has done both well, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed, as they’ve been named Family Business of the Year by the Family Business Association. Travis Butler says the family is grateful for the recognition. “Ultimately, we as a family were in a unique position considering the structural changes that we needed to go through,” he explains. “We’ve moved from the founding company, Butler Brothers, to where after succession we now have three companies: Butler Properties, run by my sister, Roxy Butler, Butler Brothers Supplies run by our father Brian Butler, and Butler Concrete and Aggregate run by myself.” Butler Concrete and Aggregate purchased the assets of the operating company, including the concrete production and delivery, aggregate operation and equipment and the book of business, and they have over 90 employees. Another 10 are split between Butler Properties and Butler Brothers Supplies. Roxy explains that Butler Properties was created “from something that existed as simple side
projects for the parent company, so it required a large learning curve to create, modernize and bring to life. “In its initial couple of years we have seen great growth and achieved 100 per cent occupancy of our available leased property. We are looking forward to other new and exciting adventures in the coming years.” Travis states that the transition “Was not an easy task and presented all sorts of challenges. The process is one where you need to approach it with a level head and look at the big picture for everybody involved, including our family members and employees.” The serious process of succession started sometime in 2016 and the launch date became December of 2018. “It took years, but we are on a good path now,” Travis adds. “Things have been going well for all three companies, and each individual is left with a good portfolio with plenty of responsibility and we’re all achieving good success.” Along the way, he states there have been some really big wins for the family operation. “This year will definitely be the largest production year in the company’s history,” he observes. “The pandemic has had minimal impact on the construction industry as we are an essential service, and are pushing forward to try and meet the demands of our growing population that are facing housing and affordability issues.”
August 2021
OFF THE COVER
Butler Concrete and Aggregate has achieved one of the lowest Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) values in North America, which makes it one of the best in terms of emitting low carbon dioxide during production on the continent. “It means we are one of the most environmentally friendly concrete producers in North America,” Travis states, adding the company is also working with Empire Hydrogen of Sidney to further reduce fuel consumption and reliance on fossil fuels for the delivery of Butler products. Butler has locations in Victoria, Sooke and Duncan, along with their central, key location at Keating Crossroads in Saanich, which has become more of a focus for the Butler Brothers
Supplies operation. “Our Keating Cross Road mine has been operating for some 75-plus years, but will see its end within the next 5 years or so,” says Travis. “Decisions on its future will be made by the Butler Brothers group being led by the Board of Directors Brian, Roxy and Travis Butler. Decisions on its future will be made by the Butler Brothers group being led by the Board of Directors Brian, Roxy and Travis Butler. “We’ve had a very strong first couple of years in our new organization, and the company continues on a very strong trajectory for planning its next 25-50 years in local business,” Travis adds. www.butlerco.ca
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19
OPINION
WILL GREEN ENERGY HELP OR HINDER THIRD WORLD COUNTRIES?
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MARK MACDONALD
Is it about time we start to wonder why the so-called “elite” continues to press for greener – read higher priced – energy? Green energy is much more costly to produce, and while the outward intention of its creators - outside of making profits - is to reduce or eliminate the consumption of carbon-bearing fossil fuels, why aren’t we digging deeper into the issue? It really is a first world problem, because third world nations would be pleased to use any form of energy they can afford. And they do. Because without energy, nations cannot build, or evolve into self-sustaining economies to improve the quality of life of their own people. A few years ago I attended a Fraser Institute seminar for journalists in Toronto and one of the sessions pointed out that clearly, the best,
