Business Matters November 2014

2015 Chamber Board

plugging into construction changes

Why development?

BUSINESS MATTERS

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November 2014 VICTORIACHAMBER.CA

Developing Our Future

BUSINESSMATTERS

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Keeping Great Company!

The Union Club of British Columbia

The Union Club of British Columbia has a long history with the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce and other Business, Educational, Social and Tourism organizations. The Union Club actively participates with great business establishments in Victoria, connecting with many owners, executives and entrepreneurs.

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Cover Story

Developing Our Future p.6

CONTENTS

Photo courtesy of Chard Development.

5 Welcome 2015 Board

Introducing the new and returning Chamber Board of Directors.

6 Developing Our Future

Get a spectator’s view of what it takes to get from an initial idea to a signed development permit.

11 Plugging into Construction Changes

From delivery costs to P3s—The Chamber gets an industry specific view of what it’s like to work on larger developments in our region from Houle Electric.

12 Member News

BUSINESS MATTERS November 2014 Business Matters is a bi-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.

Keep up with what’s happening in The Chamber community.

16 Development is Big Business

An overview of new and upcoming properties in Greater Victoria.

21 Calendar of Events 22 Why Development?

To advertise in Business Matters, contact us at:

25 New Members

The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce #100 - 852 Fort St. Victoria, BC V8W 1H8 (250) 383-7191 chamber@victoriachamber.ca

Studies show that people prefer to do business with Chamber members.

Check out who has recently made the decision to join us.

28 Industry Profile

Meet Serious Coffee and discover how they grew to 25 locations in 20 years!

30 Advocacy in Action

Member Survey Results, Budget Consultations, Municipal Priorities and the Canadian Chamber AGM

Publication Mail Poste-Publications 40005319

Cover photo of the now complete Sovereign mid construction in 2013 courtesy of Chard Development.

The world looks different from here.

Peter B. Gustavson School of Business students shape ideas and send them into the world.

If you’re ready for a completely different outlook for your business, talk to us about how our students can help. uvic.ca/gustavson

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BUSINESSMATTERS

the 2015 Board of Directors As The Chamber looks forward to 2015 there will be lots to do. As a result of the recently approved bylaw changes, The Chamber will adapt to having the Board Chair in place for two years. Frank Bourree will start his second year as Chair with added experience of having spent a year immersed in the complex issues facing our Chamber.

In 2015, we will be busy developing relationships with newly elected municipal councils, dealing with sewage treatment, working through a federal election, watching ongoing work on municipal infrastructure and examining in detail new utilities being created by numerous levels of government. All while delivering an aggressive economic development strategy to grow household sustaining jobs and working with our partners to continue marketing our community to the world. It will be an interesting year!

Frank Bourree, Chair Chemistry Consulting Nigel Brown Ruffell & Brown Interiors Kathleen Burton Mount St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation Dan Dagg Hot House Marketing Dee Govang Investors Group Financial Service Al Hasham Maximum Express, Courier, Freight & Logistics and Max Furniture Gary Kinar Kinar Curry Lawyers Sang-Kiet Ly KPMG MSLP Troy MacDonald Helijet International Mark Mawhinney Strathcona Investments Natasha Reger Reger Group Tom Roemer Camosun College Mark Smith Monk Office Supply Captain (N) Steven Waddell CFB Esquimalt John Wilson Wilson’s Transportation Bruce Carter Chamber CEO

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Developing Our Future Development permit process

To grow as a region it is necessary to attract economic development as well as the amenities that are needed to accompany it. As developments are constructed in Greater Victoria, what we see are the cranes and cement trucks.

What we don’t see are the months, or sometimes years of work prior to the shovels hitting the ground. In order to do so, let’s take a look at the development permit process to gain a spectator’s view of what it takes to get from an initial idea to a signed and sealed development permit.

The development permit process and timelines work differently in each municipality, here we have examined the City of Victoria as an example.

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Pre-submission The first step in the process happens long before submitting a development permit application. Depending on the type of development, the following criteria need to be met: review ideas with the Neighbourhood Planner; meet with the Engineering and Parks department prior to creating a site and landscaping plan; verify with the Permits and Inspections department that any work on existing buildings has been completed; and, determine if any existing buildings can be used for the proposed purposes.

During this pre-submission phase, if variances are required, applicants must also meet with any adjacent neighbours or the Community Association Land Use Committees (CALUC). Variances are needed when the prospective development does not meet the zoned land-use or density standards for the property. Additional areas that need to be determined are whether a site profile is required, if it is Heritage Designated or registered property, or an archeological site. If the project is considered a “large project,” (over 930m3), then 3D models, display boards, site analysis, skyline analysis,

view analysis, perspective studies, and building details are also required. Only once all of the above is completed can work begin on submitting a development application.

These preplanning steps provide a formative path in the development permit process and the final development. According to David Chard, of Chard Development, these planning meetings provide important guidance on the neighbourhoods and advice from the planning department can reshape original concepts.

Bayview Properties developer, Ken Mariash, also notes that preplanning is the most crucial step in the entire process. “The application process here is typical of almost every city, they [staff] are modern, knowledgeable, and professional.”

Post-submission After a project is submitted to the City the review stage comes next. City staff will review the application as well as a myriad of committees including the Planning and Land Use Standing Committee (PLUSC).

What makes this challenging in Victoria, according to Mariash, “the approval committees and council are all politicians. In the majority of other cities—such as Edmonton and Calgary—there is a planning commission made up of councillors, citizens and local professionals who hear applications first. As opposed to the PLUSC that is dominated by politicians, which slows down the process creating large time and cost overruns to the detriment of the developers, investors and affordability to the ultimate users of the project.”

Next, the developer can choose to make or not make changes based on recommendations from these groups. If changes are made revised plans must be submitted.

This is followed by a public hearing, if variances are involved, and then finally a presentation to Council. City Council makes the final decisions on development permits and they may either approve or decline the application. If approved, the development permit is issued and the project can move forward.

This step-by-step process sounds straight forward; however, as every project is different many issues can arise. Difficulties may arise in negotiating the demands of different groups and various stakeholders including neighbourhoods, or individuals that have a vision for what they would like to see in that neighbourhood. Unfortunately, these can provide conflicting needs.

According to Mariash, things can get complicated when there are divergent views. “In fitting those views into your plan you need to be cognizant, you can’t indulge one side too much, you not only have to accommodate the stakeholders but it has to work for the market,” adds Mariash. “If you indulge one side too much it might not work for the person that wants to buy the unit or home.”

A delicate balance is required to meet the needs of the community as well as potential buyers. In addition, Mariash emphasizes that this balance is further compounded on large-scale projects.

How can the process hurt a project?

“Time is a developer’s worst enemy,” says Chard. “We are working on timelines, and trying to get approvals as quickly as possible in order to get into construction. Being off on one thing throws off everything else. We anticipate a timeline, if that timeline doubles it’s very costly to the project.”

