JUNE 2021 BUSINESS EXAMINER VICTORIA

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June 2021

PEPPER’S FOODS INVESTS IN COMMUNITY FOR A WINNING FORMULA - 16 Cory Davits, General Manager of Pepper’s Foods

RAYN PROPERTIES: FATHER-SON DUO BUILDING A FAMILY LEGACY IN BC – 14

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION ON THE RISE – 18

Life is short… let Praxis help you.

Serving businesses across BC Reach out to hello@praxisrecruitment.ca for a free 30 minute consultation.

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There is a lot to celebrate right now. Business is moving back to normal one step at a time, with the province sticking to its word - so far - on the phased re-opening plan.

Certainly there are industries like tourism and hospitality that are not yet out of the woods, but I am optimistic that changes in regional travel restrictions will provide the first step towards recovery for these sectors.

One bright spot in BC’s economy over this time is the construction sector’s wild ride. New projects, rising housing prices, skilled labour shortages, crazy demand, these are all symptoms of confidence in the future of the province and the stability that we have been blessed with.

People and businesses want to be here, and they are proving it with their spending.

This edition focuses on Women in Construction & Trades. This industry is growing, and it cannot reach its full potential without participation from everyone.

We are so pleased to tell you the great stories of organizations with female leaders, and the positive effects it is having on the industry.

Alongside this feature, we have great stories on Pepper’s Foods, Rayn Properties, and a whole lot more.

Keeping battling, we are nearly there.

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)

June 2021

6 NEWS UPDATE

9 WEST SHORE

12 CITIFIED

8 ADVISORY

10 GREATER VICTORIA

14 RAYN PROPERTIES

16 PEPPER’S FOODS

25 LOCAL 234

27 VAN ISLE WINDOWS

18 WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

26 DON MANN

28 AUXILIUM MORTGAGE

32 H.I. MECHANICAL

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34

AERO SERVICES

CHINOOK

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NORSE LOG HOMES LTD.

E.B. HORSMAN

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

40 OPINION

43 MOVERS AND SHAKERS

NEWS UPDATE

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VICTORIA’S UNWAVERING HOUSING

PHASE 1 OF HARM REDUCTION INITIATIVE

A total of 1,049 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this May, 129.5 per cent more than the 457 properties sold in May 2020, but 6 per cent fewer than the previous month of April.

Sales of condominiums were up 200.9 per cent from May 2020 with 325 units sold. 1.8 per cent fewer condominiums sold in May 2021 than in the previous month of April. Sales of single-family homes were up 111.4 per cent from May 2020 with 537 sold. 4.8 per cent fewer single-family homes sold in May 2021 than in the previous month of April.

There were 1,450 active listings for sale on the VREB MLS at the end of May 2021, 43 per cent fewer properties than the total available at the end of May 2020 and just 4 properties fewer than the 1,454 active listings for sale at the end of April 2021.

The MLS Home Price Index benchmark value for a single-family home in the Victoria Core in May 2020 was $855,900. The benchmark value for the same home in May 2021 increased by 17 per cent to $1,036,100, a 3.9 per cent increase from the previous month of April.

The Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA) and its harm reduction team have completed the stakeholder engagement phase of their four-phase Tailgate Toolkit harm reduction initiative.

Phase 1 consisted of in-depth qualitative interviews with members of the Vancouver Island construction industry who had past or present experience of drug use or were in supervisory positions and responsible for implementing harm reduction measures within their company or organization.

Findings of the report highlighted the stigmatization of opioid use within the construction/ trades industry, while also describing the paths which led individuals towards substance use, such as self-medication for emotion or physical pain, and the culture of traditional masculinity and the barriers it creates when asking for help.

The stakeholder engagement report will inform VICA’s harm reduction team as they work with Island Health’s overdose response team to implement the next three phases of the Tailgate Toolkit.

Phase two of the Toolkit will be a training course for those in direct supervisory or frontline response positions which would cover recognizing substance use/impairment, mental health first aid, mental health, and substance use literacy with a focus on having effective and supportive conversations, a more thorough summary of services available, and naloxone trainer training.

To view Phase 1 report, click here.

June 2021

NEWS UPDATE

GREATER VICTORIA PICNICS AND PATIOS CONTEST

NEW HOMES UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN SOOKE

VICTORIA – What’s better than enjoying a sumptuous meal on a South Island summer night?

How about having a local celebrity pick up your bill?

From June 8-30, the Picnics and Patios contest will see a few lucky restaurant patrons get their meal paid for by a representative from the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Victoria Business Association, Destination Greater Victoria, City of Victoria, BC Restaurant and Food Services Association – Victoria Chapter or Vancity.

To support the restaurant industry as we begin to emerge from the pandemic, representatives from the participating organizations will visit restaurants across the region on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays for the first-ever Picnics and Patios contest. Whenever possible, a local celebrity will be part of the visit to share the excitement and select a lucky diner.

Vancity (Vancouver City Savings Credit Union) — the lead sponsor of the Picnics and Patios contest — This summer, these restaurant partner organizations are asking locals and visitors to show support for Greater Victoria’s hospitality industry as we safely enjoy delicious food and drinks across the region. These businesses are pillars in our community, and are run by friends, families and neighbours.

Click here for more info!

SOOKE - Construction is underway on a new affordable rental housing project that will provide 170 homes for a wide range of people with varying incomes in Sooke.

Located at 2075 Drennan St. and 6418 Sooke Rd., the combined lots will support a five-storey apartment building with a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom homes. The project will provide housing for Indigenous peoples, people with low to moderate incomes and people with disabilities.

The project is being built in partnership between the Province, M’akola Housing Society, the federal government and the Capital Regional District (CRD) through the Regional Housing First Program. The provincial and federal governments and the CRD are investing approximately $10.2 million for the project, while the society is contributing approximately $2.3 million. In addition, the Province is contributing an additional $1 million to improve the affordability of the project.

As part of its funding contribution, the Province is purchasing 29 units in the building so they can be reserved and rented to people with low incomes at the shelter rate. The society will own the remaining 141 units, which will be rented below market rates, and will operate all 170 homes.

The building is expected to open in fall 2023.

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ADVISORY

HELP IS A CALL OR CLICK AWAY FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS

TRACIE ST. LUKE

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Have you had to pivot your business in these fast moving times? If so, you may find yourself doing things differently, including your business’s finances. From adopting online banking to introducing contactless payment options, these may pose a learning curve to business owners, requiring guidance from your financial institution. Fortunately, help can come to you, and not necessarily the other way around.

Your bank or credit union’s contact centre is an important resource to lean into—for product and services support but also education and helpful advice—beyond a brick and mortar branch. Even better, these experts are here for you when and how you need them, often with extended hours to fit your schedule.

As one of the managers of Coastal Community’s Island-based contact centre (or as we like to call, the Relationship Centre), I know how valuable it is for business owners to be able to pick up the phone or chat online with one of our experts. We’re increasingly finding our Relationship Centre is the primary contact for many local businesses to help them with their day-to-day banking, and then some.

Based on some of the common questions my team’s fielded recently, here are a few tips and tricks we’d like to pass on: 1. If your business sends or accepts things like e-Transfers, set up a separate business email address to avoid mixing business funds with personal. The Auto Deposit feature can also streamline things.

2. Check to see if your financial institution offers online banking made for businesses.

This version often comes with options that can help your bookkeeper or accountant.

3. Apply for a business credit card through the contact centre. You can give your office manager a card to make purchases and even set different card limits for different roles in the company.

One of our favourite things to hear from the people we assist is, “I didn’t know you could help me with that.” We want to break down the assumption that a bank or credit union’s contact centre is just for help with personal finances or minor things. At the Relationship Centre, we see ourselves as a seamless extension of our branches and insurance offices. To do this role justice, we offer the same helpful, proactive advice and strategies— just online or on the phone instead.

Tracie St. Luke is the manager of the Nanaimo-based Relationship Centre at Coastal Community Credit Union. You can reach her team by calling 1.888.741.1010.

June 2021

WEST SHORE

POLICY IN THE MIDST OF THE PANDEMIC: ROUND TWO

JULIE LAWLOR On May 28th-29th, for the second year running delegates from chambers and boards of trade across the province stayed in their home communities and met virtually for the BC Chamber of Commerce 69th Annual General Meeting & Conference.

“The event included the annual policy sessions where 70 policy resolutions, submitted by 24 Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade, were tabled, debated and voted upon. Sixty resolutions were approved and will be included in the BC Chamber’s 2021 Policy & Positions Manual, four were not approved and six were referred to the BC Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for consideration.”

Why this matters is because while COVID-19 has required a whole new set of supports and advocacy for business, the pre-COVID issues have of course not gone away. Policy development within the BC Chamber network takes place at a grass roots level, which means that policy is developed by chambers/ boards of trade to respond to a business issue.

This year policy was passed in a range of areas, including “Encouraging hiring by amending the Employer Health Tax,” “Enhanced push for intermunicipal mobile business licenses” and WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA

“Emergency medical services for British Columbia.”

Rather poignantly given the tragic discovery in Kamloops, another policy that was passed with input from chambers across the province including ours was “Creating a comprehensive action plan to build a sustainable business relationship with Indigenous Peoples.” This policy sets the framework for the work chambers and business can do to respond to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, specifically around recommendation 92.

The WestShore Chamber of Commerce was pleased to submit its first ever policy, “Empower Municipalities to Support Their Business Communities in Times of Crisis: Amending the Community Charter.” This policy was supported in advance by 12 other chambers from across the province, and after some lively debate and proposed amendments, it was passed. The Policy & Positions Manual will be available in early July, at which time you’ll be able to read about all of the policies that will be the BC Chamber network’s focus in engaging with the provincial government in 2021-22.

To further connect with the WestShore Chamber, you can sign up for our e-news on our “Contact Us” page or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

Julie Lawlor is Executive Director at the WestShore Chamber of Commerce.

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GREATER VICTORIA

UP, UP AND AWAY WITH THESE BUSINESS ‘PIVOT PILOTS’

10 BRUCE WILLIAMS

One of the silver linings of being CEO of The Chamber during a pandemic is having a front-row seat to innovation. The conversations I’ve had with hundreds of businesses over the past year have been amazing.

You can hear many of these great stories for yourself as part of our Chamber Chat vodcasts.

We have an entire series on Pivot Pilots — businesses that found ways to be successful by adapting to new rules and behaviours.

