BETTER FOR BUSINESS • BETTER FOR LIFE
Transcription
BETTER FOR BUSINESS • BETTER FOR LIFE
CHILLIWACK BETTER FOR BUSINESS • BETTER FOR LIFE COMMUNITY PROFILE Attracting and Facilitating Economic Growth This Community Profile has been produced by the Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation (CEPCO), the organization responsible for the City of Chilliwack’s economic growth. CEPCO’s primary role includes: • Assisting businesses with expansion and relocation • Marketing Chilliwack as an appealing destination for business and investment • Working to maintain and create local employment With a mission to strengthen Chilliwack’s economy, the Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation (CEPCO) helps both new and existing business grow and prosper. Contact CEPCO to learn more. FOR BUSINESS EXPANSION, RELOCATION OR SUPPORT PROGRAMS, CONTACT: 1.800.561.8803 • 604.792.7839 info@chilliwackpartners.com W: chilliwackeconomicpartners.com FOR BUILDING APPROVALS, LICENSES AND PERMITS, CONTACT: 604.792.9311 info@chilliwack.com W: chilliwack.com T: T: E: E: TABLE OF CONTENTS THIS DOCUMENT IS HYPERLINKED FOR EASY NAVIGATION. OVERVIEW .............................................. .......................................... • LOCATION . . ............................................. • CLIMATE ................................................. • QUALITY OF LIFE ...................................... • ADVANTAGES 3 4 5 6 7 DEMOGRAPHICS .................................... 8 • POPULATION. . .......................................... 9 • HOUSEHOLDS .. ........................................ 10 • LANGUAGE & ETHNICITY .......................... 11 • RELIGION . . ............................................. 12 AMENITIES ............................................ 13 • EDUCATION . . .......................................... 14 • HEALTHCARE .. ......................................... 15 • SAFETY & SECURITY ................................. 16 • SPORTS & RECREATION ............................ 17 • LEISURE & CULTURE ................................. 18 • ATTRACTIONS ......................................... 19 INFRASTRUCTURE ................................ 20 • TRANSPORTATION . . ................................. 21 • UTILITIES ............................................... 22 • TELECOMMUNICATIONS . . ......................... 23 • MEDIA . . ................................................. 24 ECONOMICS .......................................... 30 • LIVING COSTS . . ....................................... 31 • BUSINESS COSTS ..................................... 32 • BUSINESS LICENCES ................................. 33 • INCOME & INSURANCE ............................ 34 • DEVELOPMENT COSTS .............................. 35 • TAXATION .............................................. 36 DEVELOPMENT ..................................... 37 • HIGHLIGHTS . . ......................................... 38 • INDUSTRIAL ........................................... 39 • COMMERCIAL ......................................... 40 • INSTITUTIONAL ...................................... 41 • RESIDENTIAL .......................................... 42 • DOWNTOWN .......................................... 43 • FUTURE GROWTH .................................... 44 CONTACTS ............................................. 45 • CHILLIWACK ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT . . ... 46 • GOVERNMENTS . . ..................................... 47 • TRADE & INVESTMENT CANADA ................ 48 • IMMIGRATION........................................ 49 • RESOURCES ............................................ 50 LABOUR & INDUSTRY .......................... 25 • KEY SECTORS .......................................... 26 • EMPLOYERS . . .......................................... 27 • LABOUR FORCE ....................................... 28 • EMPLOYMENT ........................................ 29 COPYRIGHT 2014, Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation 2 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY ADVANTAGES OVERVIEW | | ECONOMICS | DEVELOPMENT LOCATION | CLIMATE | | CONTACTS QUALITY OF LIFE With the strongest growth rate in the area, Chilliwack demonstrates significant strategic advantages. 