Unfortunately, this also makes it more costly for the end-user, whether it’s a condominium or an office tenant. As for unintended consequences, Chard concludes, “the longer a project takes to get approval and the number of

“Time is a developer’s worst enemy,” says Chard.

times you have to print drawings and redesign the more costly the project becomes and that effects affordability.”

Beyond these added costs, a longer timeline means that projected construction costs will also increase over time.

When talking about a region where affordable housing is an issue, would reduced timelines positively affect affordability in our region? As it works now, Mariash states, “our zoning time periods and land-use permitting is more expensive than the land.”

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Both developers agree that this final review stage can and should be improved. While the process has improved over the last number of years, there is a feeling that it can get even better. One recommendation is streamlining feedback, so developers would be able to meet and address concerns once rather than multiple times. Another area in need of improvement is the lead time City staff requires for submitting committee reports. Normally staff reports have to be in 2-3 weeks before a committee meeting. Since committees only meet on certain days, if they are not submitted within the correct timeframe a project can lose 4 or 5 weeks.

Projects that need to be resubmitted more than once can lose months.

Photo courtesy of Bosa Properties.

What works and how can we improve?

Chard and Mariash indicate that the early stages of dialogue with City planners is working really well. Chard notes that the planning department provides quality advice on whether or not the development is on track. “You may not agree on areas of height or density but they are your barometer.”

In his experience, moving forward with planning department support is key to a project’s eventual success.

One of the areas that works well

is the ability to apply for rezoning and development concurrently. For developers, where time is the enemy, it provides a logical efficiency.

Once a development permit application is submitted, the plans go to a variety of departments and return to committees for review. Receiving feedback and addressing concerns can be a complicated task, particularly for large projects; the biggest challenge is when different departments’ changes are in conflict with one another. After being revised, the drawings are resubmitted.

Expediting this process could have significant impacts for developers, especially when resubmission is required. “It could make a very significant difference to the overall schedule,” says Chard.

Chard also feels that municipalities should give their professional staff more autonomy. Stating it is important to “move the process forward without necessarily getting the stamp of council at every step of the way.”

Mariash echoes this concern. This atmosphere has created the need for completed sets of building drawings at an early stage of the process, which in his opinion is very unusual. This can create problems down the road as a building may be compromised by the fact that the zoning was far too detailed. “It’s very difficult to evolve outside the boundaries that were created in the zoning process,” says Mariash. According to Mariash Photo courtesy of Bosa Properties.

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BUSINESSMATTERS

this overprescribed approach is created in an effort to regulate the process. Mariash, who builds in cities across North America, including Calgary, Edmonton, Los Angeles, and Houston, TX finds this way of doing things unique to Victoria. And in his experience “land would be much more valuable if there was an expedited or traditional method of getting zoning and approvals.”

Benefits Our community can benefit from improvements to the development permit process in more ways than one might assume.

Most importantly, improving time to market will increase the availability of units—and potentially lower the costs—in our local market. Reducing timelines has significant impacts on the cost of a project. The suggested improvements will reduce the total cost of the development which is paid for by the end user; whether it be the condo owner or the business tenant.

Where do we go from here?

As a region that wants to attract economic development, what are the next steps? Now that we know some of the potential benefits of improving the development permit process, what can we do?

As a community we can encourage our municipal leaders to streamline the process of applications and feedback by improving efficiency.

We can encourage our municipal leaders to set targets to decrease the number of times applications need to be resubmitted. And finally, we can encourage our leaders to take the recommendations of their professional staff that both support the vision for our neighbourhoods as well as our Official Community Plan. Providing these services in the most efficient and effective way is an important part of building a vibrant community.

Choices - large development firms often work in a variety of cities.

Processing times is one of the influences when developers decide to build and invest in these multi-million dollar projects. The same holds true for building permits, where the speed at which a unit can be ready may influence where a business is located.

It is important for any municipality to ensure that businesses get operational and start paying taxes as soon as possible. Not only does this benefit the municipalities, but also everyone in the community. The faster you can process permits, the faster you can get rid of vacant storefronts.

Chard’s final note is, “I think everyone’s objective is to create a vital downtown and to create more of a community. You can do that with more residents and more businesses.”

Improving the permit process has the potential to attract a greater number of reputable developers to the region.

If our city is known for a streamlined and timely process, it puts one more checkbox in the decision to invest in the region. We want reputable developers to work in the region to ensure quality projects are completed for the benefit of everyone in our community.

“I think everyone’s objective is to create a vital downtown and to create more of a community. You can do that with more residents and more businesses.” says Chard.

BUSINESSMATTERS

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CELEBRATE SUCCESS

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Plugging into Construction Changes The Chamber sat down with Houle Electric’s Ross McLean to learn more about the electrical contracting industry here in Victoria. We wanted to gain better insight into a specific industry and learn about the advantages and challenges of working on large developments in the Capital region.

Photo courtesy of Camosun College AV services.

Houle Electric is a large electrical contracting firm with offices around BC and has been working in the industry for over 70 years. Houle works on a range of projects ranging from house renovations to large scale commercial and institutional projects.

McLean notes many challenges currently facing the electrical contracting industry. “Profit levels are actually very low and at the same time there is a shortage of manpower,” says McLean. These concerns, combined with changes in procurement practices and transportation issues have put further strain on the industry.

Houle Electric has been proactive in addressing the shortage of Red Seal electricians (an interprovincial accreditation of excellence) and is one of the largest apprentice trainers in both Victoria and BC. They have used strong branding strategies to attract workers. “We have one of the best teams and we want to attract the best people in our industry,” says McLean.

Using these brand strategies, Houle has made a name for themselves as a great and safe place to work.

Project Shop Class fostered by the BC Construction Associations and the BC government’s new initiative to attract young people to the trades is essential to the future of the construction industry. At Houle Electric people start in the apprenticeship as quickly as possible and get trained in as many facets of the electric industry as possible, so the workers themselves can choose what’s best for them.

According to McLean, it’s another reason why people are attracted to their company.

Changing procurement practices have also impacted the industry.

Downloading risk from owners to general contractors to trades combined with manpower shortages and low profit margins will see many companies unable to sustain themselves says McLean. Moving towards public-private partnerships (P3), or design build

procurement, has also had an impact, as there are large upfront costs and many in the industry are not accounting for that risk.

Upfront costs can vary depending on the size of a project; however, these usually include time for preliminary design, costing, cost comparisons, and “teaming”, which is coordination meetings with other teams.

P3s require contractors to do much of the work in the bidding process.

Various teams examine the project and make decisions on what it should look like and how it should be done. Before the design is complete, the project is costed. These upfront costs, or pursuit costs, and increased risk are normally assumed by the owner in traditional procurement. This type of procurement practice is work and risk heavy on the contractors’ part. For complex projects, depending on the size of the team, preparing for a P3 can cost over $1,000 per day. For example, the waste water treatment facility cost over $300,000 on the bidding process for just one electrical project proponent. This method can put significant pressure on contractors, when contrasted by the traditional bidding method, where the engineering and planning are already complete and contractors just cost the project.