We also talk about the Recovery Runway — it’s a positive visual that expresses where our economy is at as we near the end of the pandemic. Our economy will takeoff as restrictions ease and people regain confidence to get out and celebrate their lives in public.

Here are a few highlights from what I’ve learned

from my conversation with Pivot Pilots.

Retail Innovations Small retail outlets that were able to quickly shift to appointment shopping have been successful. The unexpected benefits include no lineups of customers waiting for service, and a more engaged shopping experience as clients come in looking to make a purchase.

Many retail operations ramped up their online presence and, by offering to deliver products, most businesses were able to stay competitive against established digital goliaths such as Amazon.

Pivoting Products Some businesses were so successful with their adaptions that they actually expanded. Furniture and home décor outlets were popular as they catered to people working from home and spending more time around the house. Many restaurants expanded take-out and delivery models. Some, such as Big Wheel Burger, even opened new locations to meet demand.

Early in the pandemic, Starfish Medical switched its focus at the request of the federal government, helping with a made-in-Canada solution to supply 7,000 ventilators.

Camosun Innovation Centre developed capacity to manufacture custom trays that made it easier to ship vaccine vials.

Remote Work Realities Working from home requires creative use of living space. You might be surprised that the most important consideration — even more than your desk or lighting — is your chair. If you’re not comfortable, you’ll be less productive.

Employees Matter Care-home operators faced tremendous pressure throughout the pandemic, and they understood early how important it was to support staff.

June 2021

GREATER VICTORIA That translated into better support for residents and a stronger, safer community for everyone.

Many non-profit organizations have had to adapt their service delivery, especially those that rely on volunteers. Staff have had to wear even more hats than usual to keep their organization’s mission alive.

Virtual Connections A ban on travel led to an increase in virtual experiences as people enjoyed armchair travel or used the technology as a cool way to plan future vacations.

With local sports leagues shut down, CHEK created a new program for fans called The Upside.

It’s become one of the most successful features in the station’s history.

Streaming events helped arts groups compensate for the loss of live music and theatre, offering their patrons entertainment and raising revenue for musicians.

To hear these stories and many more yourself,

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go to VictoriaChamber.ca/chamberchats.

CHAMBER EVENTS: The Chamber Business Restart Series: Hon. George Heyman, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation and Hon. Shelia Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Tuesday, June 22, 12 – 1 pm Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce

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Citified.ca

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LANGFORD The third phase of condominiums at the award-winning #MyBelmont community is on track to start selling this summer. Following a successful pre-sales campaign for phase two – which began selling in early 2020 and is currently 94 per cent sold-out of its 85-suites – developer Ledcor Property Investments has announced an accelerated launch of 80 new homes in one and two-bedroom floorplans next to the Belmont Market shopping centre on Kelly Road at Reunion Avenue. Suite previews will start this summer.

The City has listed for sale 4.6-acres of municipal land along West Shore Parkway at the Trans Canada Highway which it hopes will fetch nearly $8 million. Offered for sale adjacent to a planned hotel and townhome project at the entrance to the Capital Region are two properties, one at 2885 West Shore Parkway and the other at 1365 Goldstream Avenue.

The parcels span from the southeast corner of the West Shore Parkway and Highway 1 intersection to the eastern perimeter of Goldstream Meadows Park, and south to Ed Nixon Trail near the terminus of Lake End Road at Goldstream Avenue. Bids are required to include development concepts.

SAANICH A rezoning of Gordon Head’s United Church property along the 4200-block of Tyndall Avenue is before the district as part of an affordable GREATER VICTORIA’S COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LEADER.

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homeownership proposal. Tri-Eagle Development Corporation and Cadillac Homes are pursuing approvals for an entry-level townhome and condominium project at 4201 Tyndall Avenue targeting families and first-time buyers. The current 60unit density concept is split into 36-condominiums within a trio of three-storey buildings, while 24-residences will be split between 12 three-bedroom family-sized townhomes above 12 ground floor strata-titled one-bedroom suites. The latter will rise as three buildings also standing three-storeys tall.

A two-building rental development has been proposed for Cloverdale Avenue at Alder Street in the district’s ‘core’ with a density ask of nearly 280 residential units. Saanich-based builder/developer and property management firm Woodsmere Holdings has unveiled plans for two eight-storey buildings (dubbed Rutledge Place Apartments) along the western perimeter of Rutledge Park in the 900-block of Cloverdale Avenue and the 3200-block of Alder Street southeast of the Cloverdale Avenue and Blanshard Street intersection.

To make way for the builds, Woodsmere has nine properties under contract that are currently comprised of single-family-homes, most of which date to the mid-20th century.

VICTORIA Chard Development’s newest homeownership R FOALE S

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June 2021

Citified.ca

A rendering of the upcoming third phase of condominiums at the #MyBelmont community on Victoria’s West Shore. 80 homes are planned in an initial release, following a successful pre-sales campaign for the project’s second phase known as Belmont Residences East. © Ledcor Property Investments

opportunity in Victoria has arrived at Nest, a 107-suite, 12-storey pre-sale offering at 1100 Yates Street. Nest’s collection of one, two and three-bedroom homes span from 480 square feet to just under 1,400 at price points starting in the low $400,000s.

Slated for completion by early 2024 at the Cook and Yates streets intersection, Nest will rise at the location of a single-storey commercial plaza adjacent to a five-storey office complex. Nest’s BC Housing-backed component, known as Haven, is launching soon with price points focused on firsttime purchasers.

Construction on a six-storey condominium and retail complex at the intersection of Hillside Avenue and Cook Street in the Oaklands neighbourhood is now underway. The 49-suite Sparrow project from Victoria-based Abstract Developments is one of the Capital’s first affordable condominium offerings with nine of its homes released under a partnership with BC Housing targeting first-time purchasers, while built-in efficiencies like lower underground parking capacity have maintained overall attainable price points.

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The culmination of six years of construction at the multi-phase Capital Park community is imminent as developers Concert and Jawl Properties target late summer occupancy of the project’s condominium component Capital Park Residences. Encompassing 113 one, two and three-bedroom condominiums and townhomes, the Residences (currently 75 per cent sold-out) span the tree-lined 500-block of Michigan Street as a trio of concrete buildings at heights of two, four and five-storeys. Earlier phases included two five-storey office buildings leased by the provincial government, and a mixed-use retail and rental low-rise.

The first phase of downtown Victoria’s multi-acre Harris Green Village project is on-track for a public hearing by year’s end, according to proponent Starlight Developments. Envisioned with five residential towers spanning the 900 and 1045-block of Yates and View streets (between Quadra and Cook streets), the proposal could add upwards of 1,500 units of rental housing to downtown Victoria and approximately 94,000 square feet of modern street-level retail space.

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FEATURE STORY

RAYN PROPERTIES: FATHER-SON DUO BUILDING A FAMILY LEGACY IN BC ROV AND ARJIN DOSANJH ELEVATE LUXURY LIVING AND CUSTOM HOME DESIGN TOGETHER

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VICTORIA - Started by Rov Dosanjh in 2007, Rayn Properties Ltd. was created with the hopes of building a proud legacy he could someday pass onto his children.

His years of working in the skilled trades provided the building blocks to pursue that dream.

“I first began learning the insand-outs of the industry in the late ‘80s, working alongside skilled family members, training in the basics of house building and framing,” recalls Rov. While he eventually secured a Founder Rov Dosanjh launched Rayn Properties in 2007, with his son Arjin full-time position at the Victoria coming aboard as Administrative and Financial Manager.

Police Department in the early ‘90s, he never lost his passion for the construcbuilding industry, but chose to dedicate himself tion industry, building houses here and there to getting a business degree first. each year in his free time. In the early aughts, “I graduated from the University of Victoria Rov and close friend Joe Samra created Dosam Gustavson School of Business program, with Developments, building several custom and spec the goal of understanding the backend works of homes in greater Victoria. Eventually, Rov was operating a small business,” explains Arjin.”I’ve ready to strike out on his own, with a focus on now taken the responsibility of managing procustom homes. Rayn Properties was born. jects while I continue to get direct experience Today, Rov is a general contractor, managing with the process of home-building working one-hundred percent of his projects from start with my dad.” to finish. A family business, Rov has the support Together, they have proved a formidable team of his son Arjin Dosanjh, who works as Rayn’s over the years, with multiple CARE awards wins Administrative and Financial Manager, as well under their belt and numerous other accolades as apprenticing as a project manager, absorbing and acknowledgments of their projects across the skills and industry knowledge of his father.

Vancouver Island. Both Rov and Arjin take pride Arjin grew up around the home industry in the work put in to earn Rayn’s reputation. thanks to time spent on job sites with Rov. He “Rayn Properties does more than just build a eventually developed a vision of working in the home from a set of plans,” elaborates Rov. “We

June 2021

FEATURE STORY

are there for our clients from the very beginning and guide them throughout the entire process from start to finish. We help clients locate an ideal property, explain financial expectations, provide professional references, assist in selecting materials and finishes, and work closely with them to build their dream home.”

Arjin elaborates.

“My father provides clients with honest opinions and suggestions based on his years of experience. Luxury homes are not necessarily about spending the most money. He believes there are many cost-effective ways to build a beautiful home and create an eye-catching product. He will educate his clients on the latest products and what will work best for their home and lifestyle, offering quality results without cutting corners.”

Congratulations to everyone at Rayn Properties from the ICL Team!

Rayn Properties provides these results for clients by also having strong, lasting relationships with their subcontractors, working together to meet and exceed client expectations. It’s a legacy they are proud of, particularly cementing that legacy in BC. Says Rov, “We are honoured and proud to live in this beautiful province, on this breathtaking island. We strive to build quality homes that fit into each of the surrounding communities.

We continually seek out new technological advancements in energy-saving and environmentally conscious construction methods to make sure what we build here never takes away from that beauty.” – http://raynproperties.com @raynproperties (Instagram)

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The Royalty Projects team would like to congratulate Rayn Properties on fourteen years of success!

New Home Builds to Commercial Renovations Phone: 250-888-9793 Email: info@royaltyprojects.com www.royaltyprojects.com

Congratulations

to Rayn Properties on an amazing fourteen years!

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OFF THE COVER

PEPPER’S FOODS INVESTS IN COMMUNITY FOR A WINNING FORMULA CORY DAVITS AND FAMILY PROVE AN INDEPENDENT GROCER CAN BE COMPETITIVE BC MARKET

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SAANICH - Pepper’s Foods has a long history full of personal relationships. Originally a Shop Easy owned by John Pepper, local butcher John Davits took the opportunity to buy the store when Mr. Pepper retired. Pepper’s has stayed in the Davits family for the last 30 years, with John’s son Cory Davits currently the grocer’s General Manager. The legacy of Pepper’s has only grown under the Davits’ clan.

