Business Examiner Peace Cariboo Skeena - July 2016

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JULY 2016

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Non-Profit Corporation Created To Energize Northern Business Northern Development Initiative Trust Has Served The Region For 11 Years

NORTHERN BC Norson Celebrates 33

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INDEX News Update

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Prince George

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Movers and Shakers 12 Opinion

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RINCE GEORGE – Initiated by the Province of British Columbia 11 years ago, the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) was created to help spur economic development across a full 75 per cent of the province. Coordinating a range of programs, hosting a variety of online resources and funding options, the NDIT is an independent (non governmental), non-profit corporation that has served as a catalyst for regional economic growth by investing in grass roots local initiatives.

“The Trust was initiated by the Province through legislation but it is managed in the north, for the north completely separate from the province of BC,” explained Janine North, NDIT’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

North (second from left) was on hand during the ribbon cutting for the Cow Bay Marina project “Its creation was based on the principle that the best decisions for the north are made in the north by the people who actually live there.”

Northern Development was originally funded by $185 million in seed money (the Trust

was initially infused with two deposits, the first in 2004 of $135 million and the second of $50 million in 2005 for a total of $185 million). Since that time the Trust Board has approved nearly $151 million in funding and support, a regional financial

stimulus that has ultimately leveraged a n add itiona l $1.3 billion worth of investment in northern BC. “In the past 11 years the Trust h a s b een i nvolved i n 2,260 SEE NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT | PAGE 18

Regional Economic Development Office A Busy Place Several Key Projects Are Either Underway Or Readying For Launch

BY DAVID HOLMES

Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240

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RINCE RUPERT – It’s been a busy year for the Prince Rupert and Port Edward Economic Development Corporation (PREDC) and according to Economic Development Office (EDO) Paul Vendittelli the best is yet to come.

“Everyone always wants to talk about LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) and if it goes it will have a significant impact on the region.

But there are a number of things that are happening right now, not could be happening down the road, that are very positive

for the city and the corporation,” he said.

One of the major events and one that is transforming the entire Port of Prince Rupert is the major expansion of the city’s vast container port by its owner / operator Dubai-based DP World.

Slated for completion in 2017, the Phase Two North Expansion of the container terminal (with an estimated cost of nearly $650 million) will enhance the capacity of the existing Fairview Terminal to ship substantially more containers through the faci l ity. T he conta i ner port began operation in 2007 after being converted from what had

originally been a general cargo facility.

Originally envisioned to handle 500,000 containers (Twenty Foot Equivalent Units or TEUs), the demand for this service has expanded so dramatically that the port was moving more than 750,000 TEUs by 2015. The new Phase Two expansion will see that shipping capacity jump to more than 1.3 million TEUs annually.

“The wharf will be expanded to 800 metres in length to accommodate two ships simultaneously, which will see the facility’s throughput increase to more than one million TEUs,” Vendittelli

explained. “That project is well underway and is slated for completion next year. It will involve adding three more cranes, increasing the apron size and other significant improvements.”

A not her key development currently underway with the assistance of PREDC is the enhancement of the nearby Ridley Island Coal Terminal to convert portions of the underused space into a shipping point for propane to service the Japanese residential market. Parts of the Ridley Island complex have been leased to Alberta-based AltaGas with SEE PRINCE RUPERT | PAGE 6

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2 NORTHERN BC BC Northern Real Estate Board Supports Creation of Real Estate Superintendent The BC Northern Real Estate Board supports all initiatives that enhance professionalism and protect the consumer and we specifically support the creation of a dedicated Superintendent of Real Estate who will focus on consumer protection.

BC Northern represents 380 REALTORS® who live and work in north and north-central British Columbia.

“Our members provide professional real estate services and strive to be trusted advisers for buyers and sellers in rural areas, towns and small cities across our vast board area,” says President William Lacy.

“Regulatory focus on the real estate industry is welcomed by members who organize their dealings in a principled manner.”

The BC Northern Real Estate Board looks forward to working with the new Superintendent of Real Estate to discuss ways to implement the Independent Advisory Group’s recommendations in a manner that meets the unique needs of the northern consumer.

“Our Board remains committed to ensuring consumers in the north and north- central areas of the province have access to welltrained professional REALTORS® who are knowledgeable about real estate matters in their communities,” adds Lacy.

PRINCE RUPERT Rupert Port Invests in Community Connectivity The Port of Prince Rupert this week a n nou nced its la rgest Community Investment Fund contribution to-date in the community of Lax Kw’alaams, British Columbia.

A total of $539,400 was invested in two projects that are enhancing the digital connectivity of the coastal village as well as providing new recreation opportunities for local youth. The Smart Community infrastructure project will modernize Lax Kw’alaams’ information technology systems, enabling the effective and efficient management of the community’s computerized systems.

The Outdoor Leadership Adventure Program provides the equipment and programming for the Coast Tsimshian Academy and recreation centre to offer activities like kayaking, biking and camping to families interested in organized or independent exploration of the surrounding region.

The lack of modern information technology has proven a barrier to accessing essential government, industry and private sector initiatives for Lax Kw’alaams leadership in recent years. The extensive system upgrade will also benefit

NEWS UPDATE residents with greater access to online education and programs, bringing a wealth of opportunities to community members. The Smart Community project will see core networks established, with server and computer systems equipped with software and security that meets global standards for municipal administration and business communication. New phone, surveillance and alarm systems will improve digital and physical security of the IT network.

Over the past two years the Outdoor Leadership Adventure Program has taken shape, beginning with basic training for students of the Coast Tsimshian Academy and expanding to include courses in kayaking and wilderness excursion for all interested residents. Many school staff members have become certified to instruct and lead a variety of recreation activities, which provide participants with practical skills as well as leadership and mentorship opportunities in the process.

NORTHERN BC Rural BC Residents Receive $3M Internet Injection Eligible applicants, including Internet service providers, are encouraged to apply for nearly $3 million available through the Connecting British Columbia program to improve high-speed Internet access in rural and remote communities.

Affordable high-speed Internet connectivity is a catalyst for economic diversification, opening the door for BC communities to a global market by linking citizens to the digital economy and improving their ability to connect with friends, access health care and education, and trade goods and services.

Preference will be given to projects that incorporate other funding sources toward the total project cost. For example, funds could be leveraged from the private sector, trusts, non-government organizations and through other levels of government. Applications must be submitted to Northern Development Initiative Trust and will remain open until the program budget is exhausted.

To apply for funding, applicants must be legally registered entities.

Examples include: Local or regional Internet service providers, Community high-speed Internet connectivity organizations, Aboriginal organizations, Local governments such as regional districts or municipalities, Economic development organizations, Registered societies and associations Connecting British Columbia is a $10 million grant program provided by the Province and administered

by Northern Development Initiative Trust to expand and upgrade broadband connection, particularly last-mile infrastructure access, in rural communities. More than $7 million has been awarded to date, supporting nearly $22 million worth of broadband improvements. So far, more than 33,000

households in over 150 communities ranging from Topley Landing to Ryder Lake will receive expanded high-speed Internet access through Connecting B.C.

PRINCE GEORGE City Welcomes Environmentally Friendly Building Upgrades The Prince George Law Courts and Plaza 400 will soon be connected to Prince George’s Downtown Renewable Energy System (DRES), a hot-water utility that produces thermal energy using sawmill residue from Lakeland Mills Ltd., reducing greenhouse gases and reliance on nonrenewable fossil fuels.

The gas boilers in the two provincially operated buildings need replacing. A connection to the DRES will reduce capital and operational costs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 480 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year.

District energy is a proven technology that is in use in communities around the world. The Prince George system produces hot water that is piped to nine local buildings for space heating and domestic hot water. The cumulative reductions in greenhouse gas emissions for the system are estimated at 1,820 tonnes per year.

Construction is expected to begin the last week of this month and be complete by early fall. At select times through the summer, traffic will be affected at: Second Ave. and George St., Fifth Ave. and George St., one block of Fifth Ave. between George St. and Queensway, and the intersection of Fifth Ave. and Queensway.

Project costs, estimated at $450,000, are being funded by the Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services’ capital budget. The City of Prince George will install the piping systems to the buildings, at a cost of approximately $200,000.

KITIMAT Unity & LNG the Focus for Kititmat’s Nation2Nation Forum Achieving improved relationships between First Nations, industry and governments, and support for development of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry in northern BC: these were the key themes at the recentNation2Nation Community Forum held at the Haisla Recreation Centre and Kitimat Valley Institute in Kitimat.

Haisla Nation Chief Councilor Ellis Ross and District of Kitimat Mayor Phil Germuth cohosted the forum which showcased the Haisla Nation and District of Kitimat’s support for economic development and offered perspectives on working together to make new projects a reality. Premier of British Columbia Christy Clark was a keynote speaker at the event.

JULY 2016

Over 150 people attended the two day forum which focused on First Nations, industry and governments working collaboratively on major projects and sustainable development, especially development related to BC’s emerging LNG industry.

The community forum provided a platform for First Nations leaders; government representatives, industry leaders and others in the community to discuss and learn how all partners can work together on sustainable resource development and major projects in smaller Northwest communities.

WILLIAMS LAKE City Ratifies Collective Agreement with IUOE Local 882-B City of Williams Lake Council unanimously ratified the terms of a new three-year Collective Agreement covering outside and inside workers represented by the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 882-B. The settlement provides for wage increases totalling 5.25per cent over the three years of the contract (1.5per cent, 1.75 per cent , 2 per cent). These adjustments are generally aligned with inflation projections.