According to the Vancouver Island Construction Association, pursuit costs for each design build/P3 contract would typically be valued at a minimum one per cent of the contract value. In the case of the new Oak Bay High school, which is valued at approximately $50 million, these costs

would be approximately $500,000 per proponent. Only one bidder will have any hopes of reclaiming these costs.

Transportation issues have also had an impact on electrical contractors.

Many shippers transport freight directly to construction sites. According to McLean the traffic congestion at the McKenzie intersection can add 20-30 minutes on top of an hour delivery.

This congestion even effects deliveries not using this intersection; increasing delivery times by up to 50 per cent will significantly hurt the bottom line.

Transportation companies have even been known to avoid deliveries during peak traffic hours. This impacts productivity on job sites as well as requires very precise advance planning to receive deliveries where and when they are needed.

Improving transportation would benefit electrical construction and construction industry as a whole by lowering project costs. According to McLean improving transportation would not only lower the costs of building but would also improve the speed to market, so projects could be completed and in use sooner.

Addressing challenges contractors face, by either improving traffic congestion or training more skilled trades people, will support individual contractors as well as the large projects they work on. The result: our region would benefit from lowered costs, quality work by highly trained workers, and timely completions of projects need by the community.

BUSINESSMATTERS

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MEMBER NEWS Tourism Victoria Wins Prestigious Award

Photo courtesy of Tourism Victoria.

The BC chapter of the American Marketing Association (BCAMA) has awarded Tourism Victoria as the BCAMA Marketer of the Year.

Nominated by others in the marketing field, Tourism Victoria is proud to be the first business on Vancouver Island to have ever won this award.

The BCAMA Marketer of the Year award does not award one specific campaign, but rather an outstanding marketing strategy over a sustained period. This may be Tourism Victoria’s first time winning this specific award, but in the last three years alone, they have won 10 awards in regional to international markets.

Greater Victoria’s Tourism sector is a $1.9 billion dollar industry that is directly responsible for 22,000 jobs in the region.

Tourism Victoria has chosen a marketing communications style that stands out and is as dynamic and unique as the community it serves.

Their marketing communications efforts have proven to be successful by the awards and recognition received over the last four years.

Tourism Victoria’s bright and innovative phone booths invite visitors to experience Victoria.

Our Place Launches New Website Our Place Society, along with the help of fellow Chamber member Trapeze Communications Inc., has created a new website from the ground up!

Our Place provides a variety of services including 45 single transitional housing units, and a dining room that feeds over 1,500 meals per day to those in need.

Check out their new website at ourplacesociety.com

Our Place’s new website features informative videos, photos, and features to spread its message even further.

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MEMBER NEWS

Photo courtesy of CHOICES.

that have helped CHOICES get to where they are. Adoption is very close to the Lieutenant Governor’s heart as she is an adoptive parent herself.

Other than hitting the quarter century milestone this year, CHOICES has started working closely with the Ministry of Children and Family Development in hopes of decreasing the average of 1,300 children in government care, by providing loving forever homes with local families.

One of the many families that CHOICES helped grow.

CHOICES Celebrates 25 years In its 25th year running, CHOICES Adoption and Counselling is proud to have assisted over 2,000 children and youth from across BC and around the world to find their forever families.

In celebration of CHOICES’ anniversary as well as National Adoption Awareness Month, the Lieutenant Governor of BC The Honourable Judith Guichon will host a private reception in November for families that CHOICES has helped build as well as supporters

devEdge Opens in Westshore

After three years in business, devEdge Internet Marketing has opened the doors to its first official office space. devEdge’s successes include: providing online marketing; search engine optimization; and, complex web programming services to a heavily local business-based clientele. devEdge accredits most of their projects and referrals to the networking efforts and connections they’ve worked at making within Greater Victoria’s business community.

With devEdge’s rapid growth in employees and clientele, the new professional office place is essential for functionality, communications within the company and long-term growth strategies.

Three Medals for VIB Vancouver Island Brewery has been recognized on the world stage. The brewery was awarded three medals at the Tastings.com World Beer Championships; two seasonal beers and one of its recent launches each won silver medals in their respective categories.

These award-worthy beers are better known as Beachcomber Summer Ale (weizen hefe), Black Betty (fruit beer), and Sabotage India Session Ale (American style IPA).

Vancouver Island Brewery is also celebrating its 30th anniversary this year! Between its regional, national, and international level award winning brands, its latest victory, and its milestone anniversary, this has been a year to remember for Vancouver Island Brewery.

Spread Some Hometown Spirit.

Victoria is a great conference destination. Help us fill our city with delegates who stay in our hotels and shop in our stores. By connecting us to your business, professional association or volunteer networks, you can make a big difference in helping us bring conference business home.

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Every delegate spends $450+ per day in our community.

Help us to identify future business. Call me and become a Business Ambassador.

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MEMBER NEWS YYJ Reaches Record High

Photo courtesy of Atomique Productions.

August was a very busy month for Victoria International Airport (YYJ), in fact, the busiest month they have ever had!

A record breaking 171,764 passengers came through YYJ this past August compared to last year’s 159,545 record.

With the expansions and The entrance to Rifflandia’s Royal Athletic Park location. future growth succession plans in place for YYJ, expect to see these passenger Rifflandia stats numbers continue to grow, furthering Year 2008 2014 the airport’s economic impact on the Days 3 4 Capital Region.

Rifflandia Grows to 14,000 The first Rifflandia started as most Rifflandias have since – with a 10x10 tent and a handful of colourful pins.

Though the festival’s approach and mission has remained the same throughout the years, many things have changed since that inaugural weekend in 2008.

Stages Artists Attendees

7 65 1,500

Rifflandia is linking up with the Western Canadian Music Awards ceremony for 2015, bringing a huge expansion to the festival.

Through continued growth, innovation and community engagement, Rifflandia Festival is becoming one of Western Canada’s premiere music and arts festival destinations attracting festival goers and economic growth to our region.

Frontrunners buys Peninsula Runners Frontrunners has yet again expanded its reach and purchased Peninsula Runners in Shelbourne Plaza.

17 171 14,000 What started as humble beginnings of

Beyond the above stats, Rifflandia has grown in many other capacities. Since year one the festival has seen the introduction of the Rifflandia Magazine (a festival staple), Rifflandabrau (official beer), Royal Athletic Park (the flagship venue), Artlandia / Thinklandia / Makelandia and much more!

one location for owner Rob Reid, has now turned into three Frontrunners stores, two New Balance stores, as well as two hybrid franchises that he sold to previous employees in Nanaimo. Growing from 1,200 square feet of retail space to over 10,000 square feet, Reid has also gained a new business partner, Nick Walker.

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MEMBER NEWS Reid attributes Frontrunners’ success to the strong relationships that they’ve built with their return clients, as well as the sponsorships and initiatives that the Frontrunners group supports.

Some of Frontrunners’ community initiatives include Shoes for Youth, a charity giving shoes to youth in need, and the statue in tribute of Terry Fox placed at Mile Zero in 2005.

Frontrunners also creates community involvement through their retail locations by hosting running groups, clinics, and local events.