“My father spent years working with the community, modernizing the store and pushing to support local vendors. We have a great team that’s like family to us. John Eldridge, our butcher, and Don Way, our grocery manager, have been with us over 25 years, and have played a huge role in mentoring me on my way from stock person to my current role. I’ve learned so much from working alongside them all, and it taught me the confidence to lead now that my father has moved into retirement.”

Over the years, Pepper’s has grown from the “little store down the hill” into a full-service, one stop grocery store, expanding the location to add a deli department and butcher shop, and giving them the opportunity to compete with much larger stores.

Pepper’s Foods won back-to-back National Gold Awards from the CFIG in 2004-2005, a milestone only achieved by Pepper’s as of this writing. Today, their hardworking staff of eighty employees continue Pepper’s winning ways,

most recently taking home a bronze medal at the 2020 Canadian Independent Grocer of the Year awards this past May for being one of the top stores under 15,000 square feet in the entire country. It is a testament to not only their service, but their deep integration into the Saanich community.

Elaborates Cory, “We’re lucky to have cultivated a true relationship within our community, we support them in any way we can and in turn they are very loyal and supportive of us. We try to stay ahead of the curve and remain modern while maintaining our intimate atmosphere which is what our customers are looking for from us. We’re small enough that we personally know all our staff, our customers and their families, which makes a huge difference in our ability to provide the best customer service.”

Being one of the only independent, full-service

June 2021

OFF THE COVER

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grocery stores left on the Island that has a single location, while coming with its own challenges, has also benefited Pepper’s in many ways. Their autonomy has allowed them to pivot quickly without dealing with corporate red tape, something Cory feels gives them an edge in a very competitive industry.

“Being independent allows us to support our local vendors who are just starting out. No artisan is too small for us to put on our shelves. It is the most satisfying part of the job knowing Pepper’s has been the launching pad for many island vendors to become successful in their own right. We feel this is uniquely Pepper’s ability.”

Beyond everything, Cory appreciates the lineage he’s been able to nurture and enjoy with those he cares for, both family and customer alike. It’s a privilege that is not lost on him.

“Over the last 35 years, the people at Pepper’s have been a family to me. I’ve worked with my father, my wife and daughter as well as my uncle. We’ve watched as some of our staffs’ children joined the team. We’ve sat in each other’s backyards, celebrated birthdays and weddings together. Pepper’s would not be as successful as it is without the feeling of family we have here.” www.peppers-foods.com

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WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

Photo courtesy of vicabc.ca1

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION ON THE RISE 18

35% INCREASE IN SECTOR PARTICIPATION, WITH PLENTY OF ROOM FOR MORE BRITISH COLUMBIA - The number of women working in construction trades in British Columbia has gone up a whopping 35 per cent over the past five years.

Yet that represents only 6.2 per cent of the actual workforce, a percentage that will undoubtedly improve in the years to come as women avail themselves of opportunities within the burgeoning sector, statistics released by the British Columbia Construction Association reveal.

The value of current construction projects in the province is $120 billion, with another $221 billion in proposed projects forthcoming.

There are currently 25,784 construction companies in BC, 92 per cent have less than 20 employees. That’s up five per cent over five years, and along with that, there is expected

Kathy Price of Knappett Projects Inc. is Chair of the VICA Women in Construction Committee

June 2021

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION CORI COUTTS

KATHY PRICE

NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION SAFETY OFFICER HEALTH AND SAFETY MANAGER VICA 2021 EDUCATION LEADERSHIP AWARD

BUILDING TECHNOLOGIST CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATOR VICA 2021 WOMAN IN CONSTRUCTION OF THE YEAR

These Women in Construction are some of the people in our company that make us who we are. Come work with us and join our team!

VANCOUVER ISLAND CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION 2021 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE SAFETY EXCELLENCE AWARD EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR SHERRY BAILOR

KESA WOODWARD

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WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

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WorkBC Centre - Sooke 250.642.3685

to be 26,806 construction job openings in the province due to retirements and expansion, and 11,331 construction jobs are anticipated to be unfilled due to labour shortages by 2030.

The average annual wage of construction employees is $63,168, and that number continues to climb, due to a combination of labour shortages and overtime opportunities resulting largely due to those labour shortages.

Kathy Price, Construction Administrator of Knappett Projects Inc., Chair of the Vancouver Island Construction Association Victoria Women in Construction Committee, points out there is plenty of opportunity now, and in the future, for women in the sector.

Things have changed, to the point where Price says “we’re not proving ourselves – we’re working.

“Today, nobody cares whether you’re a woman or not, they are interested in if you can do the job,” she notes. “They aren’t questioning capability. That’s part of old assumptions and belief systems, and it’s been proven that we can do it now. I think that’s an important milestone.”

Construction sector jobs are viable, and increasingly attractive, career opportunities.

“Even at the entry level,” she states. “The provincial minimum wage was recently increased to $15.20 an hour, but minimum wage in the field of construction is going to start at $18-$19 per hour. Who wouldn’t want those jobs? They can buy their cars, they can go to school, and there is funding to attend school is available for a woman that wants to go to trade school.”

Price has been in the industry since 1999, when she began working with construction projects

June 2021

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION at Home Depot.

“I remember back then it (women in the construction industry) was starting to be accepted, but now, when I tell people I work in construction, it’s only the most ignorant that ask: ‘Are you in reception?’ 5 or 10 years ago, if I told people I worked in construction, they thought I was the receptionist, as that was a female-dominated role.

“I have seen the difference in the attitudes, perceptions and receptions now. People don’t blink an eye when a woman says ‘I’m a carpenter’.”

Rachel Mayer, Office Manager of Island Aggregates, is a member of the VICA Nanaimo Women in Construction Committee, runs the scale house, dispatching trucks and weighing them in and out at their operation in south Nanaimo/Cassidy. She observes more women have

Left, Molly Taylor and right, Melissa Dupois, both soon to be Red Seal Electricians through VIU Trade School.

They are currently in their 3rd term working with Integrity Electric.

Victoria: 905 Fort St., Victoria BC V8V 3K3 Tel: 250-385-9786 Sidney: 2455 Beacon Ave., Sidney BC V8L 1X7 Tel: 250-656-1233

www.islandblue.com

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WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

0827746 BC Ltd. (DBA)

ADVANTAGE STEEL FABRICATING & WELDING

Structural Steel / Misc Metals Custom Metal Fabrication (Seismic, Industrial, Commercial)

Pat Hoskins

1345 Fisher Road, Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L0

Tel: 250 250--743 743--8981 Fax: 250-743-8962 Cell: 250 250--715 715--895 8951 1

Email: pat.advantagesteel@hotmail.com

22

Built to last.

joined the membership.

“The first few years I was here, there weren’t too many members, but it definitely has grown a lot in the last few years, and the awareness which is wonderful,” she says. “The goal is to reach out to everybody, in any part of construction.”

“It’s definitely growing more and more as the years go by, and that’s great to see.”

Price concurs, noting that VICA’s Women in Construction membership is not just for trades people.

“We like to remind people that when we say we want them to join us as a member, it’s all of them - the field engineer, the carpenter, the bookkeeper,” she adds. “We are all simply women working in the industry, and we stand together and work together to discuss all of the issues and reap the success.”

Programs like Camosun College’s Women in Trades program have encouraged more women to get involved in the industry.

“It is working, and that’s super,” she states, but adds that more women are also getting involved in engineering – civil, mechanical and electrical – as well. Opportunities abound.

“We need more people,” she adds.

A career in construction offers opportunities and challenges that will keep you growing for the long haul.

Travelers supports this industry and the dedicated, creative women who have made it their life’s work.

travelerscanada.ca © 2019 Travelers Canada. All rights reserved. Travelers and the Travelers Umbrella logo are registered trademarks of The Travelers Indemnity Company in the U.S. and other countries.

The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company, St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Company (Canada Branch), and Travelers Insurance Company of Canada are the Canadian licensed insurers known as Travelers Canada.

New 5-19

The average annual wage of construction employees is $63,168, up 8 per cent over 5 years June 2021

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

There are about 219,500 people employed in the construction sector in BC, which is down 3 per cent over the past 5 years

April was BC Construction and Skilled Trades Month, and Knappett Safety Manager Cori Coutts and the Victoria office field staff were honoured with a Leadership Award from the BC Construction Association and LNG Canada, which sponsored the awards.

Coutts oversaw the field team’s creation, implantation and maintenance of safe job sites during the COVID-19 pandemic, and Knappett has had no COVID-19 cases on its sites to date.

“For the first time in history, Knappett’s field staff were essential workers, and they were proud of it,” Price notes.

BCCA President Chris Atchison stated: “Congratulations to these deserving winners for their achievements in protecting the construction workforce. These awards showcase just a few of the thousands of individuals that kept our industry going through the pandemic, workers who understand the importance of both mental and physical safety and have acted under extreme pressure with integrity and professionalism.”

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We're better.

Let us tell you why.

WHAT WE DO:

• Painting (New and Repaint) • Residential and Commercial • Power Washing • Complimentary Estimates • Colour Consultations • Large Condominium Projects/Strata • Environmentally Friendly • Three year guarantee/Liability insurance

On-Line Zoom, Facetime, Skype Available.

Ability to quote square footage, photos and floor plans.