“Both the City and the Union worked extremely well together,” states Mayor Walt Cobb. “Bargaining was successful with a 96per cent member vote on ratification. The contract is the product of working together to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome, and we look forward to continuing our positive relationship.”

Councillor Scott Nelson states, “I am very pleased that both sides felt heard and respected at the bargaining table. Council deeply appreciates the strong dedication of the City of Williams Lake’s employees, and recognizes the significant efforts of the negotiating team.”

PRINCE RUPERT Port and City Announce Land Payment Agreement The City of Prince Rupert and the Port of Prince Rupert have announced they have agreed on the value of Payments In Lieu of Taxes (PILT) owed to the City for 2013, 2014 and 2015. The valuation of vacant port lands has been under review since 2013.

While unleased federal crown lands are specifically exempt from local taxation, those lands are subject to the federal PILT Act, which applies to federal agencies like the Port of Prince Rupert. The Act ensures that annual payments are made to municipalities and other taxation authorities based on local property tax rates, and requires the agencies to provide independent valuations of their lands.

The City of Prince Rupert disputed the valuations provided of several vacant port properties. The City and the Port worked together to identify how and why valuations differed, and came to a negotiated settlement that is amenable to both.

The settlement results in total payment from 2013 to 2015 of $5.3 million to the City of Prince Rupert acting on behalf of itself and as agent for other taxation authorities.

The City and Port devised a process emphasizing greater communication and less uncertainty to guide the calculation of PILT payments for 2016 and beyond. This process involves the Port working with the City of Prince Rupert and BC Assessment to manage the risk of potential differences in property valuations.

The agreement included a commitment by the City and the Port to invest in a future local infrastructure project of mutual interest — and to explore a coordinated response to Provincial legislation that caps municipal taxation of port terminals.

The Port and City have agreed to jointly explore the challenges posed by the BC Port Property Tax Cap as identified by the City of Prince Rupert.

MACKENZIE New Mill In Mackenzie Champions Innovation, Diversity Duz Cho Forest Products recently celebrated the official grand opening of its new cant mill.

The mill was designed to cut cants specifically for export to China, the Middle East, and a small percentage to the United States. It uses small diameter logs – primarily mountain pine beetle attacked logs – that are not used nor wanted by other manufacturers in the area. The mill has also experimented with processing deciduous logs (Aspen).

Sawmill residue is sold locally to the Mackenzie pulp mill.

The Duz Cho mill provides employment for 28 people and boasts a diverse workforce, with 64 per cent being First Nations. McLeod Lake Indian Band members make up 50per cent of the First Nations employed by the mill, with the other half being First Nations from other bands. Thirty-six per cent of the mill’s employees are women.

Most of the Duz Cho mill was built from used equipment sourced from across Canada. The mill line is outside, under the overhang of the building, to address dust control and combustible dust issues. It can process approximately 240,000 cubic metres of timber annually.

To keep British Columbia’s economy diverse, strong and growing, since September 2011, the BC Jobs Plan continues to build on the strengths of the province’s most competitive sectors using its educated and skilled workforce. The mill’s staffing complement aligns with the goal under the B.C. Skills for Jobs Blueprint to add 15,000 new Aboriginal workers to the British Columbia workforce over the next ten years.

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JULY 2016

LAUREN BROS. CONSTRUCTION HELPING TO BUILD THE REGION Twin Brothers Playing Pivotal Role In Cariboo Construction Sector

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ILLIAMS LAKE – Just as a symphony orchestra needs a conductor to bring all of the separate instruments together to create a harmonious sound, a complex building project needs a project management team to turn a set of blueprints into a functioning and viable structure. For twin brothers Dale and Marty Lauren, the co-owners of Lauren Bros. Construction, bringing those parts together is at the core of everything they do.

“We formed the company in September 2005 so we’re nearly 11 years old now and are wholly owned by my brother Marty and me,” explained Dale Lauren.

“Most of the work we do is publically funded, lump sum tendered contracts such as the new $6 million Cariboo Fire Centre that we’re building for the Province of BC here at the Williams Lake Airport. In the past we’ve worked for the federal government such health centres on First Nation reserves and projects like that.”

In addition to acting as project managers on major institutional projects Lauren Bros. Construction also works with development companies, specifically Vancouver based Platform Properties Ltd., as construction manager on major retail projects such as the award winning Prosperity Ridge Shopping Centre development.

This $35 million shopping complex located in Williams Lake involves some 115,000 square feet of shopping space and covering a 14 acre parcel. For the company’s efforts on this expansive retail development the company won the 2016 Retail / Shopping Centre Project of the Year Award at the recent Northern Commercial Building Awards.

“As Construction Managers we would work through a couple of phases of the development. For example we would go in and do their base building work such as putting in the infrastructure for the parking lot, paving, putting in foundations, structures and basically bringing it all to lockup stage in their building spaces, ready for their future tenant improvements,” he explained.

Depend ing on the scope of the developments Lauren Bros. undertakes it could also find itself overseeing the actual tenant improvements, such as building the individual stores for the tenants who are renting space in the shopping centre, which was the case for the Prosperity Ridge Shopping Centre.

Overseeing the work of a core of construction companies, architects, tradesmen and others,

Winners is just one of the many businesses that are based at Prosperity Ridge Shopping Centre Williams Lake’s Prosperity Ridge Shopping Centre features 115,000 square feet of shopping space

Lauren Bros. was the builder of the $6 million Cariboo Fire Centre located at the Williams Lake Airport Lauren Brothers can bring a project to fruition at all stages of its development. Architect Randy Knill, a principal at DA Architects + Planners, designers of Prosperity Ridge enjoyed the professionalism and industry knowledge displayed by the brothers in all stages of the development.

“Lauren Bros. Construction has been involved in multiple phases of Platform Properties Prosperity Ridge Shopping Centre development. In all phases, they have shown a high level of professionalism, attention to detail and process. Projects have been well executed with construction schedules being met. Dale Lauren

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has been the construction manager and point person for Lauren Bros. He has been proactive on the jobsite and a pleasure to work with,” he stated.

“We designed an unusual heavy timber / log façade for the Shopping Centre to respond to the context of Williams Lake. Lauren Bros. have worked with Pioneer Log Homes, an internationally renowned log home builder, who were originally located on this site. They have successfully integrated these varied log structures into each building design. All the buildings have been constructed usi ng precast concrete wa l l panels, and feature log canopy

designs at the building entries to help establish a strong and unique image for the Shopping Centre that respects the local history. We look forward to working together in future phases, as the development evolves.”

Based in their home town of Williams Lake the Lauren brothers enjoy the opportunity their business has provided to construct exceptional projects throughout the area while enjoying the familiar scenes and the quieter pace of small town living. While the company itself is very small, its ranks can swell dramatically as the individual projects take shape. “Last year it was just my brother and I and one administrative staff. But as we were working we had two additional superintendents plus site managers and a work crew that probably numbered eight or more. The actual staff is pretty small, but the company grows as it’s needed.”

Describing their firm as a hand’s on type of operation, Lauren says a weekly workload could include everything from managing a small army of subcontractors to handling all of the tendering and other paperwork to physically managing the worksites for the individual projects, right down to cleaning up after their crews. “We do it all, so we’re just a couple of hard working guys. As the projects

take shape we hire the labour as needed.”

Being a small home town based busi ness does not mea n the company lacks professionalism.

“We’re definitely a professional company, we’re professional builders. We take care of all of our management, keep up with all of the safety rules and are conversant with all of the ins and outs of construction. Effective site management is basically the core of what we do,” he said.

“Using Prosperity Ridge as an example, they essentially handed us a set of drawings and said go and build this. So we hammered out a budget, developed the logistics for the project, determined how we were going to break down the items of work and did our own work where practical and contracted out where it wasn’t.”

For the future Lauren Bros. Construction expects to continue to grow in an orderly manner, embracing new projects and taking on new challenges as they develop. “When it comes down to it we’re builders, we turn their ideas into realities, its Lauren Bros. Construction, the name really does say it all,” he said.

“We are extremely detail oriented and we provide a very highly finished product. We like what we do, we have a knack for it and we intend to keep carrying on.”

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Proud to have worked with Lauren Bros.

Construction on the Prosperity Ridge project.

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PRINCE GEORGE/100 MILE HOUSE

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JULY 2016

WHEN BUSINESS AND POLITICS COLLIDE

PRINCE GEORGE CHRISTIE RAY Chambers of Commerce are business focused organizations, first and foremost.

But there are many ties that bind business to politics. When it comes to the Chamber’s role as ‘advocate’, we listen closely to our members and document the stories of those who have experienced an impediment to business. Many of these obstacles involve issues with red tape, processes, or legislation that only government has the authority to change.

It is critical for Chambers of Commerce to build and nurture relationships with representatives from various levels of government in order to deliver ideas and feedback to them with openness and mutual respect.

Our Chamber’s relationship with government is enhanced through continuous dialogue. To start, meetings between our Board of Directors, staff, and government representatives are held at the Chamber throughout the year. At other times, our Chamber will make presentations to our

“It is critical for Chambers of Commerce to build and nurture relationships with representatives from various levels of government in order to deliver ideas and feedback to them with openness and mutual respect.�

municipal Mayor and Council, if they can affect change on the matter. These are opportunities to discuss local and regional business challenges, upcoming priorities, and to reflect on obstacles that have been recently overcome.

