DAN PROULX
VERNON – No day is quite the same as the other as the Greater Vernon Chamber responds to matters impacting our members and community, while also planning events and keeping our members informed.
Here’s just a sample of what’s been happening over the last few weeks.
In April, we wrote to Premier David Eby expressing disappointment with the Legislature approving the final report of the BC Electoral Boundaries Commission. Among the changes is moving the District of Coldstream from an electoral district with the City of Vernon and Areas B and C of the Regional District of North Okanagan to an electoral district with the District of Lake Country and part of the City of Kelowna. Coldstream shares services, as well as an economy, with the rest of Greater Vernon and this shift in boundaries makes no sense. There also wasn’t an opportunity for the community to express concern about the change before Legislature approval.
The Chamber also made a presentation to a consultant that is reviewing rental fees for City of Vernon facilities such as arenas. It was an opportunity to raise concerns about the city’s booking process, especially when it comes to local groups, and how special events support economic development.
And our advocacy committee has been busy looking at the impact of increased minimum wage on private and non-profit employers, as well as what suggestions could be made to the provincial government as it drafts its 2024 budget.
In terms of events, the Chamber’s third Community Expo April 12 was extremely successful, with the day-long event featuring 93 vendors and attracting more than 2,500 people. Expo, which was presented by Lake City Casino and World Health & Fitness, was a great opportunity for businesses and non-profits to promote their products, services and programs.
On May 12, the Chamber held its annual Day of Golf presented by the Okanagan Indian Band Group of Companies, and it was a chance for attendees to support the Chamber, have fun and create team spirit. The tournament was held at the Vernon Golf & Country Club.
Our Business After 5 networking events occur on the third Tuesday of every month and they have been drawing about 100 people, while a governance training workshop for non-profit boards is being held in early June.
The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce has more than 600 business and non-profit members and it has been the leading voice of business in the North Okanagan since 1897. For more information on the benefits of Chamber membership, go to https://www.vernonchamber.ca/
Dan Proulx is the general manager of the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce.