Business Examiner Victoria October 2017 by Business Examiner Media Group

» ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING

OCTOBER 2017

– PAGE 9

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UCLUELET Celebrated Osoyoos Indian Band leader shares Inspirational message with Ucluelet First Nation

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INDEX News Update

Taxes 5 Greater Victoria

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Waymark Architecture Breathing New Life Into Classic Building Renovation Project At Lim Dat Building Part Of The Living Building Challenge BY DAVID HOLMES

ICTORIA – An office renovation project currently nearing its completion in the city isn’t just being done right, it’s being done because it’s the right thing to do. As part of the worldwide Living Building Challenge, Waymark Architecture Inc. has almost finished the renovation of its offices at the historic Lim Dat building, an updating that has transformed parts of the 19th Century mixed used building into a celebration of 21st Century social responsibility. “The Living Building Challenge takes a very holistic approach to design and construction. It’s all about designing not only a building SEE WAYMARK ARCHITECTURE | PAGE 17

Three Provincial Air Ambulances Being Equipped With Night Vision Gear The Helijet Operated Aircraft To Be Upgraded By Victoria’s VIH Aerospace Inc. BY DAVID HOLMES

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Will King is one of the co-founders of Waymark Architecture, an architectural practice that opened in 2015

AANICH – By next spring remote locations or the dark of night won’t prevent British Columbia’s Air Ambulance Service from reaching those in desperate need. The planned upgrading of three Sikorsky S-76 air ambulances with a full suite of night vision equipment will dramatically enhance the service’s capabilities,

allowing for 24-hour emergency response in the geographic areas of the province served by Helijet, the helicopter air medical contract service provider for the BC Ambulance Service. “We are under contract to the British Columbia Emergency Health Services, we work very closely with them and we’re always exploring ways to increase the safety of these operations.

Night flying is more complex, so the addition of this technology will give us an extra margin of safety and potentially allow us to complete more missions than we could without it,” explained Rick Hill the Vice President, Commercial & Business Programs for Helijet International Inc. Work on the $1.6 million installation project will be carried out by Saanich based VIH Aerospace

Inc., a long-established helicopter maintenance, repair, manufacturing and overhaul firm located at the Victoria International Airport. VIH has been in business for more than 60 years, and is considered a world leader in both helicopter maintenance and in after-market modifications. Successfully proven through long SEE VIH AEROSPACE | PAGE 14

NEWS UPDATE

OCTOBER 2017

Victoria-based company Flytographer h a s b een selected by the Lazaridis Institute at Wilfred Laurier University to participate in their next Lazaridis ScaleUp Program. The Lazaridis Program, now in its second year, provides high-potential firms personalized mentorship and working sessions with experts who have scaled globally competitive enterprises. Flytographer will join nine other companies from across Canada to participate in the innovative new program. The 10 selected companies for 2017/18 are at pivotal stages, facing inflection points in their growth trajectories. Their technologies range from bionic knee braces and biopesticides, to digital marketing, groceries, tickets and transportation – to name a few. For the second year in a row, the Lazaridis Institute, which is run by the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics at Wilfrid Laurier University, will cover the costs of the Scale-Up Program. Flytographer is an online market place that connects travellers with local photographers in 200 cities around the world. Flytographer has been featured across A-list media such as: Oprah, Conde Nast Traveler, Forbes, The New York Times, InStyle and many more. The company has also partnered with global brands like Fairmont, Expedia, Context Travel and Virtuoso. The next cohort of the Lazaridis Scale-Up Program begins October 19 in Toronto, with program weekends to follow in Ottawa, Vancouver, New York, and Palo Alto, California.

numbers to be climbing by now, but instead we’ve seen even lower numbers of listings on the market. This is likely leading to some buyer fatigue along with pressure on pricing in high demand areas.” There were 1,917 active listings for sale on the Victoria Real Estate Board Multiple Listing Service at the end of August 2017, a decrease of four properties compared to the month of July, and 8.5 per cent fewer than the 2,094 active listings for sale at the end of August 2016. The Multiple Listing Service Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core in August 2016 was $743,200. The benchmark value for the same home in August 2017 has increased by 10.8 per cent to $823,100. “Though much too early to call a trend, we do see that the August HPI benchmark value for single family homes in the Victoria Core area has decreased by 1.3 per cent when compared to July. This is the first time we’ve noted a decrease in HPI values since August 2015.” adds President Balabanian. “That said, this is not an indicator of a huge change in property values across our region. We’ve seen a phenomenally busy two years in real estate for our area and we are likely heading towards a period of more balanced activity. Note too, that though the overall HPI value shows a small month over month decrease - specific areas and specific types of product have seen increases. For example, condominiums across the entire region are up by half a percent compared to the previous month and single family homes in North Saanich have increased in benchmark value by almost one per cent. It’s for reasons like these that now more than ever it makes sense to seek the assistance of a local realtor to sell or buy your home.”

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A total of 736 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this August, 16.6 per cent fewer than the 883 properties sold in August last year. “I admit to being a little surprised by the August n u m b e rs,” n o te s V i ctoria Real Estate Board President Ara Balabanian. “I expected inventory

T he University of Victoria (U V IC) a nd T ELUS have recently announced a Master of Business Administration deg ree custom i zed for the telecommunications company. The two-year degree, with specializations in leadership and strategy, will be offered starting in

October 2015 at the Sardul S. Gill Graduate School within UVIC’s Peter B. Gustavson School of Business. This is the first customized graduate program to be developed by the Gustavson School of Business. The collaboration brings together a leading business school that prides itself on seeing things differently with a national telecommunications company ready to equip its employees with even more tools for success, cultivating future leaders with a distinctive mindset. The customized graduate degree provides a vibrant learning culture for students, offering a blend of course delivery methods: everything from traditional classroom settings and video lectures on demand to virtual classrooms and an international learning experience. T he course design allows students to continue working full-time, with a partially reduced workload to accommodate learning. In 2016, the program will be expanded and offered to Telus business customers, providing their high-performing and high-potential team members with the benefits of a first-class learning program. The Gustavson School of Business has offered specialized executive education since 1993, and has been working with Telus since 2010. The school fills a growing demand from corporations for high-calibre professional development by providing course content tailored to a specific company or sector. This collaboration with Telus marks the school’s f i rs t of fer i n g of a d egree-level program to a corporate client, while maintaining the business education fundamentals and academic rigor inherent in a traditional MBA program.

BC Provincial Commercial Real Estate Surges The BCREA Commercial Leading Indicator (CLI) posted its largest increase since 2009, rising by 3.7 index points in the second qua r ter of 2017 to 133.1. T hat i ncrease represents a 2.8 per cent rise over the first quarter and a 6.6 per cent increase from one year ago. T he susta i ned rise i n SEE NEWS UPDATE | PAGE 3

NEWS UPDATE

OCTOBER 2017

NEWS UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

the CLI reflects strong growth in economic sectors beneficial to commercial real estate activity. An uptick in economic activity last quarter further reinforces the already strong trend in the CLI. That signals a continued economic environment that is very supportive of growth in investment, leasing and other commercial real estate activity over the next two to four quarters. The BC economy accelerated in the second quarter of 2017, led by a surge in retail and wholesale trade as well as a significant uptick in the manufacturing sector. Vigorous employment growth helped push retail sales a remarkable ten per cent higher yearover-year in the second quarter compared while manufacturing sales were up almost 11 per cent. Employment in the provincial economy is tracking nearly 4 per cent higher through the first half of 2017, and the second quarter saw significant expansion of payrolls in key commercial real estate sectors. The CLI’s measure of office employment rose by close to 12,000 jobs in the second quarter while manufacturing employment posted its first increase since early 2016, rising by 5,500 jobs. A modest sell-off of Canadian REITs combined with a slight rise in short-term credit spreads tipped the CLI’s financial component into negative territory for the third time in the past four quarters. Rising interest rates due to a somewhat sudden change in sentiment from the Bank of Canada in recent months means tighter financial conditions going forward.

VICTORIA Spirit of British Columbia Heads to Poland for Refit The Spirit of British Columbia ferry, which sails from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen has been pulled from its regular service and sent to Richmond to prepare for an international voyage. The ferry will sail to Poland

to undergo a multimillion-dollar refit. The ferry is having a wave-breaker installed at BC Ferries’ maintenance yard to help mitigate the impact of open ocean waves. The ship is expected to arrive at the Remontowa Ship Repair Yard in Gdansk, Poland after a 42 day voyage. The Spirit of British Columbia is expected to return in the spring of 2018 and rejoin regular service in the fall. After the ships return, the Spirit of Vancouver Island will set sail in the fall to have the same work done, returning it to service in spring 2019. B C Fe r r i e s h a s b u d g e t e d $140-million for the refit. The two vessels, which have a passenger-and-crew capacity of 2,100, are the largest in BC Ferries’ fleet. The improvements will keep the vessels in service for another 25 years. The refit will include the installation of a dual fuel system which will allow the vessels to run on liquefied natural gas or ultra-low sulfur marine diesel. The three new vessels added to BC Ferries’ fleet run on the same dual-fuel system. The new fuel system is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 12,000 tonnes per year. Improvements are also planned for the gift shops, washrooms, elevators and passenger areas. This includes emergency communication systems, propulsion and navigation equipment, propeller blades, LED lighting and air conditioning that require less electricity. Redwise, from the Netherlands has been contracted to deliver the ship to port. 14 crew members will be on board for the voyage, including 12 Canadians. BC Ferries will have a captain and an engineer on each portion of the trip to represent the company.

estimated $2.6 billion in fiscal year 2016-17, an all-time high for the industry. The latest figures from Creative BC represent a more than 35 per cent increase over budgeted production spending in 2015-16. Creative BC approved 338 tax-credit certifications with total budgeted expenditures in British Columbia estimated at $2.6 billion in fiscal year 2016-17, compared to 297 tax-credit certifications and $1.9 billion in budgeted expenditures in 2015-16. “We are tremendously proud of all we have accomplished together in British Columbia’s motion picture industry,” said Peter Leitch, North Shore Studios president and

chair of the Motion Picture Production Industry of Association BC. “We will continue to realize and sustain our success through ongoing innovation, collaboration and partnership between industry and government.” “It is a time of unprecedented change as well as opportunity for BC producers and content creators in the screen-based industries,” added Liz Shorten, senior vice-president, Canadian Media Producers Association. “The success of our province’s motion picture industry positions us well to increase our presence at home, nationally and around the globe.” SEE NEWS UPDATE | PAGE 4

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NEWS UPDATE

OCTOBER 2017

NEWS UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

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VANCOUVER ISLAND Tourism Vancouver Island Announces 2017 - 2018 Board of Directors Tourism Vancouver Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 54th Annual Conference a nd AGM held September 19-21 in beautiful Sidney by the Sea, themed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Embracing our Rootsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The business meeting concluded the event with the announcement of the incoming Board of Directors

for the 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2018 term. At the first meeting of the newly constituted Board of Directors, Ian MacPhee of Prince of Whales Whale Watching was re-elected to the position of Board Chair. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a bittersweet start to the fall season in the wake of Dave Petrykâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impending retirement, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re poised and ready to continue the great work of the organization,â&#x20AC;? said Ian MacPhee. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our mission continues to focus on building the economic benefits of tourism on behalf of our stakeholders, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll stay the course in the development and marketing of our beautiful islands destination.â&#x20AC;? Returning to the board and elected by acclamation for two-year terms are: Ian MacPhee of Prince of Whales Whale Watching; Janet Clouston of Chamber of Commerce and Salt Spring Island Tourism; Janet Docherty of Merridale Ciderworks Corp.; and Arthur Wong of The Beach Club Resort. Serving out their second year of a two-year term are

Lara Greasley of Comox Valley Economic Development and Tourism, and Andrew Jones of Kingfisher Wilderness Adventures. Lillian Hunt of Aboriginal Tourism Association of BC and Uâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mista Cultural Centre has been re-appointed to the board for a two-year term, while Raymond Chan of RCA Consulting, Jenn Bogwald of MNP LLP, and Jim Owens of JTO Hospitality Group will serve their second year of a two-year appointment. The Officers consists of: Ian MacPhee as Chair; Arthur Wong as Vice Chair (Chair Elect); Raymond Chan as Governance Chair; Jim Owens as Marketing Chair; Jenn Bogwald as Secretary-Treasurer; and Carol Ann Terreberry as Past Chair. Tourism Vancouver Island is one of five regional destination management organizations in British Columbia that represent Destination BC through the delivery of co-operative marketing and community development programs.