Reid’s future goals for Frontrunners are to continue promoting healthiness on the Island, strengthening community relations in his local retail locations, and creating a Terry Fox Centre, which he hopes to open in 2017.

New face of CFN Consultants Retired Vice Admiral Bruce Donaldson will take over from Gary Garnett as the representative of CFN Consultants on the West Coast. CFN Consultants is a leading consultancy firm specializing in defence and security issues. Partners and associates have particular expertise in dealing with the Canadian Forces and departments of the Canadian Government.

(Left to right) New CFN Consultants representative Bruce Donaldson, Chamber CEO Bruce Carter, and retired CFN Consultants representative Gary Garnett after a meeting at The Chamber office.

Donaldson retired last year from the Royal Canadian Navy after culminating a 36-year career in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), as Vice Chief of Defence Staff. As the VCDS, Donaldson was the second in command of the CAF and the business manager for the multi-billion

dollar defence institution. Donaldson has had a number of positions in Victoria over his navy career, notably as Commanding Officer of HMCS Vancouver (’97-’99) and Commander of the Canadian Pacific Fleet (’05-’07). He is delighted to be back in this city and excited to join The Chamber.

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Development is Big Business

In our region, development is big business. The total value of building permits issued in 2013 was in excess of $600 million.

Every development involves an entire army of people to dig foundations, build structures, and finish them. This sector provides approximately 21,000 household sustaining jobs in our region.

Photo courtesy of Hudson Mews.

Greater Victoria has had its share of good developments and a few that have faltered. When talking about developments, it is important to be cautious about rating developments based solely on aesthetics. Although few may find the new Thrifty Foods distribution centre at the Victoria International Airport to be a “stylefocused” development, it is certainly functional and an incredibly important economic asset.

The total value of building permits issued in 2013 was in excess of $600 million...

This sector provides approximately 21,000 household sustaining jobs in our region.

500 acre Westhills, Bear Mountain, Valley View Estates, and the 419 acre Royal Bay with 2,800 homes planned.

This is only a sampling of some of the many residential developments in the Westshore that will drive additional need for schools, commercial opportunities, and recreation centre facilities. The construction of the new $30 million Langford Aquatic Centre, a partnership with the YMCA/YWCA, is well underway to fill this need. The Westshore will continue to provide Photo courtesy of Bosa Properties.

There are many notable developments, large and small in the region, here we highlight a few of the most recent.

The Hudson Mews rental units located on Fisgard St. in the Hudson District.

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There has been a wide variety of significant developments in the Westshore, but most notably, a number of large scale residential home developments. The Westshore is known for developments that provide affordable housing in our region. Some of these include the

Bosa Properties’ Promontory. Currently Greater Victoria’s tallest condominium.

Photo Courtesy of Bosa Properties.

the much needed large-scale lowdensity residential developments for the growing region for the foreseeable future. In 2013, Westshore development permits totalled $120 million.

Development permits on the Saanich Peninsula in 2013 were $267 million.

560,000 sq. ft. of retail and 260,000 sq. ft. of office space. We have also seen densification in the Humboldt Valley, the development of the Atrium building, Juliet, Hudson Mews and in Vic West with both Bayview and Dockside Green. Renovations at existing retail malls, like the $80 million investment at Hillside have also been substantial.

The Capital region has had some very non-traditional projects as well.

The Dockside Green development is world renowned for its commitment to sustainable and smart communities; development will continue on this site.

In 2013, Westshore development permits totalled $120 million.

The Reliance Properties’ Janion project with micro lofts sold within a day, hitting the needs of both a generation and a particular price point.

We will likely see more of this type of development in the future.

The Saanich Peninsula has seen considerable development in the area surrounding the airport. Not only have we seen the development of a new hangar for the military—a single project worth $105 million—but we have also seen significant industrial growth around the airport with the Thrifty Foods distribution plant and planned industrial/aerospace park. We will continue to see development on the Peninsula near the airport, and perhaps on First Nations lands, but as this area is home to a considerable part of the agricultural land reserve, development is restricted. Development permits on the Saanich Peninsula in 2013 were $267 million.

The core area of the region has been the site of considerable high-density urban development. The most notable addition in the last few years has been the Uptown shopping centre valued at $291 million with approximately

New developments are under construction in the Westshore.

BUSINESSMATTERS

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The Chambers Plan business assisTanCe serviCe (bas) Provides for boTh The business owner and Their emPloyees. for business owners ManageMent ServiceS

Provides up to six hours of Legal, Accounting and Specialized Human Resource services combined, per calendar year. legal advice | When faced with a legal dilemma, this service provides practical and current interpretations of company, partnership, taxation and insolvency law, plus all relevant aspects of common and civil law. accounting advice | When the numbers don’t add up, advice from a professional enables owners and managers to strengthen management and control functions through expert counsel. specialized human resource services | When facing a technical human resource issue, from termination processes and overtime pay to legislative/labour law concerns, this service provides you answers confidentially, via telephone.

HuMan reSource coacHing

Confidential telephone coaching helps address a wide range of challenging people issues, including performance management, absenteeism, conflict and difficult behaviour.

for emPloyees When an employee is consistently absent from work, or underperforming, there is a strong probability a personal issue is the cause. Owners now have the resources available to help employees deal with situations affecting performance, through face-to-face counselling with a trained professional.

The Chambers Plan bas is a free serviCe builT inTo eaCh Chambers Plan emPloyee benefiT Program. you will inCur no ouT-of-PoCkeT exPenses when aCCessing These serviCes, nor are you required To submiT any Claim forms.

for more information on what the Chambers Plan can do for you, contact us today.

robert Jack | Jack insurance & financial services rob@jackinsurance.ca | Phone: 250.383.9866 | fax: 250.383.6241 #201, 1137 yates street, victoria, bC v8v 3n1

18 BUSINESSMATTERS

For every large project such as these, there are a number of smaller developments including single family homes and three-four unit infill developments that continue to fuel the economy and needs of our community.

The core area of the region has been the site of considerable high-density urban development. The most notable addition in the last few years has been the Uptown shopping centre valued at $291 million...

With every development, the economic impact continues well after construction.

If the project is a single family home the new owners inevitably purchase new appliances, furniture, carpets, lamps, landscaping and the like.

The commercial owner/tenant does the same when setting up offices; purchasing desks, carpets, lamps, appliances, etc. The estimated value of consumer spending for each house sale is over $19,000.

Municipality

2013 Building Permits

Central Saanich Colwood Esquimalt Highlands Langford Metchosin North Saanich Oak Bay Saanich Sidney Sooke Victoria View Royal Other

$22,680,000 $13,377,136 $10,375,000 $2,830,612 $67,174,103 $2,760,892 $20,809,663 $32,015,000 $214,618,000 $9,203,000 $19,897,000 $122,980,000 $20,505,990 $46,118,497

Total

Development is big business providing significant economic activity in our region. It supports household sustaining jobs, a network of suppliers that are key to a thriving economy and a number of service providers

$605,344,893

and retailers. Most importantly developments provide homes and communities that foster a vibrant community.

