This week, the District of Sooke became the seventh municipality to support the South Vancouver Island Economic Development Association, joining Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Victoria, Oak Bay and Sidney.

"[Sooke's vote] speaks to a new energy spreading across southern Vancouver Island that values active collaboration as a means of solving challenges and enabling success for the benefit of all citizens," Dan Dagg, interim chair of the South Vancouver Island Economic Development Association, said in a statement on Tuesday. "As a long-time resident, business owner and parent, this opportunity to work collaboratively pulling in one direction across political boundaries is exciting. It is also critical for our families now, and for our children's future."

The new economic development model is designed to bring together all 13 municipalities, private sector and First Nation communities to work together for the greater prosperity of the local economy.

A 13-member delegation that included City of Victoria Mayor, Lisa Helps, were in Ottawa last week to persuade the federal government to fund a new terminal to replace the hodge-podge of facilities on the south side of Victoria Harbour. As outlined in a recent Times Colonist article, members maintain that Victoria needs to show a better face at a key border crossing.

The Chamber has long advocated for a new terminal, which has been under discussion since 1993 when the "temporary" Clipper terminal was installed.

"After many planning studies and concept plans, we are still left with aging infrastructure with inadequate security acting as a high-profile international gateway," said Chamber CEO Bruce Carter. "Infrastructure and security investments are needed now. It's past time for higher levels of government to step up."
 
The proposed terminal would house ferry companies Black Ball Ferry Line and Clipper Navigation, as well as US and Canadian border officials.

	City of Victoria: member since 1962
	Black Ball Ferry Line: member since 1961
	Clipper Navigation: member since 2014

In 2000, the average single family home in Greater Victoria was approx. $250,000. For new-constructed homes, buyers - before any rebates - would have to pay $12,500 in GST federally. For those buying an existing single family home, they would have paid $3,000 in Property Transfer Tax (PTT) provincially. 

In 2014, the average single family home in Greater Victoria was almost $610,000. For new-constructed homes, buyers - no longer eligible for rebates - would have to pay over $31,000 in GST. For those buying an existing single family home, they would have paid $10,200 in PTT.

"The GST and PTT have contributed significantly to the erosion of housing affordability in our region," says Victoria Residential Builders Association executive director Casey Edge. "Ottawa should keep its promise to index the GST rebate to inflation, and BC should adjust the tax threshold for all purchasers, removing multiple PTT charges during development phases of new homes."

With the median family income only increasing by less than 15% over the last 15 years, it is no wonder that we have an issue with housing affordability.

BC Transit, Wilson's Transportation, Pacific Coach Lines plus another commercial bus operator have spearheaded an idea for a "bus terminal/ transportation precinct," which is to be considered by Victoria Council Dec 3.

The proposal calls for Victoria to lease space in the Crystal Garden for ticket sales, passenger waiting, washrooms and luggage storage. The existing Pattison Outdoor bus shelter would be moved north, and the commercial bus operators would have one large shelter or two smaller ones for passengers. The sidewalk would be widened and more benches provided. The proposal also calls for a new BC Transit bus zone on the east side of Government Street between Superior and Belleville beside the Royal BC Museum. On-street vehicle parking near the museum would be removed to make way for layover space for seven to nine transit buses.

The proposal is timely, as all operators must move out of the bus depot at Douglas and Belleville streets by May 31, 2016.

	BC Transit: member since 1999
	Wilson's Transportation: member since 2004
	Pacific Coach Lines: member since 1962

As the largest and most influential business association in Greater Victoria, we are the voice of our members and the Greater Victoria business community. Our views are sought after and respected by government, business leaders and the media.

When Chamber members let us know of an issue affecting their business, we listen. We bring Greater Victoria business issues to the forefront, and - armed with facts and a credible voice - we work to shape and make positive change.

If you are a member and have a concern about something that is affecting your business, contact Peggy Kulmala at policy@victoriachamber.ca and 250-360-3476.

Take advantage of this member benefit - we stand up for you!