3 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY ADVANTAGES | | ECONOMICS | DEVELOPMENT LOCATION | CLIMATE | | CONTACTS QUALITY OF LIFE Chilliwack provides multiple advantages, from a talented workforce to low overheads and greater profits. OVERVIEW ADVANTAGES Chilliwack is one of the best places in the world to live, work, and play. A superb quality of life, combined with a strong economy, a low cost of living, and proximity to a multitude of amenities, make Chilliwack a destination of interest for prospective residents, businesses and investors. QUALITY OF LIFE: With all the amenities of a major urban centre, combined with gorgeous scenery, a more relaxed lifestyle and burgeoning business and employment opportunities, Chilliwack offers an unparalleled quality of life. TOP RANKINGS: Chilliwack is ranked tops for commercial development in the Lower Mainland. According to NAIOP’s 2014 Municipal Report Card, Chilliwack is one of the most affordable and most expedient locations to build when it comes to cutting through the red tape. And it is the only city to appear at, or near, the top of all rankings. LOW COSTS: Chilliwack enjoys significantly lower costs of living and doing business than Vancouver and other major centres along the West Coast of North America. In addition to federal and provincial tax cuts and incentives, Chilliwack has the lowest tax burden of all other Lower Mainland communities. As well as no municipal tax on fuel, Chilliwack has the lowest mill rates, one of the lowest municipal fees, and one of the lowest commercial to residential taxes in the region. STREAMLINED APPROVALS: Ranked #1 in timing, according to NAIOP’s 2014 Municipal Report Card, Chilliwack’s municipal services continue to remain the leader in fast, streamlined approvals. SKILLED LABOUR: Home to Canada Education Park and the University of the Fraser Valley, among other educational institutions, Chilliwack provides an ample pool of skilled and educated labour. ACCESS TO MARKETS: Located along the TransCanada Highway, near four USA border crossings as well as national and international rail stations, Chilliwack provides easy access to a local market of about 2.8 million people, as well as easy access to Pacific Rim ports and USA customers and suppliers. STRONG GROWTH: Chilliwack has enjoyed a population growth of nearly 13% over the last census period, which is significantly stronger than neighbouring communities. This growth can also be seen in major developments in the area, adding an average of $121 million to the local economy each year. (2014 NAIOP Municipal Report Card). “Top BC Investment Town” “Rated tops. Lowest tax burden. Best timing.” — 2013 REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT NETWORK LTD. — NAIOP 2014 MUNICIPAL REPORT CARD 4 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY ADVANTAGES | | ECONOMICS | DEVELOPMENT LOCATION | CLIMATE | | CONTACTS QUALITY OF LIFE Located in Western Canada, Chilliwack is the gateway to North American and Asian markets. OVERVIEW LOCATION Chilliwack is located in the Lower Mainland area of the Pacific Coast of Canada in south west British Columbia (BC). This area includes Metro Vancouver (population: 2.5 million) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (population: 280,000). Chilliwack is about 100 kms (60 miles) from the city of Vancouver. It is bordered by the city of Abbotsford to the west, the community of Agassiz next to the Fraser River to the north, the community of Popkum to the east, and the United States to the south. The City of Chilliwack is distinct from Greater Chilliwack or the Chilliwack Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) which includes the district of Kent, Harrison Hot Springs, several Indian Reserves and Fraser Valley East, which includes Cultus Lake and Chilliwack Lake. DISTANCE AND TRAVEL TIME FROM CHILLIWACK DESTINATION HOURS KM MILES US Border (at Sumas) 0.5 34 21 Abbotsford Airport 0.5 34 21 Seattle 2.3 214 133 Kelowna 3.3 286 178 Vancouver 1.1 108 60 Surrey 0.75 78 48 Located along the TransCanada Highway near four US border crossings, Chilliwack provides easy access to markets and supplies. CLICK TO VIEW CHILLIWACK ON GOOGLE MAPS 5 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | ADVANTAGES ECONOMICS | DEVELOPMENT LOCATION | CLIMATE | | CONTACTS QUALITY OF LIFE With a mild climate, Chilliwack enjoys a long growing season and year-round outdoor activities. OVERVIEW CLIMATE The Lower