Mentorship Program Where emerging business leaders need to be.

I encourage anyone Get connected with Victoria’s prominent business and community leaders to advance your profession while developing career enhancing relationships.

The opportunity is here to advance your career with the Prodigy Group.

serious about advancing their profession to take advantage of this program. The value for both mentees and mentors is significant at all levels of one’s career development.

Ian Batey, Principal IPB Consulting Services

For more information visit us at prodigygroup.ca

BUSINESSMATTERS

19

Chamber’ e Th Inaugural s

LEGACY

Ball February 28, 2015

Tickets on Sale as of December victoriachamber.ca or 250-383-7191

Thank you to our sponsors, members and guests for making this event a sucess!

OCTOBER

Marketplace Mixer

20 BUSINESSMATTERS

CALENDAR of EVENTS November

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Prodigy Group November Mingle Date: Thursday, November 13 Time: 5:00 – 7:00 pm Location: Madrona Gallery November Business Mixer Date: Thursday, November 20 Time: 5:00 – 7:00 pm Location: Camosun College (Interurban Campus) 32nd Annual Dinner Auction Gala Date: Saturday, November 22 Time: 6:00 – 10:30 pm Location: The Union Club of British Columbia Industry Tour: Times Colonist Date: Thursday, December 4 Time: 10:30 – 12:00 noon Location: Times Colonist

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Don’t wait for it to happen.

Prevent it.

Protect your investment Deter break ins, theft, vandalism Quick order and install time Peace of mind

Business Awards Nomination Information Session Date: Tuesday, December 16 Time: 8:00 – 9:00 am Location: The Chamber Holiday Office Closure The Chamber office will be closed from Thursday, December 25, 2014 to 8:30 am, Monday, January 05, 2015

Do you want to host a Chamber event in 2015?

Contact our Events Manager Oriane Fort ofort@victoriachamber.ca

SECURITY WINDOW FILM • BOLLARDS • SWING GATES FOLDING GRILLS AND GATES • SECURITY BARS PH. 250.361.4714 TF. 1.800.563.5558 INFO@PACIFICROLLSHUTTERS.COM 2-2745 BRIDGE STREET, VICTORIA PACIFICROLLSHUTTERS.COM

BUSINESSMATTERS

21

Photo courtesy of Abstract Developments Inc.

Why Development?

A few months ago I was talking to someone about where wealth comes from in cities (exports lead to consumer spending) and the role that this plays in maintaining quality of life. The person asked me, “What about the harmful carbon footprint of exporting?”

A valid question of course, but what was interesting is she had her smartphone in her hand while asking this. The reality is that if you are against exports because of carbon footprint; then you are against imports for the same reason. If we want to buy smartphones (which aren’t made locally) then we need wealth creation in order to have the means of buying these imported goods. This means we need to export.

22 BUSINESSMATTERS

The same is true for development. We simply cannot complain about local taxation increases and also be against development. It will always be more expensive to run a municipality next year than it was this year. This means that municipalities must find a way to balance this increase with either tax and fee increases and/or new forms of revenues. Developments represent the new revenue that we all need to ensure fiscal survival.

Types of development The call for new development does not mean we need to pave paradise so we have room to park our SUVs. Rather it means we take a long-term look at our region’s growth projections and figure how we can best align Official Community Plans to get good use of our available space, while also being attractive to developers. This means a constant pursuit of mixed use, diverse options, and reuse of the old.

Mixed use Perhaps the biggest mistake we ever made in North America is that we designed all of our cities for cars instead of people. We decided that

How we can best align Official Community Plans to get good use of our available space, while also being attractive to developers? business should be done downtown and that people should live in suburbs.

We were so encased within this paradigm that to even suggest an alternative was to deny the America Dream (or Canadian Dream?). Well, times have changed. The price of oil combined with global environmental movements have led many members of the Millennial generation (the largest cohort since the baby-boomers) to be less interested in cars. And more interestingly, they demand more from their city environments (i.e., multimodal transit options, live/work space, micro-lofts downtown, etc.). In order

to align our city to the needs of this generation—and let’s face it, others too!—we have to continue to embrace mixed-use development throughout the region.

Diverse options Can someone please tell me why the Hudson Mews was the first large-scale brand-new rental accommodation built in the last thirty years? Greater Victoria has tremendous potential to become an even more robust high-tech hub than it is today. Believe it or not, this means we have to create a city that caters to people from all walks of life, not just tech workers. Why? Because truly remarkable high-tech cities are highly diverse. They are places where artists collide with entrepreneurs. Ask anyone from San Francisco about their current challenges. San Francisco has become less diverse than it was when two guys named Hewlett and Packard started Silicon Valley.

This diversity will come not through tearing down entire neighbourhoods in the name of development, but rather, building out density over time and setting the environment for diverse types of development: rental, condo, townhouse, commercial—and preferably a “mixed use” flavour to all of these.

...truly remarkable hightech cities are highly diverse. They are places where artists collide with entrepreneurs.

However, if we under-develop (and this is true for all aforementioned diverse options) real estate prices will rise too fast which will in turn scare away emerging entrants to the workforce (and thus businesses will no longer be competitive). Development can only really happen sustainably if a city is developing economically. New jobs = demand for office space, demand for housing, demand for consumer goods, thus need for more commercial space, etc.

...call for neighbourhoods to have a healthy mix of new and old buildings.

In a region that is surrounded by water on three sides and the Malahat on the other, we need to encourage density.

Fuel all of the above with job creation

More holistic economic development must enter this picture as well.

Economic development (not to be confused with real estate development) is about setting forth an agenda for job creation and increasing household incomes—led by the private-sector. Ideally, if we have healthy and sustainable economic growth, an “equilibrium” will occur in Dallas Gislason the market where developers stay Economic Development Officer, 14.VictoriaChamberAd AM Page 1Greater Victoria Development Agency slightly ahead of the14-10-01 demand11:00 curve.

Serious Money OB MODEL PORTFOLIO VS S&P/TSX TOTAL RETURN INDEX $8,000,000

OB Model Portfolio 15.9%* $4,000,000

S&P/TSX Total Return Index 9.3% $2,000,000

Reuse of the old Perhaps my favourite thought-leader on city economies (and I’m not alone!) is Jane Jacobs. In the 50s and 60s she offered the anti-thesis to suburban sprawl; but more than that, she was the first to offer ‘anthropologic’ insights into how cities behaved. Amongst her many highly respected contributions to urban planning is her call for neighbourhoods to have a healthy mix of new and old buildings. In a region that is surrounded by water on three sides and the Malahat on the other, we need to encourage density.

As I’ve already suggested, future generations seem more in touch with this philosophy anyways, why not be prepared?

$1,000,000 $500,000 $250,000 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14

Balance. Diversification. Risk management. The unending search for opportunity.

When you are ready for disciplined portfolio management, with a singular focus on meeting your long-term objectives, Call us.

Contact Branch Manager Peter Jando at 250-952-7777.

