The Mission Record Thursday, July 12, 2012 23
Mission Chamber of Commerce
BusinessTRACK connect • influence • prosper
Businesses affected by licensing medical pot growers
M
ission continues to struggle with marijuana growing operations. Businesses are adversely affected when they set up within their commercial or industrial strata by negating their strata insurance, causing safety issues and not meeting code. To further add challenge they are licensed but not as a business subject to fire and safety inspections. They are licensed by Health Canada. In 2001, Health Canada began its medicinal marijuana program. Intended to offset the need of those with chronic or terminal illness, the program was designed to provide access to medicinal grade marijuana in a safe and controlled way. In order to deal with supply issues and provide ready access, licensing to grow marijuana was introduced first for personal consumption only then expanded to allow others to grow for themselves and to others under the Marihuana Medical Access Regulations (MMAR). According to statistics on Health Canada’s website, in January 2010, there were 2,822 people in Canada who held personal-use production licenses and 754 that held designatedperson production licenses under MMAR. Two years later, Health Canada stats show that as of May, 12,649 personaluse licenses are being held and 2,520 hold designated-person licenses. In B.C., the numbers are 4,986 and 1,598 respectively. Mission is about 0.8 per cent of the
Despite only having 0.8 per cent of Canada's population, Mission holds 2.1 per cent of the national total of personal-use licenses and designated-person medical marijuana licences.
provincial population, it is 0.1 per cent of the Canadian population; however, licenses held in Mission equate to 4.9 per cent of the provincial total and 2.1 per cent of the national total. Due to the privacy act, Health Canada does not inform municipalities or police services of locations of licenses to ensure electrical and fire codes are met. Nor is Health Canada able to inspect growers, as the closest inspector is based in Winnipeg and services Western Canada. As RCMP pursue investigation on suspected illegal marijuana grows, they first contact Health Canada to check if it is a licensed operation. This is the only indicator to local
authorities that a MMAR license is in operation. Impact to Business Recognizing most licenses are operating in residential areas, industrial parks are being increasingly targeted as potential sites for designated persons operators. Amalgamating several licenses under one roof, they are able to grow large quantities. Not subject to the requirements of a business license yet operating in a designated area, licensee premises are not subject to the fire, electrical and safety codes of the surrounding strata. This impacts the strata insurance, and in some cases, has nullified insurance.
Pre rescription Su unglasses
FREE single sing vision tinted lenses with purchase of frame.
VALUE
FREE TESTING SIGHT
$130
Fashion Eyewear
2 for 1
SALE
Great Selection
Some restrictions apply • See store for detaiis
#2 - 33231 First Avenue, Mission •
Given there is limited economic benefit, designated-person licenses operating in business zones offer little employment. The District of Mission’s employment land strategy recognizes that “to provide an opportunity for the existing and future labour force to work in Mission, employment lands need to be used more intensely.” Rarely do more than a couple of people manage these licenses as they are to generate no income. With little attention, properties used to grow medicinal marijuana are increasingly targeted by gangs for “grow-rips.” This undermines the safety of the business area and becomes a deterrent to customers and clients. While bylaws limit agricultural production in industrial/commercial zones, realtors advise they are increasingly getting requests from licensees for available space in these zones. Changes are coming to the Health Canada system by 2015, however it is still unclear if licenses will be grandfathered or just not renewed, and there is no indication on how Health Canada will monitor the decommission. The Mission Chamber will continue to work on this issue over the summer with the District of Mission, the RCMP and Mission Fire Services in order to find a solution. If you are interested in finding out more or contributing to the chamber’s advocacy work contact Michelle at manager@missionchamber.bc.ca.
604.820.1112 604 820 1112 swingoptical.com
Mon-Fri 9:30 am-6 pm • Sat. 9:30 am-5:30 pm
w w w. m i s s i o n c h a m b e r. b c . c a
24 The Mission Record Thursday, July 12, 2012
2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BusinessTRACK
President's message Cal Crawford
PAST PRESIDENT
It is great to see the sun shine again! The last month of rain has not only put a damper on the beginning of summer, but again has brought us precipitously close to flooding this year on the Fraser. As our river management policies are brought forward to the Canadian Chamber this fall for acceptance, we will continue to educate federal and provincial ministers on the importance of a long-term substantive plan for the river. We appreciate the support of MLA Randy Hawes in this process and look forward to working with him more to advance our advocacy.
Sean Melia
VICE PRESIDENT
Todd Bugge
DIRECTOR 2011
Tony LaPointe TREASURER
Pam Alexis
DIRECTOR 2012
To learn more about our advocacy work and talk about issues that affect your industry, I encourage you to come and meet this year’s board of directors at Membership Appreciation Day, Friday, July 13. From noon until 3 p.m., we will be hosting an open house at the Chamber offices with food, treats for the kids and door prizes awarded each hour. Also, Mission Community Services will be hosting their Chai Time on valuebased leadership in the Chamber board room that day which will build on our recent leadership series. I look forward to seeing you there and wishing you a great summer! Elyssa Lockhart PRESIDENT
Trevor Girard
DIRECTOR 2012
Vicki Gould
DIRECTOR 2012
Infrastructure expansion supported
T
Attila Davalovsky DIRECTOR 2011
Satti Grewal
DIRECTOR 2012
Ann Harper
DIRECTOR 2011
Allan Main
LIAISON, C.F.N.F.