The Chamber’s Advocacy Committee also works year-round to identify business challenges, research the issues, write resolutions that include recommendations on possible solutions, and present these resolutions to the members of the BC Chamber and Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

Once accepted by the membership, the resolutions become part of the Advocacy efforts of multiple Chambers across the provinces and Canada. These are the key issues we bring up during our meetings with various levels of government.

Beyond our staff and Board of Directors, our members also need direct access

to the government representatives for our area. This is why we host Chamber events featuring MPs and MLAs like our upcoming Speaker Series Luncheon with MLA Shirley Bond and MLA Mike Morris.

These events help members stay informed on current business issues, connect them to other businesses who share similar challenges, and provide opportunities for members to deliver their concerns to the individuals who can create positive change.

T he up com i n g lu ncheon ‘P u l l Up a Ch a i r: Su m mer Up d ate w it h L ocal MLAs’ will take place July 6 from 11:30am-1:15pm at the Ramada Hotel in Prince George. Guests will receive an update on local issues pertaining to Mike

“Every extra day British Columbia operates under the broken and archaic PST, we do our economy, our businesses and our residents a major disservice.�

100 MILE HOUSE

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Christie Ray is the CEO of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at christie.ray@pgchamber.bc.ca.

CHAMBERS ADVOCATE FOR BETTERMENT OF SOCIETY

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and Shirley’s portfolios, an opportunity to engage with the MLAs during our Q & A session, and the chance to casually connect with two Northern MLAs and Cabinet Ministers.

Tickets are only $26 for Chamber members and $36 for future members. You may register on our website: www.pgchamber.bc.ca where you’ll find the luncheon listed under our ‘Events’ tab, or by calling the Chamber at 250-562-2454.

Our MLA luncheons are often sold out so register today to avoid disappointment.

in non-tourism economies asked for the Februa ry Family Day to be aligned with the rest of Canada.

This was voted down, as BC’s economy benefits greatly from tourism. While it is expensive for some businesses, the overall result is great for hotels, ski resorts and the like, which have potential for back-toback sell out weekends.

There was also discussion about the Pacific American State’s decision to examine the abolition of Day Light Savings Time Changes.

Chamber members voted to work with those States, and follow suit in regards to changing time twice annually or not.

PST reform was also suggested by new policy and with a comment of note, “Every extra day British Columbia operates under the broken and archaic PST, we do our economy, our businesses and our residents a major disservice. We need to take action on our tax problem now both by passing measures to mitigate the damage the PST does, and then by launching dialogues towards a new, made-in-BC, value added tax that will take our economy and our province forward�.

Another policy of note was in regards to Jobs BC and Canada Job grant programs that are great in theory but cumbersome to access in many cases.

1,000,000 skilled jobs will be open over the next 10

years from both retirements of the Baby Boomers and Economic growth.

This is a huge gap to fill without a perfectly executed plan and the new policy will ensure the track we are on is a great one. ■■■Many topics were discussed at the South Cariboo Chamber of Commerce Board Retreat held on June 5th. The Chamber remains dedicated to promoting the area for business and g row th. T he boa rd put together some ideas for generating revenue to be able to implement some of the ideas put forth by the board to enhance the recreation, tourism, and housing in the South Cariboo. Appointment of officers was as follows: Leon Chretien – Board Chair, Carl Gimse – Vice Chair, Ralph Myhill-Jones – Secretary and Rick Takagi – Treasure. ■■■Hot July Nights Car & Bike Show will be held July 15th – 17 th in 100 Mile House, an event the South Cariboo Chamber is excited to be a part of. Please visit www. southcariboochamber. org for a link to Hot July Nights website for more information.

Shelly Morton is the Executive Director of the South Cariboo Chamber of Commerce.

She can be reached at 250395-6124, or manager@ southcariboochamber.org.

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JULY 2016

PRINCE RUPERT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

the intention of shipping propane out of the facility to the Asian market.

“AltaGas just signed on with Astomos Energy Corp., which is Japan’s largest buyer of Liquefied Propane Gas (LPG) to make the terminal ready for use by 2018 if approved,” he said. “They are in the early stages of the environmental assessment process and are currently awaiting a final investment decision.”

If approved a nd developed the Ridley Island LPG Terminal would receive the propane in rail cars from Northern BC and Alberta that would then be transferred to seagoing carriers that are similar in function to LNG ships but on a smaller scale. The project has a proposed cost of close to $500 million.

While on a smaller scale, the third significant development in the region is an ongoing effort to make Prince Rupert and its surrounding waterways more attractive for cruise ships and other marine tourists. The City of Prince Rupert owns and operates a brand new 51 slip marina in the heart of Cow Bay, right by the present cruise ship terminal.

The facility was created to better serve the community’s growing list of seagoing visitors.

“The idea behind the marina is to capture the itinerant vessels that are heading up to Alaska. As

Economic Development Officer Paul Vendittelli is excited about the future of Prince Rupert many as 1,200 vessels per year pass by, vessels that previously had nowhere to stop due to a shortage of moorage slips on the North Coast,” he stated.

T he new m a r i n a wa s constructed with the help of the federal government through the office of Western Economic Diversification and other partners.

“We had our grand opening on April 7 and it’s already proving to be a success,” Vendittelli stated.

“We’re anticipating a busy summer, reservations are strong and we definitely see increased value being placed on tourism.

Locally tourism is probably a $60 to $65 million annual generator for the city. We’re trying to enhance that by opening this new marina.”

From a g loba l dem a nd for regional resources, to massive infrastructure enhancements, right down to making the city

Portions of the Ridley Island Coal port could be redeveloped to allow for the offloading of propane for Japan

“The wharf will be expanded to 800 metres in length to accommodate two ships simultaneously.”

PAUL VENDITTELLI EDO, PREDC

more appealing for visitors, Vendittelli and the PREDC are working tirelessly to keep the area economically diverse and growing.

“Development always creates other byproducts and benefits for the community, from the people who sell tires for the workers trucks to the restaurants who sell them their meals,” he said. “The future promises to be interesting and exciting.”

To learn more please visit the City of Prince Rupert’s website at: www.princerupert.ca

The Port of Prince Rupert is undergoing a major renovation to enhance its container shipping capability

Part of the funding for the Cow Bay Marina upgrade came from the office of Western Canada Diversification

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JULY 2016

AUTOMOTIVE Automotive Sector One Of Canada’s Economic Bright Spots Canada Has Enjoyed A Long Love Affair With The Automobile

The New Car Dealers Association represents more than 370 vehicle dealerships around British Columbia

BY DAVID HOLMES

T

he automobile and the story of Canada’s development are virtually inseparable.

According to the Canada Science and Technology Museum the nation, no doubt due to its expansive size, was an early recognizer of the value of self propelled transportation. In fact in 1867, the year of Canada’s Confederation, the first steps toward automotive dominance in the country took place in a humble way at the Stanstead Fair in Stanstead, Quebec.

A mong the livestock, farm equipment and prized jars of jams and jellies Henry Seth Taylor, a local jeweler and clockmaker demonstrated a self-propelled steam powered contrivance, appropriately named the Steam Buggy, for its obvious similarity to a horse drawn buggy. This pioneering machine had taken Taylor seven years to design and build. Shortly after, following a system failure and an unfortunate crash, Taylor abandoned his dreams of selfpropelled travel and Canada’s chance to make motoring history slipped into oblivion.

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But the wheels of time turned and nearly 20 years later Karl Benz in Germany demonstrated the first practical gas powered engine, mounted in a crude motorcycle which ultimately sparked a revolution in transportation. Canada’s first truly practical automobile, an electric powered machine, first hit the streets of Toronto in 1893. Co-designed by William Still and Frederick Featherstonehaugh, the elegant two seat machine was assembled by the Dixon Carriage Works and could hit a then jaw dropping 25 kilometers per hour.

Three years later in 1896 Sherbooke, Quebec’s George Foote Foss (a mechanic and tradesman) built the first successful and marketable gasoline powered automobile in Canada. The nation would never be the same again. The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association (CVMA) reports that currently one in seven Canadians is involved in the automotive sector in some capacity. From a new car dealership marketing the latest products, to the oil change depots helping to keep cars old and new on the road, the overall automotive sector is responsible for more than 550,000 jobs across the country.

The manufacturing of cars and trucks, in 11 light duty and three heavy duty manufacturing plants is responsible for 12 per cent of Canada’s manufacturing Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and for more than 20 per cent of Ontario’s total GDP. In British Columbia the sale of new cars generates more than $11 billion in economic activity each year and directly employs more than 36,000 people who work in the province’s 370 plus new car dealerships in nearly 55 communities across BC.

There are more than 36,000 people employed at car dealerships in BC, located in 55 different communities

“The automotive sector in many ways drives the local economies, especially in the smaller centres.”

BLAIR QUALEY PRESIDENT, NEW CAR DEALERS ASSOCIATION

Across Canada more than 550,000 people are directly employed in some part of the automotive sector Blair Qualey is the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the New Car Dealers Association of BC (NCDA), a trade association with approximately 372 new car dealership members around the

province. For him his association’s members are key economic drivers in the communities they service. “The last economic SEE AUTOMOTIVE | PAGE 10

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AUTOMOTIVE

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JULY 2016

AUTOMOTIVE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

impact study that we did, which was carried out by MNP, showed that our membership generated more than $11 billion in economic activity every year, while being significant local employers and corporate taxpayers,” he said.