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IS AN EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK REALLY NECESSARY?

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CHEMISTRY CONSULTING MARCIA HAMMONDS

he a nswer to th is question is an emphatic â&#x20AC;&#x153;yesâ&#x20AC;?! All organizations can benefit from a well-written guide that describes what is expected from staff and, just as importantly, what staff can ex*T ZPVS CVTJOFTT CFJOH PWFSMPPLFE pect from the organization. *T ZPVS CVTJOFTT CFJOH PWFSMPPLFE "T BO JTMBOE CBTFE $VTUPNT #SPLFSBHF BOE 4IJQ T "HFODZ XJUI PWFS ZFBST FYQFSJFODF The challenge is to deter"T BO JTMBOE CBTFE $VTUPNT #SPLFSBHF BOE 4IJQ T "HFODZ XJUI PWFS ZFBST FYQFSJFODF XF VOEFSTUBOE UIF JTMBOE QFSTQFDUJWF 7JTJU VT BU XXX LJCSP DPN QFSTQFDUJWF UP MFBSO BCPVU mine what to include in a handbook and how to set a XF VOEFSTUBOE UIF JTMBOE QFSTQFDUJWF 7JTJU VT BU XXX LJCSP DPN QFSTQFDUJWF UP MFBSO BCPVU *T ZPVS CVTJOFTT CFJOH PWFSMPPLFE UIF TFSWJDFT XF PĂ˛FS BOE IPX XF DBO JNQSPWF ZPVS JNQPSUJOH QSPDFEVSFT tone that reflects the organ"T BO JTMBOE CBTFE $VTUPNT #SPLFSBHF BOE 4IJQ T "HFODZ XJUI PWFS ZFBST FYQFSJFODF UIF TFSWJDFT XF PĂ˛FS BOE IPX XF DBO JNQSPWF ZPVS JNQPSUJOH QSPDFEVSFT 8F BSF IFSF UP IFMQ izationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture, including XF VOEFSTUBOE UIF JTMBOE QFSTQFDUJWF 7JTJU VT BU XXX LJCSP DPN QFSTQFDUJWF UP MFBSO BCPVU 8F BSF IFSF UP IFMQ how employees are treated UIF TFSWJDFT XF PĂ˛FS BOE IPX XF DBO JNQSPWF ZPVS JNQPSUJOH QSPDFEVSFT and the values and philoso8F BSF IFSF UP IFMQ phies for which the organization stands. An employee handbook should not read like a â&#x20AC;&#x153;list of what not to doâ&#x20AC;? )BSUXJH $PVSU 8IBSG 4USFFU 7JDUPSJB #SJUJTI $PMVNCJB 7 8 1 )BSUXJH $PVSU 8IBSG 4USFFU or â&#x20AC;&#x153;what will happen if an 1IPOF )BSUXJH $PVSU 8IBSG 4USFFU 7JDUPSJB #SJUJTI $PMVNCJB 7 8 1 employee does something 7JTJU VT BU XXX LJCSP DPN QFSTQFDUJWF 7JDUPSJB #SJUJTI $PMVNCJB 7 8 1 they shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;tâ&#x20AC;?. Instead, the 1IPOF 1IPOF 7JTJU VT BU XXX LJCSP DPN QFSTQFDUJWF language and presentation 7JTJU VT BU XXX LJCSP DPN QFSTQFDUJWF should be clear, support the

culture of the organization, and lay a foundation that will enable rather than hinder staff performance and engagement. Effective employee handbooks help staff to do their jobs well, including ensuring they understand what this means. Employee handbooks also play an important role in an organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s risk management strategy by identifying applicable provincial and federal legislation. Employers can face significant risk and the potential for costly lawsuits (not to mention ill-informed employees) by not ensuring that workplace HR practices complement current legislation. For example, if the Federal Government legalizes marijuana, employers should develop a policy around its use in the workplace. In addition to serving as an ongoing resource for all employees, employee handbooks serve as a very useful source of orientation information for new employees and can help determine a new hireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first impression of your organization and set the tone for their employment. So, how do you get started with what can appear to be a challenging task? Firstly, identify what is important to your business and workplace culture and use this insight

as the basis for determining what policies to include. Possible sections include: Company History, Vision and Mission, Employee L eaves, Compensation (include pay and benefits), Employee Relations, Professional Development, Health and Safety, etc. You can find all kinds of employee handbook information, including templates, suggested topics and formatting styles, on a variety of HR websites including BC HRMA, HRReporter, HRInsider, SHRM, and HR Council of BC. Finally, there is little point in creating an employee handbook and documenting policies and procedures, if they are not adhered to, or if application is done in an ad hoc manner. Employees have an expectation that what is written in an employee handbook will be upheld in a consistent and fair manner. A well-written employee handbook can support and protect employers and employees and help reinforce a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture and values. As such, creating and maintaining such a document is worth the investment of your time. Marcia Hammonds, CPHR, is a Senior HR Consultant with Chemistry Consulting Group

TAXES

OCTOBER 2017

MNP: Small Business Owners Face Big Impact From Proposed Tax Rules Federal Government Proposals Could Eliminate Incorporation Benefits, Tax Deferrals And Income Splitting

ANAIMO – Accounting firms are being inundated with calls from business and corporation owners following the Federal government’s proposed sweeping changes to the way private corporations are taxed in Canada. While the federal government is still accepting feedback on their proposal and changes to legislation are not yet finalized, small businesses and professionals across the country are very concerned about its potential impacts. The full 63page paper is available on the Department of Finance website. “We are definitely getting a lot of calls on this,” says Jamie Kungel, regional tax leader for MNP on Vancouver Island. “The changes being proposed reflect the most significant shift in tax policy we’ve seen in 45 years, so people are eager to understand how it could affect their business and their family, and what they can do to mitigate the impact if the changes go ahead.” The federal proposal addresses three main areas of tax planning using private corporations: Income sprinkling (also called income splitting); Investment income earned inside the corporation; and Capital gains and dividends.

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Jamie Kungel Income Splitting Many business owners have benefitted by paying dividends to family members as shareholders of their corporations. By paying dividends to family members, business owners are able to reduce their overall taxes, allowing them to support others in a tax-efficient manner. This strategy is often used to help finance post-secondary education and to support aging parents. “The proposed changes lay out specific criteria that greatly reduce the opportunity for this type of income splitting,” explains Mindy Wight, a taxation specialist with MNP based in Prince George.

“Companies will only be able to pay what’s deemed to be a ‘reasonable’ amount to family members based on their contribution of labour or capital to the business. “Any dividends or capital gains realized by family members that do not meet the new criteria will be subject to what is called the Tax on Split Income, and will be taxed at the highest marginal tax rate.” Capital Gains Exemption The government is also proposing new limitations on the ability of other family members to claim the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE). This deduction currently allows business owners to shelter up to $835,716 of capital gains on the sale of qualified small business corporation shares from tax. Through tax planning, the exemptions of more than one family member can sometimes be used to shelter gains on the family business. This is now subject to change. “If you are thinking of selling your business in the future, the new rules would restrict the number of capital gains exemptions you may be able to access – even if the individual owns shares,” Wight explains. “This is a big deal because it could

make it much more costly to sell the business or carry out a family succession plan.” Investment income inside a corporation Under Canada’s existing tax system, corporate business income is generally taxed at a lower rate than personal income. If a company’s earnings are beyond what is needed to support the business owner’s personal income or to re-invest in the business, it’s common to leave the excess earnings in the corporation and invest in passive investments such as bonds, shares or rental properties. This allows a business owner to defer the tax that would otherwise be paid if the excess earnings were withdrawn from the corporation and subject to the higher personal tax rates. “Under the current rules, passive income that is distributed to shareholders through dividends could be taxed up to approximately 50% for business owners in the top personal income bracket,” explains Brian Posthumous, regional tax leader for MNP’s Thompson-Okanagan region, adding that the ability to defer taxation is one of the major benefits of a private corporation. “Under the

proposed rules, you could pay up to 70% tax on that income.” Converting income into capital gains The proposed tax changes could also prove troublesome for many estates. When a person dies, the individual is deemed to dispose of all their assets at fair market value and their estate acquires those assets at the same value. In the case of a business owner who holds shares of a private corporation, this will often result in a capital gain. A typical estate could end up paying tax on the capital gain, as well as on the dividend income paid out to his family members to liquidate the estate’s assets from within the corporation. As a result, the estate ends up paying double the tax on the private company shares, which significantly increases the tax liability to the estate. “Currently, there are tax strategies available that can help to avoid this type of punitive taxation,” Posthumous notes. “Even though the government is still in the consultation phase, there are a number of steps you can take to help minimize the impact if the changes move forward, and some of these need to happen by the end of 2017.”

9/21/2017 1:49:17 PM

GREATER VICTORIA

OCTOBER 2017

HOW MANY ROADS MUST WE WALK DOWN?

GREATER VICTORIA CATHERINE HOLT “…and, of course, all of this would be easier if there was only one local government…” is a comment I hear at almost every meeting I’m at. How many times has it been said in this region? It has become our anthem. Harmonizing with our chorale, the Capital Integrated Services and Governance Initiative Report by the Province has provided a full explanation of why. It is an exhaustive and exhausting description, of the crazy world we live in when it comes to local government services. It tackles 16 services and describes each thoroughly by municipality including what the service is, what parts are shared with other governments, the different ways it’s delivered, what it costs per capita, how decisions are made and who

pays. The authors could not identify a single municipal service that is provided the same way for the same cost across this region. This is the best evidence we have ever had that we need better governance through fewer governments. The report authors surveyed stakeholders to identify what makes them the most frustrated. Transportation rates pretty high and nearly a third chose it as the one service that would most benefit from an integrated approach. Respondents ranked the 16 services on the following: Most important local government service: Transportation is second after Water; Level of satisfaction with current service delivery: Transportation is 16th (i.e. dead last); Best opportunity to improve the service through integration: Transportation is third and best opportunity to improve the service through standardization: Transportation is third. Why is it everyone but local governments see that transportation is obviously regional. As the report states, “Communities within the CRD are experiencing significant growing demands and changing needs in regards to transportation services. A high-level of coordination at the regional level is required to advance many of the required regional transportation initiatives.