119-2455 Dollarton Hwy, North Vancouver, BC V7H 0A2

250-893-3806 • ProWorksVictoria.com

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

Region

Project Address

Project Type

Project Details

Owner/Contractor

Amount

Saanich

4537 Whispering Oak Dr

Residential new

SFD & suite

KSD Holdings Ltd

$800,000

Central Saanich

8150 Thomson Pl

Residential new

SFD

Maximilian Huxley Construction

$450,000

Sidney

2020 White Birch Rd

Multi-family add/alter

Balcony renewals

Method Eng & Building Services

$300,000

View Royal

244 Island Hwy

Multi-family new

Condominiums - 37 units

Resthaven Residences

$8,300,000

Langford

624 Strandlund Ave

Multi-family new

Townhouses - 3 units - 485 sm

Khataw Development

$1,017,000

Ladysmith

902 Ludlow Rd

Commercial new

Office & warehouse - 21,208 sf

Windley Contracting Ltd

$5,181,000

Nanaimo Applications

600 Ninth St

Multi-family new

Townhouses - 4 units

D Akers Property Solutions

$1,138,000

Nanaimo

6439 Portsmouth Rd

Multi-family add/alter

Interior alterations - 34 units

All Professional Trades Services

Parksville

463 Hirst Ave West

Multi-family new

Townhouses - 4 units

Tectonica Management

Port Alberni

10360 Bishop Dr

Residential new

SFD

Ryan Irg Construction

$661,000

Alberni/Clayoquot RD

10412 Marina Vista Dr

Residential new

SFD

M Mesic Construction Ltd

$233,000

Comox

2310 Guthrie Rd

Mixed-use dev

Townhouses - 6 units

Benco Ventures

Courtenay

3297 Eagleview Cres

Residential new

SFD

Candor Developments

$390,000

Campbell River

2251 Dalton Rd

Residential new

Duplex - 335 sm

Sturdi Construction

$613,000

Ucluelet

590 Marine Dr

Multi-family new

Triplexes - 6 units - 6,588 sf

AFC Construction

$909,000

$510,000 $1,800,000

$1,800,000

24

RTM Ltd. has always maintained an inclusive environment for women in trades. Being in a multi-faceted industry, there are many skills to learn and opportunities all of our workers have equal access to. We value and appreciate Women in Trades programs and their vital mission to create a better working environment for women pursuing careers in construction.

(Left to Right) Prized members of the RTM team, Sarah R. is a mason tender who is also learning building envelope. Sarah S. is a building envelope and flashing apprentice. Maria H. is a Red Seal Bricklayer/Stonemason. Emily A. (not shown) is also a mason tender.

250.478.3364 • info@emailrtm.com www.robtournourmasonry.com

June 2021

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

SAMPLER PROGRAM EXPOSES WOMEN TO TRADES OPTIONS VICTORIA – A decade ago, Camosun College created the Women In Trades Sampler program that exposes students to the variety of trades career options available.

It has been very successful, offering glimpses into skilled trades like carpentry, electrical, plumbing, automotive, sheet metal, welding, heavy duty mechanical and refrigeration. There are waiting lists for the program, which is filled with 18 students for three sessions each year.

Pipe Trades Instructor Andrea Durdle, who is also Co-chair of the Women’s Committee for United Association Local 324, has been teaching in the Camosun trades department for three years and has 15 years’ experience in the plumbing industry.

“The Women in Trades Sampler program allows students to explore eight different trades over a 12-week period, so they can choose which trade they might be more interested in,” says Durdle. “This is a government and Industry Training Authority (ITA) funded program for women to explore skilled trades options, and they are also provided with certificate training including fall protection, confined spaces and occupational first aid, along with help for preparing resumes and job preparedness.”

The program offers fully government-funded tuition for any Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in British Columbia that meets the program requirements, some of which are, being either currently precariously employed, wanting to improve their current job situation, or looking to obtain employment in a trade. They also offer programs for Indigenous people in trades, as well as co-ed youth programs for people aged 17-29 years.

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Andrea Durdle

Jim Noon

After completing the program, Durdle says most students either take the path of entering a Foundations pre-apprenticeship trades training program at Camosun immediately, or obtain work and work towards an apprenticeship.

The Foundation programs are 25-30 weeks in length depending on the trade, and include providing networking event opportunities for students to engage with mentors in the community.

“It gives students the ability to spend more time honing basic skills if they haven’t spent time in trades before,” Durdle states. “I think the most rewarding part for me is seeing students come back and do their second and third years, and seeing them really enjoying their career and succeeding.”

UA Local 324 Business Manager Jim Noon supports the program, stating: “We need to be a more inclusive workforce and we look forward to give equal opportunities to female candidates.

We offer a structured apprenticeship within the union which includes pay equity.” www.ualocal324.com

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FEATURE STORY

MCCLURE A GUIDING HAND AT FAMILY FIRM DON MANN EXCAVATING LTD.

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VICTORIA - As the daughter of Don Mann Excavating Ltd. founder Don Mann, the excavating world is simply part of Controller Marlene McClure’s DNA. At age 14, Marlene had summertime work as a flagger and recalls standing in as a laborer, helping her father lay a drain line. Soon summertime work became support for the bookkeeper and answering phones. After college she became a shareholder and in 1983, her brother Steve encouraged her to work full-time as a bookkeeper. As her bookkeeping experience grew, she was excited to transition the company’s books to computerized accounting software.

Marlene is proud that Don Mann Excavating Ltd. is a third-generation family run commercial and residential excavation contractor that sells its ability to move earth, deliver aggregate and other materials, install underground pipes, build roads and bridges.

“My father founded this business in 1947, starting off with a small farm tractor and he believed in hard work and doing a good job for his customers,” she states. “ Over 70 years later, employing a staff of over 120 employees, our company core values represent him well.

“They are: Safe: We are a safe company, where both employees and clients can count on us to go home safe every day; Humble: We have an attitude of gratitude and we remain calm even when it is tough to do so; Hard Working: We are hard-working people who solve the toughest problems, even when they aren’t ours; Principled: We do the right thing; and Professional: We bring our best to every interaction to make it a win-win situation.”

During her career, Marlene has been responsible for implementing three different financial software applications with the accounting team as the company’s needs grew. She continues to enjoy the challenge of implementing new

Don Mann Excavating Ltd.’s management team, with Marlene McClure at right

processes and Financial analysis tools (ER P). Her strong ability to comprehend financial documentation and systems and knowledge of key financial accounting software Marlene McClure is the and software best Controller at Don Mann practices make her a Excavating Ltd., founded by valuable asset to the her father, Don Mann management team.

Marlene gives three reasons for the company’s growth.

“We have a mind for growth,” she notes. “By maintaining good customer service, as the developers/builders grew and built more, we responded by purchasing more equipment to supply their demand.”

Key employees are an integral part of their success, plus the fact that Don Mann is community minded.

“While we have a great reputation for our services and workmanship, we also believe in supporting the community and giving back,” she adds. “We have contributed to local community sports teams and their projects and many of our executives and employees volunteer with local organizations.” https://donmann.com June 2021

FEATURE STORY

VAN ISLE WINDOWS KEEPS STRIVING FOR MORE AFTER FOUR DECADES IN BC VICTORIA - Since 1978, Van Isle Windows Ltd. has played an integral part in the renovation and new construction industries. Selling to Vancouver Island and Gulf Island customers, Van Isle Windows’ business consists of residential family home replacement and new construction, including multi-unit buildings. They’re an industry staple on the Island.

“In the early days, Van Isle manufactured single glazed aluminum windows,” explains General Manager Linda Gourlay, who joined the company in 2010. “Today, we are the largest custom vinyl window and patio door manufacturing plant on Vancouver Island, and when customers want it, installation services too. We operate out of a 35,000 square foot state-of-the art factory and are in the unique position to not only deliver locally-built custom made windows and patio doors, but also provide efficient and timely customer service.”

Having been in business for 43 years, Van Isle has both the experience and knowledge customers desire, with employees well versed and educated on all of the features and benefits of their products. The Van Isle team makes a point of providing clients with thoughtful, clear information that allows them to make the optimal buying decision.

“Purchasing windows is one of the largest investments for a homeowner,” notes Linda. “We do our very best to provide our customers with meaningful information and an exceptional customer experience from start to finish so they can feel confident their money has been well-spent.”

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Van Isle Windows General Manager Linda Gourlay

As General Manager, Linda oversees the entire operation of the company island-wide, working with managers and employees to provide the quality service customers have come to expect, and enact changes that have helped Van Isle Windows thrive.

“Recently, we successfully launched the most efficient ENERGY STAR® windows on the market today. This was a significant investment, but has allowed us to remain competitive and maintain our ENERGY STAR® ratings in all our product lines.”

Their willingness to take big steps has paid off over the years, with Van Isle growing steadily by almost 50 per cent since 2015. This has given them valuable opportunities to invest in manufacturing equipment and technology to meet growing demands.

Concludes Linda, “Everything we do is expertly manufactured to meet the demands of our west coast climate and our valued customers. It’s fair to say, we are your Island Window Factory.” www.vanislewindows.com

27

FEATURE STORY

AUXILIUM MORTGAGE TAKES THE EDGE OFF THE HOME MORTGAGE EXPERIENCE

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VICTORIA - Kam Brar and wife Michelle started Auxilium Mortgage in 2011 with a mission to remove the intimidation factor from the home mortgage buying equation. They desired to save their clients time, offer choices that fit their needs, reduce risk, and handle the heavy lifting so their customers didn’t have to.

With a tenth anniversary coming up, Michelle, Kam and a dedicated team of professionals have clearly taken that mission and run with it. Auxilium is ranked highly for business growth and transaction volume within the Mortgage Architects network, and has funded over $620 million in mortgages, with more than 1,650 transactions completed. They’re doing something right.

“Auxilium means care, aid, assist and support.

That’s what we’re committed to providing,” states Michelle. “We’re consistently told we make the mortgage process easy and understandable, and work together as a team so our clients always feel that way.”

Rather than competing brokers operating under the same umbrella, Auxilium’s mortgage specialists work together, bringing their combined expertise to each client’s file, assisted by dedicated support staff.

Exclaims Michelle, “Clients will have a minimum of four staff working toward the best solution for their needs.”

A vital driver in this hands-on approach is the women who make up 3/4 of Auxilium’s office.

Kam and Michelle proudly support building up talented women in their industry, and see them as an indispensable part of the company’s DNA. Elaborates Kam, “From our Client Care Liaisons Jane Noel and Talia Scheepers, our licensed Mortgage Brokers Nicole Barrett and Rebekah Janzen, Katherine Lim helping finalize client files once a live deal has been made, and Mahsa Manesh wrapping up the process as our primary point of contact with a customer’s solicitor, the women in our office are there every

From left to right, Jane Noel, Katherine Lim, Mahsa Manesh, Rebekah Janzen, Talia Scheepers, Nicole Barrett, the women of Auxilium Mortgage

step of the way, guiding our valued clients.”

Michelle feels strongly about supporting and nurturing women in the trades, and sees the building up of women in and out of the workplace as vital to a healthy workforce, something they put into action at Auxilium.

“Networking with other women is key to growing and maintaining their numbers in any industry. For us, that means cultivating relationships with realtors, developers, tradespeople, and solicitor’s offices, be it through formal networking events, such as Rebekah attending a women in business luncheon, or organic community connections like Nicole taking on a leadership role with her neighbourhood Girl Guide group.

