notice to the gvrd sustainable region initiative committee · notice to the gvrd sustainable region...

February 7, 2008

NOTICE TO THE GVRD SUSTAINABLE REGION INITIATIVE COMMITTEE You are requested to attend a Regular Meeting of the GVRD Sustainable Region Initiative Committee to be held at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, February 15, 2008, in the 2nd Floor Boardroom, 4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia.

A G E N D A 1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

1.1 February 15, 2008 Regular Meeting Agenda Staff Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee adopt the agenda for its regular meeting scheduled for February 15, 2008 as circulated.

2. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES

2.1 October 19, 2007 Regular Meeting Minutes Staff Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee adopt the minutes of its regular meeting held October 19, 2007, as circulated.

2.2 November 16, 2007 Regular Meeting Minutes Staff Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee adopt the minutes of its regular meeting, held jointly with the Mayors Committee on November 16, 2007, as circulated.

3. DELEGATIONS

No items presented. 4. INVITED PRESENTATIONS

No items presented. 5. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE OR STAFF

5.1 Sustainability Framework Designated Speaker: Johnny Carline, Commissioner, CAO Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee: a) endorse the amended Sustainability Framework; and b) direct staff to draft the Priorities section of the Sustainability Framework for

Committee and Board review and approval after the completion of the Board’s 2008 Priorities and Timetable workshop.

5.2 2008 Work Plan for Sustainable Region Initiative Committee Designated Speaker: Delia Laglagaron, Deputy Commissioner/CAO Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee endorse the work plan for the Committee as outlined in the report dated January 31, 2008, titled ‘2008 Work Plan for Sustainable Region Initiative Committee’.

5.3 International Regions Benchmarking Consortium – joint Metro Vancouver and Greater Seattle regions Designated Speaker: Hugh Kellas, Manager, Policy and Planning Recommendation: That the Board: (a) Advise the International Regions Benchmarking Consortium that Metro

Vancouver is interested in being an observer of the project; (b) Authorize the attendance of a Board member at “The Innovative Region”

conference sponsored by the International Regions Benchmarking Consortium to be held in Seattle, Washington, June 1-4, 2008.

5.4 Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogue: Regional Economy: The

World is Watching Designated Speaker: Heather Schoemaker, Manager, Corporate Relations Recommendation: That the Board forward the report dated January 30, 2008, titled ‘Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues: Regional Economy – The world is watching’ to member municipalities, and other related agencies for their information and comment.

5.5 2008 Sustainable Region Initiative Committee Regular Meeting Dates Designated Speaker: Paulette Vetleson, Corporate Secretary Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee establish the day, hour and place for its 2008 regular meetings outlined in the report dated February 5, 2008 titled ‘2008 Sustainable Region Initiative Committee Regular Meeting Dates’.

5.6 Managers Report Designated Speaker: Delia Laglagaron, Deputy Commissioner/CAO Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee receive for information the report dated January 15, 2008, titled ‘Manager’s Report’.

6. INFORMATION ITEMS

No items presented.

7. OTHER BUSINESS No items presented.

8. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING

No items presented. 9. ADJOURNMENT

Staff Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee conclude its regular meeting of January 15, 2008.

http://public.metrovancouver.org/boards/Sustainable%20Region%20Initiative%20Committee/SRI_Committee-February_15_2008-Item5.3.pdf

Item 5.1rnetrovancouver Greater Vancouver Region-I District • Greater Vancouver Water District

Greater Vancouver Sewerage and Drainage District • Greater Vancouve usin Cor ;oration

4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5H 4G8 604-432-6200 www.metrovancouver.org

Meeting Date: February 15, 2008

To: Sustainable Region Initiative Committee

From: Johnny Carline, Commissioner/Chief Administrative Officer

Date: February 1, 2008

Subject: Sustainability Framework

Recommendation:That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee:

a) endorse the amended Sustainability Framework; andb) direct staff to draft the Priorities section of the Sustainability Framework for

Committee and Board review and approval after the completion of the Board's 2008Priorities and Timetable workshop.

1. PURPOSETo provide the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee with an amended SustainabilityFramework for review and adoption.

2. CONTEXTAt the September 12, 2007 Board workshop, the Board adopted the recommendation of theSustainable Region Initiative Committee to adopt in principle the Draft Board Statement ofSRI Principles and Priorities captured in the brochure titled Metro Vancouver SustainabilityFramework.

The main focus of the Board workshop was the need to simplify the language of theFramework.

The Board directed staff to "retain communications assistance to produce a final version ofthe document for public distribution." To that end, Junxion Strategy was retained to revampthe Framework to incorporate comments from the Committee and Board and produce amore succinct document.

On further consideration, it was concluded that the first part of the document (the`framework') should be relatively stable over time, whereas the second part of the document(the 'priorities') would vary over time as objectives were achieved and priorities changed.(For example, the initial draft still had the change of name from GVRD to Metro Vancouveras a priority. For the purposes intended, this has already been achieved).

A revised Draft Framework document was developed by Junxion Strategy and staff, and ispresented for review and approval. This contains only a very high level statement ofpriorities. The 'priorities' section, now seen as a more detailed companion piece orattachment that will be revised annually or at least tri-annually, was intended to beassembled after the board workshop on 2008 priorities and timetable. As this workshopwas deferred, this priorities section is still to be produced.

Sustainability FrameworkSustainable Region Initiative Committee February 15, 2008Page 2 of 2

This draft, therefore, represents the constant 'framework' portion of the 'brochure'.However, as set out in the longer September 2007 report to Committee and Board, it alsoprovides the basis for the broader Metro Vancouver Sustainability Plan intended to becompleted in late 2008. This broader Plan document will encompass not only the vision,mission, values and principles statements but also the goals and metrics of the'Sustainability in Action' program; the complete set of core management plans (growthstrategy, solid waste, liquid waste, water, air quality and climate change, parks andgreenways, housing, and ecological health); and an accounting of the Board's communityoutreach/collaborative governance activities including the output of the first MetroVancouver summit, the launching of the Metro Vancouver Sustainability Academies and theinternational engagement program.

The Sustainability Plan will be drafted this year and finalized once the final fourmanagement plans (Liquid Waste Management Plan, Solid Waste Management Plan,Regional Growth Strategy and Ecological Health Strategy) are adopted.

3. ALTERNATIVESNone presented.

4. CONCLUSIONThe 'framework' portion of the Board's SRI brochure has been redrafted as directed by theBoard and is submitted for review and approval. The 'priorities' section is intended to beredrafted after the Board's 2008 Priorities and Timetable workshop has been completed.The whole brochure will then be laid out and submitted for final approval and distribution.

The 'framework' will be used as the basis for the more extensive 'Metro VancouverSustainability Plan' scheduled for completion after approval of the remaining managementplans, anticipated in late 2008.

Attachment: Sustainability Framework

SUSTAINABLE REGION INITIATIVE... TURNING IDEAS INTO ACTION

Metro Vancouver

SustainabilityFRAMEWORK

Contact us:

4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 4G8604-432-6200www.metrovancouver.org

What’s inside . . .

Metro Vancouver

Natural splendour, access to abundant resources andmarkets and a diverse civil society have converged in

Metropolitan Vancouver to create one of theworld’s most livable regions.

United by a love of and respect for place, entrepreneur -ship and commitment to broad communal values, the

people of Metro Vancouver have forged a vibrantmulti -ethnic society that draws strength

from its diversity.

But with that privileged position comes responsibilityfor the immediate and long term impacts of our actions

both locally and globally. While we have earned anenviable reputation for our quality of life, we are

challenged to take the next step in the region ’s evolutionby becoming as sustainable as we are livable.