Currently, the region does not have a regional transportation authority, so local governments, the CRD and the Province coordinate with each other on an ad-hoc basis.” If we had a transportation authority or commission we would have a way to make better choices: Is it more important to build a dedicated bus lane from downtown to the Westshore so the bus can go faster than the car or to build another road connector so more cars can go from the Sooke Road to the TransCanada Highway? Is it better to have 13 communities each with their own bike lane projects ranging from 0.6 km in Sidney to 49 km in Saanich or a regional bike lane network with design standards and connections and an expansion plan? Should each local government decide unilaterally to change major arteries of traffic to increase/restrict flow or should there be a designated major road network that is funded and maintained regionally so traffic is managed? The transformational change we need is a Greater Victoria Regional Transportation Commission with a mandate to provide a regional system of roads, bridges, parking, bus lanes, bike lanes, rail, water and any other mode that makes sense – running as an interconnected system. It needs good governance, which means

OCTOBER CHAMBER EVENTS • Tuesday, October 3 Business Leader’s Luncheon: Bill Stewart – UX Designer 11:30 am to 1 pm @ Victor ia M a r r iott I n ner Harbour • Wednesday, October 11 Small Business Month Sem i na r: Ta k i ng you r business online 10 am – 12 noon @ The Chamber (100 – 852 Fort St.) • Thursday, October 12 Prodigy Group Mingle 5 to 7 p.m. @ HeartPress PR • Tuesday, October 17 Small Business Month decisive decision-making authority in the interests of the region, transcending local government. It needs operating responsibility and the ability to contract with the best operator available - whether public or private. It needs adequate revenue and the expertise to plan and design long-term transportation improvements and set big goals for increased bus riders, reduced emissions, reduced number of vehicles

Sem i na r: Master you r Excel Skills @ The Chamber • Thursday, October 19 Small Business Month Seminar: Disaster Planning for your Business @ The Chamber • Thursday, October 19 Business Mixer 5 to 7 pm Victoria Royals (Lions Den at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre - 1925 Blanshard St.) Wednesday, October 25 Member Network i ng Breakfast 7:30 am to 9 am @ Cedar Hill Golf Clubhouse

and faster travel times. Next time you’re stuck in traffic, take a read of the Capital Integrated Services and Governance Initiative report because there is a better route. Catherine Holt is the CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce. 250-383-7191, CEO@victoriachamber.ca, www. victoriachamber.ca

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Chief Louie: Economic Development Brings Opportunity To First Nations Celebrated Osoyoos Indian Band Leader Shares Inspirational Message With Ucluelet First Nation BY MARK MACDONALD BUSINESS EXAMINER

CLUELET – Money equals opportunity. That’s how Chief Clarence Louie of Osoyoos Indian Band sees it. One of Canada’s most successful Chiefs, Louie has earned accolades for his approach to economic development that has brought prosperity to the South Okanagan First Nation. He shared that inspirational message with Ucluelet First Nation members on September 2. Economic development, he believes, is an irreplaceable part of any forward progress for any First Nation. “Econom ic development is your path to freedom. We can’t d ep end on t he D epa r t ment of Indian Affairs,” he states. “They’ve never properly funded one program on an Indian Reserve, and never will.” “We need to create our own jobs, with our own money. It’s not all about money, but words without money have no legs.” O soyo o s F i rs t Nat ion h a s earned a reputation as one of the country’s most progressive

and successful First Nations, owning and operating numerous profitable businesses that employ workers from 30 different nationalities. They include Senkulmen Business Park, Spirit Ridge NK’Mip Resor t, NK’Mip (Inkameep) Cellars wine, NK’MIP RV Park, NK’MIp Desert Cultural Cent re, NK’Mip Canyon Deser t Golf Course and Canyon Desert Resort. Osoyoos Indian Band leases 227 acres of land to Area 27 Motorsports Park in Oliver. Designed by famous Canadian Formula One driver Jacques Villeneuve, is described as, “five kilometres of adrenaline and discipline. Built on a tradition of excellence, Area 27 is created as the ultimate driving playground.” “We get the spin-off, too,” notes Chief Louie. “The people that come golf at our golf course, stay at our resort, eat at our restaurant, and buy our gas. And they buy a lot of gas.” Chief Louie stated that while money is not everything, it is necessary. “Ever y t h i ng - educat ion, health care, cultural programs – costs money,” he observes.

Ucluelet First Nation President Les Doiron, left, and Osoyoos Indian Band Chief Clarence Louie “I don’t believe in a free lunch. The traditional food we’ve eaten here tonight is some of the best anywhere. But the food we have eaten wasn’t free. Fishing boats aren’t free, hunting rifles aren’t free. Guns aren’t free. We have to make our own money, even to do traditional ceremonies.” “If we want to educate our people, it costs money. Not Indians Affairs money – that’s not enough.” Chief Louie was first elected in 1984, and has won 16 elections, including the last one in February. Although his list of accomplishments and awards

is lengthy – including recently being named to the Order of Canada – he is quick to share credit for the success at Osoyoos Indian Band with a strong team inside and outside the Nation. “There’s not an ‘I’ in TEAM, w h i c h s t a n d s fo r To ge t h e r Everyone Achieves More,” he said. Chief Louie notes the “original Treaty relationship between tribes and the English and the French was a business relationship. The first business people in Canada were tribal people,” he says. “We had trade routes between each others’ tribes long before the others came. The original Treaty relationship between tribes and the English and the French was a business relationship. That’s what it needs to get back to. “It’s not just about business,” he adds. “It’s about building lifelong relationships. “In business, you can’t lie and stay in business,” he notes. “In politics, maybe you can, but not in business. You’ll be found out very quickly.” Emblazoned on the outside wall of an Osoyoos Indian Band

office are the words: ‘Indians Have Always Worked’. “I bel ieve we ca me f rom a working culture,” he continued. “None of them sat on their butts and put their hands out,” he states. “No First Nation, before the Europeans came, put their hands out and expected something.” “I don’t like seeing my people in welfare lines,” he says. “Welfa re is not I nd ia n. . .We fed ourselves, clothed ourselves, sheltered ourselves. Today we do that through economic development and business, and putting money into buying land.” Ch ief L ou ie sa id even i f it means having to buy some land back, so be it. “It’s only money, and I want opportunity for my people,” he adds. “I’ve never seen a non-native come into our office and say ‘I just watched (the movie) Dances with Wolves and my conscience is bothering me, so here’s the title to this land’.” Chief Louie remains positive and expectant. “I have a ‘future is now’ mentality. Every time I get elected, I’m going to move the yard sticks,” he says.

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he federal government is proposing the most significant business tax changes in 50 years. If you own an incorporated business or you plan to incorporate your business at some time in the future, you should be concerned. The message from the government has been that these are small changes to address loopholes in the tax system. This is minimizing the issue in the extreme. While no one supports tax evasion, the proposed changes will have unintended negative consequences to business in Canada. Small business owners with tight margins will find themselves especially hard hit by this proposed legislation. It is no exaggeration

to say these changes could hurt Canada’s economy given that approximately 80 per cent of Canadian businesses are small and medium sized enterprises. I’ve heard some interesting rhetoric on the radio about how small business owners are wealthy and therefore the proposed tax changes are appropriate. Chambers work with small business every day. I know I can speak for my colleagues across the province when I say that many small business owners are not wealthy, especially in the beginning when they take a risk to get that business going. Some do not succeed. The ones that do, who move beyond subsistence to success, get there as a result of hard work, long hours and thoughtful planning. Through their business they pay their employees, invest in their company, and save for retirement. To quote the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, “[t]he government wants to tax ‘passive’ (invested) income. It says it’s a crackdown on ‘high income individuals,’ but the rules would apply to all incorporated businesses

in Canada, most of whom are restaurants, retailers, farmers and consultants—to punish them for saving and investing.” “Consultants” includes doctors whose family practices are often incorporated small businesses. Having spoken to a prominent physician recently, the proposed changes mean that for many new doctors, working in a hospital would be preferable to setting up a private practice. Given the severe shortage of family physicians on the south of the Island, this is another huge concern. Find out about this issue by contacting your local Chamber of Commerce, or go to www.chamber.ca where the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has information available on its home page. Then write to your local MP and/or Finance Minister Bill Morneau, explaining how these changes would negatively impact on your business. Julie Lawlor is the Executive Director at the WestShore Chamber of Commerce. You can reach her at jlawlor@ westshore.bc.ca

OCTOBER 2017

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Architecture & Engineering: Working To Design & Build The World Dedication & Commitment A Requirement For Long Term Professional Success BY DAVID HOLMES

ike two columns jointly supporting the roof of a Roman temple, the twin professions of architecture and engineering are inexorably linked - while remaining distinct and separate branches of the same creative process. It’s no exaggeration to say that virtually nothing that we use, operate, work or live in every day would exist were it not for the efforts of the practitioners of these two intertwined professional vocations. “Pretty well everything you see around you is the product of engineering. There’s not much that isn’t, unless it’s a natural thing like a tree,” joked David Harvey, President of the Structural Engineers Association of BC (SEABC). SEE ARCHITECTURE | PAGE 10

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“I n rea l ity, a l l of t he built-environment is the product of engineering. Even the things that can be taken for granted such as the telephone system, the power grid, the water coming out your tap and the waste water system going down your drain are all the products of engineers. They’re owned by companies and bodies that employ engineers, who envision, design

From its very earliest days architects have played key roles in designing and building British Columbia and ultimately maintain them. It’s a profession with a tremendous impact on our daily lives.” I n its si mplest ter m s architecture is the art and practice of designing and

constructing buildings. Engineers are those persons who design, build and operate systems, typically found w ithin those buildings SEE ARCHITECTURE | PAGE 11

ARCHITECTURAL FIRM SEES A BRIGHT FUTURE IN MODULAR DESIGN Douglas Sollows Architect: A Leader In Innovation For Nearly Three Decades

rom its earliest days, nearly 30 years ago, Douglas Sollows Architect Inc. has demonstrated a desire for innovation and a passion for designing buildings that will successfully and sustainably interact with its environment. Today, a leading Western Canadian architectural practice with a vast portfolio of commercial, industrial, residential and community-focused designs behind it, the firm is turning its sights toward the Canadian north, and exploring such leading edge concepts as modular design and construction – continuing a legacy of innovation spanning three decades. “W h i le the compa ny was founded and continues to be based in Edmonton, Douglas Sollows has a strong presence all across the west, involved in everything from designing community centers, to care and supportive housing facilities, and recently hotels,” explained Rachele Mandrusiak, Douglas Sollows’ Business Development Manager.