“Latest figures show that new car dealerships alone contribute something like two per cent of the provincial GDP and that’s only the new car dealers. What sets our members apart from other members of the sector is that our folk are all franchised new car dealers.”

For Qualey new car dealers in BC have continued to be major economic success stories, despite any uncertainties in the general provincial economy. “The economic story of the dealers in our industry over the last number of years has been a very rosy one and a strong one.”

Coming to the industry eight years ago following a successful career in business administration, Qualey said he has seen positive growth in the industry, buoyancy that bodes well for the future.

“We have come off a couple of record years in terms of vehicle sales across the country and particularly across this province. In April alone there were 200,000 vehicles sold in one month across this country which is an all time

Building automobiles accounts for 12 per cent of Canada’s manufacturing Gross Domestic Product record,” he said.

In terms of an economic impact the automotive sector often serves as a weather gauge for the overall fiscal health of any region. “Our folks tend to be a bit of a canary in the coal mine.

People in the real estate sector often come running up to me when they see me at an event to find out how vehicle sales are, because basically if we’re seeing

issues those problems quickly translate through to the rest of the economy.”

So how does the future look today? If new car sales are an accurate indicator of the confidence of the buying public then the future looks bright indeed. “Based on what we’ve seen in the first quarter of this year we’re likely to have yet another record year, beating last year’s record which

beat the year before,” he said.

“Taken as a whole the automotive industry is massive, nationally and provincially, and fra n k ly one that someti mes can be underappreciated. In BC we focus on tourism, mining, forestry, technology and other things that may be a little more high profile. But in reality the automotive sector in many ways d rives the loca l econom ies,

especially in the smaller centres,” Qualey said. “ T hey a re bi g employers, huge tax payers and are invariably good corporate citizens. I doubt if you’ll find a hockey rink or arena anywhere that doesn’t have a new car dealer’s logo in it somewhere.”

To learn more please visit the association’s website at: www. newcardealers.ca

FORD DEALERSHIP GEARED TO ASSIST COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS Sunrise Ford Provides Extensive Commercial Leasing Options

“You don’t have to be a fleet operator to benefit from this program.”

LEON CHRETIEN

1

00 MILE HOUSE – Sunrise Ford continues to find new ways to better serve its customers. Already the dealership of choice when it comes to purchasing or leasing a family vehicle or light truck, the local Ford dealer is also the right destination when leasing a vehicle for business.

“What people may not be aware of is that Ford Credit has a great Commercial Leasing Program that most other manufacturers don’t have and most other Ford Dealerships either don’t know exists or if they do they’re uncertain how best to use it,” explained Leon Chretien, the owner of Sunrise Ford.

Acquiring the dealership five years ago Chretien has made great strides to enhance and expand his operation’s regional impact, including completing a major redevelopment of the outlet about a year and a half ago.

OWNER, SUNRISE FORD

“You don’t have to be a fleet operator to benefit from this program. Any person with a GST number who qualifies financially can enter into a commercial vehicle lease, even if it’s only for one vehicle,” he stated. “The last three delivery companies I worked with operate single vehicles, but are all now doing commercial leases on their Transit vans.”

A legitimate business expense with all of the appropriate tax benefits, leasing a company’s rolling stock makes sound business sense in many cases over purchasing. “The nice thing about this program over a retail or Red Carpet Lease is that the business owner and the dealer will accurately evaluate the real world usage of the vehicle to tailor a program that offers the best value for the customer,” he said.

Leon Chretien, owner of Sunrise Ford, in front of his dealership “The customer can decide on their lease-end value and make payments accordingly.

They can decide on a minimum one per cent value or as high as 50 per cent depending on the term of the lease. The higher the percentage the lower the buyout at the end of the term if they choose to keep the vehicle, which happens if a commercial vehicle has been modified, say by mounting a welder or a crane for example.”

For business owners of any size the flexibility and options available through this program make it one of the soundest business choices ever. To learn more please visit the dealership’s website at: www.sunriseford.ca

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

JULY 2016

100 MILE HOUSE

Bob Campbell has announced his retirement from his long-time post as museum curator at The Exploration Place.

Maureen Pinkney and Bill Harris, owners of the 100 Mile House Sears store, were recognized for excellence in their franchise. The store won all five awards for the British Columbia East sector at the Sears BC regional meeting in Burnaby this month.

Rosenau Transport celebrated their grand opening at their new cargo warehouse in the Prince George Airport. Rosenau occupies 15,000 of the 25,000 square foot warehouse.

Royal LePage 100 Mile Realty welcomes Amanda Oldfield as the newest member of their sales team. She can be reached at amandaoldfield@gmail.com.

Thanks to the Business Facade Improvement Program, Our Kitchen Corner has undergone a recent renovation. The program is a joint initiative of the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) and the District of 100 Mile House.

Richard Bergen was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the Forest Grove community with a British Columbia Medal of Good Citizenship for Generosity, Service and Selflessness. The award was presented by MLA Donna Barnett.

Brandon Bougie has been promoted to the position of deputy fire chief for 100 Mile House Fire Rescue. The position was official as of June 17.

Kamloops Truss Ltd., located at 7251 Levick Road, welcomes Sue Connaty to their Engineered Wood Specialists team.

Clinton’s Robin Fennell is the recipient of a Community Achievement Award from the British Columbia Achievement Foundation.

Fennell has been involved with the Clinton Legion, the Clinton and District Outdoor Sportsman Association, Integris, and many other organizations.

The Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre Society celebrated their 28th anniversary on June 14.

LaVerne Howard was awarded the British Columbia Traditional/ Grassroots viaSportCoach of the Year Award in Skating. The award was presented by Minister Peter Fassbender in a ceremony on June 9.

Local business Trinity Post and Panel was the main-stage feature at the 2016 BC Home and Garden Show. The event was held in BC Place.

The Forest Grove Volunteer Fire Department welcomes Aron Zablotny as their new fire chief.

SD 27 has announced some administrative changes for the upcoming school year. Shawn Nelson has been transferred to 100 Mile House Elementary from Forest Grove Elementary School. Mikel Brogan will be leaving his vice-principal position at 100 Mile House Elementary, and replacing Nelson at Forest Grove Elementary.

As of Canada Day, One Per cent Realty Ltd. is in a new location. They can be

The Coast Inn of The North underwent some exterior renovations, including a new sign for the building. found at #4 215 4th Street (and Birch).

The South Cariboo Health Foundation has announced its 2016 executive board. Chris Nickless is chair, Mary Shennum is vice-chair, and Lynda Lewis is secretary/treasurer.

July 14 marks the 50th anniversary of the 100 Mile District General Hospital.

DAWSON CREEK Dr. Jaleena Neufeld is the newest member of the South Peace Animal Hospital after starting with the practice in June.

The Dawson Creek Northern Lights College (NLC) has received a donation from wind power company TransAlta.

NLC was given a fully functioning wind turbine simulator for use as a training tool.

Jim Chute, CAO of the City of Dawson Creek, has announced his retirement after 15 years of service.

The DC Chamber of Commerce, Community Future Peace Liard, and the City of Dawson Creek are working together on the Downtown Business Facade Improvement project. The effort, which provides resources for facade renovations, is funded by the Northern Development Initiative Trust.

Lousiana Pacific Building Products has gone 2 years without a recordable injury in their Dawson Creek location.

Dawson Creek will now be home to a Save-On-Foods location. The grocery store will be moving into the Dawson Creek Mall, in a location that has been vacant since 2012.

Dawson Creek City Council has announced the upcoming demolition of the Centennial Pool, the Youth Care Centre, and Grandview School.

After purchasing two natural gas plants in the area, Endbridge is looking into opening an office in Dawson Creek.

FORT ST. JOHN The ground has been broken for the new BC Government and Service Employees’ Union building at 100 Avenue and 102 Street, next to the Condill Hotel.

Fort St. John City Council has officially

dissolved the Mayor’s Accessibility Advisory Committee after 10 years of input.

MNP announced that Peta Best has been promoted to the Partnership.

The Caffeination Station opened in Charlie Lake on June 10. Owned by Jessica Witmer, Michelle Lindley, and Ashlyn Bolog, this is the second location of the franchise in the Peace region.

The Hair Bin celebrated their 30 year anniversary with a BBQ at their 100 Street location.

The Fort St. John Minor Hockey Association was recognized as the Minor Hockey Association of the Year

by BC Hockey. The association also received the Frank Spring Award at the June 12 ceremony.

The Mackenzie Place development celebrated the grand opening of their show home.

Gord Klassen was appointed as the new executive director for the Fort St. John Hospital Foundation. The local city councillor is replacing Ashley Bentley after eight years of service.

Murray GMC announced three new additions to their staff. Stevie Eby will be joining as a finance manager, while Jamie McDonald and Paul Sheikh are the newest members of the sales staff.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fort St. John celebrated their 32nd anniversary.

KITIMAT The Kitimat Hospice Palliative Care Association has announced their decision to disband after serving the community for 24 years.

Nancy Cordiero celebrated the milestone of 30 years of employment with Envision Financial.