most efficient way to pull underdeveloped nations out of poverty is to provide them access to affordable energy. Having a continuation of “energy poverty”, as the presenter described it, was a sure way to ensure that the “have-nots” never become “haves”. While the leaders of prosperous nations turn their noses up at fossil fuels in favour of other, greener power sources, countries mired in energy poverty would be thrilled to have the opportunity to afford any source of energy. If they could have access to fossil fuels to help drive their economies, don’t you think they would jump at the opportunity? If it was affordable to them, they would. Green energy, that is even more expensive than the energy they can’t even afford, pushes the realization of their power aspirations further down the road, even out of sight. So, whether we like it or not, green energy is not going to help those who cannot afford non-green energy. It is going to keep them poor, and less of a competitive economic threat. Of course, this is all being done under the cloak of “saving the world” from global warming/climate change, which makes it a noble cause. Are we entirely sure if those pushing the agenda so hard, while circumventing the globe in private jets, have completely pristine motives? A rising tide raises all boats, as they say, and if the goal is to help everyone, in every nation, live the best version of their lives possible from an economic standpoint, everyone should benefit, no? As we have gone through (hopefully) the COVID pandemic, what we have witnessed is
August 2021
OPINION that those that have money have, in many cases, made more money. The bottom third of society felt the downturn more than most, which is typical. My Grandma used to share about the Great Depression, which she went through, that unemployment was about 30 per cent. The economic devastation and hardship was widespread and deadly due to the fact at that time, there was no social safety net to speak of. No Canada Pension, no welfare, no employment insurance, disability benefits, etc. The “have nots” that were not provided for, and the many tales of survival - or failures to do so - are well documented. A quick check today, however, would show that if one was to add up all of the government-assisted individuals in this country, aka the “not working”, the total would be – get ready for this – about 30 per cent. In other words, 3 out of 10 people right now are some sort of government assistance and not working – virtually the same percentage as the Depression itself. Which always brings me to encourage young people to obtain some type of post-secondary education degree or trade certificate. The piece of paper is much more than a ceremonial document to hang on a wall – it is a wage setter in the real world. So, looking back on the pandemic – and let’s hope it’s firmly in the rear-view mirror – it is fairly clear that there are many who have made more and are better off now financially than they were a year ago. Their investments made money, and, of course, shifts were made to capitalize on opportunities within the market. Trades people worked steadily throughout as society can’t function without their essential services. So who suffered? The “bottom” third, just like in the Depression.
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Which brings me to circle back to the Green energy argument, fervently spread by the “elite” who can not only afford the new rates, but are likely shareholders in the companies providing them. Taking into account how those who have money make more money during tough times, is it outside the realm of possibility that “energy elites” WANT high-priced energy, so that only they and certain countries can afford, thus ensuring their dominance of global markets and trade? In other words, by making energy more expensive, they can keep have-not nations in economic hardship? Asking for a friend. Mark MacDonald is President of Communication Ink Media & Public Relations Ltd. and can be reached at mark@communicationink.ca
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From the Trenches British Columbia business stories and commentary
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WHO IS SUING WHOM The contents of Who’s Suing Whom is provided by a third-party resource and is accurate according to public court documents. Some of these cases may have been resolved by publication date. DEFENDANT 15 8 C o r p o r a t e Ventures 2445 Landsdowne Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF M4B Investments Ltd CLAIM $13,832
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DEFENDANT Albion House Ltd 3rd Flr 26 Bastion Square, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Campbell, Gordon James CLAIM
$211,766 DEFENDANT AFC Industries Ltd Apex Plumbing PO Box 1319, Comox, BC Hamilton, David Ian CLAIM $35,196 DEFENDANT Dobosala Cantina PO Box 138, Qualicum Beach, BC Sysco Canada Inc CLAIM $18,150