Vision for Metro Vancouver

Mission Statement

Values

Role

Sustainability Principles

Key Strategies & Priorities

Sustainability in Action

Management Plans

Metro Vancouver Campaign

Metro Vancouver has a vision to achievewhat humanity aspires to on a globalbasis – the highest quality of life embracingcultural vitality, economic prosperity, socialjustice and compassion, all nurtured inand by a beautiful and healthy naturalenvironment

We will achieve this vision by embracingand applying the principles of sustainabil -ity, not least of which is an unshakeablecommitment to the well -being of futuregenerations and the other inhabitants ofour planet, in everything we do.

As we share our efforts in achieving thisvision, we are confident that the inspirationand mutual learning we gain will becomevital ingredients in our hopes for a sustain-able common future.

Metro Vancouver will:

• attain the highest possible levels ofexcellence in meeting its service deliveryresponsibilities

• develop, update and use an integratedsystem of plans to manage all activitiescarried out by Metro Vancouver andothers within its mandated influencetowards the achievement of asustainable region

• build and facilitate collaborativeprocesses, including those that engagecitizens, to achieve a resilient region-widepartnership working together for asustainable region.

Integrity is our foundation; passion for ourwork and pride in our accomplishments areour drivers; respect for the needs, inter -ests, values and opinions of the public andcompassion in all our relationships are ourguideposts.

We are Metro Vancouver

What is Metro Vancouver?

Metro Vancouver is both a political bodyand corporate entity operating under pro -vincial legislation as a ‘regional district’ and‘greater boards’ on behalf of twenty twomember municipalities and one electoralarea. Metro Vancouver has three primaryroles: service delivery; planning, (includ -ing policy and regulation); and politicalleadership, (including advocacy and publicengagement and education).

Metro Vancouver’s core services, which areprovided principally to municipalities, arethe provision of drinking water, sewerageand drainage, and solid waste manage -ment. Regional parks and affordablehousing are significant services provideddirectly to the public. Other services relateto municipal labour relations, 911 Emer -gency Response (through E-Comm), GPSand the control of nuisance and West NileVirus vector mosquitoes.

Metro Vancouver’s three main areas ofplanning and regulatory responsibilityrelate to: regional growth (land usethrough municipalities and transportationthrough TransLink); waste management(solid and liquid waste) and air qualitymanagement (a delegated Provincialfunction).

Finally Metro Vancouver serves as the mainpolitical forum for discussion of significantcommunity issues at the regional level.It acts as a facilitator, convenor, partner,advocate and a significant instrument forproviding information and education tothe community.

REGIONAL VISION

METRO VANCOUVER ROLE & MISSION

VALUES

SUSTAINABILITY PRINCIPLES

COLLABORATIVEGOVERNMENT

• Dialogues• Consultation• Intergovernmental

linkages• Global

responsibilities• International

ch

PROCESSES

STRATEGIES

PROJECTS

PLAN VISION & GOALS

STRATEGIES

ACTIONS

SERVICE DELIVERY

• Water• Sewerage• Solid Waste Disposal• Parks• Housing• Labour Relations• 911• Other regional

services

METRO VancouVer SuStainability FraMework

SUSTAINABILITY ACTIONS

MEASURES & TARGETS

Sustainability PrinciplesIn 2002, Metro Vancouver adopted The Sustainable RegionInitiative (SRI) as its framework for decision making as well as themechanism by which sustainability principles are moved fromideas into action. The SRI has been driven by three overarchingprinciples which state that decision making must:

• have regard for both local and global consequences,and long term impacts;

• recognize and reflect the interconnectedness andinterdependence of systems;

• be collaborative and adaptive

These provide the foundation for the three sets of sustainabilityprinciples that guide Metro Vancouver: conserve and developNatural, Economic and Social capital.

1. Protect and enhance the natural environment.(Conserve and develop natural capital)a) protect, restore and enhance natural ecosystems; exercise

extraordinary care with ecosystems that contain specieswhich are rare or endangered or are critical to livingsystems;

b) allow extraneous material to be introduced to ecosystemsonly in such forms and quantities as can be absorbed bythe receiving systems without material harm;

c) use renewable resources at no greater rate than they canbe replenished;

d) use non-renewable resources only in ways that permittheir beneficial re -use or at rates no faster than the rate ofcreation of renewable substitutes.

2. Provide for ongoing prosperity.(Conserve and develop economic capital)a) develop and efficiently use the infrastructure that is critical

to the long term economic health and creative strength ofthe region;

b) use pricing mechanisms which encourages decisionmaking based on the assessment of all costs and benefits(economic, environmental and social, short and long termand local and global);

c) ensure decisions and actions are affordable and do notaccumulate liabilities for future generations;

d) avoid actions which contribute to concentrations ofpersistent economic hardship.

3. Build community capacity and social cohesion.(Conserve and develop social capital)

a) develop and apply decision making processes which aretransparent, inclusive and respectful of the interests ofall affected parties;

b) identify the determinants of physical and mental healthand encourage measures which promote long term health;

c) foster a culture of learning so that successive generationscan absorb and build on the accumulated knowledge andwisdom of prior generations;

d) foster social cohesion through citizen engagement in thecivic and cultural life of the community, emphasizingthe involvement of young people and those who throughreasons of culture, or economic or physical circumstance,might be otherwise unengaged.

Key Priorities

• Sustainability in Action – a program ofachievement of sustainability targets

and measures in the critical areas ofMetro Vancouver’s responsibilitiessupported by sustainability focuseddecision making mechanisms and

documentation of success stories• Integrated System of Management

Plans – the suite of sustainability basedMetro Vancouver management plans

• Collaborative Governance OutreachCampaign – a communications,education and engagement campaignto inspire public involvement in the

achievement of a sustainable region

The articulation of these key strategies into

annual programs and targets is set out inthe companion Annual Statement of MetroVancouver Priorities.

Sustainability in Action

content TO FOLLOW BOARD WORKSHOP

Management Plans


Sustainable Metro Vancouver Campaign


5.2

Committee Meeting Date: February 15, 2008

To: Sustainable Region Initiative Committee From: Delia Laglagaron, Deputy Commissioner/Chief Administrative Officer Date: January 31, 2008 Subject: 2008 Work Plan for Sustainable Region Initiative Committee Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee endorse the work plan for the Committee as outlined in the report dated January 31, 2008, titled “2008 Work Plan for Sustainable Region Initiative Committee”. 1. PURPOSE To provide the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee with an overview of priorities planned for the Committee in 2008 and seek the Committee’s direction on other activities. 2. CONTEXT The Sustainable Region Initiative (SRI) Committee oversees a consolidated vision and strategy for a sustainable region. The Committee encompasses the sustainability principles that guide Metro Vancouver and through strategic priorities, takes a leadership role by providing political oversight on initiatives that deliver corporate mandated services through plans and policies while building collaborative governance partnerships. The focus of the Committee for 2008 will be to develop a:

• Sustainability Framework which provides the basis for a Sustainability Plan and delivers a condensed, easily understood format that can be shared with the public and other partners;

• Sustainability Plan which encompasses the integration of core management plans, projects and programs; and

• Partnerships and outreach activities to further the overall Sustainable Region Initiative.

A detailed work plan for 2008 is attached that provides a monthly summary for the Committee’s consideration and includes some notable initiatives such as:

• Continuation of the highly successful Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogue Series and Community Breakfasts;

• Introduction of Sustainability Summits that pull together many streams of input and contribute to the development of a Vision for Metro Vancouver;

• Implementation of Sustainability Academies that establish a network of combined visitor centres/public education facilities and applied research centres throughout Metro Vancouver.

004590295

2008 Work Plan for Sustainable Region Initiative Committee SRI Committee Meeting February 15, 2007 Page 2 of 3

In addition, staff will be reporting throughout the year on the results of Committee-initiated requests and would appreciate the Committee’s discussion and direction on other activities it may wish to pursue in 2008.

3. ALTERNATIVES The SRI Committee may:

(a) endorse the program set out in the report entitled “2008 Work Plan for Sustainable Region Initiative Committee”; or,

(b) receive the report and direct staff on amendments to activities in the program. 4. CONCLUSION The 2008 Work Plan is presented for the Committee’s consideration. Attachment: 2008 SRI Committee Work Plan

004590295

Attachment

2008 SRI COMMITTEE WORK PLAN Meeting Priorities January No meeting February • Final Draft of the SRI Sustainability Framework

• Establishment of Sub-Committee re Metro Vancouver Sustainability Summits • Schedule 2008 Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues • Schedule 2008 Sustainability Community Breakfasts • Dialogue Report – Regional Economy

March • Draft Scenario/Agenda for June 2008 Sustainability Summits for the North East; North Shore; Burrard Peninsula; and South Fraser sectors

• Marketing/branding document re Metro Vancouver Sustainability Framework. • Dialogue Report – Waste Management • Draft Strategy for an integrated Metro Vancouver Public Communication and

Outreach / Engagement Strategy April • Sustainability Academies – Approve Draft Strategic Plan to establish a network

of combined visitor centres/public education facilities and applied research centres located at key Metro Vancouver facilities (including Business Plan)

• Draft BC Business Magazine supplement • Monthly progress report re communication and outreach activities • Dialogue Report - Gateway

May • Draft Framework and Strategy re Metro Vancouver Sustainability Summit (October 2008)

• Monthly progress report re communication and outreach activities • Dialogue Report – Regional Growth Strategy

June • Launch of Sustainability Summits for 4 sectors: North East; North Shore; Burrard Peninsula; and South Fraser

• BC Business Magazine supplement (published product) • Monthly progress report re communication and outreach activities

July • Monthly progress report re communication and outreach activities • Report on Sustainability Summits for the North East; North Shore; Burrard

Peninsula; and South Fraser sectors • Draft of Sustainability Plan

August No Meeting September • Monthly progress report re communication and outreach activities October • Launch of Metro Vancouver Sustainability Summit

• Monthly progress report re communication and outreach activities • Dialogue Report – Energy and Climate Change

November • Launch of First Sustainability Academy • Monthly progress report re communication and outreach activities • Report on Metro Vancouver Sustainability Summit – a collaborative vision for the

future • Dialogue Report – Land Use and Agriculture • Final approval of Sustainability Plan

December No Meeting

004590295

5.4


To: Sustainable Region Initiative Committee From: Heather Schoemaker, Manager, Corporate Relations John MacFarlane, Senior Program Manager, Corporate Relations Date: January 30, 2008 Subject: Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues:

Regional Economy – The world is watching Recommendation: That the Board forward the report dated January 30, 2008, titled “Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues: Regional Economy – The world is watching” to member municipalities, and other related agencies for their information and comment. 1. PURPOSE To provide information to the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee on the November 7th and December 6th, and 12th, 2007 Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues: Regional Economy – The world is watching as well as the original session held on September 25th, 2006 at the SFU Wosk Centre for Dialogue. 2. CONTEXT The Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues is a series of discussions intended to help decision makers shape the future of the region by presenting a range of views to challenge and stimulate fresh thought on a range of regional issues. The attached summary (Attachment 1) provides an overview of unique points raised in each regional dialogue. Detailed Summary Notes from each dialogue are available on the Metro Vancouver website. Attachment 2 provides a schedule and details on the 2008 Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues and Attachment 3 captures the media coverage. 3. KEY MESSSAGES Building on the Regional Economy dialogue hosted at the SFU Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue on September 25, 2006, the discussion was expanded to include three additional venues – South of the Fraser; Central/Northeast and the North Shore. The dialogues focused on Metro Vancouver’s position uniquely situated as Canada’s gateway to emerging markets. It explored how we will succeed in this new global economy while ensuring long-term regional prosperity, social well-being and environmental health? The dialogues featured areas of broad agreement, as well as areas of sharp disagreement.

004589542 Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues Regi

Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues: Regional Economy - The world is watching Sustainable Region Initiative Committee – February 15, 2008 Page 2 of 5 What follows is a synthesis of the discussion – details on the individual dialogues can be found in Attachment 1. Together the four dialogues focused on: The Regional Economy In a Global Economy Our regional economy is a partial expression of world-wide forces. We quickly feel the effects on actions and initiatives elsewhere in the world. When thinking of a regional economy we must recognize that we operate mainly in a global economy. We have impacts on the continental flow of goods to markets and vice versa. The beautiful surroundings of the region draw attention away from the fact that the region is basically resource-driven – that half of our economy at least in this region is resource dependent. As a region we are too complacent about the future of the regional economy driven by the satisfaction we experience from the current quality of life. The ‘funky’ ideas about a green economy may not meet the challenges of providing specialized health care or providing the educational services. How we pay the bills and continue to strive for a sustainable economy may prove a serious challenge in the future. There is a massive global market and an enormously fast growing market for advanced technologies in energy and environment. Here in B.C. for some reason, we seem to have developed an enormous pool of expertise in this area. One of the under-recognized resources we have here in B.C. is in fact our brain power. The Concept of the Region From an Economic Viewpoint Metro Vancouver is the 30th largest metropolitan region in North America, ranking with St. Louis, Missouri - and they are more proximate to consumer markets than we are. Several speakers suggested that we have neither the scale nor the location to be a market-dependent economy. It means we are a niche economy. The region needs to look at the little things we do very well and use our non-mobile factors such as resources. We can look at the environment we create for business, but there isn’t a single set of policies or a single set of industries that give us any particular advantage. Transportation & the Regional Economy The role of transportation in the economy was a recurring theme. The region is a transportation hub for the province and for the continent. This is enhanced by the cultural links that many regional citizens maintain. We have three major railways, and we are near the major highways and the U.S. border, our port is ice-free and has the deep-water draft that’s needed to handle the bigger and bigger ships. We also have a large local market: 30% of everything that lands here in containers is for us. Each container that comes through the region generates over $1,200 in local benefits in value-added goods and services and by 2020, there will be 5 million containers coming through. The port and transportation to and from it will continue to be driving factors in the local economy. There are corridors for future transportation potential that need to be protected, along with lands reserved for industry (particularly waterfront lands) much in the same way that key agricultural lands are currently reserved.


Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues: Regional Economy - The world is watching Sustainable Region Initiative Task Force – February 15, 2008

Page 3 of 5


Supply of Labour Currently there is a ‘hot’ job market in the province with a steadily growing demand for workers earning higher wages. But the labour supply is the unacknowledged “elephant in the room”. Our current approach to regional economic development is unsustainable because it does not acknowledge problems in the labour supply. There are two strategies for sourcing trained labour: train our own and immigration by trained workers. Neither of these strategies is currently working. The demographers say that the full impact will hit us about 2015 at which time it will present a crisis in the local economy when an additional estimated one million job vacancies will exist in the province. Globalization is resulting in the demographic bulge being felt all the way around the world. We’re now competing as never before with other Western industrialized countries. Canada has not been able to fulfil its immigration quotas for the last number of years. There is no longer a reservoir of people lined up waiting to get into Canada and we are competing with many other countries for the same pool of labour. The inability of immigrants to have professional and trade qualifications recognized discourages them from coming to Canada – we’ve all heard about cases of engineers and doctors driving taxis. Or in some cases they may be working in their field but unable to perform at capacity because of lack of professional standing. It was suggested that additional lower-profile issues also impact the regional labour supply: for example, the short supply of affordable housing for people living in the region is driving away some workers to other markets and creating barriers for the inflow of new workers. Natural Gas in a Sustainable Economy When the sustainability challenge is applied to energy, no single element of sustainability stands on its own. We need to ensure that innovation, enterprise and leadership are incorporated into the energy sector. Natural gas is seen as a premier fuel from an environmental perspective as it contains very low levels of most pollutants, relative to other fuels. In addition, it is very efficient in its production, transportation and use. When natural gas is used, very little fuel is wasted, from the point of production through to consumption. The combination of low pollutant levels in natural gas and high efficiency results in less impact than other fuels with respect to most environmental issues. However, natural gas is a fossil fuel and its use in vehicles and buildings contributes a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions in the region. A point of discussion from a climate change perspective was the opportunity to displace fossil fuel use by shifting to more renewable energy sources. Regional Economy and a Healthy Environment A strong link between a healthy environment and a healthy regional economy was drawn by a number of participants and some speakers feared that growth, expansion, increasing population necessarily implied a degradation of the environment. Sensitive lands being developed for industry, housing or transportation appears to some as competing claims on natural lands that some perceive as ‘unproductive’ or ‘vacant’ lands.

Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues: Regional Economy - The world is watching Sustainable Region Initiative Committee – February 15, 2008 Page 4 of 5


Economic Growth and Sustainability A number of speakers were concerned that the elements of sustainability were being considered separately in an economic context – that they were not being all considered as part of one large equation. The competition of activity in one pillar of sustainability against others gives the appearance of “unhealthy trade-offs” and the creation of imbalances: for example housing vs. industrial lands, transportation corridors vs. lands with natural values. Finding the way to balance competing demands for future generations as well as the present ones concerned many of the speakers. The Economic Climate Concern was expressed about the future of the regional economy that seems so tied to residential construction and not expanding its industrial or export assets. The regional economy is still closely tied to the resource sector and is subject to both continental and international market trends. Both the resource and tourism sectors are subject to the current rise in the strength of the Canadian dollar. A strong domestic market in construction, real estate, retail and consumer services is currently driving the local economy. Some speakers felt that small business may be carrying a larger burden of property taxation than is appropriate. Local governments could be more aware of how they could support small business simply by creating a more equitable taxation system. There was some polarization in the discussion between those who sought less regulation by governments and those who felt that more regulatory leadership in setting standards that protected the social and environmental aspects of the economy were needed. Fragmentation Some speakers felt that it is not clear that all the member municipalities (or other levels of government) are ready to work together toward a truly regional approach to the economy. Examples of differing policies on industry, transportation and land use planning from municipality to municipality and the lack of an overall regional economic strategy are perceived to work against long term coordination success. Developing a Regional Economic Strategy The lack of a regional economic strategy was raised as a possible impediment to increasing growth and prosperity. The concept of the region (from an economic viewpoint) might need to be re-framed over a larger geographical area running from Hope to Squamish if such a strategy was to be effective. There are so many small players in the region that it is difficult to propose simple strategies that would benefit whole sectors of the economy. There are so many little economic engines going in different directions, and in different places, that having a focused policy is really difficult to achieve. Who should have responsibility for economic development and sustainability? It is very difficult to get a consensus that would respect the needs and desires of each of the players. Parochialism was seen as being counter-productive but nevertheless suspicions that it is a

Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues: Regional Economy - The world is watching Sustainable Region Initiative Task Force – February 15, 2008

Page 5 of 5


current in the discussions surfaced when the regional aspects of the economy were being discussed. However the development of a memorandum of understanding has been signed between the municipalities of Surrey, Richmond, Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver for specific projects to build a regional economic development strategy from the ground up is a sign that there are new initiatives to develop a common vision. For most, this was a discussion that needed to continue, but in a more integrated fashion, bringing together the issues of transportation, the economy and the role of the region in its commitment to build a sustainable and livable region. Dialogues on this theme form part of the 2008 schedule – details can be found in Attachment 2. Attachments: 1. Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogue - Regional Economy: The world is watching 2. Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues - 2008 Schedule 3. Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogue - Media Clippings

Attachment 1

Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues

Regional Economy: The world is watching

September 25, 2006, Vancouver - Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue November 7, 2007 – South of the Fraser – Eaglequest Coyote Creek Golf Club, Surrey

December 6, 2007 – North Shore – Hollyburn Country Club, West Vancouver December 12, 2007 – Executive Plaza Hotel

Panel Members:

• David Baxter – Executive Director, Urban Futures Institute (Vancouver/Wosk only) • Jim Cox - Vice-President, Infrastructure Development, Vancouver Port Authority

(Vancouver/Wosk only) • Kevin Evans – CEO, Industry Training Authority (South of Fraser, North Shore &

Central Northeast only) • Peter Holt – Executive Director, Surrey Board of Trade (Vancouver/Wosk only) • Roslyn Kunin – President, Roslyn Kunin and Associates Inc (North Shore & Central

Northeast only) • Bernie Magnan – Chief Economist/Assistant Managing Director, Vancouver Board of

Trade (North Shore only) • Jan Marston - VP, Gas Supply and Transmission, Terasen Gas Inc. (South of Fraser

only) • Patrick McLaughlin, Director, Planning and Development, Vancouver Port Authority

(North Shore only) • Ruth Sol – President, Western Transportation Advisory Council (WESTAC)

(Vancouver/Wosk, North Shore, South of Fraser and Central Northeast) • Douglas Stout – VP, Marketing & Business Development, Terasen Gas Inc. (North

Shore & Central Northeast only) • Tom Winkler – Chief Financial Officer, Vancouver Port Authority (South of Fraser &

Central Northeast only) Moderators: Rafe Mair and Peter Holt Chairs: Chair Lois Jackson, Mayor Kurt Alberts, Mayor Richard Walton and Director Judy

Dueck. Participants:

• Vancouver: 180 • South of the Fraser: 61 • North Shore: 49 • Central/Northeast: #’s


Building on the regional economy dialogue hosted at the SFU Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue on June 26, 2006, the discussion was expanded to include three additional venues – South of the Fraser; Central/Northeast and the North Shore. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION BY REGION Vancouver The discussion generated considerable debate and discussion by the participants. Many speakers expressed the thought that our regional economy is a partial expression of world-wide forces. The region quickly feels the effects on actions and initiatives elsewhere in the world. When thinking of a regional economy we must recognize that we operate mainly in a global economy. The panelists put the regional situation in context as the 30th largest metropolitan region in North America, ranking with St. Louis, Missouri, and those locales are more proximate to consumer markets than is Metro Vancouver. We have neither the scale nor the location to be a market-dependent economy. It means the region is a niche economy and we have to look at the little things we do very well. We can look at the environment we create for business, but there isn’t a single set of policies or a single set of industries that give us any particular advantage. The beautiful surroundings of the region draw attention away from the fact that the region is basically resource-driven – that half of our economy at least in this region is resource dependent. Some participants felt that the affordability for people living in the region may begin to affect labour supply, negatively impact the ability of the economy to grow and thrive. There was some polarization in the discussion between those who sought less regulation by governments and those who felt that more regulatory leadership in setting standards that protected the social and environmental aspects of the economy were needed. A strong link between a healthy environment and a healthy regional economy was drawn by a number of participants. Some speakers feared that growth, expansion, increasing population necessarily implied a degradation of the environment. Climate change, and the role of business in helping to manage it, was proposed as a ‘driver’ for a regional economic strategy. There was much discussion on how to involve the business community and for them to demonstrate leadership in adopting new technologies and practices would be a positive way forward. In the dialogue that needs to continue on the regional economy we need continue to examine the economic consequences of the social, cultural and environmental aspects of sustainability. Transportation issues, as they impact the regional economy, were raised by a number of the participants. They suggested that there should be corridors for transportation potential that need to be protected, along with lands reserved for industry (particularly waterfront lands) much in the same way that key agricultural lands are currently reserved. There is a massive global market and an enormously fast growing market for advanced technologies in energy and environment. Here in B.C. for some reason, we seem to have developed an enormous pool of expertise in this area. One of the under-recognized resources we have here in B.C. is in fact our brain power. There are so many small players in the region that it is difficult to propose simple strategies that would benefit whole sectors of the economy. There are so many little economic engines going in different directions, and in different places, that having a focused policy is really difficult to achieve. It is very difficult to get a consensus on who should have responsibility for economic development and sustainability. The lack of a regional economic strategy was raised as a possible impediment to increasing growth and prosperity. The concept of the region (from an economic viewpoint) might need to be re-framed over a

Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues: Regional Economy - The world is watching Sustainable Region Initiative Committee – February 15, 2008 Page 8 of 5


larger geographical area running from Hope to Squamish if such a strategy was to be effective. South of Fraser The theme of ‘complacency’ tied most of the discussion together. Complacency about the apparent lack of concern about the future of the regional economy, about the sources of the needed labour supply, and about the lack of a cohesive strategy for the regional economy are examples that were cited by the speakers. Transportation again was a major topic of discussion in relation to the regional economy and all of the other themes that were previously discussed in other dialogues. Ideas related to a ‘regional view’ arose in questions and discussion throughout the dialogue. Suggestions of parochialism and the need to avoid it arose several times. Some speakers felt that it is not clear that all the member municipalities (or other levels of government) are ready to work together toward a truly regional approach to the economy. Examples of differing policies on industry, transportation and land use from municipality to municipality and the lack of an overall regional economic strategy work against long term success. The development of a memorandum of understanding has been signed between the municipalities of Surrey, Richmond, Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver for specific projects to build a regional economic development strategy from the ground up was put forward as a good sign that a unified view may soon emerge. Some speakers cited the “green economy” and proposed that the region become better known for achievements in this area. They stated that the region needs social consensus on the trade-offs that must be made – so we will need to engage everyone in the economic development dialogue – adding that if we’re really going to have sustainable economic development strategies, we have to be very thoughtful about how we engage the regional population in that exercise. North Shore The sentiments of the participants were similar to those in previous Dialogues on this theme but new emphasis on the relationship of the regional economy to the rest of the continent and across the globe. The geography of Vancouver makes it an obvious and ideal focal point for transportation, business and a high quality lifestyle. This advantage is already under threat from the expansion and widening of the Panama Canal. This will place the Port of Halifax with striking distance of Asia and Australia and becoming a threat to Vancouver as a gateway of choice into North America. The big concern though of many speakers was the perceived shortage of a trained and available workforce to fill new jobs and to fill large numbers of vacancies created over the next five years by retiring ‘baby boomers’ who will be leaving the workforce in record numbers. Training for creating skilled trades and technology workers was said to be currently inadequate. This is already a problem and over the next few years may actually become a threat to the regional economy. Further, the competitive advantage our region may have had from knowledge-based professionals working worldwide is under siege from new centres in foreign countries taking advantage of modern communications to do business worldwide. While British Columbia prospers from the exports of resource industries and the region from their handling and processing we should be transitioning to a new model that reflects current investments in African resources that will supplant our exports within twenty years. There was agreement that British Columbia workers are not as productive as they could/should be due to the lack of modern equipment and application of cutting-edge technologies. Woven throughout the discussion were references to the need to integrate transportation networks, affordable housing and the location of work locations that facilitated serving the future regional workforce. Densification


of industrial lands and new multi-use zonings that integrate retail, industrial, parking and perhaps residential uses may contribute to a more workable region that contributes to the economy rather impeding it. The municipal focus on the economy was seen by several speakers as being too narrowly focused and suggested that it fostered competition between neighbours rather than cooperation – or avoided making a contribution to providing industrial lands and abrogated the function to other municipalities. Central/Northeast Attendance here was reduced by comparison with other venues for this theme. Early in the dialogue speakers addressed the concept of addressing constraints early in any process in the theory that once they are eliminated any subsequent proposal will be that much stronger. The need for a motivated and skilled work force was a predominant theme throughout the discussion and emerged many times as an adjunct to all other themes of discussion. Another theme which emerged in several comments was the interplay of regulations on the economy with so many different governments imposing systems which were not always in synch and create ‘friction’ for business development. The decline of the forestry sector toward a low point in 2015 and the approaching decline of world demand for all natural resources by 2030 suggests that British Columbia (and Metro Vancouver) needs to diversify to meet upcoming challenges. Under the current conditions municipalities compete with each other and that is not a path to success and several speakers suggested that a more unified vision and more cooperative approach through an economic strategy would be more effective. The cost of housing, it was suggested, creates yet another barrier to relocating unemployed workforces in resource communities to Metro Vancouver. Their un-sellable houses, combined with very expensive replacement housing here, prevents them from internal migration and re-employment in the local workforce. Difficulties for skilled trades people in national domestic migration is another barrier preventing utilization of a mobile workforce. There were suggestions that a reduction in the number of municipalities would help to streamline regulations and the amount spent on local government.

Attachment 2

FUTURE OF THE REGION SUSTAINABILITY DIALOGUES 2008 SCHEDULE

Note: Dialogues are hosted from 11:30 to 2 pm (lunch will be served from 11:30-12:00) NORTH SHORE Hollyburn Country Club – 950 Crosscreek Road, West Vancouver

Dates Topic Thursday 17 January Waste Management

Thursday 14 February Role of the Region - Economy and Transportation

Thursday 27 March Regional Growth Strategy Thursday 18 September Energy and Climate Change

Thursday 2 October Land Use and Agriculture CENTRAL / NORTHEAST Inlet Theatre – 100 Newport Drive, Port Moody

Dates Topic Wednesday 23 January Waste Management

Wednesday 20 February Role of the Region - Economy and Transportation

Wednesday 16 April Regional Growth Strategy Wednesday 23 July Energy and Climate Change

Wednesday 3 December Land Use and Agriculture SOUTH OF THE FRASER Eaglequest Coyote Creek Golf Club – 7778 152nd Street, Surrey

Dates Topic Wednesday 30 January Waste Management

Wednesday 5 March Role of the Region - Economy and Transportation

Wednesday 23 April Regional Growth Strategy Tuesday 9 September Energy and Climate Change

Wednesday 26 November Land Use and Agriculture VANCOUVER SFU Wosk Centre for Dialogue – 580 West Hastings Street, Vancouver

Dates Topic Tuesday 26 February Waste Management Wednesday 19 March Role of the Region - Economy and

Transportation Thursday 1 May Regional Growth Strategy

Wednesday 16 July TBD Wednesday 19 November TBD

The Record (New Westminster)Input wanted on regional plansSaturday, January 5, 2008Page: 10Section: NewsByline: Theresa McManusSource: The Record

Royal City residents are being invited to participatein the review of Metro Vancouver's regional growthstrategy.

Members of Metro Vancouver (formerly the GreaterVancouver Regional District) adopted the existingLivable Region Strategic Plan in 1996.

The new regional growth strategy is designed toguide future growth and development in the region inthe next 24 years.

"I look forward to the city playing an active role,"said Coun. Jonathan Cote, who believes the plan willhighlight the issues of livability in the region.

