– Dianne Hawkins the CEO of the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce. Reach her at dhawkins@comoxvalleychamber.com or 250-334-3234. www.comoxvalleychamber.com.
COMOX VALLEY – Advocacy is an integral part of the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce’s mission. We champion best practices in business, economic development, and governance and advocate for our members.
The Chamber holds a seat on the Homelessness Coalition, examines issues that businesses and residents are facing such as the recent boil water advisory, and is working with BC Chamber and Canadian Chamber to review the new mortgage qualifications released by the federal finance minister.
Recently the Chamber met with downtown Courtenay business owners during the MP Walk with Gord Johns. Adding to that discussion the local Chamber CEO Dianne Hawkins is meeting with other businesses in areas of the Comox Valley to gain a greater understanding of location specific issues and challenges. Look for an ‘Add Your Voice’ event near you.
Some of the issues heard from local businesses are: Homelessness, vagrancy, lack of parking, accessibility, and threat of flooding. On the upside revitalization is a positive change in the downtown Courtenay core with new businesses opening and the Revitalization Project being approved by City Council to move forward.
Many sectors are affected by the boil water advisory. Past Chair, Andrew Gower wrote an article outlining the requirements of the boil water advisory, why the community has seen more issued, and the impact on Comox Valley businesses and citizens.
The Chamber is invested in social issues in the Comox Valley and advocates for local business. If your Comox Valley business wishes to host an Add Your Voice event, please contact the Chamber.
• • •
Nominations for the Chamber’s Annual Community Awards are now open. Nominate your favorite business, organization, or person in 13 different categories. The Annual Awards celebrates the best and brightest in the Comox Valley on January 28, 2017. Visit the Chamber Website for all the details.
• • •
The Chamber wishes to acknowledge our long-term members: The Anco Inn (31 years), Ives Burger Law (27 years), The Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa (21 years); and First Insurance Agencies (21 years). Congratulations to these long-standing businesses and organizations in the Comox Valley. #ChamberStrong
• • •
Welcome new members: Rocky Mountain Chocolate, PV Management Services Ltd., 4 Pillars, Mid Isle Bookkeeping Services and Hot House Marketing.
Serving 500 member businesses representing over 9000 employees; the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce is a fantastic resource for business. Become a Comox Valley Chamber Member today!