Mayor Ted Adlem DOM LIAISON
he province’s business community has delivered a strong endorsement for new infrastructure to expand British Columbia’s trade corridors between the Asia Pacific and North American markets. Eighty-seven per cent of those surveyed said they support the expansion and development of transportation infrastructure according to a new business survey recently released at the BC Chamber of Commerce Transportation Summit. “Business people realize that investment in our transportation system is crucial for a sustainable economic future,” said John Winter, president and CEO of the BC Chamber of Commerce. “The movement of goods and services benefits every region of our province, and as Canada’s Pacific Gateway, every region of the country, and therefore
expansion in trade with Asia to 2020, based on business and community input,” said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom. “By listening to our partners and working collaboratively, we will continue to create jobs and more prosperity for all British Columbians.”
every type of business.” The survey also stated 63 per cent of respondents doubt B.C. residents understand the importance and benefits of strengthened trade by way of the Canadian Pacific gateway, thus representing a true communications opportunity for advocates of the Gateway. “B.C. has a new transportation blueprint to support our unprecedented
“Our markets lie in all directions,” said Winter. “B.C. is an important gateway from Canada to the world by water, land and air. The BC Chamber wants to encourage investment in our transportation system for longterm prosperity and sustainable employment.” The BC Chamber Internet survey was conducted by the Spark group during the last two weeks of May and polled 502 members of the business community from every region of the province.
Chai Time @ the Chamber Chai Time: a chance to meet other diversity leaders in Mission, share insights, and learn together.
Chai Time will be hosted by MCS at the Chamber Member Appreciation BBQ on Friday July 13t h - The topic for discussion will be Respect for All – Values Based Leadership
Location -Chamber of Commerce Offi ffice: ce: Time 1 – 3pm Please RSVP tourism_services@missionchamber.bc.ca ionchamber.bc.ca
Helping people
Changing Lives
Building Community
w w w. m i s s i o n c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e s . c o m
w w w. m i s s i o n c h a m b e r. b c . c a
33179 2nd Avenue Mission, BC V2V 1J9 604.826.3634 info@missioncommunityservices.com
The Mission Record Thursday, July 12, 2012 25
BusinessTRACK
M
arketing as defined by Wikipedia is "the process by which companies create value for customers and build strong customer relationships, in order to capture value from customers in return."
Aug. 15
Business Excellence Awards Nomination Deadline. Nominate a star business today
Often assumed to be advertising, marketing covers the broad spectrum from branding to how customers view the business. Does your business have a marketing strategy? Have you reviewed it lately?
Sept. 7
MLA Breakfast Place: Cedarbrooke Chateau Time: 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.
While a marketing strategy should define the who, what, where, and how a company will position its products and services, it should also communicate the company values. With the advent of social media and market savvy Gen-Ys and Millennials, how your company runs is now an important component.
Sept. 20
Chamber luncheon Speaker: Bill Brooks, Tim Hortons Children's Foundation Place: Chapel Room, Rockwell's Bar and Grill, 32281 Lougheed Highway Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The challenge for many small businesses is time. “The economy is bad, I have to work harder at selling so I can survive,” is the common lament. "All of us perform better and more willingly when we know why we're doing what we have been told or asked to do," is sage advice from business guru Zig Ziglar. A marketing strategy that defines who the customer is and what their wants and needs are, allows any business to better focus its time and efforts to a better return on investment.
Member Appreciation Day and Visitor Centre Open House Place: 34033 Lougheed Hwy. Park Time: Noon to 3 pm
A 360 degree review of products and services as they relate to the customer is recommended. Is it relevant? Needed at this time? Or still maintaining its value for the customer at the set price? These are all critical questions. Understanding the intended consumer is valuable to building an effective campaign that connects them to your company. Taking the time to look at these important aspects can save time but
also allows any company to spend their advertising funds more effectively. Once completed, a marketing strategy should be reviewed regularly to make sure it is aligned for any changes to the target market, product or service, pricing and the economy. Keeping the strategy fluid aids in the ability to position rather than react to fluctuations that impact business. Don’t have a marketing
strategy or want to learn more? During Small Business Month this October the Mission Chamber will be offering affordable Lunch and Learns on aspects of developing marketing strategies. Held at the Mission Library, marketing experts will share skills, tips, and knowledge that will help build or update your strategy. Call the Chamber at 604-826-6914 for more information or visit www. MissionChamber.bc.ca.