Mainland of British Columbia (BC) has one of the mildest climates in Canada. Winters are not too cold and summers are not too hot. With fresh air, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant greenery, Chilliwack is a popular choice for visitors, residents and growers. AVERAGE TEMPERATURES The average daily maximum temperature in January is 6.1 degrees Celsius, with a low of 0.8 degrees Celsius in the middle of the night. Warmer temperatures start in April and extend through October. The summer time high in July is 24.5 degrees Celsius, with a refreshing night time temperature of 13 degrees Celsius. PRECIPITATION Lower Mainland BC is known for its rain. Average January rainfall is 275 mm, while rainfall in September is a low 28.6 mm. As winter temperatures along the Pacific Coast are mild, snow fall is limited to only about 20 mm of January’s precipitation. And when it does fall, it generally only stays a few days as warmer rains typically wash the snow away. SUNLIGHT Chilliwack enjoys approximately 1,500 hours of sunlight per year. Sunlight is most abundant in the spring and summer months, with an average of eight hours per day in the summer. FROST PERIOD In the Chilliwack area, the frost-free period is approximately 207 days (106 year average). The frost season typically starts in November and ends by March. ANNUAL TEMPERATURE 30 Daily Maximum (°C) Daily Minimum (°C) 25 20 15 10 5 0 -5 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec ANNUAL PRECIPITATION 300 Rainfall (mm) Snowfall (cm) 250 200 150 100 50 0 Jan Chilliwack is the warmest city in Canada — with the highest average annual temperature at 10.5°C. Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec SOURCE: Environment Canada, Climate Normals 1981 to 2010 (accessed 2014) FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: CLIMATE.WEATHEROFFICE.EC.GC.CA/CLIMATE_NORMALS 6 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY ADVANTAGES | | ECONOMICS | DEVELOPMENT LOCATION | CLIMATE | | CONTACTS QUALITY OF LIFE Residents of Chilliwack enjoy a superb quality of life from abundant outdoor activities to world-class amenities. OVERVIEW QUALITY OF LIFE Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada is one of the best places in the world to live and work. Quality of life factors that consistently rank the area tops in the world include a temperate climate, beautiful and clean environment, stable and secure governing system, world-class infrastructure, education, healthcare and availability of consumer goods. Chilliwack, with its wide, fertile river valley surrounded by endless mountains, miles of crystal clear lakes, and acres of untamed wilderness, exudes an iconic vision of “Beautiful British Columbia.” Urban growth throughout Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley has brought much prosperity to Chilliwack. Business development and residential growth has blossomed over the last 20 years, creating a prosperous community with a superb quality of life. While housing affordability remains one of the most frequent reasons for people to move to Chilliwack, other key factors that draw people to Chilliwack include a world-class education system (including Canada Education Park), state-of-the-art healthcare system, excellent shopping opportunities, diverse recreation and leisure destinations, significant growth and development, and burgeoning business and employment opportunities. Already, many businesses have moved to Chilliwack, not only because of its pool of skilled workers, but also because it offers its employees a great quality of life, lower costs, and a higher disposable income. EDUCATION SAFETY HEALTHCARE SPORTS CULTURE From fishing in the great outdoors to an evening at the symphony orchestra, Chilliwack has everything a major urban centre has — and more! Enjoy all the advantages of doing business in BC’s Lower Mainland at a much more affordable rate and with a more rejuvenating quality of life. Many businesses have chosen Chilliwack for its pool of skilled workers, low overhead costs, and fabulous quality of life. ATTRACTIONS 7 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY POPULATION DEMOGRAPHICS | | ECONOMICS HOUSEHOLDS | | DEVELOPMENT LANGUAGE & ETHNICITY | CONTACTS | RELIGION With a superb quality of life, Chilliwack is growing at a much faster rate than neighbouring communities. 