Sujitra’s Suds n Seams Laundromat, owned by Sujitra Pornprasitt and Terry Smeader, is now 20 years old.

The Kitimat General Hospital has opened a new oncology clinic, which offers oral chemotherapy and pre-chemotherapy.

After three years, Gaby Poirier is leaving his position as general manager of Rio Tinto BC Operations, and will be moving with his family to Dunkerque, France to assume responsibility for a Rio Tinto smelter there.

MACKENZIE Duz Cho Forest Products opened a new sawmill in Mackenzie. The mill will employ around 28 people, and will send a majority of their exports to China and the Middle East.

PRINCE GEORGE Deborah Poff, former vice president of the University of Northern BC, was named to the Order of Canada. The recognition is due her work as an administrator, and for her educational efforts with Indigenous peoples.

Christina Watts took second place at the BC Art Battle in Vancouver.

Right Choice Flooring Ltd. is celebrating their 20th anniversary.

They are located at 1550 Ogilvie Street.

The new Days Inn, owned by Henry Huang and Lisa Zhang, celebrated their grand opening.

UNIGLOBE Sunburst Travel welcomes Denise Jimenez to their team. Denise has 28 years of travel industry experience.

Michael McMillan is leaving his position as chief operating officer for Northern Health. He will be taking a position as president and CEO for the Health Employers Association of BC. Northern Health has already begun searching for a replacement.

Centre City Electric Ltd. celebrated their 25 year anniversary on June 25.

The business has been in their 1750 Quinn Street South location for 15 years.

A 2016 Royal College Dr. Thomas Dignan Indigenous Health Award was given to Dr. Nadine Caron. Caron is Canada’s first female First Nations general surgeon.

Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation is celebrating their 25th anniversary.

Dr. Justin Wong is now working with his father, Dr. Kit Wong, at Lakewood Dental Group.

The Prince George Cougars have hired Steve O’Rourke as an associate coach.

O’Rourke worked as an assistant coach for the Red Deer Rebels for the 2015-16 season.

The Canadian Institute of Planners recognized the City of Prince George at the Awards for Planning Excellence.

The city was given an award of merit for its use of the new Community Infrastructure Planning Decision Support Tool.

Medichair celebrated their 20th anniversary. They are located at 849 2nd Avenue.

Prince George Sports Hall of Fame inductee, Don Nachbaur, was recognized by the B.C. Hockey Hall of Fame. Nachbaur is the inaugural recipient of the Pat Quinn Coaching Award.

On June 22, the Northern Development Initiative Trust was given a Distinguished Partnership Award by the Local Government Management Association. The award was given as a combined award with the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) in recognition of the collaborative delivery of the Trust’s internship program.

PRINCE RUPERT Cow Bay Gift Galley has been in business for 25 years and proud to be a part of the development of Cow Bay. Art Murray, who served as a Prince Rupert alderman for four terms, celebrated his 100th birthday this June.

The director of public affairs for the Port of Prince Rupert, Ken Veldman, has been named to the board of directors for the BC Chamber of Commerce for 2016-2017.

The District of Port Edward celebrated their 50th Anniversary reception on June 24.

The Women’s Leadership Network named their new executive. The board includes Miranda Mandarino, Diane Copperthwaite, Shannon Balm, Michelle Bryant-Gravelle, Chelsea Jesser, Shelby O’Brien, and Rosa Miller.

Barbara Lippke of Little Anchor’s Consignment, Marcie LeBlanc of LeBLANC Boutique, and Tyler Meers of Tyler Meers Photography, were awarded bursaries to attend the Action Entrepreneurship Summit.

Rainbow Chrysler celebrated their grand re-opening after extensive SEE MOVERS & SHAKERS | PAGE 13

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

JULY 2016

MOVERS & SHAKERS

anniversary in the priesthood.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

renovations at their 20,000 square foot location.

Frank Parnell, CEO of the Tribal Resources Investment Corporation (TRICORP), was awarded an honorary Doctor of Law from UVic. TRICORP works to provide First Nations entrepreneurs with business loans.

The Prince Rupert Library announced their new board of directors: Shiwani Gupta, Dale White, Devlin Fernandez, Jagdev Uppal, Andrea Wilmot, and Heather Rose.

QUESNEL The Quesnel Downtown Association celebrated their 25th Anniversary this June.

The Quesnel Community Foundation welcomes Mary Sjostrom and Jim Gorsline to their board of directors.

Due to business growth, K-MAX Games and Videos, owned by Mitch and Tammi Vic, will no longer be selling used books. The business donated their remaining books and bookcases to Literacy Quesnel.

Quesnel native Graham Mack has been called to the bar, and is now a recognized legal practitioner.

Father Peter Nguyen of St. Ann’s Parish celebrated his 25th

Quesnel Fountain Tire, located at 100A Pinecrest Road, celebrated the company’s 60th Anniversary this past month.

The College of New Caledonia has announced that the suspended Dental Hygiene program will be reinstated, starting in September 2017.

Cariboo Hoofbeats Assisted Activity Program Society (CHAAPS) is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the volunteer society.

Johnston Meier Insurance Group is now located in their new location at 199 St. Laurent Avenue.

The City of Quesnel was recognized by the BC Economic Development Association with a Community Project Award (pop. under 20,000) for Healthcare Recruitment. Local EDO, Amy Reid, received the award on behalf of the City.

SMITHERS Jennifer Sharp has joined the team at Re/Max Bulkley Valley Real Estate.

Local woman Kathleen Ruff was honoured by the Quebec National Assembly due to her work in ending the Canadian export of asbestos.

The Quick Women’s Institute celebrated their 80th Anniversary this year.

Highway 16 E. The Gitanmaax Band has elected Marjorie McRae as their new Chief councillor.

down at their location on 281 Oliver Street.

George Dacosta is the first official coach of the Terrace Northmen, the local rugby team.

Local Smithers Secondary School students have opened a new ice cream business. The Frozen North, an ice cream trailer, is the endeavour of Jack DeRooy, Bradley Wellington, and Logan Lush.

Syd Lecky has been promoted to the position of inspector for the local RCMP detachment. He will be replacing Dana Hart, who retired in January.

The Pharmasave in the Bulkley Valley Shopping Centre welcomes Jade as their new photo lab manager.

Re/Max Coast Mountains has named Dave Materi as the top seller of the month for May 2016.

TERRACE

WILLIAMS LAKE

Skeena Landing in Terrace (Thornhill) is thrilled to have Paul Beggs and his crew reopen Blackstone’s Restaurant located at The Lodge. They are open Tuesday to Saturday, and their menu is available at skeenalanding.com.

The Nisga’a Lisims Government celebrates their 25th season of modern fisheries management.

The Terrace Child Development Centre is saying farewell to Sheila Pretto, who is retiring after 38 years with the centre.

The Holiday Inn Express in Thornhill is now officially open for business. They held their soft opening in June, and an official celebration will follow later in the summer.

Do Your Part Recycling Co. is now 10 years old. They are located at 3467

13

Ken Wilson was recognized with a BC Chamber Fellow Award. Wilson has served on the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce board for over 25 years, and has been a member for more than 30 years.

Ryan Jensen joins Mike, Tami, and Linda on their team at Raymond James Financial Planning at 180C N 3rd Avenue.

Lake City Ford held their grand opening celebration at their location on 800 Broadway Avenue.

Concrete Fitness will now be open 24hrs a day between Monday at 5:30am and Friday at 10pm. They are located at 312 North Broadway Avenue.

J & E Gifts and Treasures is closing

The Williams Lake & District Credit Union Third Avenue branch closed for a few days as they upgraded their technology.

Exton and Dodge Land Surveying Inc. celebrated their 50th anniversary.

The company also made history by hiring the Cariboo’s first ever female land surveyor, Veronica Meister.

Williams Lake Optometry celebrated their grand opening at 360B Proctor Street.

The BC Retired Teachers’ Association gave a Golden Star Award to Lake city Secondary teacher Randy Morgan.

Caribou Ski Source For Sports celebrated their 40th year in business.

The Williams Lake RCMP detachment has found a replacement for retired Sgt. Rick Lebeuf. Sgt. Mark Smith began at the detachment after working for 12 years in Edmonton.

West Fraser recognized dozens of employees for long term service milestones. From Williams Lake Plywood, Roy David, Greg Brown, Tim Latin, Peter Ferrari, Patrick Renny, Roy Tanner, Roger Nordick, and Richard Campbell were all recognized for 40 years with the company. From Williams Lake Lumber, Baljinder Gill, Jim Redpath, and Jim Taylor were recognized for 40 years.

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OPINION

JULY 2016 A division of Invest Northwest Publishing Ltd. Prince George Office 2871 Wildwood Cres Prince George, BC V2K3J4 Toll free: 1.866.758.2684 Fax: 778.441.3373 Email: info@businessexaminer.ca Website: www.businessexaminer.ca

15

PUBLISHER/EDITOR | Lise MacDonald, lise@businessexaminer.ca SALES | Shawn Bishop, shawn@businessvi.ca; Josh Higgins josh@businessvi.ca; Joanne Iormetti, Joanne@businessexaminer.ca WRITERS | Goody Niosi, Beth Hendry-Yim, John MacDonald WEBSITE | John MacDonald, john@businessexaminer.ca

EVERYONE BENEFITS WITH FREE TRADE – ESPECIALLY CANADIANS What free trade agreements are all about is enhancing trade opportunities between countries, primarily through the elimination of tariffs MARK MACDONALD

W

hen people trade freely, every one ends up happy.

