• Chris Yuan, Associate Wealth & Investment Advisor (RBC)
• Jared Heimsoth, Director, Capital Markets (CIBC)
• Kevin Greenard, Senior Wealth Advisor and Portfolio Manager (Scotiabank)
• Manny Del Dago, Senior Wealth Advisor (Island Savings)
• Susan Mowbray, Partner, Consulting (MNP)

The discussion was informative and enlightening. I encourage every Chamber member who wants to better understand what’s happening with the economy to watch the recording of our conversation. I know it helped me, especially as there are reasons for optimism that aren’t always reflected in the media. We’re lucky to have Chamber Champions who continue to help us get through every challenge that arises.
 
Thank you,
 
Bruce Williams
CEO, The Chamber

“This new requirement will take effect following the introduction of BC Building Code carbon pollution standards later this year,” a city news release stated. “By July 2025, all new buildings in the city will be required to meet a zero carbon standard.”

The schedule and requirements were developed following engagement with the local building industry, co-led by the City of Victoria, the District of Saanich and the District of Central Saanich with support from the CRD.

Langford announced the program last October and has updated eligibility requirements to increase the number of people who can benefit.

The Chamber applauds efforts to increase housing supply and help more people afford a home. Initiatives such as Langford’s will help employers find and keep workers who face challenges with the cost of living in our region.

Nationally, there was no recorded spike in days lost to illness with the number aligning with the pre-pandemic average. Wages continued to grow, rising 5.2% in July compared to the same month in 2021.

“We also know employers in key fields, such as health care and child care, need more workers to fill important jobs in BC,” BC’s Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation Ravi Kahlon said in a news release. “We are training people for these roles, while also working to bring in skilled workers through the Provincial Nominee Program.”

Kahlon said the province is urging the federal government to expand the number of skilled immigrants coming through the BC Provincial Nominee Program from 7,000 to 10,000 by 2025. The program offers skilled immigrants a pathway to permanent residence in BC.

The Chamber continues to advocate for immigration as one of the solutions to Greater Victoria’s labour shortage. More workers, as well as improvements to how Canada recognizes foreign credentials, are needed if organizations are going to have the workforce required to reach their economic potential.