The modular building techniques pioneered and now being enhanced by the firm promise to open up entirely new creative opportunities, even in the more remote corners of the country. “I like to call us the modular ‘Dream Team’ as we now have more than 17 years experience in modular design, mostly coming from the oil and gas sector all over the West,” she explained. Modular design can take on many forms and is adaptive to a variety of different environments and geographic locations, but always consists of pre-built components that receive their final assembly on site. A huge advantage of this school of design and construction is that a high quality, energy efficient structure can be erected in virtually any location within a comparatively short time period. “These could include plantbuilt wood frame modules, boxes if you like, historically used as temporary workforce housing. But the same approach can be used to construct higher quality, permanent structures that can fill any number of roles,” Mandrusiak said. A contemporary example of modular building that is becoming increasingly popular is the repurposing of shipping containers as a valuable building material. “Lots of people are

Modular design, such as with this comfortable motel room, is proving adaptive for any number of applications thinking about doing it, finding ways to use this sort of product even for multi-storey structures. With our background in modular design and construction this is an area of great interest.” A lready an industry leader from Manitoba to the BC coast, Douglas Sollows is increasingly turning its gaze north, developing ways to better serve its clients throughout the region with designs that can withstand the unique climatic challenges the

Canadian territories provides. “We’re especially interested in seeing the modular concept take off in a multi-unit residential and hotel setting. We’re already aligned with a number of modular builders and we’re working on modular infill concepts, four to five stories right now, so this offers tremendous potential for the future,” she said. Proven, innovative, a pioneer in sustainable and energy efficient designs, Douglas Sollows

Architect approaches all of its assignments with an awareness of the product’s impact on both the environment and on the community where it will be located. That passion for doing the job right has been a hallmark of the company’s efforts since 1988. “Modular design is shifting from temporary structures to multi-unit and permanent and we want to be leaders in this market,” explained Mandrusiak. www.dsafit.com

OCTOBER 2017

ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING

11 “Pretty well everything you see around you is the product of engineering.” DAVID HARVEY PRESIDENT, STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS ASSOCIATION OF BC

Structural Engineers specialize in the creation of structures, such as bridges, that help society function

ARCHITECTURE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

(and elsewhere) that allow for safe and automatic enjoyment of those environments. Not merely jobs, both functions are viewed as professions, with the same level of governance, regulation and certification found in other

professions, such as medicine or the law. As a result to become either an architect or an engineer requires a long term dedication to each craft, including a decade or more of formal education followed by years of apprenticeship experience. “Architecture is a regulated profession and those regulations

are administered by the Architectural Institute of British Columbia (AIBC). The Institute was created under provincial statute to serve as the regulator for the profession back in 1920, so we’re rapidly approaching our one hundredth anniversary,” explained Mark Vernon, the Chief Executive Officer of the AIBC.

“Our role is to regulate the profession on behalf of the public. We act in the interests of the public, not in the interests of the membership, as is the case with business associations, which is a differentiation that is noteworthy.” The engineer’s regulatory body is Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia (EGBC) which

is the business name of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of the Province of British Columbia. Engineers and Geoscientists BC regulates and governs these professions under the authority of the provincial Engineers and Geoscientists Act. As with its architectural counterpart, the entity was created to ensure continuity of training and certification for its practitioners, while providing protection for the general public. “This is the body that governs engineering in this province, they have legal status. In Canada engineering is a regulated profession so you have to be registered to practice. The EDBC has a lot of legal clout as they have an act of legislature behind them. They regulate the profession, they can discipline people, investigate things, they assist government and carry out multiple function on behalf of the public,” Harvey explained. “As far as I know Structural Engineering is the only segment SEE ARCHITECTURE | PAGE 12

EVOLVE ENGINEERING: BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS FOR THE LONG TERM Growing Electrical Engineering Firm Began Life As A Home-Based Start-Up In 2013 VICTORIA – When a person is passionate about their vocation then work ceases to be a job but becomes a career. At Evolve Engineering Inc. they are passionate about electrical engineering, bringing that same heightened level of energy and enthusiasm to every project they undertake – from participation in construction mega jobs, right down to minor systems upgrades. Not merely doing the job, but doing the job right every time, is central to this recently formed engineering firm’s ongoing success. “Both Lisanne Naeth, my business partner and I, worked for a large engineering firm here in Victoria for a number of years. But during Christmas 2012 I decided that the corporate career path wasn’t for me, so I set the wheels in motion to I created my own company so I could return to the ‘old school’ way of doing business where clients and employees are people, not numbers,” explained company founder and Principal Nik Alcock. Founded in April 2013, Evolve Engineering is a thriving small engineering enterprise with four

The massive North Island Hospitals project has been an especially important assignment for the firm PHOTO CREDIT ISLAND HEALTH

Evolve Engineering’s Principals Nik Alcock and Lisanne Naeth see a bright future for their company engineers (including the two company Principals) and a small contracted team of technical support and administrative personnel. Specializing in health care, correctional, and large institutional facility electrical and security system design, the company is also actively involved in all aspects of master planning, client standards development and traditional design, bid build projects. This multi-talented flexibility has made the practice appealing to a wide range of clients. “It’s a fairly broad-based service that we provide our clients. We help them with everything from project concept and feasibility studies, detailed design and tendering, to construction phase administration

and project commissioning. Everything involved in developing project scope through to project completion” explained Naeth. In addition, Evolve has completed several projects acting as the Registered Coordinating Professional and project manager. These projects required the coordination of multi-disciplinary engineering teams and include large correctional facilities, government buildings, municipal pumpstations, healthcare facilities and some private clients with complex facilities. “The ongoing North Island Hospitals project has been a bedrock project for Evolve. In fact I’ve been involved in that project since 2011, so for us it wasn’t so much a launch

pad for Evolve but a continuation of a relationship with Island Health that goes back all the way to 2002,” Alcock said. “Our involvement with this project was to act as the owner’s engineer, what they refer to as the Compliance Team, where we would act as Island Health’s engineers on their behalf,” Naeth explained. “We developed the indicative design, performance specifications and participated in proponent selection, design and construction compliance review through to final witness testing. We have been heavily involved in the development and testing of sophisticated electrical, security and communication systems.” Having already experienced considerable growth in its short four year history, Evolve Engineering

anticipates continuing that upward movement as new projects are appearing on its horizon. “Our business is based on established relationships with well informed, high quality clients who value our deep understanding of their needs, priorities and challenges. We understand their needs for today, and we prepare their facilities to be ready for tomorrow. Clients appreciate our attention to detail, technical competence and personal service,” Alcock said. “Focusing on relationships instead of growth or profit has proven to be a winning formula. Growing from a small start-up working from home into an established office with an enviable client base and portfolio of projects in four years has been hard work, but very satisfying.” www.evolveeng.ca

ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING of the profession that has a member services organization set up specifically to address the needs of that discipline (the SEABC). Our group only deals with things that pertain to structural engineering, such as bridges which is my specialty. But even under the term structural engineering there are sub sets of specialization â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so as a profession it covers a wide gamut of disciplines.â&#x20AC;? Twin professions operating under strict and administered guidelines, both architecture and engineering are the unique melding of science with art and imagination that collectively design, build and operate essentially all facets of the modern world. If an architect designs a shopping mall, or an office building or a hospital, there will be engineers who look after the structural design of the buildings, while working to ensure the structures are adequately heated and that the elevators work. Both professions strive to keep society housed, moving and functioning. But like with all areas of Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workforce a general aging of the population is occurring, so both key professions are actively seeking the next generation

OCTOBER 2017

Mark Vernon is the Chief Executive Officer of the Architectural Institute of British Columbia of practitioners to carry the torch forward. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are a number of entry points for architects. The traditional course is taking an architectural degree, the majority of which are Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s levels. The graduate then enters into an architectural intern program which involves real world application of their profession while taking additional courses to gain the necessary experience,â&#x20AC;? Vernon said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Once they feel ready and meet the specified requirements, they can apply to write the final exam. An internship could take three years but typically averages four or five years. This is on top of having earned a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree, so it certainly requires a lot of dedication

and commitment. Even though it is a lengthy process, there has been a steady increase of intern architects joining the AIBC Internship in Architecture Program over the past several years. We are happy to see a growing interest amongst the younger generation regarding the profession of architecture in BC.â&#x20AC;? For Harvey, while parts of the shortfall of engineers in British Columbia have been filled by experienced persons moving to the province from elsewhere, there is an ongoing need for new engineers to enter the profession. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great profession. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competitively paid and very appealing for the right person. Why do I still love my work after having been in it for more than 35 years? Because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exciting and thanks to new technology it keeps getting more exciting.â&#x20AC;? Related but separate, engineering and architecture are twin professions that have helped to build and operate the world today. But as both leaders in their various vocations have stated, there is always need for another good engineer or architect. www.aibc.ca or www. egbc.ca

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ICTOR I A â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Operating from offices in Vancouver and Victoria (Langford), Wensley Architecture Ltd. (WA) is a firm of over 30 dedicated design professionals that provides a full range of architectural, planning, and interior design services for a client base that encompasses all of Western Canada. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our firm has the experience and the expertise to work on a wide range of project types including mixed-use, residential, office, retail, and seniors living projects throughout BC, as well as in Alberta and Saskatchewan,â&#x20AC;? stated David Echaiz-McGrath, a Principal of the firm. In addition to Echaiz-McGrath, WA is under the direction of Principals Barry Weih, Neil Banich, and Joel Smith. WA has striven to achieve a middle ground between the large scale and the smaller boutique architectural firms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; while regularly demonstrating the unique strengths of both types of enterprise. The firm is capable of delivering both large and small projects while retaining personal working relationships with their clients regardless of the size of the assignment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the last 15 years we have developed a strong presence on Vancouver Island and a solid client base â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from Campbell River to Victoria,â&#x20AC;? said Weih. A

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The steady growth within West Coast communities creates areas of opportunity for us.â&#x20AC;? BARRY WEIH PRINCIPAL, WENSLEY ARCHITECTURE LTD.

few of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent and current Vancouver Island projects include the Belmont Market in Langford, the upcoming Element retirement living project in Victoria, and the Summerhill rental residential in Nanaimo. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The steady growth within West Coast communities creates areas of opportunity for us,â&#x20AC;? says Weih. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Langford is a case in point as a major growth hub. Many Island municipalities encourage new business, and we find collaborating with people who are so motivated very rewarding.â&#x20AC;? Both Weih and Echaiz-McGrath are confident about the future. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We believe in the continued growth on Vancouver Island and are proud to have a talented and dedicated team here. In our experience, the combination of a strong economy and team leads to new and repeat business.â&#x20AC;? www.wensleyarch.com

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The Helijet Operated Aircraft To Be Upgraded By Victoria’s VIH Aerospace Inc.

The addition of night vision equipment will provide the provinces’ air ambulances with an extra level of capabilities

VIH AEROSPACE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

in use by military and law enforcement operators, Night Vision Imaging Systems (NVIS) of the type Helijet will be employing consist of helmet-mounted optical units, as well as modifications to the cockpit of the aircraft to allow for the functioning of the new system. “You have to make certain modifications to the cockpit of the aircraft, how it’s lit inside, as you’re now dealing with very specialized lighting conditions,” Hill said. VIH Aerospace will be installing the first NVIS system in December, with the entire upgrading project expected to be complete by early 2018. “Our company has

“Night flying is more complex, so the addition of

A total of three of the air ambulances operated by Helijet will be equipped with night vision equipment

this technology will give us

for companies like the Conair Group, Cascade Aerospace and others in addition to helicopter operators. VIH is considered a specialist in night vision integrations and installations. Working with our partner in the United States, Rebtech Technologies, the project involves the upgrading of three of Helijet’s S-76 aircraft. This upgrade will provide the operator with an extra measure of safety, security and obviously expands their operational parameters.” Texas-based Rebtech is a world leader in designing and fabricating aircraft mounted night vision

an extra margin of safety.” RICK HILL VICE PRESIDENT, HELIJET

a long experience doing custom modifications for helicopters so this upgrading assignment is exactly the sort of work our company was built on,” explained Dave McGrath, VIH’s Director of Business Development. “In addition to modifications we are also a manufacturer. We manufacture piece parts and kits

equipment, working with clients from around the world. Night Flight Concepts, another Texasbased night vision service provider is also involved in the Air Ambulance upgrade program. “We’ve worked closely with the team at Rebtech in developing the installation, developing the equipment and then determining how the certificate will be developed to ensure it will be approved by Transport Canada,” McGrath explained. A wholly Canadian-owned company and the world’s largest helicopter airline, Helijet International

has carried more than over 2.3 million passengers over the past three decades. Helijet is British Columbia’s longest standing and largest service provider of dedicated medically equipped helicopters, in addition to providing its regular scheduled and chartered air services. “Obviously we are always intent on doing everything possible to ensure the safety of all onboard our aircraft, and with a system like this we’re definitely going to be able to do that,” Hill stated. www.vihaerospace.com & www. helijet.com

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he recently proposed tax changes for consultation from the Federal Government will have a devastating impact on small businesses across Canada. The proposal is being considered to stop private corporation’s ability to use tax-planning strategies to gain unfair advantages, but it fails at going after the wealthiest Canadians, resulting in higher taxes and an increased administrative burden for small businesses. Unfortunately for small business owners, the changes that the Department of Finance are proposing attack strategies that have a long history in Canada and don’t extend to publicly traded companies.

