NANAIMO – For some, this will be the busiest month of the year — especially those in the hospitality and retail trades. For others, this will be your SLOOOOW month and you just hope to make it through until things start winding up again in the New Year. But, since we’ve all made it through to the end, I thought a bit of a recap was in order.
With two elections in less than 12 months, we’ve had quite a few changes in the faces that represent us in government. We have new leadership in Ottawa whose impact should start to be felt soon. Let’s hope it’s as positive as promised. We’ve had a year to see where the changes at city hall have us heading. I’m not sure that anybody is certain what direction that is but let’s stay positive! Anybody who follows the Chamber and/or city hall, knows that we’ve spoken out for clarification and certainty and hope that is forthcoming in the New Year.
As far as big moves in the local economy, we await word of new plans or projections on a Conference Centre Hotel. Additionally, we’re anxious to hear some good news on Island Ferry’s goal of delivering downtown to downtown foot passenger service to Vancouver.
Tourism seemed to flourish with BC Ferries passenger rates up solidly, airport traffic steadily on the increase, hotel room occupancy up and local campgrounds full. Employment numbers are satisfactory in spite of the downturn in the resource sector and most retailers and restaurants smiling, even if just a little. Our Vital Signs report came out in the fall and clearly indicated that, in some areas, we’ve got some work to do especially in education and poverty reduction.
The face of our business community is changing slightly as investors from China discover all the advantages that Nanaimo offers to business owners. As they move here to contribute to our economy, we need to work together to help them integrate to our business and social culture. The Chamber has been active all year in trying to make this work well for all parties.
Soon, we’ll also be welcoming families fleeing trouble in their homeland and looking for a new start. They will make their way eventually into our workforce and into new businesses. We must make sure Nanaimo is a safe and welcoming environment for all people to call home. Let’s keep that thought in mind as we celebrate peace and goodwill during the coming holiday season. Merry Christmas from the Chamber.
– Kim Smythe is CEO of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached at ceo@nanaimochamber.bc.ca.