The plan proposes five key goals to support thevision of a livable and sustainable Metro Vancouverto 2031.

One goal is accommodating growth in a sustainableand compact metropolitan structure, focusing onregional growth in centres and along transit corridorsand establishing defined areas for urban growth.

Another is offering diverse and affordable housingchoices by increasing housing supply and diversity,including the supply of housing for low- andmoderate-income households.

Also set as goals are: supporting and strengthening adiverse regional economy; protecting and enhancingthe region's natural assets; and creating a sustainabletransportation system.

The review of the regional growth strategy, whichwas launched in November 2007, begins with a roundof community dialogue about the directions for a newregional growth strategy.

The public is welcome to comment on the initialdocument - Choosing a Sustainable Future for MetroVancouver: Options for Metro Vancouver's GrowthStrategy - by Jan. 31.

Cote expressed concern that the existing plancontains "no teeth" to ensure municipalities locategrowth in the areas that had been identified in theplan.

"I totally believe we need to buy into the regionalplan," said Coun. Betty McIntosh. "I don't believe allmunicipalities have. That is one of its greatestweaknesses."

McIntosh said not all municipalities have compliedwith the plan's goal of locating new development inspecified areas.

"We have seen all types of agricultural land becomebig box in a neighbouring municipality."

Coun. Bill Harper said it's important to ensure thecity has a broad-based debate on the strategy and toensure citizens have input.

He noted that the city has invited TransLink andMetro Vancouver staff to attend a council meeting inJanuary to discuss the regional growth strategy.

"There is going to be continuing differences betweenthe provincial growth strategy and the regionalgrowth strategy. They like to gloss that over," he saidabout the Gateway program.

"The solutions to that are really critical. I am reallyglad you have invited them."

Bev Grieve, the city's manager of planning, said theregional officials will attend council's Jan. 21meeting.

That follows a Jan. 15 meeting the region hasscheduled for New Westminster and Burnabyresidents.

"That would be an opportunity for residents to learnmore about the plan, ask questions and share input,"she said.

A meeting for Burnaby/New Westminster is plannedfor Tuesday, Jan. 15 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the MetroVancouver head office, 4330 Kingsway in Burnaby.

Grieve said the Metro Vancouver website includesthe livable region strategic plan, a backgrounddocument and a comment sheet. For moreinformation visit www.gvrd.bc.ca/growth/strategy-review.htm.

FPinfomart.ca Page 1

Vancouver SunConstruction booming, workers in demandSaturday, January 26, 2008Page: F3Section: WorkingByline: Brian MortonSource: Vancouver SunIllustrations: Colour Photo: Ian Lindsay, Vancouver Sun) / Vince Roberge works on a residential renovation project in North Vancouver.

In Vancouver's busy construction sector, contractorscontinue to cry out for workers -- and that bodes wellfor people like Vince Roberge.

"It was pretty obvious that it was booming out here,"said Roberge, an apprentice carpenter who moved toB.C. from Montreal about a year ago and now worksfor Coquitlam-based Solution Renovations. "But Ididn't move to B.C. just for the work. I wanted to seesomething different.

"I arrived in Vancouver and started looking for a job.It took a couple of weeks. That was pretty fast. I'venever seen any place so busy. There's a lack oftradesmen, for sure.

"The jobs are good and it [Solution Renovations] is abusy company. And the people I work with aregood."

According to industry officials, B.C.'s constructionboom will continue through 2008, although it willslow slightly.

Greater Vancouver Home Builders' Association chiefexecutive officer Peter Simpson said in an interviewthat there were 20,736 housing starts in MetroVancouver in 2007, which translated into about58,000 full-time jobs.

"2007 exceeded our expectations," said Simpson."For 2008 we expect some moderate easing, but forthe last four years, we've averaged 19,000 [housingstarts] each year."

For B.C., he said, there were 34,364 housing starts in2007, a 5.5-per-cent increase over 2006.

"The shortage [of workers] increases the cost oflabour and puts pressure on [home] prices, althoughperhaps not as dramatically as in recent years," addedSimpson.

Statistics Canada reported this month that the B.C.unemployment rate held steady near a 30-year low of4.2 per cent in December despite a loss of 7,000 jobs.

While B.C. employment fell by 7,000 to 2,291,000 inDecember, the province still gained about 73,000new jobs last year for an employment growth rate of3.3 per cent.

Employment was particularly strong in the B.C.goods-producing sector, but it also showed solidgains in other sectors, including construction.

The B.C. construction industry employed an all-time

record of 209,700 people in December, up about 11per cent over the year.

The Conference Board of Canada has also forecastthe B.C. jobless rate will remain near four per centfor the next five years.

Warren Jestin, Scotiabank's chief economist, saidrecently that B.C.'s construction boom and growth inthe service sector are the engines driving theprovince's economy, and that he doesn't foresee aconstruction bust for the next five to 10 years.

Simpson said there are several ways the industry istackling the worker shortage, including increasedtraining in colleges and institutions, hiring temporaryforeign workers (a controversial policy that organizedlabour maintains is a tool by employers to keep ahandle on wages) and providing incentives for matureworkers to continue working. Between now and 2011the construction industry expects to lose 20,000people to retirement.

Simpson and individual contractors say there's ashortage of trades across the board in the constructionsector, but that several categories includingcarpenters, electricians, drywallers, sitesuperintendents and project managers are inparticularly short supply.

"Supervisors, the people who run the projects, we'reshort of," said Simpson. "There are not as many ofthem as the trades, but they're coveted. I get callsevery two weeks from someone asking if I know of agood project manager. I always say no, becauseeverybody's employed in those positions.

"Carpenters are also in huge demand."

Simpson said contractors are managing to convinceolder workers to stay longer. "We're happy to see anend to mandatory retirement. Many wanted to hangup their tool belts, but the industry wants them todelay their retirement. We also need them to passalong their expertise [to younger workers]."

Simpson also said that despite the shortage a lot ofworkers who came to B.C. from Saskatchewan inrecent years are heading back because of thatprovince's economic boom. "It was a reverse drainthat we didn't expect."

Keith Sashaw, president of the Vancouver RegionalConstruction Association, agreed in an interview thatthere's a shortage of workers across the board, butparticularly carpenters and job site managers.


"We see a lot of activity in the commercial sector [in2008]," said Sashaw. "The vacancy rates in officebuildings are three per cent, which means the timesare right for construction in those sectors.

"The events of the last two weeks make things a littlecloudier, but the B.C. economy is still very strong."

According to a recent Vancouver RegionalConstruction Association report, 100 per cent ofmechanical and electrical contracting firms plan tohire foremen or assistant superintendents in thecoming year.

The report noted that in the previous year people inthose jobs saw their wages rise 10 per cent, whichcan range from $50,000 per year on jobs under $10million to almost $90,000 on a project worth morethan $40 million. General constructionsuperintendents, who also saw their wages rise 10 percent, make between $70,000 and $140,000 per year.

The survey also found that besides electrical andmechanical foremen, assistant superintendents andforemen in general contracting are also in highdemand, with 90 per cent of firms reporting that theyplan to recruit for those jobs.

Other highly desired individuals identified by thesurvey were project managers and projectcoordinators in general contracting. Some 80 per centof firms surveyed said they planned to recruit forthose jobs in the coming year.

Gary Friend, owner of South Ridge Developments inSurrey, said in an interview that he's always lookingfor skilled trades to build homes for his company.

"I haven't seen it [the labour shortage] easing yet, butI expect it to because there are more people beingtrained."

Friend, whose company is now involved in twomulti-family projects in Maple Ridge, said there'sstrong demand for carpenters, front-line supervisors,drywallers and roofers.