The business community and tax professionals both agree that this proposal brings up numerous issues. T he planned proposal suggests that corporations are often formed solely for tax reasons, which is simply untrue. One example, among many, is that for many businesses, tax deferral on portfolio investments inside a corporation gives a huge advantage not only to the growth of a business but its survival in general. The ability to do so has often saved businesses during times of economic decline. This taxation will also affect retired business owners that have planned their entire retirement off these funds, putting the retired business owner’s entire retirement plan essentially in the toilet. These proposals put the future of small businesses at risk. Say goodbye to being able to do any successful planning in the future. Oh, but don’t worry, because of course owners are rewarded for selling their small businesses to larger corporations which could mean giving jobs away to foreign investors.

This isn’t just detrimental to business owners but the employees that need these jobs to provide for their families, pay for schooling, support themselves, or quite possibly all three. We must fight for the little guys. T he con sequences of these harmful tax changes don’t end here. A re you a business owner or know a business owner? The Government of Canada’s “consultation” period closes October 2, 2017. I encourage you to do your research about the proposed plan and express your concerns to the federal Finance M i n ister, Bill Morneau (bill.morneau@parl.gc.ca) and/or your own Member of Parliament. Let’s show our government that there is no place for greed in our country. Kelly Darwin sits on the Board of Directors of the Esquimalt Chamber of Commerce and is owner of Seriously Creative, a Marketing & Digital Development company. He can be reached at 250-474-4723.

OCTOBER 2017

ACME SAFE & LOCKSMITHS HAS BEEN SERVING THE VICTORIA AREA NEARLY HALF A CENTURY Downtown Lock & Safe Company Has Evolved With The Times

ICTORIA – A traditional business, but geared to service contemporary clients, Acme Safe & Locksmiths Ltd. has been helping to open doors and keep valuables secure for nearly half a century. Originally opened in 1968, the firm’s current owner has been with the company since he was 17, starting out sweeping floors on Saturdays before taking over the business more than 40 years ago. “Yes - I’ve owned the business 41 years this year and I worked here four years before that so I’ve been here since I was a teenager,” explained company President Ian Smale. Founded nearly 50 years ago, Acme Safe was opened by a pair of locksmiths who had branched out on their own after having worked for another firm for many years. In time one of the original partners went their own way with the surviving owner selling the business to Smale in 1976. “I actually started working here in 1972 and it all came about because my parents were repainting our house’s interior,” he recalled. “All the old interior locks and door knobs had been painted over, so I wanted to get them cleaned up and have keys made for them, and my brother happened to be working across the street from the locksmith so I asked him to go over and enquire if they needed any help for the summer, and really I’ve been part of the place ever since.” A full service lock and safe busi ness, Acme Sa fe ca n do everything from the simple cutting of traditional house keys, high security restricted keys and access control to cutting and programming the latest automotive chip keys and fobs. The company

Congratulations to Acme Safe on your many years of success 100-3930 Shelbourne St. Victoria, BC V8P 5P6 250 477 4431 reception@jburnsco.com

Company President Ian Smale first joined the firm in 1972, when he was only 17 years old

“I actually started working here in 1972 and it all came about because my parents were

Company President Ian Smale first joined the firm in 1972, when he was only 17 years old

repainting our house’s interior.” IAN SMALE PRESIDENT, ACME SAFE & LOCKSMITHS LTD.

also sells services and installs residential and business safes. Its product line of new and excellent quality used safes range from traditional floor models, to the in-floor or in-wall style favoured by many clients. At any one time the company can have 40 or more new or used safes on site in its compact showroom area. Wit h a f leet of t h ree f u l ly equipped service vehicles, and a team of four technicians, Acme Safe provides 24/7 emergency service, working with clients all across the Greater Victoria area. The company does not provide alarm services or monitoring as that requires a different form of licensing than a locksmith, an area of business the firm is not interested in pursuing at this time. “Safes are very popular today,

The company’s storefront on Fort Street stocks a wide range of lock and security related products both for home use and for businesses. We sell, serv ice a nd install them for customers all across the city and southern Vancouver Island.” Smale said. “We presently have a safe sitting on the floor in the showroom that weighs 3,600 pounds, so they come in a variety of sizes and styles – from electronic lock to the traditional rotary dial lock. There’s something here for every need and budget.” Presently located at 815 Fort

Syd’s Demo… 2 acres of used doors, floors, sinks, furniture/building lumber, appliances, fences, furnaces fireplaces and just about everything buildings are made of.

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Street in Victoria’s downtown core, this is Acme Safe & Locksmiths’ third location on the street since it was originally founded. “T he company has always been located in the 700 or 800 block of Fort Street, has always been a downtown business,” Smale explained. At one point the firm operated a satellite office in Colwood at the Colwood Plaza before a fire forced its closure in 2010. “That’s all history now. There are no

plans to open another office any time soon. We’ve always been associated with the downtown, some of our customers have been coming to us here for decades,” he said. T hei r specia l i zed ser v ices include such things as the installation of deadbolts, security astragals and other door hardware, (as well as the latest in keyless entry systems), key cutting, re-keying older locks and other general lock and door maintenance; including the repair and replacement of door hardware such as door closers, panic hardware, and high security / key control locking systems. The firm’s extensive experience in this area has seen Acme Safe become the locksmiths of choice for many of the city’s top property management firms for example, with the company involved in re-keying apartment and commercial buildings and other properties. Automotive security is an important part of the firm’s business, especially as auto locks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. “All of the automotive keys today have a security chip in them. You can’t just walk in and get a new key cut and then go and start your car. Today the key or fob must be programmed beforehand, so the business has certainly evolved right along with the changing technology,” Smale said. A business built on trust, with its extensive client list relying on the firm to keep themselves and their valuables secure, Acme Safe & Locksmiths has built a reputation for skill and reliability that spans nearly half a century – with no sign of its ending any time soon. “I’ll retire eventually I guess, but there are certainly no plans right now. I still enjoy doing what I do and working with my clients, so I won’t be going anywhere for a while,” he said. www.acmesafe.ca

OCTOBER 2017

Specialized Skills Set Required To Sell Commercial Real Estate Hans Van de Kamp Works With Commercial Client All Across The Island

ICTORIA – While certainly no stranger to the triumphs and challenges of business, for Commercial Realtor Hans Van de Kamp opening a commercial real estate sales practice has required thinking about business in an entirely new way. An experienced negotiator with 30 plus years of senior level experience in executive management and business development across several industry sectors behind him, Van de Kamp recognizes that despite his skills his new profession demands a very different perspective. “In reality, I was officially licensed in 2014, so actually I’m still fairly new to this business. My focus right out of the gate has always been commercial real estate sales, I was never directly involved in residential sales, but have that covered by my partner Lynn Van de Kamp, who has extensive residential real estate expertise,” he explained. Working as part of the Macdonald Commercial Real Estate Services Ltd. commercial sales team, Van de Kamp’s Realtor license may be linked to its main office in Vancouver, but his personal sales territory covers all

“From the beginning to the end I immerse myself in the process, to me that’s the key to a successful transaction.” HANS VAN DE KAMP COMMERCIAL REALTOR, MACDONALD COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Commercial Realtor Hans Van de Kamp’s territory essentially covers all of Vancouver Island of Vancouver Island. Based in Victoria with a Macdonald outlet at 755 Humboldt Street, Van de Kamp likely spends as much time in his car working with clients as he does manning a desk. “In order to be accepted as a full member of the Commercial Division of the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver you have to demonstrate a fair bit of previous related experience – which is where my earlier business experience really helped out. Having had first hand ownership of a number of different transactions

certainly helped me attain full commercial member status,” he said. By its nature commercial real estate is much more complex and detail oriented than its residential cousin. Selling a single family home can seem complicated, especially to novice home sellers, so imagine the depth of details required to sell a business, strip mall or apartment building? Navigating that often turbulent sea of documents and regulations is the core function of any successful Commercial Realtor, as Van de Kamp well knows. “There is certainly a lot of detail involved in this phase of the business. But fortunately with the Macdonald group there is a very solid network of sales professionals, many with decades of experience and a list of those looking for commercial properties which together is a huge asset,” he said. With a sales territory that literally stretches across the entire length and breadth of Vancouver Island, Van de Kamp is on the road a great deal, listing a property in Campbell River, negotiating an offer in Duncan, or closing a deal in Victoria.

But despite the challenges and the often long hours, he’s never sorry he embarked on this most distinctive yet challenging of real estate sales professions. “From the beginning to the end I immerse myself in the process, to me that’s the key to a successful transaction. It’s certainly not for everyone, but for me and with my background it was certainly the right career path,” Van de Kamp said. www.macdonaldpmcommercial.com

DRS DIALOGUE AND RESOLUTION SERVICES: CREATED TO SETTLE CONFLICTS The Organization Has Operated For More Than 40 Years Under Various Names

Effective, timely and affordable conflict resolution to fit your needs and budget. High quality, professional training, coaching, mediation, and arbitration for: Businesses | Non-profits | Co-ops | Families | Individuals Interactive, fun Communication Training designed for your unique organization. Public Communication Workshops.

Don’t get stuck with conflict. Let dialogue lead to resolution. Subsidies available thanks to the generous support of the Province of British Columbia, United Way, Victoria Foundation, Notary Foundation, City of Colwood, RCMP.

Serving the South Island since 1974 102-2220 Sooke Road, V9B 0G9 | 250-383-4412 office@dialogueandresolutionservices.ca

https://dialogueandresolutionservices.ca

ICTOR I A – Disag reements and conflicts are inevitable and are part of the normal human condition. But there are times when interpersonal challenges can escalate, in the home or in the workplace, disrupting lives and impacting productivity – sometimes with serious results. Helping those in conflicts find common ground, while creating the environment to develop a positive outcome, is at the heart of the work routinely carried out by DRS Dialogue and Resolution Services Society. “We are a non-profit society created to provide conflict management and communication courses and workshops, and to offer dispute resolution services such as mediation, arbitration, coaching, and group facilitation,” explained DRS Administrative Director Susan Belford. “We work with individuals, groups and organizations to ex plore a nd i mplement coll a b orat ive ap pro a c h e s. We strive to contribute to a strong, healthy and collaborative local

community. From the start the work we do has always been to satisfy three key objectives; to faci l itate ef fect ive decision-making, to improve communication skills and to reduce the impact of conflict.” First established in 1974, Dialogue and Resolution Services has operated under a number of names and in a variety of locations, but has remained true to its core Mission Statement - to assist individuals, groups and communities to manage d i f fe r e n c e a n d t o p r o m o t e strong, healthy and sustainable relationships. With a small but multi-talented staff, and a team of certified conflict resolution Mediators and Arbitrators, DRS works with families, organizations and corporations of all sizes to find the means to build understanding, foster shared goals and to create agreements that benefit everyone involved. “Many times it comes down to communications issues and sometimes it can be really simple to help people learn some basic techniques to overcome those communication differences,” she said. “You don’t have to be stuck in conflict. There are resources and there are answers available. Asking is just the first step.”

