At The Chamber's annual post-budget address BC Finance Minister Michael de Jong presented the 2017 Provincial Budget in front of over 150 Chamber members. Click here to see the photos.

The event was sponsored by Coastal Community Credit Union & Insurance and  the Co-operative Education Programs at the University of Victoria and Camosun College.
2017 Budget Breakdown

The Government of BC tabled its fifth consecutive balanced budget yesterday. In a news release issued by BC Chamber of Commerce, Budget 2017 combines continued fiscal discipline and a number of forward-looking initiatives.

There are some tax breaks, including reducing the small business corporate income tax to 2% and reducing MSP premiums for those earning under $120,000. 
 
Al Hasham, Chair of The Chamber expressed concern that there was nothing specific for the region in the budget, although there are a number of tax cuts and tax credits that will benefit businesses throughout the province.  

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Event Photos 
Nothing for the Bus, Gus?

The anticipated gas tax increase for transit service in Greater Victoria was not in this year's budget much to the disappointment of the Victoria Regional Transit Commission (VRTC).
"The Commission made it very clear to the Province of BC that any transit service expansion was contingent on an increase to the gas tax," said Susan Brice, VRTC Board Chair. "The decision from the Province of BC to not increase the gas tax, as requested and expected, means the VRTC will defer service expansion and look at potential service reductions to stay within our available operating budget." 
 
The 2 cent per litre increase to the gas tax is just one of the three funding options available to the VRTC including transit fares and property taxes. It has been 8 years since the gas tax was last changed. The expansion plans for improved transit service are being put on hold as the VRTC continues to work with the Province of BC to identify funding options to support transit services in the Capital Region. The VRTC response to the decision can be found here. 


New Operator for Swans Hotel and Brewpub?

UVic Properties, which manages non-academic properties on behalf of the University of Victoria, is seeking a partner to operate Swans Hotel and BrewPub  and liquor store. UVic will continue to own the heritage-designated building and property at 506 Pandora Ave donated by the late Michael Williams.

"A partnership with a proven hospitality operator will ensure this property continues to financially support UVic and assures that the hotel, brewery and pub have a strong, viable future," says Peter Kuran, president and CEO of UVic Properties. "In this way, we continue to honour Michael Williams' legacy toward post-secondary education and community benefit."
 
A short-list of qualified proponents is expected by late March, with a detailed proposals review later in the spring.  As part of the RFEOI, UVic Properties is looking for plans that maintain continuous employment for existing employees while allowing the university to maintain ownership of the property. Employees will be offered incentive plans to remain with Swans during a potential transition.

 
Swans Hotel and BrewPub: member since 1993
UVic: member since 1976



Dodd's Furniture Celebrates 40 Years! 

Known to many Vancouver Island residents  for their quirky commercials, Dodd's Furniture & Mattress turns 40 years old this year! Dodd's Furniture & Mattress was first opened back in 1977 by Gordy Dodd at the corner of Quadra St. and Kings Rd.
 
"I remember thinking it was normal for my dad to be working 12 and 14 hour days," said Love Dodd, son of Gordy and now the President of Dodd's Furniture and Mattress.  "I didn't realize he was off to Vancouver on the first ferry, buying furniture, coming back, getting it in the showroom, selling it and then delivering it with the same rented truck, all in the same day. By watching my dad I learned the value of understanding every facet of the business so you can lead, expand and innovate."

 Today Dodd's Furniture & Mattress is the largest independent furniture retailer on Vancouver Island showcasing a three-story 35,000 sq ft showroom in Victoria, a 25,000 sq ft furniture gallery in Nanaimo, and 16,000 sq ft store in Campbell River .
 
Dodd's Furniture & Mattress: member since 2002
2017 Marketplace Mixer - Booths On Sale!

Exhibitors showcase your businesses to over 300 people, including Chamber members and the public. Book your booth early to avoid disappointment!


 
Maximize your exposure. 
Full colour Times Colonist advertising is available for $100. Creative services provided by the Times Colonist for no additional cost. Limited supply.

Thurs, Mar 16 | 4-7 pm
 Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort & Spa
100 Harbour Rd.
Our Place at the Table
 
Throughout BC, governments are celebrating the work of Chambers of Commerce during Chamber Week February 20 to 24.

"We are proud of our ongoing work as the voice of business in Greater Victoria, ensuring we are part of government decision-making," said Chamber CEO, Catherine Holt.

"BC's chambers of commerce play an invaluable role, offering support, economic development, and advocacy for small businesses," said BC Premier Christie Clark.

"For over 150 years, the Greater Victoria Chamber has kept on top of issues affecting local businesses, working with all levels of government to drive these insights into tangible action," said Chamber Chair Al Hasham. "Whether acting as non-partisan advocates on hot-button topics, or providing tailored resources to help our members reach that next level, we get business done."

Check out the video with the Honourable Coralee Oakes and BC Chamber of Commerce CEO, Val Litwin above. 
Save 40% on Shipping
In today's ever-changing marketplace, The Chamber understands your need to save time and money. That is why we have leveraged the buying power of our members to deliver even better savings on the shipping products and services that can help move your business forward.
 
Let the experts at UPS help manage your shipping and supply chain needs so that you can focus on the things that will support growth -things like innovation, sales, and service. Remember, this offer is exclusive to Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce members. By enrolling in our UPSĀ® Savings Program you can start saving 40% today - no matter how much you ship, when you ship or where it's going!

Click here to sign up.
Welcome to Our Newest Members! 





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