When we share our skills and successes with other women, we build a stronger network for everyone and a greater connection to the places we work and live.”

On track for a record 2021, this is a team with a recipe for success, from the tenets of their business model to the highly skilled women who help put it into action, Auxilium Mortgage is leading by example. www.auxiliummortgage.com June 2021

WHO IS SUING WHOM The contents of Who’s Suing Whom is provided by a thirdparty resource and is accurate according to public court documents. Some of these cases may have been resolved by publication date.

DEFENDANT 5108 NWT Ltd 2700-10155 102nd St NW, Edmonton, AB PLAINTIFF Simek, Stefan CLAIM $265,704 DEFENDANT Alliance Realty Associates Inc 770B Hillside Ave, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Caissie, Paul CLAIM $11,176 DEFENDANT AFC Industries Ltd Aquaterra Corporation 25th Flr 700 West Georgia

SINCE

St, Vancouver, BC Dr Elizabeth A Johnstone Inc CLAIM $14,201 DEFENDANT BC Black Orchid Agency 475 Nicol St, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Amex Bank Of Canada CLAIM $13,015 DEFENDANT Canadian Springs Water 895 Station Ave, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Dr Elizabeth A Johnstone Inc CLAIM $14,201 DEFENDANT

Canadian Springs Water Company 895 Station Ave, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Dr Elizabeth A Johnstone Inc CLAIM $14,201

DEFENDANT D Chalifour Construction Ltd 8111 Lorenzen Lane, Lantzville, BC PLAINTIFF Titan GMS GP Inc CLAIM $50,329

DEFENDANT Central Island Communications Ltd 202-58 Station St, Duncan, BC PLAINTIFF Camosun College CLAIM $28,535

DEFENDANT Daily Free Press Ltd 225 Vancouver St, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF JF Pipers Hospitality Holdings Ltd CLAIM $475,000

DEFENDANT Champion Canada International ULC 2900-550 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC PLAINTIFF Bye, Birgit Maria CLAIM $25,716

Gordons Homes Sales Ltd 210-3260 Norwell Dr, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Bye, Birgit Maria CLAIM $35,236

1918

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LICENSED RESIDENTIAL BUILDER

Specializing in building quality custom homes and renovations.

GENERAL CONTRACTING | PROJECT MANAGEMENT SINCE 1996

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Office: 250 590-2458 | Mobile: 250 812-5260 Email: ktbuilders@shaw.ca

29

WHO IS SUING WHOM

30

DEFENDANT Wakesiah Apartments Inc 280 Wakesiah Ave, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Clark Pacific Snow Inc CLAIM $35,216

DEFENDANT Neal & Associates Realty Inc 770B Hillside Ave, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Caissie, Paul CLAIM $11,176

DEFENDANT Painters Lodge 1625 McDonald Rd, Campbell River Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Alsco Canada Corporation CLAIM $16,689

DEFENDANT PW McCallum Roofing Ltd 11-850 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd, Mill Bay, BC PLAINTIFF Marsh, James CLAIM $13,778

DEFENDANT North Coast Hotel Resort Ltd 1625 McDonald Rd, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Alsco Canada Corporation CLAIM $16,689

DEFENDANT P i l l a r To P o s t H o m e Inspectors 467 Davida Ave, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Hudyna, Ronaye CLAIM $25,176

DEFENDANT QC Nails & Spa Ltd 4th Flr 931 Fort St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Vong, Thieu Quan CLAIM $35,156

DEFENDANT Woodgrove Pines Wellness Clinic Ltd 102-6135 Metral Dr, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Clark Pacific Snow Inc CLAIM $12,437

DEFENDANT Rain Man Roofing 409-1055 St George Cres, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Edwards, Linda Ann CLAIM $15,553

DEFENDANT JE Anderson & Associates 1A-3411 Shenton Rd, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Buck, Dave CLAIM $5,287

DEFENDANT Oyster Bar Liquor Store Ltd 3230 Singleton Rd, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF JF Pipers Hospitality Holdings Ltd CLAIM $475,000

DEFENDANT Powerhouse Sheet Rock Ltd 201-19 Dallas Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF AFC Industries Ltd CLAIM $131,797

Celebrating

(left to right) Angel Thompson, 1st year apprentice, Nicole Reid, 3rd year apprentice, Holly Yeast, Journeyperson, Gaby Fau, 2nd year apprentice, Ash Allen, 4th year apprentice

B.R. Ventilation Ltd. proudly supports women in trades programs in BC 250.812.8314 | Info@brventilation.com www.brventilation.com

Women in Construction • www.butlerco.ca • 250-652-4484 •

June 2021

FEATURE STORY

ENERTECH SOLUTIONS AIMS TO SAVE CUSTOMERS MONEY AND PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT SOOKE - Enertech Solutions founder Jeffrey Robinson established his company with the goal of making homes as energy efficient as possible, providing clients with open and clear communication, with solutions based on his years of expertise in construction. As the Service Organization Manager and Quality Assurance Specialist for Enertech, an in-depth knowledge of his industry is a vital component to serving his clients well.

“I have an extensive background in construction going back over twenty years,” explains Jeffrey. “I earned my Red Seal certification as a journeyman carpenter, so I’m very familiar with the building industry.”

Jeffrey has taken that familiarity and expanded on his expertise, providing everything from BC Energy Step Code assistance, which is a provincial regulation, Blower door testing to identify any air leakage in homes, HOT2000 Energy Modelling to simulate how much energy can be saved in your home, and home energy evaluation to help his clients save money on utilities, and even get money back via home energy rebates.

“It’s important to me to help my clients have the most energy-efficient homes possible, not just because I want that for every one of them, but because homes in BC that aren’t wasting energy are a net benefit to the environment. We provide a service we’re very proud of,” notes Jeffrey.

A significant support in Jeffrey’s day-to-day endeavors is Office Manager, Chief Organizer,

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Founder Jeffrey Robinson has extensive experience in construction and energy saving solutions

and Service Organization Manager, Regan Currie, who not only handles the majority of client relations and bookings, but acts as a go-between with 22 energy advisors for Enertech, and provides on-site assistance with air tightness testing and Regan Currie is Office air leakage identifica- Enertech’s Manager, Chief tion, as well as HOT200 Organizer and much more energy modelling. Regan, in many ways, keeps Enertech running like a well-oiled machine, gathering knowledge and adding to her skillset, ensuring Jeffrey and the team can focus on what they do best.

“Regan is vital to our business, and we’re exceptionally proud to have her,” exclaims Jeffrey.

Between Jeffrey, Regan and the rest of their skill team, Enertech Solutions has put an ever-growing mark on Vancouver Island, supporting both their clients and the environment, one home at a time. www.enertech.solutions

31

FEATURE STORY

The H.I. Mechanical team

H.I. MECHANICAL KEEPS ITS EMPLOYEES HAPPY A POSITIVE TEAM DYNAMIC GIVES H.I. MECHANICAL THE TOOLS IT NEEDS TO GO THE EXTRA MILE

32

VICTORIA - H.I. Mechanical started in 2017, founded by Corporate Directors Craig Inglis and Tristan Hall. Handling heat pumps, plumbing, furnaces, sheet metal fabrication and mechanical contracting, H.I. covers a lot of ground, with a skillful staff of over forty.

“We employ Red Seal plumbers, gas fitters, sheet metal workers, refrigeration mechanics, project managers and more,” notes Tristan. “Many of our employees have multiple Red Seal credentials in multiple trades and we offer residential, commercial, industrial and heat pump sales among our services. Our team is great at what they do, and prove themselves every day.”

H.I. maintains a happy employee roster by fostering a team-first-orientated working environment that enables them to deliver consistent high-quality and economical projects to their customers. Satisfied employees equal satisfied clients. Another component of H.I. Mechanical’s positive team dynamic is diversity.

Elaborates Craig, “Like any business with 40+ employees, our team comes from a multitude of backgrounds. At H.I. Mechanical we pride

ourselves on establishing and maintaining an inclusive atmosphere where all individuals can learn, create, and be heard while they grow their skills and develop their career in an exciting and enjoyable environment. We greatly support women in trades, and our own staff is a growing reflection of that. The women on our team are vital, and their skills and presence will help us continue to develop and maintain an atmosphere where women in trades can thrive and build their careers here.”

While it’s been a challenging 18 months of working through the pandemic, H.I. has continued to operate in a safe manner, still providing jobs for their valuable employees while supporting the community with outstanding service. As Canada moves toward the light at the end of the tunnel, Craig and Tristan look forward to the year ahead.

Concludes Tristain, “Our goal for 2021 and beyond is to continue our growth and success, providing the highest quality and professional mechanical contracting on Vancouver Island, with the best team in the business.” www.himechanical.ca

June 2021

FEATURE STORY

AERO SERVICES HELPING YOU BREATHE EASY FROM HIRING TO SERVICE ETHICS, AERO SETS THE STANDARD IN FURNACE, DUCT AND CHIMNEY CLEANING Founded by Andrew Simpson in 2008, Aero Services started as a one-man service with a single vehicle. Over the next thirteen years, Aero grew to twelve employees and 8 service vehicles, branching out into wood stove installs, chimney system repairs, masonry chimney repairs, WETT Insurance Inspections and more.

Andrew and company have earned a reputation for top-notch customer service and fair pricing over those years, earning a loyal customer base and new business along the way.

“You can train technicians how to do the job right, but customer service is a part of a person’s personality. We look for that when we’re hiring, explains Andrew. “Our pricing structure is also a key to our success. When I entered this industry most companies had “up sales”, tacking on extras such as vents or parts of the furnace once at your home. We have flat rates.

One price for the whole house. The people we hire and the way we do things has allowed us to grow. Most other companies in town have started to follow suit. We’ve helped make the industry more upfront and fair.”

On their employees, Andrew is a strong supporter of women in trades, and as integral parts of Aero’s office structure.

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“I have three road techs who are women, and four more working as office staff,” Andrew proudly notes. “I have always had an open hiring policy and have hired many women. It’s valuable to have all kinds on your staff, and customers notice! I don’t cherry pick jobs just for women, everyone gets the same amount of work and the same difficulty. A technician is a technician no matter their age or gender. My entire staff, women and men, work with integrity and to the high skill level our clients expect.”