OFF THE COVER

OCTOBER 2017

JUST FOR YOU FASHIONS: STYLISH, CLASSIC AND CANADA MADE FOCUS

Renovation Project At Lim Dat Building

Clothing Store Has Been Serving The City Since 1997

ICTORIA – Understanding the needs of their market, delivering exceptional service, and striving to see that every customer leaves with a smile has been the focus of Just for You Fashions for more than 20 years. A clothing store for women that serves the 45 and over community, Just for You Fashions offers classic, stylish clothing that is as comfortable as it is fashionable. Just for You Fashions is located in an easy access ground floor location at 3142 Cedar Hill Road near the Cedar Hill Rec Centre. Originally opened in 1997, the clothier’s current owner, Jackie Grooms, took over ownership in 2013 with the goal of continuing to deliver quality fashions, at affordable prices in a comfortable setting. Many new customers have said the stores’ size surprises them as it seems much bigger on the inside compared to how it looks on the outside. “I bought Just for You Fashions from the previous owner about four years ago as she wanted to retire. I said to her I would be happy to take it over but having said that I wanted to make sure that she wasn’t leaving completely. With that she smiled, and has continued on a part time basis, sharing her experience and knowledge which has been a win-win experience for all of us,” Grooms explained. Just for You Fashions specializes in marketing new, quality Canadian-made clothing whenever possible, at competitive prices. While carrying a limited number of accessories the store primarily focuses on clothing sales, ranging in size from 4 to 16 (XS to XXL including petite sizes). Just for You Fashions proudly offers the largest selection of French Dressing Jeans (FDJ) in Victoria, earning the “Prestige Retailer” designation this year.

WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE OUR FRIENDS AT:

FOR 20 YEARS IN THE VICTORIA FASHION COMMUNITY! - And still going strong!

Located at 1826 Government Street, the Lim Dat building is a heritage structure constructed in 1898 Just for You Fashions owner Jackie Grooms (right) shares a quiet moment with Sue, one of her sales team “FDJ is a Canadian company created by women for women. Customers come back time after time because they love the fit of these jeans, and the company’s new tops have been outstanding in looks and appeal,” she said. “Only fabrics meeting the highest quality standards are used and all FDJ jeans contain Lycra for greater stretch, recovery, comfort and durability. Even Oprah has put her stamp of approval on French Dressing Jeans newest line “Love Jeans”, which offers body shaping technology to flatten the tummy and lift the behind.” The store’s location, with available free parking, product selection and ease of access are only part of the story – the real key to the company’s longevity and success has always been its outstanding staff. “Just for You Fashions has the best staff anyone could ask for. They truly love to help each and every person that enters our store, welcoming them with a big hello. As a team, we have fun delivering superior service and it shows,” Grooms said. “Most of our customers hadn’t even realized that there had been a change in ownership. I kept most of the same product lines while the only thing I did differently was to revamp the logo. I had no intention of changing a name that had been a recognized part of the community for such a long time.” For Grooms, acquiring Just for You Fashions at the time she did has

proven to have been a wise business decision, as fewer boutiques remain that are targeting the over 45 age demographic. “Sadly a number of my competitors have decided to either retire or simply close for other business reasons. We have grown a lot in the past few years,” she said. Due in part to an aging population, and Victoria’s specific demographics, Just for You Fashions has become the right store for an ever increasing segment of the city’s clothing buying public – much to Grooms’ delight. “I’ve had customers say to me ‘whatever you do please don’t close’ – wagging their finger in my face. I have to assure them that I’m not going anywhere. I knew in advance of taking over the store that Just for You Fashions had an extremely loyal clientele,” she said. “We offer great products, at fair prices with customer service that’s second to none. Many of our repeat customers come in specifically to see certain staff members, and often the sales staff will know the customer by name – that’s the sort of thing that can only develop with time and experience and it is a wonderful thing. You won’t get an experience like that shopping online.” That is what has kept Just for You Fashions vibrant and successful for the past 20 years, and is a business model that will continue for many years to come. www.justforyoufashions.com

WAYMARK ARCHITECTURE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

but designing habitation as well, how people will live and work within these buildings,” explained Waymark’s co-founder Will King. “Every choice you make, in materials, how it’s built and so on has serious downstream effects. The Living Building Challenge sets a parameter that looks at ‘the big picture’ of a design. Not merely the energy consumption, but everything from the physical location of the structure to how building it will affect things globally. Does making a decision here mean someone has to be hired in Brazil to tear down the rainforest? The Challenge is a framework that explores the entire holistic approach to building, which is an exciting concept.” Created by the International Living Future Institute in the United States, the Living Building Challenge is a green building certification program and sustainable design framework that seeks to see every act of design and construction make the world a better place. The program uses the metaphor of a flower, because to it the ideal built environment should function as cleanly and efficiently as a flower – giving more to the environment than it takes. Once 100 per cent complete this project will most likely be the first of its kind in the region, as there are currently no Living Building Certified Offices located anywhere in Western Canada. Launched in 2015 Waymark Architecture was co-founded by King and Graeme Verhulst, and from its outset it was an architectural practice with a definite

social conscience. Founded on the principals of combining science, the arts and ethics in every project it designs, Waymark strives to envision buildings that will have a positive and lasting impact on the community and the environment around it. “Graeme and I have a philosophy about buildings that we’ve grabbed a hold of and have made a central focus of our business. It all comes down to redefining how we view buildings in our world. We started this firm with the idea that all of our projects are going to be the kind of thing that, for lack of a better term, will make the world a better place,” King explained. The Lim Dat building is located on Government Street in Victoria at the western edge of the city’s iconic Chinatown. Constructed in 1898 the red brick building is a mixture of retail and office space and was constructed in the Romanesque Revival style of design favoured in the late Victorian era. Waymark’s office upgrade involves only the 2,000 square foot section of the structure the company occupies, but it is also serving as a proof of concept project for other building owners in the city wanting to bring their older structures into the modern age in a positive manner. “Buildings are intended to last a long time, it’s really only the buildings that are done poorly that get ripped down and replaced. We want to help keep these classic buildings viable and functioning, by using the materials and techniques that are good for the clients, the community and the planet as a whole,” he said. www.waymarkarchitecture.com

Congratulations to Just For You Fashions for 20 years of success!! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey! Grow.

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Waymark Architecture’s co-owners are Will King (center left) and Graeme Verhulst (center right)

OCTOBER 2017

CO-WORKING SPACE PROVES THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR MANY BUSINESSES

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“In the co-working space, clients can come in to use a dedicated desk, or if they prefer, there is a ‘hot-desking’ option where they can just use desk space that is available that day. While the reception service is available 9 to 5 Monday to Friday, members of the community have 24 hour access with the use of a fob,” Dennie said. For Seriosa, whose operation is housed in a six-person office, Coastal Offices provided exactly the right mix of flexibility, services and location – coupled with a modern and professional venue for meeting with clients. “We operate with a lean team with not too much in the way of overhead, making Coastal Offices perfect for our needs,” he said. “This location is ideal. It provides us with the flexibility for growth that we need, without the commitment that a formal storefront would entail.” The Victoria Coastal Offices busi ness hub has proven so successful the company is now working toward opening a second outlet. “We’re currently looking to expand into Duncan, with a scheduled opening date of November 1st, so it’s certainly an exciting time for the company,” Dennie stated. www.coastaloffices.com

SEASONAL LIGHTING INSTALLATION FIRM SEES BRIGHT FUTURE Opened In 2012 Local Company Now Has Outlets In Kamloops & In Whistler

Commercial Sales & Leasing Property Management Business Sales & Financial Consulting New Home Construction & Sales For lis�ngs, agents, and more informa�on

www.naivictoria.ca

250.381.2265 Suite 200 - 569 Johnson Street, Victoria BC

ICTORIA – Have you seen those houses, the ones with the spectacular holiday season lighting displays? Have you ever wondered how they (or the business down the block) did such a terrific job? Well perhaps they didn’t do it at all – but left the work up to the professionals. That’s where James Anderson and his team of lighting experts at Light Right come in – they’re the team to call when you want your lighting project to truly shine! “Now going into our fifth season, Light Right specializes in holiday lighting installations. Based in Victoria the company originally started up as strictly a Christmas lighting company but has grown to the point where we now call it an exterior lighting business as we’ve started

fulfilling summer contracts as well, for events such as weddings, business meetings, festivals and things like that,” company founder and owner A nderson explained. With a personality already geared toward seasonal projects, coming as he did from the outdoor guiding and tree-planting communities, Anderson initially launched the business as a venture he could pursue during his off-season. “When we first started it was just a friend of mine, with two ladders on the top of my SUV, with lights we purchased from Canadian Tire. Last year we had 12 people on staff, four vehicles and we’re using commercial boom lifts and other equipment, so it’s certainly grown,” he said. The company’s rapid expansion has occurred so quickly, once the market hunger for the service was identified, that the firm opened a branch in Kamloops and most recently another in Whistler just to keep up with the demand. Thanks to the company’s growth it now buys

commercial high quality LED lighting systems by the container load – some of which it sells with the bulk going into brightening the seasonal experience of its client base. “Over time we’ve gone from doing mostly resid e nt i a l work to d oi n g mostly commercial work, as much as 80 per cent of our workload. We’re regularly working for groups like the Downtown Victoria Business Association, the Oak Bay Business Improvement Association, many pubs, hotels, restaurants and others,” he said. While launched as a solely winter venture, the expanding customer demand, and year round appeal of the services Light Right provides, has turned the enterprise into Anderson’s full time job. “Absolutely we’d consider opening another outlet on the Island, maybe in Nanaimo,” Anderson said. “So having another Island operation is certainly something that could happen at some point, maybe in the not too distant future.” www.ligthright.ca

WHO IS SUING WHOM

OCTOBER 2017

WHO IS SUING WHOM

Finning International Inc CLAIM $ 27,896

The contents of Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 B & R HOMES LTD 1618 Government St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Martin, Mary Ann CLAIM $ 31,386

DEFENDANT 0608352 BC LTD 1890 Ironwood Dr, Kamloops, BC PLAINTIFF Watson, Peter Guslton CLAIM $85,600

DEFENDANT Black Rock Oceanfront Resort Inc 701-17665 66A Ave, Surrey, BC PLAINTIFF Jacky, Richard Thomas CLAIM $ 16,256

DEFENDANT 7517149 CANADA INC 3483 Fulton Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Business Development Bank Of Canada CLAIM $100,548

DEFENDANT Custom Safety 2010 LTD 491 Dupplin Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Business Development Bank Of Canada CLAIM $ 42,395