DEFENDANT Duncan Housing Society 200 1st St, Duncan, BC PLAINTIFF Collins, Elvis CLAIM $25,196 DEFENDANT Farm Edible Restaurant Ltd PO Box 138, Qualicum Beach, BC PLAINTIFF Bar Sysco Canada Inc CLAIM $18,150 DEFENDANT Fix It Maintenance 5190A Sooke Rd, Sooke, BC
PLAINTIFF ANNR Aluminum & Glass Works Ltd CLAIM $14,916 DEFENDANT Grow th Wealth Trade Management Ltd 203-737 Goldstream Ave, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Titan GMS Limited Partnership CLAIM $290,493 DEFENDANT Innovative Kitchens & Baths Ltd 4th Flr 1007 Fort St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Owners Strata Plan Vis 1481 CLAIM
$13,377 DEFENDANT Living Big Tiny Home Company 2651 Rydal Ave, Cumberland, BC PLAINTIFF McGill, Edward David CLAIM $35,156 Love Your Home Again Renovations 5129 Laguna Way, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Beckett, Ken Lynn CLAIM $6,818 DEFENDANT M&M Food Market 2445 Landsdowne Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF
District
Project Address
Project Type
Project Details
Owner/Contractor/Developer/Architect
Amt in M
Campbell River
519/521 Dogwood St S
Multi-family new
Apartments - 47 units & 59 units
Seymour Pacific Developments - Abele Architects
Comox
2069 Beaton Ave
Residential new
Single Family Dwelling
Griffith Homes - Comox BC
1.5
Comox
2310 Guthrie Rd
Multi-family new
Townhouses - Unit 4 - 4 units
Benco Ventures BC Ltd - ATA Architectural Design
1.1
Courtenay
623 Crown Isle Blvd
Multi-family new
Fiveplexex - 10 units
WestUrban Developments - Thuja Architecture & Design
2.6
Courtenay
1444 Crown Isle Dr
Multi-family new
Townhouses - 12 units
Integra Holdings Ltd - D Bell Designs
4.6
Esquimalt
457 Sturdee St
Residential new
Single Family Dwelling
Amity Construction - Victoria BC
1.1
Ladysmith
245 Oyster Cove Rd
Residential new
Single Family Dwelling - 4,146 sf
Barlow Rose & Co - CA Coastal Construction
1.3
Langford
3151 Aggregate Crt
Multi-family new
Apartments - 61 units
Ironclad Developments Inc - Architecture 77 Inc
7.4
Langford
2718 Strathmore Rd
Multi-family new
Apartments - 32 units - 3,978 sm
BMP Constr Mgmt - Virtuoso Capital Ventures
8.5
Langford
2130 Triangle Trail
Multi-family new
Townhouses - 8 units - 1,505 sm
Gordon N Gordon - Latoria Holdings - WA Architects
3.3
Langford
2782 Spencer Rd
Multi-family new
Affordable housing - 58 units
Verity Construction Ltd - Tri-Way Developments
8.5
Nanaimo
135 Haliburton St
Multi-family new
Apartments - 6081 sm - 79 units
Prospect Living - Parkshore Projects Ltd
Nanaimo
215 Sabiston St
Multi-family new
Townhouses - 5 units
Satgur Development Inc - Ellins Architects
1.3
Saanich
2030 Ferndale Rd
Residential new
Single Family Dwelling - 5,800 sf
Patriot Homes - Victoria BC
1.2
Saanich
4005 Haro Rd
Residential new
Single Family Dwelling - 4,300 sf
Bowcey Construction Ltd - Victoria BC
1.0
12.1
13.3
August 2021
WHO IS SUING WHOM M4B Investments Ltd CLAIM $13,832 DEFENDANT Miles Plumbing Services Ltd 301-830 Shamrock St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Donaldson, Ranald CLAIM $20,256 DEFENDANT Morro Construction & Roofing 689 17 t h St, Courtenay, BC PLAINTIFF Gorringe, Donna CLAIM $16,074 DEFENDANT North Island
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Mechanical Ltd 103-300 St Anns Rd, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF C h a n Nowo s a d Boates Inc CLAIM $6,452 DEFENDANT Salt Spring Island Land Bank Society 384 Fulford Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Island, BC PLAINTIFF Vancouver City Sav i ngs Cre d it Union CLAIM $1,404,888 DEFENDANT S m it h e r s Ro a d Automotive Ltd 1140 Smithers Rd,
Parksville, BC PLAINTIFF Sharp Design Landscape Group Ltd CLAIM $20,536 DEFENDANT StrongPrint3D Construction Inc 197 Monteith Rd, Salt Spring Island, BC PLAINTIFF Gidinski, Adam Jeffrey CLAIM $6,426 DEFENDANT Thrive Junction 350 Kennedy St, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF 597500 BC Ltd CLAIM $19,015
DEFENDANT Thrive Space 350 Kennedy St, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF 597500 BC Ltd CLAIM $19,015 DEFENDANT Vector Yacht Services Ltd 104-9717 3rd St, Sidney, BC PLAINTIFF Desantis, Carl CLAIM $29,858 DEFENDANT Victoria Contracting & Municipal Maintenance Corp 1600-925 West Georgia St,
Vancouver, BC PLAINTIFF Demedeiros, Paul CLAIM $35,216 DEFENDANT Vortech Plumbing & Drainage Inc 921H Canada Ave, Duncan, BC PLAINTIFF Khmelnitsky, Michael CLAIM $15,750 DEFENDANT West Coast Appliance Centre 2014 Ltd 813 Goldstream Ave, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Stevens, Keith Colin CLAIM $24,137
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TOURISM
RECOVERY MUST BE WIDE AND DEEP