A diverse team of talented professionals, with a business model that puts their customers first has made Aero Services a locally owned-and operated-leader in their industry in BC, now and for the foreseeable future. https://aeroservices.ca

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ADVISORY CHINOOK BUSINESS ADVISORY ADDS TWO NEW TRANSACTION LEADERS

RAMON RAMIREZ, BBA

34

PHIL DOUBLET, B. Sc.

VICTORIA – Despite the effects of the pandemic, Vancouver Island continues to see strong and growing activity in the purchase and sale of businesses.

To meet this demand, Chinook has doubled their ranks from three to a team of six dynamic professionals to better serve the business community in Victoria, Vancouver Island and across BC. Today, they highlight the additions of Ramon Ramirez and Phil Doublet.

Ramirez joins Chinook with a wealth of experience to share, including 22 years in the financial banking industry. Ramirez worked in several areas throughout his career including operations, commercial lending, trade financing, leasing and international banking.

His dynamic portfolio includes a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, business ownership and a multitude of experience with share acquisition, operation expansions and business transitions.

In addition to his Chinook role, Ramirez continues to be an asset in his community as a fully certified firefighter, director with the Rotary Club of Courtenay and a director with

the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Doublet is an accomplished Management Consultant, Business Advisor and Certified Coach, with 30 years of success across dozens of industries including manufacturing, high technology, professional services and higher education.

As a seasoned business advisor, he provides high-impact advice on capital formation and sophisticated financing strategies for companies looking to attract equity or debt financing, as well as maximizing the business valuation for an eventual exit.

Whether you’re looking for advice on how to improve your business, sell your business or invest in a new opportunity, the Chinook team is there to guide you. They offer comprehensive business advisory services and specialize in guiding business owners and business buyers along the path of a sale smoothly and to a mutually beneficial completion.

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June 2021

FEATURE STORY

NORSE LOG HOMES: AFFORDABLE WOOD HOMES LOGS HAVEN’T KEPT PACE WITH WILD UPSWING IN LUMBER PRICES LANTZVILLE – While the price of lumber has shot through the roof during the COVID-19 pandemic, surprisingly, the price of log homes packages have not.

Laura Kandall, who owns and manages Norse Log Homes Ltd., notes that their homes are more affordable than ever when compared with today’s conventional framed house building due to the fact raw logs require less handling than three-dimensional lumber.

“Lumber is processed very heavily, while logs are cut in the bush, taken Examples of Norse Log Homes Ltd. projects to a sorting area, and delivered to us. There is very little handling involved, which Nanaimo to open Norse Log Homes Ltd. in 1984. means the price of logs during COVID hasn’t dra“He saw Vancouver Island as a great opportunmatically increased like other lumber has. ity as we have some of the world’s best wood, “Recently certain types of lumber have gone up specifically Douglas Fir logs,” she recalls. “It more than double the price, and to keep costs made sense to be located at the source of the down for some customers, we are trying to rebest Douglas Fir as we primarily build with it. move as much framing material as possible and It is a very strong wood and consistent in size. use logs as an alternative. Building a log rancher “The last few years have been very busy as caris less costly than building a typical two storey bon-neutral and energy-efficiency has become home now.” popular,” she notes. “Our carbon footprint is Kandall literally grew up in the business, as her low and people love the natural building look father John Dahle started building log homes more than ever.” in 100 Mile House before the family moved to Kandall notes the keys to Norse Log Homes’ success are the company’s commitment to quality and value, adding “we build as if our customers are our friends and try to offer the best advice we can to stay within their budgets.”

Norse Log Homes builds new log homes worldwide as well as offering refurbishing of older log and timber homes locally.

“We also specialize in staining and caulking products, and seeing an older home brought to its original glory is very rewarding,” Kandall adds. www.norseloghomes.com

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FEATURE STORY

E.B. Horsman women at a recent annual general meeting

E.B. HORSMAN & SON: EVERYONE BUILDS HORSMAN

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Electrical supply company E.B. Horsman & Son, one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, has a phrase that embodies their values, while being a play on in their name EBH: Everyone Builds Horsman.

Founded in Saskatchewan in 1900, E.B. Horsman has 21 locations and 330+ employee owners across Western Canada - an increasing number of which are women.

Renee Lytle, CFO, recalls when she started 24 years ago that the occasional branch would have a female and rarely in the warehouse. Now almost every branch has multiple women in every position. It’s a trend that continues in the traditionally male-dominated construction sector, and a key component to the company’s current and future growth.

“Women are extremely important to our business,” notes Sereeta Khara, Human Resources Manager, at E.B. Horsman & Son’s head office in Surrey. “The construction industry has been leading by example by attracting and recognizing the women in their industry.”

Externally, EBH is making a difference through initiatives such as sponsoring the BCEA Anti Racism Action Plan and participating in the EFC (Electro Federation Canada) and the BCEA (BC Electrical Association) Women’s Network with our very own Laura Dempsey as Chair.

Internally EBH champions women and other URM (underrepresented minorities) through their Inclusion and Diversity Committee. Sereeta states the

more diversity in our companies and our industry, the better for everyone.

“Diversity is at the core of our values and our success. Diversity of thought brings new ideas and energy into this fast paced world,” she adds. “Plus, it expands the recruiting pool by 50 per cent. We love seeing women in all positions from working the tools to management roles.”

E.B. Horsman includes a staff-led Giving Back Committee to decide which worthy community organizations and causes to support. Various staff incentives include birthdays off, and maintaining a goal of providing 40 hours of training per year to each employee.

“We want women to know we are here and there is a great career with us,” she says. “We have open communication in our company, and want to engage women and involve them in the evolution of this industry.”

The company operates as one of Canada’s largest ESOPS and is majority owned by President and CEO Tim Horsman, a fifth generation Horsman, and the firm stays close to its small-town Western Canadian roots.

“Historically our business strategy was to be in smaller communities to be close to our customers,” Sereeta observes. “Today, regardless of the size of the city our branch is in, we want deep roots in the community with our employees, customers, suppliers and giving back strategies.” www.ebhorsman.com June 2021

CPABC: CMHC SAYS ANNUAL PACE OF HOUSING STARTS ROSE 3.2 PER CENT IN MAY BRITISH COLUMBIA – According to BC CheckUp: Live, an annual report by the Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (CPABC) on demographic and affordability trends across the province, BC’s population growth declined by nearly a third in 2020 to only 56,757 new residents.

“The mobility restrictions and economic uncertainty arising from the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted typical migration patterns across the world,” said Lori Mathison, FCPA, FCGA, LLB, president and CEO of CPABC. “While BC

experienced less of a slowdown compared to other provinces, the population gain in 2020 was the lowest since 2011.”

In the four years leading up to the pandemic, the province set record levels of population growth with an average of nearly 79,000 new residents a year. International migration has been playing an increasingly important role in driving BC’s population growth, with 77.3 per cent of new residents in 2019 arriving from outside the country.

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non-permanent resident (NPR) migration falling by over 30,000 compared to in 2019 as the pandemic led to suspension of in-class learning and affected working opportunities for both international students and foreign workers.

“As we continue our economic recovery, it will be crucial to welcome immigrants to the province, particularly as the province continues to age,” noted Mathison. “However, one major disincentive to coming to the province is the lack of affordable housing, which has been hindered by supply issues.

In 2020, the average age for the province was 42.6, up by 0.7 years since 2016 and 4.4 years from 2001. Over the past five years, the proportion of British Columbians aged 65+ has expanded the most of any group, up to nearly a fifth (19.2 per cent) of the population in 2020.

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At the same time, BC’s housing market has been a challenge for many current and would-be residents, as supply remains tight despite increasing demand. From 2010 to 2020, BC’s population increased by 737,206 while the total number of residential housing units completed over the period was 316,510. In 2020, nearly 39,000 housing units were completed, up 3.0 per cent from 2019.

“While housing activity has been strong, it still trailed population growth. And as cities densify, older, larger housing units are being replaced with smaller units such as condos. In 2020, almost four of every five units completed were attached units,” said Mathison. “Strong demand for larger units as people worked and spent more time at home, record low interest rates, and inadequate supply has pushed the price of housing to new record highs.”

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In April 2021, the average house sold across BC cost $943,845, up by over $210,000 compared to April 2020. The Lower Mainland continued to have the highest prices, with the average price of a single-family home hitting $1.56 million in April 2021, up 24.9 per cent from April 2020.

“For both the sake of our current and future residents, it will be critical to encourage greater housing development in order for British Columbia to be more affordable and accessible,” concluded Mathison. “Income levels have also not risen nearly fast enough to keep pace with housing prices. As we pivot from recovery to growth, there is also an opening to focus on ways to boost our province’s productivity and residents’ income.”

To learn more, see www.bccheckup.com.

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OPINION

DIVISIVE RHETORIC AND POLICIES: CAN NORTH AMERICA STAY TOGETHER?

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MARK MACDONALD With inflammatory rhetoric, divisive discourse and policies that pit one sector of society against another – with no apparent middle ground – what is happening in North America?

Let’s start with this country. Canadians have now elected a Trudeau as Prime Minister six times, which will most likely be seven if and when the next federal election is called. It is clear that the Trudeau family has a vision of Canada that, while successful in its goal of gaining government, ostracizes and minimizes those outside of Ontario and Quebec.

The Liberal brain trust correctly recognizes that all a political party needs to gain power is win those two provinces. Thus their concentration on policies that ensure that dominance and centralization remains.

Pierre Trudeau‘s National Energy Policy immediately doomed Alberta’s economy starting in 1980, stifling that province’s economy with unprecedented limitations that middle-aged Albertans recall bitterly to this day. The reduction of Alberta’s economic clout, while ensuring central Canadian dominance, also became a rallying cry, encapsulated with “The West Wants In” that prepared the way for the Reform/Canadian Alliance/ Conservative wave that resulted in a decade of Stephen Harper.

Canadians rejected more Harper for Justin Trudeau‘s “sunny ways”, and the west was “rewarded” by more policies that cripple western Canada’s economy. Punitive legislation restricts pipelines east, south and west, although they begrudgingly, eventually gave the go ahead to the Trans Mountain Pipeline expansion.

The impact of every major energy policy decision this Trudeau has made mirrors that of his father.

Little wonder that Albertans’ distrust, even hatred, of Trudeau grows, and the flames of separatism continue to be fanned. What does Alberta get out of remaining in Canada except restrictions to its right to extract and export its resources? What does Alberta get in comparison to what it contributes financially, in terms of equalization payments – compared to Quebec, for example?