Visit odlumbrown.com for more information. * Compound annual returns are from inception December 15, 1994 to September 15, 2014. The Model was established by the Research Department in December 1994, with a hypothetical investment of $250,000. Trades are made using the closing price on the day a change is announced. These are gross figures before fees. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

BUSINESSMATTERS 23

A Winning Combination “Best Workplaces 2014, Best Workplaces 2013, Best Workplaces 2012…”. For the past six years Grant Thornton has been selected as one of the top places to work in Canada. A leading Canadian accounting and business advisory firm, Grant Thornton provides audit, tax and advisory services to private and public organizations across Canada.

Melissa Thimot, a Camosun College Business Accounting co-op student had the opportunity to work in the Small Business unit of their Edmonton office and used technical skills acquired at Camosun to prepare financial statements and tax returns for clients. A strong supporter of the co-op program and Grant Thornton, Melissa quickly saw the cost-benefit of co-op, “the cost of extending my degree was outweighed by the benefit of the experience”.

uvic.ca/hireacoop

250.721.7628

24 BUSINESSMATTERS

Jenny Pon, Principal – Independent Business Group, at the Edmonton office, likes the opportunity the co-op program gives to try out students as potential longterm employees. She can tell after the first work term if there is compatibility and can set up a second work term before the student returns to school. As Jenny explained, this allows Grant Thornton to, “build our growth as a team” and is one of the reasons why it is voted a best workplace not just once, but six times in a row.

Find out for yourself what a co-op student can do for your business.

Visit the co-op website or call 250-370-4410.

Co-operative Education and Student Employment www.camosun.ca/cese 250.370.4100

It’s simple.

Hire a student.

See results.

Contact us today to hire a student.

NEW MEMBERS: Aug 8th - Oct 9th Aurinia Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Aurinia is a late stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of its novel therapeutic immunomodulating drug candidate, voclosporin, for the treatment of lupus nephritis.

(250) 744-2487 www.auriniapharma.com

BlueSky Properties Inc.

BlueSky is a Vancouver developer that refuses to be boxed in. We’re busy creating everything from rental apartments to commercial buildings to high-style residences in some of the city’s most important neighbourhoods.

(604) 299-2583 blueskyproperties.ca

Bosa Properties Inc.

Since 1961, Bosa Properties have earned a reputation for hard work, fair-dealing, and a principled adherence to quality. Remarkable people building for generations.

(604) 299-1363 www.bosaproperties.com

Claudia Walker and Associates

We’re a boutique occupational therapy practice which specializes in client centred services. With 14 years of experience in preparing opinions regarding disability, function and care we provide therapy and consulting services Island wide.

(250) 884-3958

Chamber members listen to Frank Bourree’s address at the Chair’s Breakfast.

Inspired Results Group

We pride ourselves on continuous learning and use coaching, facilitation and speaking to impact the world. We are focused on getting results for our clients with leadership, teamwork and life coaching services that inspire action, change and growth.

(250) 590-3682 inspiredresultsgroup.com

Living From Power

Living From Power supports the growth and development of new skills, models and perspectives that produce breakthrough results in the lives of those we work with.

(250) 532-9959 www.livingfrompower.com

TD Canada Trust can help with your business banking needs

Grounds 4 Design

Grounds 4 Design’s quest is to make not only the immediate outdoor spaces, but also the inside-outside transitions, as inviting as possible.

(250) 721-9148 www.grounds4design.com

Small Business Advisors servicing your community.

Hendry Swinton McKenzie Insurance Services

Hendry Swinton McKenzie’s knowledgeable insurance team will work closely with you to review your corporate insurance requirements and provide protection for your business assets.

(250) 940-9413 www.hsminsurance.com

Trisha Thame 3675 Shelbourne St. Victoria 250-405-5260, ext. 256 trisha.thame@td.com

Holobod Systems Inc.

Holobod leverages the latest in augmented reality systems and brings that technology into the world through valuable products.

The first, Holobod : Homes, creates a truly interactive real estate experience for potential buyers.

(250) 661-2781 www.holobod.com

Cheryl Duff 1080 Douglas St. Victoria 250-356-4018, ext. 240 cheryl.duff@td.com

Shawn Johnson 2406 Beacon Ave. Sidney 250-655-5244, ext. 230 shawn.d.johnson@td.com

Banking can be this comfortable ®/

The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank or a wholly-owned subsidiary, in Canada and/or other countries.

BUSINESSMATTERS 25

NEW MEMBERS: Aug 8th - Oct 9th Miracle-Ear

Miracle-Ear is your trusted source for expert, compassionate hearing health care services, with access to a full line of digital hearing aids and accessories from leading manufacturers.

(250) 388-5204 www.miracle-ear-victoria.ca

My Helpful Companion

Friendly, reliable and professional, we have been making a difference in the lives of seniors requiring support to remain as independent as possible. Our services include: accompanying, reading, music, drives, walks, appointments, errands, & shopping.

(250) 588-9697

OPA! of Greece - Mayfair Chamber Members mingling at the August Chamber Mixer hosted at Fireside Grill.

McDonald’s Restaurants

Today, McDonald’s Canada is proud to be one of the world’s leading foodservice retailers. From coast to coast, we serve delicious choices to more than 2.5 million people in over 1,400 locations every day.

(250) 514-9174 www.mcdonalds.ca

McLean IT Consulting Inc.

Big IT for small businesses. Computer technicians ready for onsite and remote desktop support, consulting, network design, systems and vendor management. Your focus should be on your business and clients.

Leave the technology to us.

(250) 412-5050 mcleanit.ca

Located in Mayfair Mall, OPA! Of Greece is Canada’s favorite Greek restaurant. We are known for offering our customers better, higher quality Greek/Mediterranean cuisine.

(250) 590-4344 opasouvlaki.ca

Orkin Canada

Canada’s largest pest control service provider and the leader in integrated pest management services.

(250) 382-1222 www.orkincanada.ca/locations/britishcolumbia/victoria

Photonic Public Relations

WHEN you lovE food, it starts aNd ENds WitH us. find the foods that suit your lifestyle. organic.

Gluten free. locally produced. vegan. Whatever you’re after.

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

26 BUSINESSMATTERS

Photonic Public Relations leverages solutions and strategies to help align new and established businesses towards growth.

(250) 516-1406 photonicpr.com

PR4Good

PR4Good is a local company providing a broad range of communications services including: strategic communications, social media and media relations planning and advice, writing, editing, website content development & related communications services.

(250) 812-8209 pr4good.ca

Swe et!

Prancing Horse Express Autobody Centers Prancing Horse Autobody is the premier collision repair facility in Victoria for all makes and models of vehicles. We provide quality repairs and great customer service to get your car back to its pre-accident condition.

(250) 361-3411 www.prancinghorseautobody.ca

NEW MEMBERS RSG Resource Solutions Group

Resource Solutions Group is an experienced and well established recruitment partner that helps businesses to reach effective and quality solutions to their resourcing challenges.