Here’s an example that demonstrates this perfectly.

Recently I attended an economics workshop featuring journalists from across the country.

In one segment, each person was randomly given a $15 gift certificate.

The gift certificates were from a variety of outlets: Coffee shops, restaurants, clothing and department stores. Attendees were then asked to grade their level of satisfaction with what they had received from 1-10: 1 being least satisfied and 10 being most.

Most of the two dozen participants were dissatisfied with their cards, and very few were totally pleased, so we were invited to trade with whomever we wanted in the room.

After that round, another survey was taken. This time, three quarters of the people were very

satisfied a nd a ha nd fu l still unhappy.

We were then given one more chance to trade before the final vote was tabulated.

Only one person was still unhappy, with the caveat she didn’t like the restaurant card she had, although her family certainly would. Everyone else rated the cards they held in their hand as a 10.

One of the moderators then declared: With free trade, everybody wins. Those participating couldn’t deny what they just witnessed firsthand themselves.

Obviously, that’s a test-tube sized sample, but as a country, Canada has certainly seen the benefits of free trade. Our economy has grown substantially since the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was implemented in 1993.

There will always be naysayers against free trade agreements,

mainly from protectionists that believe if we put walls up around our country, then we’ll be a prosperous, self-sustaining economy.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Perhaps the most vivid example of protectionism on a national scale is North Korea – and this was pointed out numerous times during the seminar.

Poverty and scarcity across the board, in all sectors, are the norm under heavy-handed totalitarian governments.

What free trade agreements are all about is enhancing trade opportunities between countries, primarily through the elimination of tariffs. To the layman, tariffs are really protectionist taxes designed to give home country businesses a competitive advantage, which also benefits government coffers.

Canada’s participation in the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) was negotiated by the previous federal government under Prime Minister Stephen Harper, one of 43 free trade agreements signed by the Conservatives. TPP negotiations have been underway for years, and Canada agreed to terms before last fall’s election.

The 12 countries involved in the TPP are: Brunei, Chile, New Zealand, Singapore, Australia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, the United States and Vietnam.

The agreement needs to be officially ratified by the federal

Liberal government, and it is expected that they will. To not do so would invite certain economic peril, if only for the reason that those countries participating in the agreement would be advantaged, while those outside would be severely crippled by prohibitive tariffs which will affect the pricing of goods and services.

During a recent presentation at the BC Shellfish & Seafood Festival in the Comox Valley, Trevor Paul, Manager of International Trade and Economic Relations for the province of BC, spelled out exactly how Canada will benefit from participation in the TPP. Paul was speaking of the aquaculture industry in particular, but this is a microcosm of economic benefits that would undoubtedly be enjoyed in other Canadian export sectors.

For example, Japan has the world’s third largest economy, and is the second largest seafood importer in the world. Last year, they imported $87 million worth.

With the TPP, 66 per cent of Japanese tariffs on Canadian se a fo o d w i l l b e el i m i n ate d immediately.

That includes Atlantic salmon at 3.5 per cent, crab at 4 per cent, geoduck at 10 per cent, Pacific salmon 3.5 per cent and hake 6 per cent.

Vietnam’s aquaculture imports have grown by an astonishing 2,000 per cent since 2011 to $77 million. Under TPP, 83 per cent

of tariffs will be eliminated for seafood.

Ben Stewart, BC’s Special Representative in Asia (he was the MLA who stood down to allow Premier Christy Clark to run in a by-election in Westside-Kelowna, which she subsequently won), drove the point home regarding free trade agreements. Since implementation of Canada’s free trade agreement with South Korea, signed in 2014, Canadian seafood exports to South Korea have jumped an astonishing 74 per cent.

Can we expect those types of increases across the board under the TPP? Not likely. However, when these tariffs/protectionist taxes are eliminated, it suddenly puts Canadian companies on an even level price-playing field with other nations. That, combined with the quality of our seafood and environmental practices, arguably gives our companies an edge in a competitive market.

Free trade goes both ways, and Canadian companies will have to be their best to compete in these other markets. The opportunities for a less-populous country like Canada in larger markets far exceeds trade going the other way, as Canadian consumer opportunities are less in terms of numbers and therefore as a market.

Nevertheless, with free trade, everyone ends up happy. Canadians should be happier than most.

FEDERAL CARBON TAX A CASH GRAB THAT COULD DAMAGE THE ECONOMY

Kenneth P. Green FRASER INSTITUTE

C

ANADA - According to a report in the Globe and Mail, Finance Canada is quietly promoting the idea of a federal carbon tax, or at least, a m i n i mu m ca rbon price, i n order to reduce g reen house gas emissions as Canada has pledged to do in last December’s Paris Agreement.

T h e problem i s, Ca n a d a’s t ra c k re c ord at i mpl a nt i n g e c o n o m i c a l l y b e n i g n c a rbon pricing is not very good: t h re e of t he fou r Ca n ad i a n

Ju r i sd ict ions w it h ca rbon taxes or pricing are in complete violation of economic theory about benign carbon pricing.

Carbon taxes in Quebec and Alberta (or recently proposed carbon trading in Ontario) are not revenue-neutral (defined as neither increasing nor decreasing tax revenues), they are not imposed uniformly across t h e e c o n o m y, t h e y e x e m p t (or worse) reward the largest emitting industries, and they are layered on top of regulations, all of which damages the economy.

British Columbia’s carbon tax comes close to a “tex tbook” implementation of a revenue carbon tax, but given that it’s piled on top, instead of in lieu, of a raft of climate-related and economically distorting regulations it’s probably fa r less benign than it seems, and in recent years, has morphed into a n i nstr u ment of i ndustria l policy, with virtually all the growth in revenues from the

tax, post 2013, being directed to govern menta l ly favou red industries such as agriculture and the entertainment sector.

A fe d e ra l t a x o r m a n d a t e would almost certainly promote more of the same. Media reporting on the idea already suggests that federal tax requirements would allow spending on green policies as long as the revenue doesn’t leave the province. (Tell that to Ontario, which is expected to buy carbon credits from California as part of their cap-and-trade plan.)

Environmentalists (and many economists) posit carbon taxes as the best approach to controlling carbon. But the way carbon taxes have been implemented in Quebec, Alberta and proposed in Ontario clearly show that governments are not inclined toward fully revenue neutral carbon taxes. Instead, they implant indirect energy taxes to generate new revenue streams that let governments dictate

how energy is produced, how it is consumed, and to reward their friends and punish their opponents.

These new “carbon” taxes or trading schemes will further distort energy markets, raise energy prices, raise food prices, increase energy poverty, and reduce economic competitiveness in the province.

And again, it has to be said, there is virtually no environmenta l b enef it – Ca n ad a i s such a small emitter of GHGs that shutting the entire country down would not produce measureable impacts on clim ate ch a nge. I n fact, Ca nada’s global share of emissions is sh r i n k i ng as Ch i n a’s a nd India’s grow. And, China and India will not likely be swayed

by Canadian leadership.

But perhaps carbon pricing will buy the social license Canada needs to develop its energy resources? Just ask Alberta how well that has worked out. Alberta has rolled out massive

new carbon taxes and a climate action plan that hamstrings f utu re oi lsa nd development w ith its 100 megaton ne a nnual em ission limit – and sti l l no pipel i ne ag reement.

And waiting for ENGOs to say “Okay, you’ve paid your social l icense, we’l l stop opposi ng your infrastructure now” is a mug’s game.

Ca rbon ta xes a nd ca rbon pr ici ng a re a l l t he rage at present, but don’t be fooled.

They are overwhelmingly likely to violate the benign economic models that economists like to talk about on television and, i nstead, la rgely f u nction as energy taxes to generate a new source of revenues for cashhungry governments.

T h e F ra s e r In st it ut e i s a n i n d e p e n d e n t , n o n-p a r t i sa n research and educational organi zation based in Canada, with offices in Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. © 2016 Distributed

by Troy Media

SUBCRIPTIONS | $45 PER YEAR (12 ISSUES), $80 FOR 2 YEARS (24 ISSUES), SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: WWW.BUSINESSEXAMINER.CA. DISTRIBUTION: FOURTH WEEK OF EACH MONTH VIA CANADA POST AD MAIL. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited submissions. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Produced and published in British Columbia. All contents copyright Business Examiner Peace Cariboo Skeena, 2016. Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240

16

JULY 2016

SPECIALISTS IN CONSTRUCTING COMMERCIAL / INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS SPOTLIGHT

WL Construction First Opened For Business In 1972

F

ORT ST. JOHN – An award winning full service general construction firm, WL Construction Ltd. has been building high quality commercial, industrial and institutional buildings across the north since the 1970’s.

Based in Fort St. John, the company is fairly unique in that it is employee-owned, which brings an even greater sense of pride and accomplishment to every project it completes.

“T he name comes from the original person who started the company back in the 70’s and he was only with the company for a few years, but nobody ever took the time to change the name,” explained company President Dale Neuls. “Once you get established with a brand and the name is out it can be a real hassle to change it.”

With a focus on commercial and industrial construction the firm is truly full service, with the right in-house talents to accommodate every aspect of a project.

This begins with the architectural design, carries on to the site planning, through all aspects of the

“In a way you could describe our service as being a one stop shop.”