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T he s u m mer months are traditionally the high season for visitors to come to Greater Victoria. The weather is warm, and kids are not in school. D espite some u neven nu mbers through the PAUL NURSEY spring months once we moved to Step 3 of the Province’s restart plan, Greater Victoria began to see an uptick in visitors. However, the business environment is different than previous years, and Destination Greater Victoria must carefully manage the increased visitation. We want our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic to be “wide and deep.” Wide in that we touch all market segments and deep in that we understand how richly the visitor economy touches Greater Victoria. Visitors have largely arrived from BC with some from the rest of Canada. Recovery has not been wide – at least yet. The Canada-US border re-opened August 9 and it is our hope we will begin to see increased levels of American visitation again. Fully vaccinated non-American International travelers should begin to arrive September 7. Destination Greater Victoria is positioning our industry for a “deep” recovery. We are not Expedia, Yelp, Google Travel or Airbnb. We are the local tourism board and care passionately about the community’s small businesses; we are not here to commodify our home – we are here to
work with and support our member businesses. As the official tourism board in Greater Victoria we are a niche player ensuring all members benefit in the “tourism ecosystem,” as opposed to maximizing profits for select members. Examples of this approach are programs such as Dine Around & Stay in Town Victoria, which benefits all restaurants that chose to participate. We also publish blogs - pushing advertising calls to action which fastidiously showcase the breadth and depth of our experiences. Our marketing campaigns lead with some of our best images in the metaphorical “store window,” pushing potential customers to our website where all member offerings are neatly arranged on the shelves (through listings). We convert people from potential customers to visitors through our digital environment. Just as the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Greater Victoria visitor economy were wide and deep, so must the recovery be wide and deep as well. This is where Destination Greater Victoria plays a pivotal role moving forward. Our efforts will ensure that all member businesses that are truly invested in the community will benefit from the forthcoming recovery. Paul Nursey is the President and CEO of Destination Greater Victoria
August 2021
ADVISORY
HIRING SECRETS YOU NEED TO KNOW
LENE TRIEU, CPA, CA The pandemic has given us its share of unexpected shortages—from homes for sale to toilet paper, and now labour. In this two-part series, we’re interviewing both a new and long-term Coastal Community employee for insights on how to attract and retain top talent in this competitive market. We’re starting with long-time Islander Lene Trieu, who’s been in her new role as Finance Manager at Coastal Community since May of this year. What’s important to you when evaluating a potential employer? LT: I start by considering the fit—does the position align with my career goals? Is there opportunity for growth? Does the company mesh with my personality and values? I care a lot about career/life balance, diversity, equity and inclusion, and the community impact of the organization. And of course, I care about the compensation and benefits! Do you have any deal breakers that would stop you from applying for a job? LT: Lack of flexibility about remote work or little potential for growth are deal breakers. I would also stay away from a company with WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
a poor reputation in the community. How do you research a potential employer? LT: I start with the website to get a feel for the company and then look at their social media. Word of mouth from current or former employees is also important. What features nudge you to submit a resume? LT: An ad with a lot of detail grabs my attention. I wasn’t looking for a new position when I saw Coastal Community’s ad, but I could see the opportunity fit with my career goals and values from the details. I was intrigued enough to apply. What advice would you give to employers looking to hire new talent? Keep an up-to-date website and social media channels because potential employees do look at those. Make sure you place your ad on an association’s professional website, because people keep an eye on the job boards. And finally, make sure your potential employees know what you offer, both for growth opportunities and values. Is there anything unique to the Vancouver Island labour pool? The Islands are very desirable places to live and work/life balance is particularly important here. Lene Trieu, CPA, CA is a Finance Manager with Coastal Community. For career opportunities, visit cccu.ca/about/careers.