DEFENDANT AIR CANADA 2700-700 West Georgia St, Vancouver, BC PLAINTIFF Turner, James CLAIM $11,419

DEFENDANT DANSKO STUDIOS 2007 Inc 4TH FLR 1007 Fort St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Poland, Marcel CLAIM $ 13,558

DEFENDANT ARMAC TRUCKING LTD 2-6990 Market St, Port Hardy, BC PLAINTIFF

DEFENDANT DANSKO STUDIOS INC 204-655 Tyee Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Poland, Marcel

CLAIM $ 13,558

$ 5,333

$ 57,249

DEFENDANT Nourish Lifestyle Consulting Ltd 1521 Amelia St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Day, James CLAIM $ 35,216

DEFENDANT Three Guys Construction Inc PO Box 157, Shawnigan Lake, BC PLAINTIFF Small Town Carpentry CLAIM $ 7,370

DEFENDANT Livingston 2009 Family Trust 4314 Staulo Cres, Vancouver, BC PLAINTIFF Topseal Services CLAIM $ 31,107

DEFENDANT Petromaxx Construction BC LLP 201-45793 Luckakuck Way, Chilliwack, BC PLAINTIFF Saywell Contracting Ltd CLAIM $ 25,586

DEFENDANT Visima Holdings Inc 1000-2002 Victoria Ave, Regina, SK PLAINTIFF Hadfield, Cheryl CLAIM $ 25,176

DEFENDANT Manuke Holdings Ltd 28080 Downes Rd, Abbotsford, BC PLAINTIFF Saywell Contracting Ltd CLAIM $ 25,586

DEFENDANT Raven Marine Services Limited 9830 Fourth St, Sidney, BC PLAINTIFF Rent Spent Ltd CLAIM $ 15,161

DEFENDANT Westwood Roofing Inc 2450 Highland Blvd, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Titan Slegg GP Inc CLAIM $ 36,084

DEFENDANT Nanaimo Precast Limited 1111 Wallace St, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Viking Reinforcing Ltd CLAIM $ 140,913

DEFENDANT RC Time Property Management Ltd 8666 Ebor Terrace, North Saanich, BC PLAINTIFF Union Bay Credit Union CLAIM $ 610,488

DEFENDANT YFN Management Services LP 100 Hitacu Rd, Ucluelet, BC PLAINTIFF Mayneburger Management Inc CLAIM $ 9,657

DEFENDANT Dieticians Of Canada 604-480 University Ave, Toronto, ON PLAINTIFF MacDonald, Janice CLAIM $ 35,216

DEFENDANT Naughty Dogge Behaviour Modification Inc 1633 Kangaroo Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Hansen, Jane CLAIM

DEFENDANT Seba Construction Limited 1167 Jolivet Cres, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Island Floor Centre Ltd CLAIM

MOVERS & SHAKERS

20 Lana Lounsbury Interiors is celebrating their 10th anniversary this month at 1931 Mount Newton Cross Road in Saanichton. The Irish Times Pub has been nominated by Irish Pubs Global for the best Irish Pub in North America. The local pub has also been nominated for the best food, best craft beer, best chef and best bar person in North America. The awards will take place this month in Dublin, Ireland on October 10. The Irish Times Pub is at 1200 Government Street.

Ian Giles Reliable Controls announces the appointment of Ian Giles to Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Asia-Pacific. Giles has been with Reliable Controls since 2013, when he began serving as the Regional Sales Manager for Australia and Asia. Reliable Controls is at 120 Hallowell Road. Cook & Pan Polish Delicatessen and Café formerly located on Cook Street is now open at 1527 Amelia Street in downtown Victoria. The staff and management at Cook & Pan welcome you to come see their new home and taste their Polish home-cooking.

OCTOBER 2017

living, assisted and complex care.

The Victoria Classic Boat Festival celebrated its 40th anniversary this year.

Carmen Campbell-Hewitt St. Margaret’s School has named their executive and board of directors. The board has named Carmen CampbellHewitt, founding Principal of Luanda International School as their Chair. The other board appointees are Rosemary Chapdelaine, Vice President and General Manager for Lockheed Martin operations in Canada, Melissa Couvelier-Safarik, former Human Resources Manager for the Office of the Premier and ministerial offices, Joan Yates, Vice President at Camosun College and Michelle lulianella Fraleigh, a Mental Health Clinician with Island Health. The incoming executive will serve in their respective positions until 2020.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has announced the 2017 Torch Award Finalists. The list includes 50 businesses from across Vancouver Island that are recognized for their outstanding customer service and commitment to maintaining trust in the business community. The award winners will be announced at the BBB’s gala event on November 3 at the Union Club of BC. The Maritime Museum of BC announces the launch of a new speaker series titled “Nautical Nights”. This series will be interdisciplinary, exploring topics related to history, science, and the arts. Each month will feature a different speaker and a different theme. This series will run on the last Thursday of every month from September to April, with the exception of December. Bayview Place has reached a deal with Element Lifestyle Retirement Inc. for 1.96 acres of land below the Bayview One residential tower. Element Lifestyles has purchased the property for $6.7-million from Focus Equities. Element is planning on building a 153,000-squarefoot seniors facility. Element is envisioning a $75-million complex for a growing and aging population. The project is set to begin immediately and is expected to be completed by the end of 2020. The facility will offer a variety of lifestyles choices for their tenants including active, independent

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The Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria has been named to the top 95 Master in Management programs by the Financial Times for their Master of Global Business (MGB) program. The business school ranked #71 overall and was highlighted for their commitment to international education by being ranked 14th in the world in terms of international course experience. This was the first time UVIC was named on the list, joining only three other Canadian schools. Cascadia Bakery on Government Street is closing down their storefront after 28 years in business. The South Island Prosperity Project, which replaced the Greater Victoria Development Agency last year, has announced their new board of directors. The incoming executive includes Craig Norris as Board Chair, Frank Bourree as Vice-Chair, Sean Midwood as Secretary/Treasurer and Ray Brougham, Deirdre Campbell, Jacques van Campen, Christina Clarke, Jill Doucette and Pedro Marquez. Three Victoria-based businesses have been named as finalists for the 2017 Canadian Tourism Awards hosted by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada. Eagle Wing Tours is a finalist in the business of the year award category, V2V Vacations in innovator of the year and BC Ale Trail in marketing campaign of the year. Visions Electronics is celebrating their grand opening at 2401D Millstream Road in Langford. Victoria Hyundai is now open in the Westshore Town Centre Mall. The dealership’s leadership team includes Jody Dick as General Manager, Cole Coates as General Sales Manager, Bruce Blake as Finance Director,

Steve Sinclair Jaren Kubbernus as Service Manager and Luis Nila as Certified Pre-Owned Manager. P and R Truck Centre recently celebrated their grand opening at 2095 Millstream Road in Langford. Congratulations to Matt Higgins on being named top salesman of the month at Jim Pattison Victoria Toyota at 3050 Douglas Street. Lush Cosmetics is moving their downtown Victoria location to 1020 Government Street. The new store is over 1,300 square-feet, over double the size of standard stores. Lush is also celebrating their 20th anniversary of servicing downtown Victoria. The Comfort Inn & Suites Convention Centre won the contract to host the Canadian Club of Victoria’s luncheon speaker series this year. The club’s first luncheon at their new location was on September 19 and featured Timothy Vernon, founding artistic director of Pacific Opera Victoria and conductor laureate of Orchestra London.

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Viking Air has made an agreement with Fiji Airways to sell three Twin Otter Series 400 airplanes to be used as a regional commuting service on the island. The contract also includes an option to acquire another aircraft. Viking Air is slated to deliver the planes between this month and February. The Victoria International Marina has named Steve Sinclair as their new Director of Operations. Sinclair previously held the position of General Manager with the Oak Bay Marina. The Victoria Conservatory of Music has hired Simon Macdonald as their Head of Strings for the Ann and George Nation Conservatory School of Classical Music. MacDonald replaces Michael van der Sloot, who spent seven years in the role. George Devlin has sold Miniature World, a fixture at the Fairmont Empress Hotel since 1971, to Sarah Angus. Angus is married to Alan McGillivray, owner of Prince of Whales Whale Watching. The new owner has no plans to change the attraction, which still has a 17-year lease on its site at the hotel. Miniature World is an attraction that has been in Victoria for 47 years and includes more than 85 exhibits. McKays Electronics has moved to a new location at 1681A Old Island Highway and added Norm Ross to their management team. Norm, formerly of Mitek Canada, will fill the role of Director of Business Development where he will be responsible for leading South Vancouver Island operations as well as working with the commercial and residential installation department. Harbour Towers Hotel has received approval to rezone the 189-room Harbour Towers Hotel into a 219unit residential apartment building. Construction on the 13-storey building at 345 Quebec Street which is managed by Vancouver-based Omicron is slated to begin this year. The James Bay hotel will be extensively renovated and renamed Harbour Towers. The project is expected to be completed in under two years. Community Marine Concepts has partnered with Synergy Enterprises to develop a sustainability policy for the Victoria International Marina. The partnership is designed

to determine and employ best practices for waste treatment, energy use and ecological conditions. The company is planning on a 90 per cent waste diversion in order to decrease their produced waste. Western Interior Design Group has relocated from Saanich to Victoria and moved in at Suite 100 – 2105 Dowler Place. Harbour Air and Kenmore Air will begin offering flights between Vancouver and Seattle’s harbour next year. The companies have agreed to offer four flights daily starting in the spring between Vancouver’s Coal Harbour and Lake Union in downtown Seattle. Certn! and CryoLogistics Refrigeration Technologies have both been named to the Top 10 list for the BCIC New Ventures Competition. The competition is the largest and longest-running tech competition in BC, awarding $300,000 in cash and prizes to early-stage start-ups. Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse Casual is opening soon at 985 Whirlaway Crescent in Langford. Sidney Buy & Sell has moved from their location on Fourth Street to 9824 Fifth Street in Sidney. Ottavio Italian Bakery and Delicatessen celebrated their 20th anniversary on September 23 at 2272 Oak Bay Avenue. Russell Nursery is celebrating their 25th anniversary at 1370 Wain Road in North Saanich. U-bicycle, a China-based start-up is launching in Victoria for their first North American location and planning on expanding across the country. The start-up distributed 200 bikes across the city, equipped with GPS and self-activating locks. The station-less bike sharing service means no fixed bike racks, no parking concerns, and inexpensive transportation. U-bicycle’s launched their app with an accompanying app that allows cyclists to easily find a bicycle and interact with the company’s other services. 4 Seasons Furnaces Fireplaces and Heat Pumps recently celebrated the grand opening of their showroom at #12 – 6782 Veyaness Road. Foul Bay Physiotherapy welcomes Marita Middleton to their team of therapists at 220

– 1964 Fort Street. Marita brings extensive experience in manual therapy, IMS, exercise prescription and balance disorders. The Greater Victoria Public Library has launched a new website to make accessing information and resources easier. The new user interface is more mobile-friendly and includes new services such as signing up for a library card, booking meeting and study rooms, easier catalogue searches and reading list recommendations. Dr. Philip Louie Dentistry welcomes Dr. Fiona Roth to their practice in Suite 103 – 9717 Third Street in Sidney. Fiona is currently accepting new patients and is excited to be a part of the Sidney community. The Waddling Dog Bar & Grill recently celebrated their 50th anniversary at 2476 Mount Newton Cross Road. A commercial building on Fourth Street in Sidney was recently torn down to make way for a project led by the Marker Group. The site will feature a 19-unit residential and modified commercial structure which will include one, two and three-bedroom units as well as three livework units. The Market Group is also behind the Meridian building on Third Street in Sidney as well as many other local projects. Shoreline Orthodontic Group is pleased to announce the opening of their new Victoria office at 721 Station Avenue. MacDonald Realty congratulates Chace Whitson on his Award of Excellence and being the top performing individual for Macdonald Realty on Vancouver Island. Visit Chace at Macdonald Realty’s Sidney office at 2411 Bevan Avenue.