Carpenters will always be in demand, he said,because they create the structure and the other tradescan't go to work until the structure is ready."

Rob Grimm, one of the principles ofRichmond-based Portrait Homes, said in an interviewthat it was a little easier in 2007 to get skilled trades,although "the industry is so busy now that anybodywho's qualified is working."

[email protected]


Metrovalley Newspaper GroupConstruction jobs post record high in '07Sunday, January 27, 2008Page: 0016Section: Langley Times - Business

Langley Township had another record breakingconstruction year in 2007.

Total construction values for the year were thehighest ever, $387.3 million, compared to theprevious record year of 2006 -- $383.04 million.

While residential construction fell off significantly inthe last four months of the year, over the final quarterof 2006, commercial construction picked up fromSeptember to December.

In December, the Township's building departmentissued permits for commercial starts with anestimated value of $12.65 million, compared to just$345,000 in the final month of 2006.

And the full-year value of commercial starts for2007, at $60,685,016, exceeded commercial starts ayear earlier by more than $14 million.

Industrial starts for 2007 were down at $61 million,from $74.2 million in 2006. But the industrial permitvalues in the last two months of 2007 were strong -- $10.4 million compared to just under $4.4 million inNovember and December of 2006.

The Township issued permits in December forresidential construction valued at just under $5.7million, down from December, 2006 residentialvalues of $10. 4 million.

Residential construction for the full year 2007 was$218.7 million, down from $232.2 million in 2006.

Both agricultural construction and institutionalconstruction was up in 2007 over 2006: $13.3 million- $4.9 million; and $33.5 million -- $25.2 million,respectively.

Langley Township's Willoughby Multi-PlexRecreation Centre gave a huge boost to thecommercial permit values in December. A permit forconstruction valued at $10 million was issued for thenew complex at 7888 200 St.

Other big commercial projects in December includedTRK Helicopters' $1.45 million hangar at LangleyAirport and Thunderbird Entertainment Ltd's $1million permit for Montana's Restaurant, at 2009091A Ave.

Major industrial projects for which permits wereissued in December were two warehouses by KeryVentures Ltd.'s at 4848 275 St., one valued at $3.11million, the other at $2.6 million.

The record building year in Langley Township wasreflected throughout the Lower Mainland, and

construction employment in 2007 reached a recordhigh in the Lower Mainland-Southwest region.

According to the Vancouver Regional ConstructionAssociation's analysis of the Jan. 11 Labour ForceSurvey from Statistics Canada, an average of 113,000persons were working in the industry per month in2007, up 11.7 per cent from 2006.

Average annual employment levels for the year alsoset record highs in Metro Vancouver and Abbotsford.In December, 2007, 118,800 persons were working inthe industry in the region.

"Regional construction employment was strong in2007, demonstrating the strength of the industry andB.C.'s economy," said Keith Sashaw, VRCApresident.

"Given the continued demand for skilled labour andthe well-paying nature of construction jobs, weanticipate continued growth throughout 2008."

The gains in construction employment in the regionin December 2007 contrasted with a decline inCanada's overall employment reported by StatisticsCanada.

Construction highlights from the December 2007Labour Force Survey include:

r In the Lower Mainland-Southwest region,year-over-year construction employment rose 9.5 percent 10,300 persons); employment increased 11.7 percent (11,800 persons) in the 12 months of 2007compared to 2006; employment rose 3.7 per cent(4,200 persons) in December 2007 over November2007.

r Vancouver Census Metropolitan Area's (CMA's)year-over-year employment increased 9.2 per cent(8,400 persons); year-to-date constructionemployment was up 9.1 per cent (7,800 persons);employment rose 4.3 per cent (4,100 persons) inDecember 2007 over November 2007.

r Abbotsford CMA's year-over-year constructionemployment increased 9.8 per cent (800 persons);year-to-date employment increased 2.6 per cent (200persons); employment increased 7.1 per cent (600)persons) in December 2007 over November 2007.

r In B.C., construction employment in the 12 monthsof 2007 increased 13.5 per cent (24,900 persons)compared to the same period last year; year-over-yearemployment increased 9.8 per cent (17,600 persons);employment in December 2007 rose 1.3 per cent(2,700 persons) compared to November 2007.


r Canada's year-over-year construction employmentincreased 6.9 per cent (73, 600 persons); year-to-dateemployment was up 6.0 per cent (63,800 persons);employment in December 2007 rose 1.1 per cent(12,900 persons) compared to November 2007.

Copyright 2008 Langley Times


North Shore NewsEconomist predicts another strong yearWednesday, January 30, 2008Page: 16Section: HomeSource: North Shore News

The Lower Mainland's vibrant housing industry willenjoy another strong year in 2008, economist HelmutPastrick says.

A recent press release noted that the chief economistof Credit Union Central of B.C. told attendees at thethird annual Greater Vancouver Home Builders'Association housing outlook seminar, Trends 2008,there is little negative sentiment on the horizon forthe industry and certainly "no bubble" in the market.

Pastrick said he sees the Lower Mainland evolving toa normal, balanced market. While there may be somemodest easing over the next two years, marketfundamentals remain strong, stated the release.Interest rates remain favourable and there will be nosignificant increases or decreases next year and onlymodest increases in longer-term rates thereafter, saidPastrick.

Mortgage rates could decrease by 75 basis points bySeptember, and they will remain in the normal toneutral range for the immediate future with perhapssome upwards momentum over the next half-decade.

Pastrick said there is still considerable upwardmomentum in housing prices. Continuing strongpersonal income growth, high employment and netin-migration will continue to drive housing sales, hesaid.

He said the U.S. housing industry faces bleak times,the result of aggressive lending practices not seen inCanada, and won't show any improvement until 2009.But other areas of the U.S. economy are starting toimprove and there will be no full-blown recession inthe United States, he said.

On the selling front, Pastrick predicts some easing inactivity, especially in the Fraser Valley where listingsare starting to rise. This is not bad news for theindustry, however, as it will create a balanced market,and demand, especially in the apartment sector, willremain high.

Looking beyond 2008, Pastrick said sales will remainat relatively high levels and only slowly slide overthe next five years with price increases remaining inthe high single digits.


Coquitlam NowProjected growth set at 150,000Wednesday, January 30, 2008Page: 3Section: NewsByline: Jennifer SaltmanSource: Coquitlam NOWIllustrations: Photo: Paul vanPeenen, NOW / THE BEAT GOES ON: A community drum circle led by Lyle Povah at the Old Mill Boathouse at Rocky Point Park inPort Moody Tuesday evening drew participants of all ages. With drums provided, participants were encouraged to reconnect with their innate sense of rhythm.

Photo: Paul vanPeenen/NOW / THE BEAT GOES ON: A community drum circle led by Lyle Povah at the Old Mill Boathouse at Rocky Point Park in Port MoodyTuesday evening drew participants of all ages. With drums provided, participants were encouraged to reconnect with their innate sense of rhythm.

Photo: Paul vanPeenen, Coquitlam NOW / THE BEAT GOES ON: A community drum circle led by Lyle Povah at the Old Mill Boathouse at Rocky Point Park inPort Moody Tuesday evening drew participants of all ages. With drums provided, participants were encouraged to reconnect with their innate sense of rhythm.

Metro Vancouver's updated plan for a growing regionwas presented to Coquitlam's committee of the wholeMonday night.

The Livable Region Strategic Plan, a regionalgrowth-management study, was first implemented in1996 and is being revised to help address expectedgrowth from 2.2 million to about 3 million in the next25 years.

Hugh Kellas, manager of policy and planning withMetro Vancouver, said in a presentation to councilmembers that the projected growth for the northeastsector during that same period is 150,000.