8 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | POPULATION ECONOMICS HOUSEHOLDS | | DEVELOPMENT LANGUAGE & ETHNICITY | CONTACTS | RELIGION Having grown 12.6% over the last census period, Chilliwack remains one of the country’s fastest growing communities. DEMOGRAPHICS POPULATION POPULATION GROWTH ESTIMATES While British Columbia has a much younger history than the rest of Canada, it has grown to be Canada’s third largest province with a population of 4.4 million people. Growth in the province remains strong at 7% compared to the national average of 5.9% between 2006 and 2011. Within BC, the southwest Lower Mainland comprises about 2.8 million or 61% of the province’s population and is the most densely populated region in the country, with 473 people per square kilometre. As part of the southwest Lower Mainland, the City of Chilliwack has a population of 77,936, with a five year growth rate of 12.6% (2011 Census), which is greater than the growth rate of the region (8%) and neighbouring communities (Abbotsford: 7%, Mission: 5.6%; Hope: -3.5%). Population density within Chilliwack’s population centre is 823.3 per km²), as compared to the larger Chilliwack area at 298.0 people per km². With continued steady growth, the city’s projected population is expected to surpass 100,000 by 2021. 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 2005 POPULATION BY AGE The median age in the City of Chilliwack is 39.8, with almost 80% of people under the age of 59. Chilliwack also has a significantly higher percentage of children up to 19 years at 26.5% compared to 22% in BC. The City of Chilliwack’s population of seniors aged 65 and over is comparable to the BC average at 16%. POPULATION 5000 4000 77,936 3000 Greater Chilliwack (Census Metropolitan Area (CMA)) 92,308 2000 2,313,328 Lower Mainland / Southwest BC 2,657,711 British Columbia 4,400,057 SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census (accessed 2014) 2025 f 6000 City of Chilliwack (CY) 2011 CENSUS Metro Vancouver Regional District 2020 f Population by Age 88,000 277,593 2015 7000 POPULATION BY AGE City of Chilliwack ESTIMATES FROM THE CITY OF CHILLIWACK Fraser Valley Regional District 2010 SOURCE: City of Chilliwack, Population Estimates. NOTE: “F” = “Forecast” (updated 2016) 1000 0 0-4 5 - 9 10 - 14 15 19 20 24 25 29 30 34 35 39 40 44 45 49 50 54 55 59 60 64 65 69 70 74 75 79 80 84 85 + SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census (accessed 2014) 9 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY POPULATION | | ECONOMICS HOUSEHOLDS | | DEVELOPMENT LANGUAGE & ETHNICITY | CONTACTS | RELIGION With housing significantly more affordable than Vancouver, more Chilliwack families are able to own their homes. DEMOGRAPHICS HOUSEHOLDS & HOUSING About 80% of Chilliwack households are located in urban or suburban areas. Housing development originated in Chilliwack proper, on the north side of the highway. Then growth spread south through the Sardis-Vedder corridor and up the hillsides, south of the highway. As much of Chilliwack’s land is protected and reserved for agricultural land, growth across the valley floor remains limited. There are about 31,000 households in Chilliwack with an average household size of 2.5 persons. About 68% of households are one-family only households. About 61% have one to two persons, and the remaining 39% have three or more persons. About 36% of households have children at home. About 75% of all properties in Chilliwack are owned, which is higher than the BC average at 70%. Of the existing housing stock, 59% are single family detached, 20% are apartments, and about 19% are semi-detached houses, townhouses, or duplexes. RENTAL HOUSING There are about 7,690 rented dwellings. Average monthly shelter cost for a rental unit is $856 per month compared to $1,089 in Vancouver. Vacancy rates vary with the last Rental Market Report at 3.8%, which is comparable to neighbouring communities. (CMHC 2014). SENIORS & LOW INCOME HOUSING There are about 10 subsidized developments for seniors or low income families in Chilliwack. As demand for subsidized housing always surpasses the supply, a provincial program called S.A.F.E.R. (Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters) supports the placement of seniors in standard market rental apartments. There are also a number of private housing facilities for