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FEATURE STORY
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Kristin and Brad Redekopp of Living Land Developments Ltd. at their latest project
LIVING LAND DEVELOPMENTS SEES BIG PICTURE FOR PROJECTS SOOKE-BASED FIRM FOCUSES ON LAND, NATURAL TERRAIN, ALONG WITH HOME BUILDING SOOKE – Living Land Developments Ltd. is not just about building quality residences. It is focused on preserving the land and optimizing its natural terrain features. Owner and President Brad Redekopp notes the company, which is currently building a four-unit project in two side-by-side duplexes on Galena Road, has focused on Sooke since arriving on
Vancouver Island from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, in 2019. “We work with what the land is,” he states. “This piece of land in particular has an exponential slope requiring special design considerations, but the topography gives excellent views of the trees and salmon spawning stream. There are all kinds of challenges that come with working August 2021
FEATURE STORY on a lot like that, but we enjoy it. Everything we’re doing there is to enhance the beauty of the property.” Sooke’s seaside location fits Redekopp’s company perfectly, as the community motto is ‘Where the Rainforest Meets the Sea’, which highlights the environmental richness of the area. Redekopp chose duplexes for that property in order to build affordable housing, which is much needed. All of the units have been sold. “The duplexes sold before we even put a shovel in the ground,” he notes. Prior to Sooke, Redekopp worked for one of the largest real estate development companies in Saskatoon as a senior project manager who oversaw the construction of 100 plus unit communities, managing everything from underground utilities, to customer turnover. With Living Land Developments, Redekopp finds and manages the projects, while his wife Kristin handles the office responsibilities. The company has a solid team of sub-contractors and trade companies that build the projects. “One of the strengths of our company is our organization and efficiency of scheduling trades
on our jobs. Because of the way we do that, it cuts down our time line for building substantially. A typical single family home build time, from start to finish, is about six months,” he points out. Prior to the multifamily site on Galena Road, Living Land Developments’ focused on single-family homes at Westridge Trails in Sooke. Word about the company’s quality workmanship is getting out, and Redekopp says the firm is growing exponentially. “We’re looking at building 10 single family homes next year, as well as some multi-family townhomes in Sooke and throughout southern Vancouver Island,” he says. “We’re growing fast.” One of the reasons for that is the company’s expertise with open spaces and layout concepts. “For example, we like to put suites above the garage in our homes,” he says. “Typically, the suites are built on the street level and the main house goes on the second floor, but we like to put the suites above the garages so that the house actually has two full levels with a self-contained suite providing ample space for friends and family.” www.livinglanddevelopments.com
778-772-1845
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MOVERS AND SHAKERS
MOVERS & SHAKERS Announcements, business changes, celebrations and other hidden gems from around Central/North Vancouver Island. Curated just for you.
Submit your company’s announcement to: media@businessexaminer.ca
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Andrew Petter of Arvay Finlay LLP, former Attorney General for BC has been to the Order of British Columbia, the Province’s highest form of recognition. T h e City of VictoAndrew Petter r i a h a s a p p ro v e d t h e redevelopment plan of the Northern Junk buildings along the inner Jon Stovell, President & CEO of Reliance Properties made the announcement. The Capital Regional District’s network of public electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging stations is expanding with the opening of six new outlets along highways 1 and 17: 1420 Store St., Victoria, two stations, operated by BC Hydro, open now. 2330 Bevan Ave., Sidney, one new station, operated by BC Hydro, open now. 10200 McDonald Park Rd., North Saanich, two stations, operated by Canadian Tire, planned to open this summer.
In Duncan, at 2680 James Street, operated by BC Hydro, planned to open this summer. The IMAX Victoria theater, an integral part of the Royal BC Museum, is scheduled to reopen in September. Maryanne Carmack’s Roast Meat & Sandwich Shop, La Pasta and Taco Stand has become a Living Wage operation. The City of Victoria has approved a major infrastructure project to transform Topaz Park into a new skate park, a bicycle pump track, and new turf fields. The project is expected to cost $8 million. The Victoria International Airport has received just under $3 million from the Government of Canada’s Regional Air Transportation Initiative. The provincial government has provided $1 million in subsidies for tourism enterprises: Butchart Gardens, Craigdarroch Castle Historical Museum, Prince of Whales Whale Watching, LA Limousines, and Wilson’s Group of Companies.