DALE NEULS PRESIDENT, WL CONSTRUCTION

construction to the final completion of the project. With a staff of 45 including site supervisors, trades persons, supervisors, estimators and more WL Construction have the experience, the technology and the personnel to successfully complete any sized project.

WL Construction’s unique business model sets it apart from other similar firms. “I’m the majority owner and I’ve brought in a group of ten other employees who are the partners in the remaining percentage,” Neuls explained.

Launched in 1972 WL Construction’s primary market area is the greater Fort St. John region, but it has worked on projects further afield, including in the Northwest Territories, the Yukon and all across northeastern British Columbia. In its simplest definition WL Construction is a designer and builder of commercial and industrial structures.

“We’re a commercial, general

WL Construction is involved in all aspects of construction, starting with the site clearing effort

More than exteriors, WL Construction takes care of all the interior work, like at the Macro Industries project contractor. In essence we build buildings. This involves the bulk of the work we undertake. The remainder would see us doing civil work and foundation work as we do quite of bit of concrete work in the oil field,” Neuls said.

An award winning construction company, WL Construction was nominated for three different projects during this year’s Commercial Building Awards – winning the Industrial Project of the Year Award for its Macro Industries project, an office complex encompassing nearly 30,000 square feet.

The company was also nominated for the 21,000 square foot office and shop it designed and built for Fort St. John’s Rogers Trucking Inc. as well as the 28,000 square foot office building it developed for Recon Ventures Inc., also of Fort St. John.

“We’ve been involved in building just about one of everything at one time or another. We built the airport terminal here in Fort St. John, we’ve built numerous car dealerships, the office for the Oil and Gas Commission, a lot of different buildings,” he said.

Neuls himself joined the firm in 1991, beginning his career as an apprentice carpenter with the company. By 2001 he had moved

Beautiful fl ooring begins with us

10020-96 Ave | Fort St John, BC | 1-250-787-1842 | www.braunsflooring.com F W.L. Construction on their recent award-winning projects like Recon Ventures, Rogers Trucking and Macro Industries, which won “Industrial Project of the Year” at the 2016 Northern Commercial

Braun’s Flooring is a full spectrum flooring company.

We sell and install Hardwood, Laminate, Tiles, Carpet, blinds, vinyl sheets and planks for commercial and noncommercial application. Our paint and Interior design experts provide free color consult and co-ordination on flooring, Benjamin Moore paint and blinds.

through the ranks to become a Supervisor and Project Manager, including his involvement with the $6 million expansion of the Fort St. John Hospital. Today he oversees the company’s entire operation as its President.

In addition to office buildings and industrial shop spaces WL Construction has also been instrumental in designing and building projects as varied as restaurants (the Mr. Mike’s outlets in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John), the North Peace Credit Union and even houses of worship such as the Immaculata Catholic Church.

A LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold and Silver certified builder, the company has been responsible for constructing more than two million square feet of buildings, while having poured tens of thousands of cubic metres of concrete (for industrial clients as diverse as gas plants, mining operations and even for the bases of wind turbines) since opening its doors.

“Lately we’ve done quite a few different restaurants, such as the Browns Social House Pub here in town. Right now we’re building a Wendy’s Restaurant in Dawson Creek. This will be a multi-tenant building with a Wendy’s and

an Edo Restaurant in it,” Neuls explained.

Despite being known and respected as a commercial and industrial builder WL Construction does occasionally undertake residential projects, but very rarely.

“We’re doing one residential project right now, a high end residential project that we’ve been involved with for the past eight months or so, but that sort of thing happens very rarely.”

The bread and butter of the company’s output right from its inception has been designing and constructing structures for commercial and industrial clients.

“Most of what we do is constructing office buildings and things such as warehouses and workshops for oil field use and that sort of project,” Neuls said.

Located at 6494 Airport Road in Fort St. John, WL Construction is housed in a 14,000 square foot building of its own design.

The company prides itself on designing projects that are as environmentally benign as they are functional and beautiful. “I guess our main focus is designing and building low maintenance, long term and environmentally friendly buildings. Designing sustainable buildings with as small an environmental footprint as possible is what we’re all about.”

WL Construction has worked with many other professionals and supporting businesses over the years, firms that recognize the quality product and professionalism the firm provides. “Our firm has completed a number of highperformance buildings with WL Construction. By high performance we mean being very energy conscious in how we design and what systems get included. We have achieved LEED certification on a number of them and have worked together to provide sustainable buildings for our clients,” explained Brian Kapuscinski the Principal of Victoria-based SEE WL CONSTRUCTION | PAGE 17

17

JULY 2016

WL CONSTRUCTION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

architectural firm, KPL James Architecture Inc. “We find the people at WL to be their greatest asset. They are very professional, easy to work with and open to new ideas. They bring a lot to the table on a building project. Their understanding of both the technical aspects of a building and the practicality of actually getting it built is significant. We look forward to continuing to deliver successful projects with WL and developing quality building solutions for the Fort St. John region.”

Having operated for more than three decades the company and its owners have seen massive changes in zoning, building codes, in construction technologies and in client demands, specifically related to environmental issues.

“The building requirements have increased for insulation values and things like that. We have been doing a lot of this for a lot of years already so it hasn’t really affected us as much as it might some of the other contractors,” Neuls said.

“The days of blanket insulation are gone, you can’t get away with exposed insulation like they used to in the past. While we don’t focus on green building as such we’re very aware of the importance of not putting materials in our buildings that will off-gas formaldehyde and smell for years. So there are green lines

The company constructs all types of commercial buildings including this Browns Social House Pub you cannot cross, but basically the entire industry is going that way, but then that’s the direction we’ve always gone,” he stated.

In addition to seeing changes in how buildings are constructed, another value of being such a long term and successful business is the opportunity it provides to service repeat customers. In many cases the company has constructed multiple buildings for the same client over the years.

“I think that we have clients that we’ve built as many as six buildings for over the years. We also carry out a lot of maintenance

work for our clients, even for buildings we didn’t construct originally. Quite often we get the call to carry out maintenance on buildings constructed by out of town builders,” he said.

While WL Construction has a staff of about 45 persons, while a project is underway the number of persons it is responsible for can expand dramatically, depending on the scope and complexity of the project. At various times there could be as many as 10 Supervisors, 20 or more Journeyman Carpenters and a small army of individual tradesmen working

for the firm.

A key part of the service provided by the company is that it has the in-house staff to carry a project through from design to completion. “We can do all of the preliminary design, depending on the size of the project. Once a project gets big enough to bring architects on we have a team of different architects that we work with, depending on the scope of the project. To help make it easier for the client we do a lot of preliminary in-house design to help the client find what they’re looking for,” Neuls said.

“In a way you could describe our service as being a one stop shop, we can design it, we can build it and we have the network of resources we can draw on if we don’t have the skill in-house.”

“Much of the time we do a lot of the conceptual stuff, and the back and forth with the client prior the start of construction,” explained Darren Lockhart, a Project Manager with the company.

“We can take care of all that long before it even goes out to the architects and engineers, which saves a lot of time and money for the client by not having to hire a team of consultants right off the bat. It’s nothing for us to go back and forth with the client five or six times to get them what they want and need. Once we have that starting point then we can hire the professional designers to carry it out.”

A leading commercial and industrial builder for more than 30 years, an award winning turnkey operation that has served a myriad of clients across the Peace River region and beyond, WL Construction looks forward to what the future will offer.

“Despite any economic issues the region is facing we’ve been busy and we’re optimistic about what the future will bring,” Neuls said. “We’re diversified we don’t focus on any one sector which is part of our long term success.”

To learn more please visit the company’s website at: www.wlconstruction.com

Congratulations on all your success, looking forward to see what’s in store for W.L. Construction in the future.

10493 Alder Crescent, Fort St John, BC | Tel: (250) 785-5545 Fax: (250) 785-5542 www.pronorthheating.com

KPL James architecture

With Northeastern BC as its market area WL Construction has no problem working in any weather

519 Pandora Ave | Victoria, BC | 250.388.4261 www.kpljames.com

OFF THE COVER/SALES

18

JULY 2016

NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

projects, while the annual return on our investments is seven per cent on our investment portfolio and we stream out that seven per cent into a variety projects each year,” she said.

The NDIT funds a staggering array of programs ranging from Pine Beetle recovery activities, to community development and business enhancement efforts to helping existing enterprises expand their markets and improve their business savvy. An equally varied assortment of program applicants can access the Trust’s resources including non-profit community organizations, First Nations, individual municipalities and small to medium sized businesses.

“2015 was a record breaking year for us in terms of project funding approval, project investments and innovative approaches to strengthening the communities in the region saw the approval of $21.2 million in funding,” North said.

The NDIT and its team of 11 people (plus a Board of Directors and four Regional Advisory Committees) also participate in various partnership programs to expand its reach and impact across the north. These partnerships sometimes result in the Trust administering funding on behalf of other organizations, such as the $6.8 million

Janine North is the current Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Development Initiative Trust

“The Trust Board has approved nearly $151 million in funding and support.”

JANINE NORTH CEO, NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

distributed on behalf of the province of BC for its Connecting BC Program, an initiative established to improve internet broadband connectivity throughout all of rural BC, not merely in the NDIT’s coverage area.