The vision is a livable and sustainable region, he said,and five proposed goals include: a sustainable,compact metropolitan structure; diverse andaffordable housing choices; a strong, diverse regionaleconomy; protection and enhancement of the region'snatural assets; and a sustainable regionaltransportation system.

Coun. Mae Reid suggested using incentives, such asrebates for low-emission vehicles and affordabletransportation, to encourage the public to helpachieve some of the goals.

"This is not a plan that's etched in stone," Kellas said.

Issues outlined during the presentation included:growth, improving housing diversity andaffordability, maintaining a competitive economy,protecting the region's natural assets, reducing energyuse and adapting to climate change, sustainabletransportation, the bigger picture and governance andfinance.

Coun. Fin Donnelly said he'd like to see twoadditions to the plan's list of issues: food security andreducing waste.

A report on how the region has fared since 1996would also be welcome, Donnelly said.

"I think that would be helpful in driving us forward inthe next 22 years," he said.

Couns. Richard Stewart and Doug Macdonellstressed local job growth as a priority.

"There's nothing aimed at making job creation key,"

Stewart said.

A draft regional growth management study will becompleted in February and presented to MetroVancouver's land use and transportation committee inMarch. Further consultations with local governmentsand the public are expected in the spring andsummer.

The committee voted to receive the staff report andforward its comments to Metro Vancouver.


Vancouver SunMetro's economy will grow by 3.3 per cent; Higher housing prices willdepress starts, conference board saysTuesday, January 22, 2008Page: C4Section: BusinessbcSource: Vancouver Sun; with a file from Canwest News Service

The Metro Vancouver economy will grow by a solid3.3 per cent this year -- despite higher housing pricesthat will depress housing starts, the ConferenceBoard of Canada reported Monday.

The board's outlook of Canada's 27 largestmetropolitan areas puts the city's growth rate in a tiefor third place with Abbotsford, compared with 10thplace last year when the Vancouver economy grewby three per cent.

"Increased prices will hurt housing demand, causingstarts to drop by 10.1 per cent in 2008 [to 17,300],"the report said. "But non-residential activity will onceagain be the saviour of the construction sector, with aflurry of projects underway on both the Olympic andnon-Olympic fronts."

The report said consumer spending will remainstrong in 2008, with Vancouver retail sales growingby 6.7 per cent this year to $27.6 billion.

"Both employment and personal income are set torecord healthy increases," the conference board said."This will keep domestic demand strong."

The report said the strong Canadian dollar hasdampened Metro Vancouver manufacturingshipments while the cooling housing market willlower growth in the finance, insurance and real estatesector.

Western Canada had the top five spots in this year'sgrowth forecast list -- with Calgary (4.2 per cent),Edmonton (four per cent), Winnipeg (3.4 per cent),Vancouver (3.3 per cent) and Abbotsford (3.3 percent) leading the way.

The conference board said strong energy demand,furious construction activity and robust consumerspending growth will continue to drive Calgary'soutlook.

It said Edmonton is high on the list for many of thesame reasons as Calgary, while a strong job market inWinnipeg is helping attract more immigrants.

Toronto placed seventh on the list, with a growthforecast of 2.8 per cent.

"Although the rise in the Canadian dollar haswreaked havoc on Toronto's manufacturing sector,resilient consumer spending has helped the servicessector pick up some of the slack," the board said.

Victoria is ninth on the list and Kitchener, Ont., is10th, both with expected growth rates of 2.7 per cent

this year. On the periphery of the top 10 areOttawa-Gatineau at 11th and Saskatoon at 12th.


Item 5.5

004591319

Committee Meeting Date: February 15, 2008

To: Sustainable Region Initiative Committee From: Paulette Vetleson, Corporate Secretary, Corporate Secretary’s Department Date: February 5, 2008 Subject: 2008 Sustainable Region Initiative Committee Regular Meeting Dates Staff Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee establish the day, hour and place for its 2008 regular meetings outlined in the report dated February 5, 2008 titled 2008 Sustainable Region Initiative Committee Regular Meeting Dates. The Procedure Bylaw requires the committees to decide from time to time by resolution the day, hour and place its regular meetings will be held. For 2008 the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee meetings are as follows: Friday, February 15 9:00 a.m. Friday, March 14 9:00 a.m. Friday, April 11 9:00 a.m. Friday, May 16 9:00 a.m. Friday, June 13 9:00 a.m. Friday, July 11 9:00 a.m. Friday, September 12 9:00 a.m. Friday, October 17 9:00 a.m. Friday, November 14 9:00 a.m.

Meetings will be held in the 2nd floor boardroom, 4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia unless otherwise specified on the Metro Vancouver public notice board, Metro Vancouver website, and the respective agenda. Meetings do not fall in a set week of the month because statutory holidays, conferences for elected officials, FCM and MFA annual meetings, and spring break are considered in scheduling.

Item 5.6

004584799


To: Sustainable Region Initiative Committee From: Delia Laglagaron, Deputy Commissioner/Chief Administrative Officer Date: February 1, 2008 Subject: Manager’s Report Recommendation: That the Sustainable Region Initiative Committee receive for information the report dated February 1, 2008, titled “Manager’s Report.” This report provides a synopsis of actions the Committee requested from staff in 2007. Meeting Date

Action Requested Outcome

070216 Bring forward for consideration by the Board, a proposal for the GVRD to host, in cooperation with ICLEI, the 2nd International Greening Events Symposium, and to identify resource requirements and possible sponsors.

ICLEI no longer wishes to pursue this proposal, so no further action required.

070216 Write letter to Minister Chong requesting options for provincial funding for GVEC

GVEC ceased activity as outlined in the July 13th report to the Committee, therefore no further action required.

070518 Community Energy Projects - Provide clarification on community energy projects

See detailed update below.

070615 Sustainable Procurement Process – forward report to Municipalities

Completed July 17.

070713 Strategic Plan – proceed with Board workshop to discuss Strategic Framework

Board workshop held September 19th. Update to Framework provided Feb 15,

Committee meeting. 071019 Sustainability Framework – hold Board

workshop in January to discuss Program and Priorities and Framework

Board Workshop scheduled for January 25th but meeting terminated prior to workshop discussion. Will be carried forward to future meeting to be scheduled.

071019 Sasamat Fire Dept - investigate historical circumstances and advantages/disadvantages of returning function back to Belcarra and Anmore.

Pending – report scheduled for March Committee meeting.

Managers Report Sustainable Region Initiative Committee February 15, 2008 Page 2 of 2

Anmore Renewable Energy Foundation Update

The following is an update on the Anmore Renewable Energy Foundation (AREF) project as presented at the May 18, 2007 Sustainable Region Initiative Committee and the June 12, 2007 Environment Committee. The AREF was initiated in 2005 with a mandate to explore renewable energy opportunities to benefit the Village of Anmore. The foundation is currently pursuing two projects. The two projects include a demonstration centre for various renewable energy technologies and a hydropower generation facility. For the demonstration centre, the conceptual design has been commissioned and research has been done on the extent of the potential micro-hydro and wind resources at the proposed site. A 3 KiloWatt solar array has been designed and is being constructed as a permanent structure adjacent to the Village Hall. The hydropower generation facility will be located on the 3 km tunnel that transfers water from the Coquitlam Lake to Buntzen Lake. The facility will generate 3.8 MegaWatt of electricity. A preliminary design and a feasibility study have been completed. AREF intends to pursue this project under the terms of the upcoming Standard Offer Call for Power under 10 MegaWatt.

notice to the gvrd sustainable region initiative committee · notice to the gvrd sustainable region...

Documents