There yet remains enough cooler heads in Alberta to tamper down calls for separatism. Premier Jason Kenney, who some believe looked at success in rejuvenating that province as a springboard to

June 2021

OPINION head back to Ottawa and lead the Conservatives, has been loath to engage in that conversation.

Perhaps only personal ambition stands in the way of heightening separatist dialogue – but Kenney’s unpopularity isn’t enhancing any possible future national goals. Will that change?

At what point does Alberta say “enough”, and states it wants out of Canada? And what does it mean to Alberta that Trudeau proclaims that Quebec has the right to declare itself a nation. If Quebec, then why not Alberta? Or others?

The Trudeau “vision” of Canada seems to be embodied in weaker east and west. The Maritimes hopelessly cycle back and forth between hoping for federal government handouts from Ottawa. They are true dependants.

Western Canada? Its great economic strength is resources, and Ottawa clamps down on that. Look

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at Ottawa’s handling of fish farming. One decision, and instantly, 1,500 jobs evaporate off the BC coast.

To be replaced by what?

Again we ask: If Trudeau says Quebec can become its own nation, then why not Alberta? Or even all of Western Canada?

Meanwhile, south of the 49th, our neighbors are split right down the middle: Democrat/Republican; left/right. That chasm continues to expand, with bitter, divisive words from both sides. Fervent Democrats/Republicans view their opponents as enemies of the United States, and there is no voice, or apparent appetite, to douse that dialogue. The only enemy, it seems, is compromise.

Can the United States keep United? There are increasing discussions about states seceding from the Union to pursue the fiscal and moral path of their own choosing.

Both sides are at fault, but is there a willingness to meet in the middle, somewhere, to calm the storms of verbal civil war before it becomes another call to arms?

Government-forming parties in both countries – and provinces - must be willing to compromise with those they’ve defeated, and determine to serve all constituents – not just the ones who got them elected. That includes introducing policies that work for everyone, while calming the conversation and eliminating war-mongering words that cast their opponents as evildoers. Without that, how can Canada and the U.S. remain as functioning, unified countries?

Maybe that’s what this is all about – tearing down both countries from within, just like Ancient Rome.

That’s something we can learn from history, if we dare to learn from it and purpose to not repeat it.

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TOURISM

PROMOTIONS TO KICKSTART SUMMER SEASON

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As active COVID-19 cases trend down and vaccination rates increase, t h e P ro v i n c e will begin to reopen the visitor economy. Beg i n n i n g w it h travel between health authori t i e s a n d e xpa nd i ng from there, DestinPAUL NURSEY at ion G re ater Victoria’s hotels, restaurants, and attractions will be able to welcome guests from the Lower Mainland, the rest of BC and other parts of Canada. To kickstart the summer high season Destination Greater Victoria is launching several marketing and promotional campaigns: B&B’s and Inns: Destination Greater Victoria is working with CHEK to launch a series of 30-second commercials highlighting the charming and historic B&B’s and Inns in Greater Victoria through “Retreat Closer to Home.” Greater Victoria is an historic and charming city filled with unique traditions and classic architecture that has become a cherished part of our identity.

In Greater Victoria, history lovers can meander through neighbourhoods admiring elegant heritage homes, century old manors and commanding castles. Locals and visitors can connect more intimately with Greater Victoria’s history and charm through elegant bed & breakfasts and inns, converted from heritage homes and manors around the city.

Reconnect in Greater Victoria: In accordance with BC’s Restart Plan, Destination Greater Victoria will launch “Reconnect in Victoria,” an incentive-based campaign to encourage regional travel and overnight stays.

As of June 15, guests who book two or more consecutive nights at participating hotels will receive a $75 VISA Reward Card.

Greater Victoria’s enviable, pristine island location and mild climate year-round allows for open spaces and an outdoor lifestyle. After spending time apart, friends and family now have a chance to come together and make new memories.

The Greater Victoria Flavour Trails: Through grants from the Western Economic Diversification Experiences Fund for agritourism, Destination Greater Victoria has partnered with CHEK to produce a five-episode, 30-minute TV series focused on agritourism in the Saanich Peninsula, farm-to-table, and sea-to-table cuisine, and how these are linked to downtown hotels, restaurants, and conference opportunities. The series is scheduled to begin airing in mid- to late-June, run through the summer and conclude in the fall.

We are excited for the months ahead. The past year has been very difficult for our members, and I know through my conversations with many of them that they are excited as well. There is light at the end of the tunnel.

Destination Greater Victoria is ready to do its part helping the local visitor economy and its members through re-opening in the next few months.

Paul Nursey is the President and CEO of Destination Greater Victoria

June 2021

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

Mandy Farmer, President and CEO of Accent Inns & Hotel Zed, is a visionary leader, taking the 3rd generation fa m i ly b u siness through the ups and downs of COVID with a unique approach to management. In our chat, she covers a range of topics, including her decision to become a restauranteur with the launch of Roar in Tofino, how to «lead with love», her personal development approaches, and a lot more! Listen here. Listen here.

Mayfair Shopping Centre in Victoria has been purchased by international commercial real estate company Central Walk from Quebecbased Ivanhoé Cambridge. Central Walk owns and manages real estate projects in Asia and North America. The purchase price was not

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disclosed. Mayfair is assessed at $242.57 million according to government records. The company has had dealings with Ivanhoé Cambridge before, purchasing Woodgrove Centre in Nanaimo from them in September of 2020.

The proposal for Starlight Investments’ development at Harris Green Village in Victoria includes 100,000-square-feet of commercial space and 1,500 rental apartments across its block-and-a-half site surrounding 1010 and 1020 View Street. Apartments will be split across five towers ranging from 21 to 32 storeys, which would make it Victoria’s tallest building if greenlit.

Victoria residents can provide comments on the proposed development until June 25th by accessing Victoria’s online development tracker and filtering for “pre-application (CALUC)” along with the development’s address.

The District of Saanich Parks Department has applied for a grant through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program to fund improvements at Rutledge Park. If the funding is received,

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS upgrades could include playground enhancements, a water park and the installation of washrooms. They expect to have an answer to their request later this summer Improvements to Sidney’s Tulista Park will get underway in mid-June, with crews working on the sidewalk path that runs parallel to Lochside Drive. They will widen the walkway and remove and replace five mature poplar trees on the eastern side of the pathway. The total cost of the work is $200,000, with half the money coming from federal tax funding.

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Renovations on the Sidney Museum and Archives have begun. Funded by Heritage BC, the three-month closure will see a refurbishing of the floors of the facility, located in the basement and lower basement floors of the heritage-designated Old Post Office Building on Beacon Avenue.

The Sidney and Museum Archives Society also seeks to move the museum’s existing office to create additional collections storage in steps designed to improve the visitor experience and accessibility. An approved building permit is required.

The Vancouver Street All Ages and Abilities (AAA) cycling route is complete. The 2.5-kilometre project is a part of the city’s 32-km priority network and extends from Bay Street to Park Boulevard, featuring traffic-calmed, shared-use bikeways in North Park and Fairfield with oneway protected bike lanes through the downtown core. An additional 10 kilometres is slated for construction in 2021 and planning for future phases is underway. The city is seeking final public and stakeholder input on cycling routes in James Bay. Visit the Have Your Say platform

by June 11 to provide feedback and learn more. A

full description of cycling routes in the city can be found here.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has provided $1.2 million for Saanich to compensate for ecosystems lost in the development of the McKenzie interchange.

Saanich’s Layritz, Vic Derman and Cuthbert Holmes parks have been chosen for restoration over the next few years following Spring 2022 based on their similarity to the ecosystems lost in the development of the interchange last year.

The relaunch of the University Heights project in Saanich will enter the next stage of approval after the development proposal by Wesbild was put on hold last year for negotiations with The Home Depot, whose lease at the location would prevent construction on a portion of their site. In exchange for moving forward, it was agreed that The Home Depot would receive a 10,000-square-foot expansion. Wesbild’s plan calls for the shopping centre to be replaced by nearly 600 rental homes, modern commercial space and transit upgrades.

Features include a grocery store, restaurants, health services and a daycare of up to 11,000 square feet.

Work on the bike-and-ride facility in the Saanichton Village neighbourhood of Central Saanich has begun. The new facility, on municipal-owned green space between Lisnoe Lane and Mt. Newton Cross Road will include a sheltering roof, bike stands, a tire pump, repair station and an e-bike charging point. Solar-powered lights will provide security and safety.

Sooke councillors hope to add at least three pickleball courts adjacent to the new multiuse sports box facility at 2430 Phillips Road.

June 2021

MOVERS AND SHAKERS Councillors are asking the SEAPARC Commission for recommendations and ways to fund the facility.

Science World BC has recognized Pauline Finn, executive director of Sidney’s Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, for her contributions to the facility by naming her a patron. Awarded by the Science World Society, the honour recognizes volunteers or former employees who have helped in a significant way to the organization’s development.

Pauline was with Science World BC for 14 years before coming to Sidney in 2018.

Salt Spring Island-based Cetacea Contracting Ltd. and Camosun College have partnered to 3-D print massive whale bones, reducing days of labour previously used in the handsculpting method of creating model bones.

Cetacea and Camosun plan to supply historic blue whale and humpback whale skeletons for two Australian institutions, the Western Australia Museum and Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation. They’re also working with the University of Alaska to replace missing bones of the Museum of the North’s bowhead whale.

Comfort Keepers Victoria has new owners in Roger Martin and family. The Martin family has run Comfort Keepers locations across the lower mainland for over a decade. Comfort Keepers provides in-home care for seniors and other adults in need of assistance with daily activities.

The BC government announced that individuals and families are moving into 124 affordable rental homes at 342 Wale Road in Colwood. The six-storey building provides 70 one-bedroom units, 42 two-bedroom units, and 12 three-bedroom units,

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with rents geared to income. Tenants will pay no more than 30 percent of gross family income for rent. Some units will be made available to non-Indigenous families as well. The project, funded by a $24.8-million provincial grant, represents a partnership between the province, the Aboriginal Land Trust Society (ALT), Lu’ma Native Housing Society and the Huu-ay-aht First Nations.

The Cadboro Bay Residents’ Association, longtime neighbourhood advocate Eric Dahli is stepping down as chair after almost twenty years to enjoy retirement and travel with his wife, Dorothy.

The Sooke School District (SD62) has entered into informal agreements with the cities of Colwood and Langford and the district of Sooke to expand their presence in community planning and shared-use facilities. Three memoranda of understanding (MOU) signed between the school district and the municipalities mentioned will enable them to pool resources to create amenities, programming, shared-use facilities and community hubs for residents.