Scan this QR code with your smart phone to see details on our website
Randy HAWES, MLA Abbotsford - Mission Marc DALTON, MLA Maple Ridge - Mission
Our constituency office is here to assist you with: •GOVERNMENT RELATED ISSUES •INFORMATION ON GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS •CERTIFYING YOUR COPIES •ARRANGING CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES PHONE:
Randy Hawes MLA
Marc Dalton MLA
Abbotsford - Mission
Maple Ridge - Mission
EMAIL:
33058 First Avenue Mission, B.C. V2V 1G3 604-820-6203 TOLL FREE:1-866-370-6203 FAX: 604-820-6211
randy.hawes.mla@leg.bc.ca
EMAIL:
www.randyhawesmla.bc.ca
marc.dalton.mla@leg.bc.ca www.marcdaltonmla.bc.ca
w w w. m i s s i o n c h a m b e r. b c . c a
CHAMBER COMING EVENTS
Marketing plan encompasses more than just good advertising
July 13
26 The Mission Record Thursday, July 12, 2012
Michelle Favero
Allison Jack
Manager
Tourism Co-ordinator
Chamber seeks ideas for 120th celebration
volunteer@missionchamber .bc ca
tourism_services@missionchamber .bc ca
manager@missionchamber .bc ca
2012 CHAMBER TEAM
BusinessTRACK
Heather Kardal Volunteer Co-ordinator
"Membership has its benefits!"
Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce w w w. m i s s i o n c h a m b e r. b c . c a 6 0 4 - 8 2 6 - 6 9 1 4 3 4 0 3 3 L o u g h e e d H w y, M i s s i o n B C V 2 V 5 X 8
Trevor Girard – A Valued Advisor Relationship focused, not transaction focused Call: 604-287-5586 for your free consultation and quotes! Email: trevor.girard@futureright.ca Website: www.futureright.ca
n Missyio rks o W a Cl8 2 Avenue, Mission 3303
nd
and p (entrance
arking v
he alley) ia th
e offer -1501 W s for 604-556 classe w o N r e t adults & Regis s’ for KidC children lay Summemrp Ca
www.missionclayworks.com Prospera Credit Union cares about your financial well-being. See our investment experts for your complimentary financial plan and enter to win* a trip for two to Las Vegas!
*Round trip for two, includes flights and accommodation on the Vegas strip. No cash value. See branch for contest dates, rules and regulations.
Talk to us today 1.888.440.4480 prospera.ca
Lead in 1893 by Harry P. French, the Mission City Board of Trade was started to attract business development to the agriculture and forestry hub of the Fraser Valley.
The Candlelight Parade will also be celebrating 30 years. The longest running and largest nighttime Christmas parade in B.C., the event is a community institution and a family rite for all generations.
In addition to the Chamber’s anniversary, 2013 will be a year of many celebrations for the organization.
Chamber Director Satti Grewal is leading the 120th Celebration Task Force to develop programs, events and commemoratives to celebrate these milestones. They will be looking for input at Membership Appreciation Day and Visitor Centre Open House on July 13.
The Visitor Centre will have operated for 40 years at its current site at 34033 Lougheed Hwy. Initially started by the Chamber in the lobby of the
Come down and share your memories and ideas while looking through nostalgia. Doors will be open between noon and 3 p.m.
INTERIOR INTER RIOR DESIGN inside and out
• Commercial & Residential • Colour Co-ordinating • Design - Advice - Assistance • Renovations - Construction • Decorating - Furnishings • “Staging” to sell
Protecting families and businesses through Life insurance, Health & Mortgage insurance Developing wealth and retirement strategies through smart investments with guarantees
N
Bellevue Hotel in 1963, the Visitor Centre opened in the fondly remembered A-frame on Aug. 1, 1973 in St. Mary’s Park.
Pioneers then... pioneers now, the Chamber is continuing to encourage and support the business community through advocacy, education and networking.
Also, your centre for Mission & BC Tourist Information
FUTURE RIGHT
ext year will be the 120th year of the incorporation of the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce.
For a consultation call
Gail Hanslo registered interior designer
“Promoting P ti B Business i and d Tourism Development in Mission” I N F O R M AT I O N AVA I L A B L E
• Mission Community Profile • Commercial and Industrial Property Inventory • Business Opportunities
“Creating Beautiful Spaces Since 1981”
34033 LOUGHEED HWY., MISSION, BC V2V 5X8
604-826-0594 gailhanslo@shaw.ca
email: edc@mission.ca • www.mission.ca
Tel: 604.820.3789 • Fax: 604.820.6738 • Toll Free: 1.866.814.1222
How to Sell Your Business Presentation Are you thinking of selling your business? Join Community Futures June 20, at 6:30 pm Phone or email to register info@northfraser.org 604-826-6252 THIS IS A FREE EVENT
DAVIES
Sand & Gravel Ltd.
604.826.6736
All types of Sand, Gravel & Topsoil •Excavators •Low-beds •Topsoil •Loading •Trucking •Cats 11496 DEWDNEY TRUNK RD., MISSION, BC • MAIL - BOX 3663 • V2V 4L2
w w w. m i s s i o n c h a m b e r. b c . c a
Available only at the Mission Location STORE HOURS: MON - FRI 9AM -9PM; SAT & SUN 9AM - 6PM