North and NDIT Chairman Evan Saugstad are frequent speakers at business functions across the north “By far our most subscribed program last year, of the 385 programs that were funded, was our Competitiveness Consulting Rebate where we would cost share with a business owner the hiring of a consultant to work on some aspect of their business,” she said.

“Whether it’s getting safety c e r t i f ic at ion or i mp rov i n g manufacturing efficiency or helping to put more relevant business systems in place, those are the sort of consulting services we would cost share with a business. That was certainly our most popular program.”

The NDIT website also serves

as a 24/7 online resource for business, hosting links to the Supply Chain Connector, a database that allows major and out of region enterprises to quickly locate local business and service providers. Another online tool is the Love Northern BC website, a portal that showcases local businesses.

For the future the NDIT (with a coverage area extending from Lytton in the south to the Yukon border in the north and from Valemont near the Alberta border all the way to Haida Gwaii) anticipates continuing to support, encourage and enhance t he bu si ness com mu n ity of

Nor t hern BC w it h its broad range of programs and services.

North herself will be stepping down as CEO in the fall, but expects to remain an active part of the region’s business culture. “I will be transitioning out this fall while someone else transitions into the leadership role so it will be steady as she goes,” she said.

“I’d rather call it rewiring instead of retiring as I’ll continue sitting on the boards of various different organizations so I’m looking forward to a bit of a change of pace.”

To learn more please visit the Trust’s website at: www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca

Given the way we learn, it’s imperative that we train in a manner that allows people time to adapt and blend the old with the new

changes are needed in order to connect not only with the product but in our business practices.

This can’t be achieved over night or in a wham-bam way.

Change is difficult especially when we have been doing things a certain way for an extended period of time. I get frustrated with a new version of Microsoft and need time to understand and adapt to the new software. On the other hand my sons have it down in hours. Given the way we learn, it’s imperative that we train in a manner that allows people time to adapt and blend the old with the new. Old dogs may not move as fast but with their experience they can adapt the new to fit their world.

I work with young and senior professionals and the top businesses have an amazing blend of skills and experience that develop a successful team. As businesses move forward their success will come from the strengths of every person who want to redefine their role and upgrade themselves beyond where they are now.

OLD DOGS

Josh Higgins, B.Comm Senior Marketing Advisor

SALES JOHN GLENNON

PUT YOUR COMPANY IN THE SPOTLIGHT In the life of every business, certain events always stand out: t A grand opening t A brand new building t Completing a major project t Landing a major contract t Celebrating a milestone anniversary Spotlights are your opportunity to the business community of Northern British Columbia.

Contact me today to have your business featured in our publication.

Business Examiner contact Josh Higgins at 1-866-758-2684 ext 124 or josh@businessexaminer.ca

A

t 48 I g uess I cou ld be placed in the category of an “old dog” so I’m somewhat reluctant about the term but it seems to come up in conversation from time to time as I speak with business owners and sales managers. The typical comment goes something like, “I’ve got a sales staff of old dogs who won’t make any changes.

As I explore the comment further, what I tend to find is two things. First is the desire to transform people to a new way of doing things in record time.

If only magic dust worked. The second is the lack of blending the experience of the old dogs with new concepts. Is there a middle ground that allows for contribution from both?

Whether it’s the trucking business, software, manufacturing

or selling of architecture services or anything else, we have an abundance of baby boomers who continue to contribute to business. They have an abundance of product knowledge and a history of establishing relationships. The problem is not that they don’t have these as strengths, but that the company and market are changing and there is a gap that causes conflict. How do we bridge that gap?

Every business upgrades their products and services based on the new technology available along with customer demands.

We do it to stay competitive.

As the market changes and new generations take their seat in the company and with our customers, we also need to be aware that

John Glennon is the owner of Insight Sales Consulting Inc, an authorized Sandler Training Licensee. He can be reached at jglennon@sandler.com, toll free at 1-866-645-2047 or visit www.glennon.sandler.com

19

JULY 2016

CONSTRUCTION COMPANY WAS FORMED 33 YEARS AGO SPOTLIGHT

Norson Construction A Well Respected General Contracting Firm

K

ELOWNA – Developing a major shopping centre has a lot in common with designing an entire community.

You need physical infrastructu re, pa rki ng, roads a nd effective traffic flows, expansive utilities and an interconnected group of structures that have to both appeal and be accessible to the widest possible cross section of the local population.

Building projects that function effortlessly and add value to the neighbourhood is what Norson Construction has been specializing in for more than 30 years.

Fo u n d e d i n 19 8 3 , N o r s o n Construction is a general contracting and construction firm serving clients all across Western Canada. With offices in Kelowna, North Vancouver and in Edmonton the company has been the principal builder of an expanding list of retail, industrial, commercial, multi-family residential and institutional projects ranging from shopping malls to private country clubs.

“We specialize in large scale retail, shopping centres and institutional construction projects. We work closely with our clients providing project management, estimating and construction management services as a general contractor with an emphasis on bringing the project in on time and on budget, explained Dan Clayton, Norson’s Project Manager.

A n exceptiona l exa mple of the work carried out by Norson Construction is the River Point Landing shopping centre in Prince George. When fully completed (Phase one is now open for business) this development will provide more than 110,000 square feet of retail space and will be home to a variety of so-called mid box sized retailers. This vast complex is ideally located on the west side of Highway 16, just north of Ferry Avenue.

As Highway 16 is the primary highway that connects North and South Prince George and is the main traffic corridor in the region, River Point Landing is ideally situated to service clients coming and going to the city.

Other retailers in the immediate neighbourhood include Costco, Real Canadian Superstore, Winners as well as the established Pine Centre Mall, which includes Sears and SportChek.

“Our main focus has always been working with private developers,” Clayton explained.

“We’ve done a lot of work with major retailers and with national clients and in the course

“Our focus has always been on delivering quality work and seeing satisfied customers.”

DAN CLAYTON PROJECT MANAGER, NORSON CONSTRUCTION

Norson Construction has built many supermarkets such as Save On Foods Hampton Market outlet of a year the company will be involved in dozens of different projects of various sizes all across Western Canada.

Norson Construction is also a specialist in what Clay ton describes as building ‘big concrete tilt’s or pre-cast construction, a construction technique (typically referred to as tilt up concrete) that involves the prefabricating of various concrete building elements such as walls, columns or structural supports in a horizontal concrete slab.

Once the element is formed and cured for use, it is tilted into the vertical with a crane and then braced into position until the remaining building components can be added and secured.

A building method common in North America and Australia, the technique is a fast and cost effective way to construct a major structure.

“We used this approach for example at the Riverpoint Landing site, Vancouver Film Studios, Br idge Stud ios a nd s i m i l a r projects.”

Norson Construction is a major player in the Western Canadian construction sector. With a staff of more than 100 between its three offices the company is ranked among the top 100 privately held companies in British Columbia, has a total bonding capacity in excess of $100 million and has decades of experience successfully completing individual construction projects up to the $50 million range.

For those working with Nors o n , s u c h a s R a n dy K n i l l a Partner with DA Architects + Planners, the firm is a respected and preferred construction ser v ices prov ider. “ Norson Construction was selected to be the Construction Manager for Platform Properties River Point Landing Shopping Centre development, in Prince George, BC. Norson was responsible for the construction of Phases 1A and 1B, which account for approx i m ately 60,000 squ a re feet of the total 100,000 square feet of total leasable development area, as well as the Tenant Improvement work for the Pet Smart retail store,” he said.

“With its northern climate, building in Prince George has its challenges. The construction schedule utilized the warmer months to excavate and install the concrete foundation. Construction continued through the winter, which required creative solutions in order to keep the project on schedule, and Norson was up to the challenge. Norson’s main project team leaders were Dan Clayton, as the Project Manager, and Brian Lucht as the Site Supervisor. Both were professional, proactive and well organized. Both buildings were constructed using concrete precast panels. To evoke a reminder of Prince George’s logging

history wood details were incorporated into the building’s contemporary exterior design by using cedar shingles mounted into metal clad linear banding elements.”

As a general contractor for major projects Norson Construction offers its expanding client base a wide range of services including but not limited to: design and build, construction management, systems design, general contracting, budgeting, cost accounting and others. Not limited to new construction the company has an equally impressive background in commercial and institutional renovation work (i nclud i ng perform i ng

seismic upgrades) as well as carrying out tenant improvement projects for existing retail outlets.

Norson Construction is also qualified to construct projects to LEED (Leadership in Energy a nd Env i ron menta l Desig n) Certification standards. A good example of the company’s work in that sector was its contribution to the Grandview Commercial Development in Vancouver.

Designed by architect Turner Fleischer, this 200,000 square foot retail project was completed to LEED Gold standards and is a testament to the quality work Norson routinely carries out.

“We never look for accolades, our focus has always been on del iveri ng qua l ity work a nd seeing satisfied customers,” he said. “Our emphasis has always been for us to be on time and on budget. The fact that we have so much repeat business really speaks for itself.”

For the future Norson expects t h at it s emph a s i s on q u a lity construction, exceptional customer service and accurate budgeting will continue to keep its crews busy. “We expect our future to continue to be pretty much the same, we like to keep busy.”

To learn more please visit the company’s website at: www. norson.com

We are proud to work with Norson Construction.

Congratulations to Dan and the team on all of your success!

(250) 562-0006 4150 Versatile Place Prince George, BC info@northernelectricltd.com

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