seniors. Contact the Seniors Resource Society. SPECIAL HOUSING Group homes for physically or mentally challenged people are also available in Chilliwack. Contact the Chilliwack Society for Community Living. CHILLIWACK HOUSEHOLDS BY TYPE HOUSEHOLDS BY TENURE Total private households 30,435 Total 30,460 Single-detached house 17,820 59% Owner 22,760 Semi-detached house 1,015 3% Renter 7,695 Row house 4,100 13% Duplex 1,005 3% HOUSEHOLD INCOME Apartment 5 or less storeys 5,920 19% Chilliwack Apartment 5+ storeys 235 1% AVERAGE SALARY Movable dwelling 310 1% Management (per hour) $37.52 Other single-attached house 30 0% Trades $25.78 SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census (accessed 2014) Band housing 0 $79,891 SEE PAGE 34 FOR MORE INFORMATION ON INCOMES FAMILY STRUCTURE MARITAL STATUS Total private households 30,430 Total population 15+ years 62,850 One-family-only households 20,930 Married (and not separated) 32,160 Couple-family without children 8,800 Living common law 5,435 Couple-family with children 8,845 Single (never legally married) 15,250 Lone-parent-family households 3,285 Separated 2,120 Two-or-more-family households 555 Divorced 4,045 Non-census-family households 8,950 Widowed 3,840 SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census (accessed 2014) SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census (accessed 2014) 10 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY POPULATION | | ECONOMICS | HOUSEHOLDS | DEVELOPMENT | CONTACTS | RELIGION LANGUAGE & ETHNICITY Welcoming multi-culturalism, Chilliwack has a diverse and growing ethnic population. DEMOGRAPHICS LANGUAGE & ETHNICITY LANGUAGES Canada is a bilingual country with English and French as the official languages. However, the primary language of the province of British Columbia is English. In Chilliwack, 96.4% of the population speak English at home. ETHNIC ORIGINS Most people in Chilliwack (49%) have an ethnic origin from the British Isles, followed by Western Europeans (32%) which are predominantly German (18,415 people) and Dutch (11,085 people). In comparison, the top countries of birth of immigrants living in British Columbia were China and India. Chilliwack also maintains a strong aboriginal population of 8,535 people. IMMIGRANT POPULATION The immigrant population in Chilliwack is estimated at 9,650 people (12.5%). While this percentage is lower than BC and Canada as a whole, in recent years there is a growing trend for immigrants to locate outside of BC’s major cities. In fact, as of the last census, 9.7% of Chilliwack’s immigrants came here between 2006-2011. MIGRATION BC’s mild climate, superb quality of life and progressive culture keeps it as one of the most desirable immigrant locations in the country. While a boom in the resource industries, primarily in Alberta, are attracting a higher net migration than other provinces, BC maintains a strong, competitive economy. Migration to Chilliwack remains strong, with a population growth of 12.6%, as compared to 5% to 7% in neighbouring communities. Chilliwack’s superb lifestyle, gorgeous scenery, low cost land, prosperous economy, and easy access to markets make it a more attractive migration destination. WELCOMING MULTI-CULTURALISM Chilliwack welcomes and supports immigrant migration. For support and resources, see Contacts in this document (page 45). IMMIGRANT POPULATION NON-IMMIGRANTS IMMIGRANTS NON-PERMANENT RESIDENTS Canada 78.3 20.6 1.1 British Columbia 70.9 27.6 1.5 Chilliwack 87.1 12.5 0.4 SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census (accessed 2014) LANGUAGES SPOKEN AT HOME ETHNIC ORIGINS POPULATION % English 73,500* 96.4% Total PRIVATE HOUSEHOLDS 76,925 German 365 0.5% North American Aboriginal origins 6,220 8% Punjabi 315 0.4% Other North American origins 25,045 33% Korean 300 0.4% European origins 62,110 81% Chinese (All) 280 0.4% British Isles origins 38,025 49% Spanish 255 0.3% French origins 7,760 10% Dutch 210 0.3% Western European origins (except French) 25,190 33% French 205 0.3% Dutch 9,580 12% Vietnamese 105 0.1% German 16,370 21% Romanian 95 0.1% Northern European 6,545 9% Filipino 75 0.1% Eastern European origins 11,465 15% Farsi 65 0.1% Southern European origins 3,645 5% Hindi 55 0.1% Latin; Central and South American 870 1% Polish 50 0.1% African origins 325 0% Afrikaans 45 0.1% Asian origins 3,325 4% Russian 