August 2021
MOVERS AND SHAKERS
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The provincial government will provide an additional $2.5 million to fund the growth of the Digital Marketing Bootcamp, which will add 3,400 additional seats and provide digital marketing training to 6,000 people and businesses.
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Phillips Brewing and Malting Co. will host a pair of concerts in the Phillips Backyard on September 10-11, dubbed the “Phillips Double Header.”
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Music by the Sea, presented by Victoria International Marina and featuring classical and jazz artists from around Canada, will take place from August 17-22. Sarah Bragg has been appointed the new CEO of the Saanich Peninsula Hospital and Healthcare Foundation starting September 2021, taking over from Karen Morgan. Bragg is currently the executive director at Sarah Bragg the Lady Minto Hospital Foundation on Salt Spring Island. Greg Constable’s IWCD continues its record-breaking pace, as the company celebrated the ground-breaking of its latest project, The Commons at Royal Bay in Colwood. It’s a 76,000 square foot retail village anchored by Quality Foods and Cascadia Liquor. Up north in Nanaimo, IWCD’s proposed commercial and residential plaza at Northfield and Boxwoods Roads has passed first and second reading at City council. It includes zoning for a 40,000 square foot supermarket, as well as three five-storey buildings that include retail space on the ground floor and four floors of residential units above, as well as another office building. This follows a public information meeting in May, where IWCD Vice President Patrick Brandreth presented the concept. A public hearing was held July 22. WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
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MOVERS AND SHAKERS The BC Financial Services Authority has announced that its integration with the Real Estate Council of British Columbia and BC’s Office of the Superintendent of Real Estate is officially complete. The transaction has created a single integrated regulator of BC’s financial services sector overseeing credit unions, trust and insurance companies, mortgage brokers, pension plans, and real estate services. BCFSA also administers the province’s deposit insurance responsibilities. The federal and provincial governments announced $11.3 million to create an estimated 46 new affordable homes for individuals and families in the Capital Regional District through the Cities Stream under expanded Rapid Housing Initiative.
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Oceanside Pharmacy, owned by Khalid Hammad, opened in the 2500-block of Beacon Avenue in downtown Sidney. The Sooke Garden Club is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Ann Squires Ferguson, CEO of Victoria’s Western Interior Design, has purchased Design District Access, a residential design firm at the corner of Government and Pembroke Streets. Ann Squires Ferguson
The Feast of Fields will be held virtually this year and will be remotely hosted at the Lohbrunner Community Farm Co-op in Langford August 22. The Canadian Home Builders’ Association of BC has been announced as the Home Builders’ Association of the Year during the annual CHBA national association awards held virtually in August.
Dr. Lane Trotter has been selected as Camosun College’s next president and CEO. T rotter, cu rrent president of Vancouver’s Langara College, will lead Camosun for a five-year term starting on January 1, 2022.