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Family Eyecare is pleased to announce that Dr. Darcy Dennis has joined their team of professionals at 749 Yates Street. Dennis completed her Bachelor of Science at UVIC and has worked in other areas of Canada and North America in her field. Saturday transportation options between the Cowichan Valley Regional District and Greater Victoria are expanding this fall. Starting October 14, new route 44 Victoria/44 Duncan will operate express transit service on Saturdays with three daily round trips SEE MOVERS & SHAKERS| PAGE 23

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OPINION

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PUBLISHER/EDITOR | Lise MacDonald SALES | Josh Higgins – josh@businessexaminer.ca, Joanne Iormetti – joanne@businessexaminer.ca WRITERS | Julia MacDonald, Beth Hendry-Yim, John MacDonald, David Holmes, Kristin Van Vloten WEBSITE | John MacDonald

WHAT BUSINESS DOES WHEN IT IS ATTACKED BY GOVERNMENT

MARK MACDONALD

t’s become vogue in political circles to harvest seeds sown to the masses about greedy business owners, to provoke and promote class warfare into votes. By doing so, it appears that governments perform as if it is their duty to vilify and demonize business owners and entrepreneurs, making it appear that it’s “just the right thing to do” to bring them to heel and tax them to death. A f ter a l l, these people a re “sprinkling” revenues to family members to escape the taxman, and creating endless loopholes to avoid contributing even more to government coffers. Right? Except they willfully overlook one important fact: There are no loopholes. The tax laws that exist are there because government wrote them, and they are perfectly legal. They’re incentives to encourage growth and

reward hard work. The truth is, when business owners pay less tax, they aren’t ripping off the government. The wise ones have enlisted accountants and lawyers to make sure their rights are protected. Justin Trudeau’s much publicized tax attacks are bold and crass. The Liberal government has apparently concluded that business voters represent only a sliver of those who actually cast ballots, so they can be re-elected by ignoring them. These taxes not only take aim at business people now, but in the future, at retirement. By targeting corporations, family trusts and Capital Gains, they’re directly attacking their retirement plans. They don’t have gold-plated government or union pension plans. Their businesses, buildings and assets are their retirement. If these risk-takers choose to retreat, then the number of jobs they create will slowly shrink, making voters realize that government attacks on business are really an attack on everyone else – only in slow motion. It seems only then will they experience the effect of such draconian, punitive measures. If businesses don’t – or can’t – grow, they’ll shrink to survive, if necessary. Fa c e d w i t h t h e o p t i o n o f

collecting taxes for governments – which businesses do – or feeding their families, what do you think they’ll do? A vivid example of what has happened is in Greece, where not paying taxes is the norm, with some estimates indicating over one-third of business owners won’t collect or pay tax, and the underground economy is about 25 per cent of GDP. Could they revolt in placid Canada? That’s highly unlikely, given our unofficial “tax me, I’m Canadian” mindset. But businesses could go further underground. The underground economy is already substantial. Or they cut back. Faced with increased overhead like minimum wage hikes, if they can’t foresee the marketplace accepting price increases, they adjust. They reduce hours. Studies show that in Washington State, where government has mandated a $15 per hour minimum wage, the average lowerwage-scale worker has had their weekly schedule cut from 6-10 hours each. Politicians and bureaucrats need to open their eyes to what is already here, and what is inevitably coming. Walmart, SaveOn Foods and other large retail outlets have had self-serve aisles for years. While it was introduced under the guise

of convenience, allowing customers to pay and exit the store quicker, there is little doubt it was at least a test flight for eventually cutting staff, if necessary. McDonald’s Restaurants has maintained its strong position in the fast food industry due to its innovation and consistency. Golden Arches customers are now greeted by a large screen, self-serve menu where they can fill out their own order, pay, and wait a few minutes to pick it up. Convenient? Of course. But doesn’t that make it one-step closer to removing some entrylevel order ta k i ng positions altogether? And how will restaurant owners respond to government-mandated payroll increases? Besides working harder, there are a few ways they could possibly adjust. Could they view tips for service as house money? Perhaps they eliminate servers and make their restaurants buffet-style. Maybe patrons will have to give their own orders and pick up their own food. Or maybe companies reduce, or stop paying benefits to staff. In the U.S., where Obamacare’s clumsy introduction was excessively costly to small business, some owners have capped their health benefits to employees at a fixed dollar amount. Since they can’t afford to pay the whole bill,

they contribute a flat amount of money each month, and let employees look after the rest themselves. And perhaps worst of all, businesses do other things outside of business, under the table, to earn unmarked – read untaxable – cash. Black markets have always been out there, but there’s no doubt they increase when governments over tax. When people who would normally want to be law-abiding citizens see no other choice, they can choose to go to the dark side to stay in business and provide for their own. Or they’ll give up. If profitability is a faint hope here, business owners may just look for greener pastures. As these punitive tax measures and regulations are introduced, watch the money f low out of Canada. Why? Because it can. W hat business bashers fail to recognize is, that in today’s global economy, money is more fluid than ever. Investment advisors can move their clients’ cash to other countries with a tap of the keyboard, moving to areas of the world that are more tax and investment friendly. If Canada and BC continues its current tact to be antagonistic to business, then investors will simply move on. They will, and they are, because in this global economy, they can.

BC BUDGET ABANDONS ANY HOPE FOR EFFICIENT CARBON TAX Subsidizing Green Projects With Revenue From Carbon Taxes May Be Politically Popular But It’s Fundamentally Misguided Policy KENNETH P. GREEN

THE FRASER INSTITUTE

n its first budget, BC Premier John Horgan’s government recently said it would raise the carbon tax rate by 66 per cent over the next four years. And it rejected revenue neutrality, undermining the case for an economically efficient carbon tax. British Colu mbia’s ca rbon ta x is now at $30 per tonne. As of April 1, 2018, the New Democratic Party government will increase the tax by $5 per tonne of CO2 equivalent emissions per year until it meets the

federally-imposed floor price of $50 in 2021, a year before Ottawa’s 2022 deadline. For carbon pricing to be efficient, it must replace regulations, not simply layer on top of existing regulations. The tax should be revenue neutral, meaning that the revenue collected should be offset by tax cuts. And the revenues should not be used to further distort the energy economy with governments funding pet projects or selective forms of energy production. In 2008-09, when BC’s carbon

tax was introduced by a former Liberal government, it was revenue neutral. But the NDP government is moving in the opposite direction. (It also proposes to raise personal income taxes and the corporate income taxes in the budget documents presented last week.) Revenue-neutral carbon tax is intended to mitigate the costs the tax imposes on the economy, so there’s a net improvement in incentives for investment and, as a result, stronger economic growth. Economists generally agree that an ideal revenue-neutral carbon tax would reduce broad-based tax rates on personal and corporate income, ultimately reducing distortionary effects and increasing efficiency. However, instead of returning t h is new revenue st rea m to taxpayers, the BC government has chosen to fund its favourite “green initiatives” to address “climate action commitments.” Subsidizing green projects may be politically popular but it’s

fundamentally misguided policy. Subsidizing wind, solar or other alternative energies distorts the energ y market and prevents government and industry from identifying the cheapest ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. BC is not the only province violating the key components of efficient carbon pricing policy. Consider Ontario’s cap-and-trade system, which the government estimated would bring in $2 billion in revenue per year. According to Ontario’s auditor general, about 83 per cent of the money collected in four years will be spent on subsidies to renewable energy, energy efficient programs, etc. Alberta’s carbon tax moves from $20 of $30 per tonne in 2018. This tax is expected to generate almost $3.9 billion from 2017 to 2020. Part of the revenue will be used to subsidize Alberta’s emitters (granting a windfall to the very people producing most of the emissions). Low-income Albertans are receiving a small portion,

ostensibly to ease the pain of higher power bills. The rest will be spent on government projects. And finally there’s Quebec, which has a cap-and-trade system that has brought in $330 million with an expected $2.5 billion by 2020. Part of the revenue was rebated to emitters via free permits. The remaining revenue will be spent on “programs to fight climate change.” Now that BC is no longer the role model for revenue-neutral carbon taxes, it’s likely other provinces will continue pursuing high-cost, low-benefit carbon pricing policies. The BC government has violated the fundamental tenets of efficient carbon pricing, adding just another tax on citizens and businesses. Written by Kenneth P. Green, a senior director; Elmira Aliakbari and Ashley Stedman, analysts at the Fraser Institute.

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Brookes Shawnigan Lake is proud to announce that Linda Tesser has assumed the role of Community Relations and Admissions Manager for their Brookes Westshore sister school, currently under construction next to Royal Roads University on Sooke Road. Linda can be contacted at ltesser@westshore. brookes.org if you would like additional information on International Baccalaureate programs for your child’s future. The BC Innovation Council announced its second BC Growth Opportunities Tour, #BCGO, aimed at accelerating BC business growth. The #BCGO tour takes businesses looking for tech solutions across the province to interact with local innovators and solution providers. #BCGO is a six-city, seven-week tour

Tourism Vancouver Island recognized stakeholders on September 20th who have demonstrated innovation and excellence in the tourism industry over the past year. The Remarkable Experience of the Year Award was presented to Maple Leaf Adventures for the “Salish Sea Spring Expedition with Florence James and Canadian Geographic”, which took place aboard the MV Swell ship in celebration of 150 years of Canada. Innovator of the Year Award was presented to the Southern Gulf Islands Tourism Consortium for their innovative collaboration in bringing the five islands together for the first time and marketing them as a yearround destination. Tourism Employee of the Year Award was presented to Captain Wayne Garton of Stubbs Island Whale Watching. The Marketing of the Year Award

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Buckerfields CEO Kelvin McCullock recently announced that all of their full-time staff will be paid according to a living wage scale. A living wage is a standard of pay based on actual living costs in an area.

was presented to “The Real West Coast – Canada’s Surf Highway” a collaboration between Tourism Tofino, the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Ucluelet and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The multi-faceted campaign builds awareness for the unique historical, cultural and natural experiences available along “Canada’s Surf Highway” – the stretch of Highway 4 beginning and ending at Cathedral Grove. Tourism Sustainability Award recognized Harbour Air Seaplanes for their focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The FortisBC Award presented the award to BC Ferries for its implementation of the new Salish Class ferries and the use of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). The Employer of the Year was presented to Arbutus Ridge Golf Club. for their proven track record of excellence in skills training and workforce development, community involvement and support of tourism education. The Times Colonist Building at 2621 Douglas St, has been sold for mixed-use development to Merchant House Capital Inc. The purchase was announced September 5th. The ‘urban, campus-style’ project has been coined the TC Evolution.

between the two regions.

that aims to solve industry and government challenges with homegrown tech solutions. During the first tour, companies such as IBM, Microsoft, FortisBC, and BCLC all presented challenges and many of them are back again to present new challenges to an audience of local innovators. They will be in Victoria on October 13th.

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