35 0.0% Oceania origins 495 1% *NOTE: Population of Census Families. Many respondents listed speak more than one language. SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census (accessed 2014) # (except British) % SOURCE: 2011 National Household Survey, Statistics Canada (accessed 2014) 11 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY POPULATION | | ECONOMICS HOUSEHOLDS | | DEVELOPMENT LANGUAGE & ETHNICITY | CONTACTS | RELIGION While predominantly Christian, Chilliwack has a growing population of Sikh, Muslim, Jewish and other religions. DEMOGRAPHICS RELIGION According to Statistics Canada, 2011 National Household Survey (NHS), 58.3% of the population in Chilliwack reported a religious affiliation, while 41.7% said they had no religious affiliation. For British Columbia as a whole, 55.9% of the population reported a religious affiliation, while 44.1% had no religion. The most frequently reported religious affiliation in Chilliwack was Christian, reported by 43,200 (56.2%) of the population, of which 12.3% were Catholic and 26.3% were other Christian. Other non-christian religions, including Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, and Hindu, comprised 2.1% of Chilliwack’s population. In comparison, about 45% of the population in British Columbia reported following a Christian religion, while 12% of BC’s population reported following a non-christian religion. RELIGION AND MULTI-CULTURALISM Canada supports and promotes cultural and religious diversities. As such, Statistics Canada reports that there is substantial growth in diverse religions. Public schools in Canada are secular, although there are some private schools that operate under a particular faith. In public schools and other public facilities, Christian holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, are still regularly observed. Supporting multi-culturalism, public institutions and community organizations often also recognize celebrations such as Hanukkah, Chinese New Year, Diwali, Baisakhi, Vaisakhi, Robbie Burns Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Ramadan and many others. RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS CHILLIWACK Total Population (PRIVATE HOUSEHOLDS) % 76,925 BC % 4,324,455 100 Buddhist 300 0.4% 90,620 2% Christian 43,200 56.2% 1,930,415 45% Anglican 2,885 3.8% 213,975 5% Baptist 1,560 2.0% 91,575 2% Catholic 9,500 12.3% 650,360 15% Christian Orthodox 290 0.4% 39,845 1% Lutheran 1,610 2.1% 71,470 2% Pentecostal 1,880 2.4% 58,300 1% Presbyterian 1,040 1.4% 44,635 1% United Church 4,245 5.5% 222,230 5% Other Christian 20,195 26.3% 538,030 12% 30 0.0% 45,795 1% Hindu Jewish 110 0.1% 23,130 1% Muslim 240 0.3% 79,310 2% Sikh 445 0.6% 201,110 5% Traditional (Aboriginal) Spirituality 170 0.2% 10,295 0% Other religions 355 0.5% 35,500 1% 32,080 41.7% 1,908,285 44% No religious affiliation SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 National Household Survey (NHS) (accessed 2014) 12 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | EDUCATION AMENITIES AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE HEALTHCARE | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY SAFETY & SECURITY | | ECONOMICS SPORTS & RECREATION | | DEVELOPMENT LEISURE & CULTURE | | CONTACTS ATTRACTIONS From a symphony orchestra to first-rate attractions, Chilliwack’s amenities make it a regional destination. 13 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | EDUCATION AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE HEALTHCARE | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY SAFETY & SECURITY | | | ECONOMICS SPORTS & RECREATION | | DEVELOPMENT LEISURE & CULTURE | CONTACTS ATTRACTIONS Home to Canada Education Park, Chilliwack offers world-class education and workplace training. AMENITIES EDUCATION CHILDHOOD EDUCATION The Chilliwack School District #33 is part of BC’s public school system and services more than 14,000 school-age children with 1,800 teachers and staff. Chilliwack is home to 20 public elementary schools, six middle schools, three secondary schools, and four alternative schools (including a distance learning school and First Nations school). The district also offers a continuing education program. All schools offer a standard liberal education, such as reading, writing, mathematics, social studies, science, literature, language, art and