Dr. Lane Trotter
Organizers of the Esquimalt Ribfest, an annual fundraising event featuring food, beverages and live music, have announced that the event will take place on September 10-12. Aqualink, a tourism project piloted by Gulf Islands Water Taxi that will connect five Southern Gulf Islands, is scheduled to begin operations in September. UPCC, the province’s largest Urgent and Primary Care Centre, recently opened its doors at 1107 Pandora Avenue in downtown Victoria. TELUS will invest $12 million in Sidney this year to connect over 90 per cent homes and businesses to fibre optics. TELUS recently announced a $13 billion commitment to infrastructure and operations in BC through 2024, which includes the Sidney announcement. The BC Boat Show, celebrating its 30th anniversary, will return from September 23-26 at Port Sidney Marina in Sidney. It is hosted by the BC Yacht Brokers Association. Local fire departments donated $25,000 to the Victoria Hospitals Foundation to support paediatric care. The Professional Firefighters of Greater Victoria Community Foundation pledged $250,000 over 10 years to support child health care in Victoria. The Habitat Acquisition Trust (HAT) met its fundraising goal in partnership with the Capital Regional District, which contributed $2 million August 2021
MOVERS AND SHAKERS to the conservation of Mountain Road Forest. Root Cellar owners, Adam and Daisy Orser, aim to open their second store in Cook Street Village this fall. Kenn Mount will assume the position of fire chief for Central Saanich in September. Mount has been the fire chief of the Sooke department since 2017, and he has more than 16 years of experience in the fire emergency services. Mayor Maja Tait officially confirmed $4.6 million in grants for the $6.5 million wastewater plant project, with the remaining funds coming from the District of Sooke. The Harmony Project, founded by Sooke’s Philharmonic Orchestra’s conductor, maestro Norman Nelson, held a fundraising concert in a secret garden near Otter Point August 8, featuring world-class musicians. Down to Earth Gardens and Nursery i n Metchosin hosted an art market August 15 to bring people together in the fresh air while providing an opportunity for local Island artists to showcase their work.
Island routes, and 5 cents more for an adult and 20 cents more for a vehicle on inter-island routes due to the reduced fuel rebate. Annalee Lepp has been named dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Victoria. The researcher, educator, and school administrator is the university’s first female dean, serving in the position until June 2026. Destination Greater Victoria has acquired all of Al Clark’s Northwest Deuce Days assets, goodwill, and intellectual property. The Victoria Foundation’s Community Recovery Program distributes over $3.13 million to help local organizations on Southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands cope with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chinook Business Advisory is moving to its new office on July 29, at 727 Pandora Avenue, above John’s Place Restaurant.
#MyBelmont, a 520-unit residential community located at 915 Reunion Avenue, is completing the construction of commercial spaces. Herold Engineering is moving to its new Victoria location at Unit #600 1112 Fort Street on August 9. They also have offices in Ucluelet, and their head office in Nanaimo.
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MOVERS AND SHAKERS
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Merchant Growth and its funding vehicle, the Merchant Opportunities Fund, are excited to announce the takeover of Company Capital Inc.’s portfolio and business assets in Victoria. The council of District of Oak Bay has directed staff to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) document for obtaining proposals for a new 30year lease of the upland and foreshore/aquatic crown lands associated with the municipally owned marina facilities located at 1327 Beach Drive. The District leases the land/buildings and subleases the foreshore/aquatic area to the Oak Bay Marine Group. The leases expire in December, 2022. The City of Victoria has pledged $250,000 to financially support the preservation project of King’s Road Community Nature Green Space, located at the municipal border of Saanich, Victoria, and Oak Bay. The North and South Saanich Agricultural Society has begun preparations for the 153rd Saanich Fair, which will take place on Labour Day Weekend this year with the theme “Locals For Locals.” Victoria-based Amazing Places podcast, hosted by former Saanich councillor Dean Murdock, celebrated its first year on July 13th. Sooke District Council approved the development permit for the 132-unit residential housing project at 2182 Church Road. Sooke Lions Club is considering to build a two-storey community centre at John Phillips Memorial Park. Barb’s Barbershop, owned by Barb Vix, at 6706 Westcoast Road, is celebrating its 36th anniversary. Victoria Foundation will donate $100,000 to Sooke charities and organizations to help August 2021
MOVERS AND SHAKERS withstand the impact of COVID-19 pandemic. Sidney City Council sought input from the public on plans by Small God’s Brewery to open a craft brewery in the city›s downtown area. The proposed building will come with a lounge area in the ground floor of Oceania Building at 9837 Third St.
The Terminus building, constructed by Design Build Services on the corner of Peatt Road and Hockley Avenue, is nearing completion and has welcomed its first tenants.
Tri-X Group proposes to create parkland in exchange for the right to use a 27-hectare parcel for industrial purposes. The owners of the 52-hectare property at 3659 Sooke Road in Metchosin have pledged $1 million to the District of Metchosin in support of environmental conservation and reconciliation efforts. Colwood is optimistic about a grant that will lay the groundwork for the construction of a Galloping Goose Bridge across the Island Highway
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