(250) 294-3414 www.resourcesolutions.ca

Rusty Neon Signs

Rusty Neon Signs Ltd… your one-stop custom neon & electric sign shop. Rusty Neon is a full service electric sign & lighting company, proudly serving the wholesale and retail marketplace.

(250) 888-7446 www.rustyneonsigns.com

TOPS - Take Off Pounds Sensibly

TOPS offers tools and programs for healthy living and weight management, with exceptional group fellowship and recognition.

TOPS’ mission is to support our members as they take off—and keep off—pounds sensibly.

(250) 742-1851 www.tops.org

Trilennium Solutions Inc.

We acquire and integrate companies. To do this, we use our proven and proprietary strategic methodology called CMRTM for mergers, acquisitions and financing.

(250) 812-7790 trilennium.info

WES-CO Solutions Inc.

Small business IT that focusses on your needs and making sure your systems work so you can too. Taking care of technology so that you can take care of business.

(250) 744-6940 www.wes-co.ca

Visit victoriachamber.ca to learn more about our new members.

Log in on our website to update your directory listing, add a special offer, post a community calendar event, or sign up for an upcoming Chamber event!

Samuel Mercer Consulting

Management consulting based on 14+ years in business-to-business dealing, mainly in the biopharmaceutical industry in the UK, Switzerland, Canada, & USA. I specialize in strategic outsourcing of services, technology, & business processes.

(250) 884-7774 sammercer.com

Self-Heal Herbs

Self-Heal Herbs provides the Victoria area and all of Canada, thanks to our shipping service with high-quality medicinal herbs, tinctures and essential oils renowned for their quality, freshness and purity.

(250) 383-1913 www.selfhealherbs.ca

Sons of Scotland

At the Sons of Scotland, we preserve and promote Scottish heritage and culture in Canada. As a fraternal association we provide social activities for our members and encourage involvement in our communities.

(250) 652-5773 www.sonsofscotland.com

State of Mind Counselling

State of Mind is a counselling practice specializing in helping individuals and couples manage the stress and challenges associated with relationships, work, study and life-transitions.

(250) 858-7339 www.stateofmindvictoria.com

Therapeutic Edge Integrated Physiotherapy

Don’t stall on cleaning out your catch basins.

Catch basins are designed to prevent parking lot pollutants, like oil, from entering our waterways and ocean. If you own a property with a large parking lot or other paved surface it likely contains a catch basin. If it is not regularly maintained it can back up and release pollution to the environment, or cause flooding.

Make sure to clean out your catch basin every year.

For more information visit: www.crd.bc.ca/catchbasin

Our team of therapists is committed to providing you with thorough examinations and comprehensive treatment programs designed to get you back in the game, doing the things you love as quickly as possible.

(250) 385-5853 therapeuticedge.ca

BUSINESSMATTERS 27

Industry profile:

Serious Coffee In a nutshell: Serious Coffee first opened its doors in 1994 and in 20 years has grown to 25 cafés across Vancouver Island. The Chamber sat down with Dave Goudy from Serious Coffee to learn more about this Islandgrown business. # of Employees: over 200 Industry Sector: Food and beverage Area of Town: All over Vancouver Island Primary Product/Service: Damn fine coffee How would you describe Serious Coffee in 30 words or less?

Serious Coffee is an Island company,

2014 is our 20th year in business and we still roast our beans only when ordered, not before, keeping true to our roots.

What is the best part about doing business in Greater Victoria/ Vancouver Island?

The best part about doing business on the Island is the people. I was born and raised here myself, and it has always been about the local people and local businesses. Whenever possible, we try to purchase products and services from fellow Island businesses. For example, our head office is in Duncan so we purchase all our office supplies from Monk Office, because Monk is an Island company. Also, I often go to the Chamber’s Business directory if I’m looking for some type of service

CEDAR HILL

NOW BOOKING CHRISTMAS PARTIES!

 Flexible seasonal menus starting from only $32  Waived room rental for Chamber Members ($500 value)  Free parking and close to downtown 1400 Derby Rd | Victoria | 250.475.7150 www.saanich.ca

28 BUSINESSMATTERS

outside of Duncan, where I don’t already have a contact.

What is the best thing Serious Coffee is doing for Greater Victoria/ Vancouver Island?

Serious Coffees cafés are franchised, so the owners have a good idea of how to give back to their community.

We give back and support groups through our fundraising packages, donations, sponsorships, bursaries and more. We don’t normally give big donations or sponsorships, because we like to spread our donations throughout the whole Island but we try to do as much as we can. Sometimes we’ll do different things, like several years ago we did a special roast for the Tour de Rock and for Jeneece Edroff when she was raising money to build Jeneece Place.

What is your favourite thing about working at Serious Coffee?

Shawna Powell, the manager at our Broad Street café is better able to answer this question from the perspective of someone who is in the café every day. She has kindly shared her experience, “I like interacting with the public, from the young to the old and people from all around the world because of our location downtown.

It’s all about establishing relationships with the customers because they really appreciate the small things like remembering their names and their orders. One time we had a regular customer bring the staff flowers! It’s the little things that my co-workers and customers do that make this job great.”

Do you have a special memory while working at Serious Coffee that really stands out?

We actually had a marriage proposal at one of our stores! The future groom planned a scavenger hunt that ended up at Serious Coffee. He met with our staff beforehand and asked us to direct her to a certain seat so he could propose to her. It was pretty special to witness, and of course she said yes!

How has Serious Coffee changed from when you started working here?

Back in 1994 we rolled the dice and opened a café where we roasted the beans right in the store because we knew that we wanted to serve the freshest coffee possible. We didn’t know how people would respond to our unique approach but thankfully, people loved our beans and it took off. The biggest difference between now and then is simply the number of cafés we have opened. Our original philosophy and commitment to only serve the best tasting and freshest coffee possible remains the same. Anyone can brew a fresh pot of coffee but if they are using old beans that have been roasted weeks if not months before, it isn’t going to taste good. We always want to serve our guests the truest expression of freshness so we do our best to change and grow while remaining true to the cornerstone upon which our company is built.

What are 3 things few people know about Serious Coffee?

We roast our own coffee right here in Duncan and only after we receive an order, nothing is roasted and warehoused like most other large companies do.

Every aspect of our company is locally owned and operated by Islanders.

Our method of roasting, called airroasting, is dramatically different than the usual drum-roasting method used by nearly every other coffee company.

It works like a hot air popcorn maker causing the beans to pop as they roast and because they are blown around by hot air, they don’t get that burnt aftertaste that is associated with a lot of coffees. No matter how dark the beans are roasted, they won’t taste or smell burnt. This surprises people tasting our dark roasts for the first time; turning them into diehard Serious Coffee fans.

How does Serious Coffee come up with the specialty coffee drink names?

Drew Silvey, our quality control and coffee guru, has three ways of doing

this: by getting an idea for a flavour, picking up a trend in the food and beverage world, or making up a name that will inspire him to create a drink to go along with the title. From there, he figures out the flavour profile to make sure it will work and taste as best as possible. There’s a lot of work that goes into ensuring that all of the components put into a specific drink will consistently taste good no matter which café makes it.

owners, we’re still here and plan to be around for a long time to come.