physical education. Secondary level education also includes technology, trades, arts, french immersion and other programs. Visit sd33.bc.ca. ELEMENTARY & SECONDARY EDUCATION WITHIN CHILLIWACK PUBLIC School District #33 Programs: Chilliwack is also home to 9 independant schools. These schools generally provide the standard curriculum plus a special area of focus (such as a Christian education). HIGHER EDUCATION The University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is a fully accredited, public post secondary institution that enrolls over 15,000 students per year at all campuses. Consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the country by the Globe and Mail’s Canadian University Report, UFV offers more than 80 programs, including master and bachelor degrees, with majors, minors, and extended minors in more than 30 subject areas, and more than a dozen trades and technology programs. Chilliwack is home to several private training facilities, including the accredited MTI Community College, which provides technical and trades training, including Business and Healthcare. CANADA EDUCATION PARK Chilliwack’s Canada Education park includes such training facilities as the RCMP Pacific Region Training Centre (PRTC), Canadian Police College, Justice Institute of BC (JIBC), Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), and the Agriculture Centre of Excellence (ACE). CHILLIWACK ACADEMY OF MUSIC The Chilliwack Academy of Music is a non-profit society that provides year-round lessons. MIDDLE/SECONDARY SCHOOLS ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS ENROLLMENT 20 6 4 14,000+ In addition to basic curriculum, programming includes Computer (Java Programming, Microsoft Engineering; University Level Programming; Cisco Systems; Information Technology; Computer Animation; CAD; 3-D Animation; Graphic Arts); Office Management; Robotics; French Immersion; Fine Arts; Career Preparation, etc. INDEPENDANT Programs: ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 9 5* N/A 1,940 In addition to basic curriculum, education is tailored to particular school format: Christian, Catholic, or Specialty school. * This number is not in addition to the number of elementary schools. There are four schools which provide programming from K-12 and one school which provides programming from K-9. HIGHER EDUCATION NAME OF INSTITUTION LOCATION DISTANCE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS TRADE PROGRAMS ENROLLMENT UNIVERSITY OF THE FRASER VALLEY CHILLIWACK 0 MILES YES YES 15,788** Types of Programs: 80 programs. Programs include: Master of Arts (Crim Justice), Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bsc, BACrim, BBA, BSocWork, BChild/Youth, B Computer Info, BA Adult Educ., BBA Aviation, Bnursing, and PDP, Associate of Arts, and more; and multiple vocational diplomas and certificates in fashion design, visual arts, social services, theatre, dental assisting, mechanics, trades (ie: electrical, plumbing), early childhood education, and more. * Other Locations: Abbotsford, Mission, Hope, Agassiz. ** Enrollment: This amount includes enrollment from all locations + 4 OTHERS MTI COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILLIWACK 0 MILES NO YES 75-100 Types of Programs: Business Management, Administration, Tourism and Hospitality, Health Care, Internships, Early Childhood Education, payroll certification, etc. SOURCE: websites for various institutions: University of the Fraser Valley (www.ufv.ca), MTI Community College, 2014 (www.mticc.com) (updated 2014) 14 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | EDUCATION AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE HEALTHCARE | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY SAFETY & SECURITY | | ECONOMICS SPORTS & RECREATION | | DEVELOPMENT LEISURE & CULTURE | | CONTACTS ATTRACTIONS Chilliwack has recently made $35 million in improvements to Chilliwack General Hospital. AMENITIES HEALTHCARE Mandated by BC’s Ministry of Health, Fraser Health Authority is responsible for providing a wide range of integrated health care services to more than 1.6 million people living in communities stretching from Burnaby to Hope. Fraser Health Authority operates a number of health services in Chilliwack, including Chilliwack General Hospital as well as community-based residential, home health, mental health and public