Building great business and good community, TOGETHER

By Dianne Hawkins, CEO, Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce

Construction is, and will continue to be, a vital part of the future of the Comox Valley. The women and men who build our communities are also our neighbours, friends, and loved ones.

So when we speak of the construction industry in Comox Valley, we are referring to the people who sponsor our youth sports leagues, give generously to charity, and provide good-paying jobs.

Recent building reports show a significant increase in construction during the third quarter of 2020, which was above the second quarter of 2020. The Comox Valley surged 123 per cent, Strathcona was 52 per cent higher, and the Capital Regional District saw a 42 per cent jump. Impressive!

These numbers, however, do not tell the whole story. The COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on all industries with construction being no different.

Through Comox Valley Chamber virtual round tables, featuring City of Courtenay representatives and our construction members, and our monthly meetings with the Canadian Home Builders Association of Vancouver Island, we have identified some of the challenges the construction industry in Courtenay is facing.

While projects are still moving forward, the pandemic has altered timelines, project milestones, and completion dates. Production changes such as rescheduling sub trades on jobsites to maintain socialdistancing practices and ensuring sanitization procedures, although necessary, have a real effect on timelines.

Permits are still moving forward throughout municipalities, but there is concern with the lack of public hearings and the way in which projects move forward until such time as people can gather again to share their voices. While we have heard it is helpful to be able to submit drawings electronically for permits, there is still concern with the length of time it is taking for approval without public hearings. Public hearings are an integral part of planning the changing landscape of a community.

An indirect result of the pandemic, and one that was predicted although we are just seeing the result of it now, is the supply chain. A temperature check in April showed that most suppliers were in a good position, however, the factory closures overseas are now affecting local suppliers. As supply dries up, price goes up.

Even local supply, such as lumber, has seen a dramatic price increase. One member mentioned that they are recommending clients have a 10-14 per cent contingency in their budget for each project. This is leading to longer time frames between clients receiving and signing onto projects and some clients not moving forward at all.

With that said, construction is still moving forward despite the hurdles. It is a testament to the resiliency and determination of business owners and entrepreneurs on Vancouver Island. They are strong, they adapt, and they keep on keeping on.

Many thanks to the City of Courtenay staff for participating in the call as well as our construction members. For assistance with advocacy in your area, contact your local Chamber of Commerce, we are here for you. Join the people who get things done.