Ruby Tuesday’s Laundry Service at Suite #101 - 9842 Second Street in Sidney is opening soon.

Learn more about the full-service laundromat at www.rubytuesdayslaundry.ca.

The Sooke Tennis and Pickleball Group have launched a $20,000 GoFundMe campaign to improve the Art Morris Park tennis courts. The group is raising money to create three dedicated pickleball courts on the front tennis court facing Throup Road. The District of Sooke has contributed $6,000 to the project.

The Greater Victoria School District recently

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approved its budget, reducing cuts from the original proposed $7 million to $4.7 million. Changes include a reversal on the district’s proposal to eliminate nearly all elementary and middle school music programs. Instead of the initial $1.5 million, only $80,000 (five percent) of the programs’ budget will be cut. The reading recovery program, education assistants, and youth and family counsellors were retained, and a further $427,000 was injected into K-5 literacy.

Grant Thornton is looking for a Senior Tax Analyst in Victoria. For details on the role, click here.

The Better Business Bureau of Vancouver Island, in partnership with the Electronic Recycling Association (ERA) has donated 25 refurbished electronic devices to four non-profit organizations in support of local charities in need, from printers to PCs, to laptops and projectors. Donations went to the Harbour of Hope Refugee Assistance Society, Victoria Women in Need Cooperative (WIN), Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness and the Bateman Foundation.

Elements Casino, the largest BC Lottery Corporation facility on Vancouver Island, which shared a revenue between $4.5-$5 million with six local municipalities including View Royal, and two First Nations before the pandemic shutdown in March 2020, will open its doors once again July 1st. Opening will occur under COVID-19 safety protocols.

Sidney Council unanimously approved plans to rehabilitate Bevan Pier. The municipality hired Thurber Engineering to analyze the pier and develop a maintenance approach last year.

Thurber will next design and tender the work,

June 2021

MOVERS AND SHAKERS including underwater inspection of the pier in 2021 if funds are available. Sidney’s 2021 budget includes $500,000 for rehabilitation of the pier.

Town staff will report back only if the work is expected to exceed the approved budget.

carry wastewater from across the region to the treatment plant. The project provides wastewater treatment for Victoria, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay, View Royal, Langford, Colwood and the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations.

Greater Victoria developer GMC Projects has confirmed ongoing interest in the redevelopment of Sidney’s Cedarwood Inn and Suites, which could turn the corner of Lochside Drive and Weiler Avenue into a neighbourhood village with commercial services, mixed with other uses, including residential. The company will likely bring forward an application for the location after the Town of Sidney has completed the review of its official community plan (OCP), scheduled for December 2021 through February 2022.

Victoria’s Mandy Farmer, CEO of Accent Inns, has opened Roar in Tofino, a new restaurant that cooks on live fire.

The Knowledge Totem on the front lawn of the BC legislature will be refurbished over the next 10 weeks by Doug August, son of master carver Cicero August, who completed the pole in 1990 with the help of Doug and his brother Darrel in commemoration of the Commonwealth Games.

While the work is taking place, the pole will be fenced off and covered by a tent.

The Capital Regional District’s $775 million wastewater treatment project is almost finished, with only Some minor construction remaining. The wastewater treatment project includes the McLoughlin Point treatment plant in Esquimalt, a residuals treatments facility at Hartland landfill in Saanich and the series of pipes and pumps that WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA

Arlene Rolston, Manpreet Dhillon, Katy Player, Vivek Sharma, Julie Ziebart, Colleen Clark, Joelle Westlund, Dr. Greg Thomas, Aleece Laird, Al Hasham, Cindi Pohl, Michaela Bjorseth, Tanya Finley, Don Sharpe, Andrew Czornoholan, Reshma Meta, Nick Marach and Layne Hellrung are the BC Chamber of Commerce 2021-2022 Board of Directors Victoria is ranked eighth as a desirable urban centre for millennials in Canada, according to real estate experts at Point2. The ranking takes into account home prices, income, health care, climate, life satisfaction, and four other indicators.

Fuca Cycles, located at 5871 Sooke Road, will be opening its doors on April 8th to Sooke’s cycling

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Sidney North Saanich Yacht Club is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

The Canadian Coast Guard recently opened a new search and rescue station on Dallas Road alongside the Coast Guard›s Victoria base. The new building replaces a temporary station which opened in 2018.

Moka House coffee shop in Cadboro Bay Village has reopened once again after closing in October of last year.

Good Night Out Vancouver (GNOV), A BC non-profit, is offering to train Victoria hospitality businesses on how to prevent and respond to sexual violence, for free. Its Safer Spaces program is a three-hour session that teaches businesses how to keep patrons safe by learning the root causes of harm and how to intervene. Training runs from July 5th to April 2022. To register, click here.

Financial consultant and former Saanich School District secretary-treasurer Joan Axford will review the Greater Victoria School District’s (SD61) budget process and make recommendations on how to proceed to its board. SD61 proposed $7 million in cuts in early April, including music programs, educational assistants, reading programs and supports for vulnerable students.

Joan has worked as a financial consultant since retiring from her SSD position in 2011. To learn more about the review process, click here.

Victoria-Opoly, created by Outset Media, is now available at Walmart stores and online at www.

June 2021

MOVERS AND SHAKERS walmart.ca. A regional take on Monopoly, Victoria-Opoly includes landmarks like Beacon Hill Park, the Royal BC Museum, the Breakwater and the Galloping Goose Trail.

The Victoria Hospitals Foundation’s It’s Critical campaign has exceeded its $7 million goal, but is still seeking valuable contributions to go toward securing hospital equipment and a permanent High Acuity Unit (HAU). A total of $1 million will be used to purchase ventilators, patient monitors, video bronchoscopes, an ultrasound, and a continuous renal replacement therapy machine. The other $6 million will go towards the creation of a permanent High Acuity Unit (HAU), which has had its design and building fast-tracked. You can donate by calling 250-519-1750 or clicking here.

Parachute Ice Cream, located in Downtown Victoria, is expanding with a brand new location at #129 735 Goldstream Avenue in Langford. The new location has yet to announce the official grand opening date.

A partnership between the BC government and the Kwikwasut’inuxw Haxwa’mis First Nation, called the Hith’alis Agreement and Coast Funds, will provide $721,000 to enhance stewardship and management activities in KHFN territory in the Broughton Archipelago. The partnership, done through an endowment, will allow KHFN to increase stewardship activities across its territory, such as increasing the capacity to implement ecosystem-based management, contributing towards enhancing key salmon watersheds, providing the opportunity for KHFN members to access local, family-supporting employment-based out of Gwa-yas-dums (Gilford Island) and increasing KHFN’s active presence throughout the territory through a Guardian Watchmen program.

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Work on the Keating Cross Road Flyover Project will get final funding approval later this fall, with publication of the detail and scope of the work via the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. The project is expected to be underway by the end of the year. The flyover would eliminate left turns across highway traffic onto Keating Cross Road for northbound traffic.

Ottawa has put more than $16 million toward this project, while Central Saanich has committed $2.5 million thus far.

Saanich Neighbourhood Place, a non-profit that provides childcare and family services, will soon go before council to request approval on final touches needed at their newly built daycare.

If approved the project, built behind Pearkes Recreation Centre, would allow them to open their doors to more families in need of childcare as early as July. The project aims to add 49 new childcare spaces.

Nine affordable homes being built in partnership with Abstract Developments through BC Housing’s affordable home ownership program will offer middle-income homebuyers access to part of a larger 49 unit condominium project being built at 1301 Hillside Avenue at Cook Street in Victoria. The project is an experiment in affordability that assists middle-income residents who are looking to own their first home.

Lorna Curtis will take over the role as District Governor of Rotary District 5020 on July 1st, where she will oversee 91 clubs, one of the largest districts in North America.

Hullabaloo, a new food truck offering coffee, ice cream, lemonade and more, recently launched outside of the Red Barn Market on West Saanich Road.

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS Sutton Advantage Property Management has moved to 328 Wale Road in Victoria.

The YMCA-YWCA Victoria, which previously operated the fitness centre in View Royal and a childcare centre at Eagle Creek Village since 2016, recently announced that Kidspace has secured the lease for the fitness centre, who plan to open the facility in September.

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Council is considering hiring a third party to monitor use of pickleball courts in North Saanich at $12,000, as staff are currently unable to enforce court hours.

A temporary urgent and primary care centre has opened in Esquimalt at 530 Fraser Street. The temporary site will operate from 8:30am-3:30pm Monday to Friday, and will have a registered nurse, a registered nurse with certified practice, a mental health and substance-use consultant and two office staff.

The Capital Regional District’s emergency telecommunications provider has created a task force to find a post-seismic facility to better protect equipment during natural disasters. Capital Region Emergency Services Telecommunications Inc. (CREST) is the primary provider for communication tools, from radios to cell towers, for 50 first responder agencies across the CRD. Options include sharing space within an emergency service building, or creating a new purpose-built facility.

The City of Langford is considering a potential sale of a 3.8-acre piece of property near Langford Lake and the Ed Nixon Trail purchased 1 5 ye a rs a go for f ut u re Depa r tment of Highways improvements and to enable the

June 2021

MOVERS AND SHAKERS closure of Goldstream Avenue. The land, currently valued at between $4 million and $8 million, used to be part of a gravel pit. The city is considering a number of development opportunities.

Saanich, Oak Bay and Victoria are working to strengthen their existing relationships with the University of Victoria through memorandums of understanding (MOUs) designed to help municipalities and educational institutions build on shared interests and values, such as tech innovation and economic development. Discussions are set to take place during the summer regarding the details of these agreements.

The North Saanich Residents Association has written a letter to local, provincial and federal authorities noting North Saanich lacks safe,

affordable public marine access facilities for those with limited budgets, small crafts and no moorage. Currently, neither major marine centre at Swartz Bay or Tsehum Harbour include public launch facilities. The letter suggests three possible options at the Institute for Ocean Sciences in Patricia Bay, Queen Mary Bay and Gulf Islands National Park Reserve.

Neighbours of Esquimalt’s Gorge Pointe Pub recently attended a virtual meeting held

by Abstract Developments, who purchased the property at 1075 Tillicum Road, where they were able to discuss what could become of the property after the restaurant’s lease runs out at the end of the year. There will be further opportunities for community input before a formal application is made and sent to council.

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