Are there any other fun facts about Serious Coffee we should know about?

Every Serious Coffee is meant to reflect its surrounding neighbourhood right down to the artwork on the walls, so you won’t find any two that look the same. Though this is not considered to be the proper way to showcase a company’s brand, we feel that our cafés are an extension of their local community and as such need to have the look and feel that best represent those living in the area. Be sure to check out our various locations and see for yourself how different they look.

Each unique Serious Coffee all share the same quality and friendliness.

What is Serious Coffee proudest of?

We are proudest of the fact that our fellow Islanders continue to support us.

Without their loyalty and enthusiasm we wouldn’t be where we are today. There aren’t too many companies who have managed to stay exclusively on the Island and continue to grow. Thanks to our customers, wonderful staff and café

CEOs want you there on time. CFOs want you there on budget.

Keep them both happy.

Relax. YYJ Shuttle has your airport drive covered. Our shuttles are new, our pickup times are convenient, plus our low fares from $20 makes it an affordable choice.

(Is that your CFO clapping?)

THE AFFORDABLE CHOICE

yyjairportshuttle.com 778.351.4995 A

WILSON’S

COMPANY

BUSINESSMATTERS 29

Advocacy in Action The Chamber is the voice of business in Greater Victoria.

In regular meetings with MPs, MLAs, and local mayors and council, The Chamber is a strong advocate for business initiatives and policies in the community.

Member Survey Results We would like to thank all our members that took the time to fill out our annual member survey. Every year we survey our members to gain a better understanding of which issues are most important to them and their businesses. The results of the survey will assist the 2015 Board in their November planning session for the upcoming year.

We asked members to select statements that best reflect their opinions on a variety of issues facing our region. We also provided two opposing views on each issue to better gauge these views. The top three supported issue statements were:

The majority of our members feel strongly about the impacts of panhandling and homelessness on our business community and that more needs to be done to ensure these impacts are mitigated for the overall benefit of the community.

traffic congestion, and regional cooperation. These areas emerged out of two surveys The Chamber conducted. The Chamber will ensure that these priorities are addressed in the new municipal term. Remember to vote, advocacy starts at the ballot box.

Sewage An Essential Service: 51%

Canadian Chamber AGM

The sewage treatment facility needs to be completed as a region.

In September, The Chamber along with chambers from across Canada attended the annual Canadian Chamber AGM in Charlottetown, PEI. At this year’s AGM The Chamber won national support for two policies.

As one of the top three priorities identified, our members feel that the sewage treatment facility should be completed as a single project.

This statement was contrasted with arranging and delivering the service by individual municipalities, which received only 10 per cent. Results clearly identified that members do not agree with the “go it alone” strategy for sewage treatment.

Please visit our website at www.victoriachamber.ca for more detailed results.

The first policy, Increase Apprenticeship Completions in the Skilled Trades, is aimed at addressing our skilled trades shortages.

Specifically, this policy looks to improve completion rates in trades, which is currently at 54 per cent.

Policy recommendations include the federal government create incentives for employers to retain apprentices at any level, currently incentives are only offered to employers that hire and train first and second year apprentices.

A Winning Combination Budget Consultation

The Chamber took part in the Budget The second policy, Ensuring Amalgamation: 71 % 2015 2013, Consultations thatJenny werePon, heldPrincipalViability – Independent Business Group, at “Best Workplaces 2014, Best Workplaces Best and Safety in Our National Victoria on September The office, Airports calls on federal the15th.

Edmonton likes theSystem, opportunity thethe co-op Workplaces 2012…”. For the past sixinyears Grant Amalgamation of all 13 municipalities outlined financial priorities a new airport program gives to trygovernment out studentsto ascreate potential longThornton selected one ofChamber the top places is the only way tohas getbeen things done as and for the Capital region that included divesture program andwork allocate term employees.

She can tell after the first term to work in Canada.

A leading Canadian accounting address issues that are regional in BC Ferries, Belleville terminal, sewage appropriate funding.

This policy if there is compatibility and can set up a second work was provides nature.and business advisory firm, Grant Thornton treatment, labour supply, workforce created in response to Transport term before returns to school.a As Jenny audit, tax and advisory services to private and labour public settlements housing, and the student Canada’s indicating desire to divest This result is not surprising as explained, this allows Grant Thornton to, “build our but has organizations across Canada. infrastructure investments.

The issues itself of the harbour aerodrome amalgamation has been a Chamber growth as ato team” and is one of the reasons why it is identified are of great importance no funding. priority for overThimot, 100 years; it speaks to Melissa a Camosun College Business our members as well asvoted the community a best workplace not just once, but six times in the concerns that members still have Accounting co-op student had the opportunity at large. to Airports are a key economic asset a row. regarding our fragmented region. work in the Small Business unit of their Edmonton not only to the national transportation Municipal Priorities but also to thecan communities Find out for yourselfsystem what a co-op student do for office and used technical skills acquired at Camosun Homelessness and Panhandling: 56% where they are located. It is also your business. to prepare financial statements and tax returns for Theprogram Chamber launched its Municipal essential for the community that there clients. A strong supporterare of the and Homelessness and panhandling a co-op Priorities for the 2014 Election at the is certainty over air transportation, Visit the co-op website or call 250-370-4410.

Grant Thornton, Melissavibrancy quickly saw the cost-benefit major deterrent to economic October Chair’s Breakfast. Priority as well as affordability and long-term and a social travesty.

More to my degree of co-op, “the cost of needs extending was keeping our streets safe areas include sustainability with a sensitivity to local be done to prevent by panhandling outweighed the benefit and of the experience”. and welcoming, ensuring tax increases interests. homelessness. remain within our means, reducing

uvic.ca/hireacoop

250.721.7628

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Co-operative Education and Student Employment www.camosun.ca/cese 250.370.4100

It’s simple.

Hire a student.

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Contact us today to hire a student.

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“We’ve been loading tankers safely here for sixty years.”

- Bikram Kanjilal, Consultant Marine Development

Trans Mountain has been operating at Westridge Terminal for six decades without a single spill from tanker operations, due in part to the stringent precautions we put in place. Close collaboration between Pilotage Authorities, Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard and Port Metro Vancouver ensures vessels navigate our waters safely, guided by highly qualified local pilots.

• Tankers are held to strict, internationally accepted build and operating standards.

• Any vessel proposing to visit Westridge must go through pre-screening and physical inspection.

• Only double hulled tankers of modern design are accepted.

• The Canadian Coast Guard monitors every vessel’s passage.

• All employees are trained in operations, safety and emergency response procedures.

• All vessels have a boom enclosure throughout loading operations.

• Two local pilots on board loaded tankers during every movement.

• Tug escorts are required to accompany all laden tankers.

• Dedicated local marine-based spill response organization, WCMRC, ensures quick action in the event of a spill.

• Marine spill response will be enhanced.

For more information, go to blog.transmountain.com Operating safely in your community since 1953.

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