health services. Recently improved, Chilliwack General Hospital (CGH) has about 1,400 employees and approximately 50 general practitioners and 45 specialists. The hospital has 137 beds, plus 10 more beds in the Cedar Ridge Extended Care facility and 90 more in the Bradley Extended Care facility. Inpatient services include intensive care, coronary care, maternity, medicine, palliative care, psychiatry, surgical, sub-acute and transitional care. Outpatient services include ambulatory day care, critical care unit, diagnostic imaging, emergency 24/7, gynecology/urology, healthy heart, diabetes program, IV therapy, laboratory services, medical and surgical day care, nutrition counseling, cancer care, physiotherapy, pre-admission clinic, respiratory clinic and speech/language pathology. See CGH Hospital Services Directory (PDF). The Chilliwack Public Health Unit provides several services and programs, including infant/ maternal health, child health, immunization, adult flu clinics, hearing, sexual disease clinic, youth clinic, adult health information and education and communicable disease control. Fraser Health also provides multiple other professional support for individuals with acute, rehabilitation, chronic, persistent or palliative care needs. Services include in-home health care, assisted living, residential care, mental health and addictions, as well as laboratory and pharmaceutical services. CHILLIWACK HEALTH CARE Hospital Beds (incl. extended care) 237 Outpatient Clinics 3 Physicians in area 146 Dentists in area 43 SOURCE: Fraser Health (updated 2014) CHILLIWACK GENERAL HOSPITAL (CGH): This $35 million redevelopment project, completed in 2011 included the entire outpatient care module, which encompasses the emergency department, ambulatory care, diagnostics and laboratory services, as well as an improved reception area. There were also $1.2 in upgrades to CGH’s fifth floor sub-acute care beds completed in 2006. 15 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | EDUCATION AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE HEALTHCARE | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY SAFETY & SECURITY | | ECONOMICS SPORTS & RECREATION | | DEVELOPMENT LEISURE & CULTURE | | CONTACTS ATTRACTIONS Chilliwack residents enjoy living in one of the safest and most secure countries in the world. AMENITIES SAFETY & SECURITY FIRE DEPARTMENT The Chilliwack Fire Department serves the community through six fire halls, located in downtown Chilliwack, Sardis, Rosedale, Greendale, Yarrow and Ryder Lake. The Chilliwack Fire Department is a composite fire department staffed with 27 career firefighters stationed in fire hall 1 and 4, which are supported by 120 paid-on-call firefighters. The department is administered by the fire chief and three assistant fire chiefs, and includes a career training officer, and two public educators/inspectors. Intelligence Section, Forensic Identification Section, Major Crime Unit, Police Dog Services, Reconstructionist/Analyst, and Highway Patrol. The RCMP Pacific Region Training Centre (PRTC) is located in Chilliwack’s Canada Education Park. This facility provides provincial, national and international in-service training to RCMP members and other police services. The facility also hosts other government agencies for law enforcement related training. There are 80 courses offered at this facility, with 6,000 RCMP officers and employees trained per year, and 2,500 officers receiving annual qualification. Services include, fire suppression, emergency medical aid, motor vehicle accidents, rescue, public service calls, fire inspection, health and safety inspections, fire prevention, emergency preparedness, and public education. CHILLIWACK RCMP The community’s police services are provided by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), under contract with the City of Chilliwack. The Chilliwack Community Police Office, which is part of the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment, includes 107 RCMP members, 8 Provincial RCMP members, 24 Communication Centre dispatchers, and 34 full-time and 17 part-time municipal employees, providing services from police enforcement to exhibit control. In addition to the Community Police Office, Chilliwack is home to the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment and the RCMP Pacific Region Training Centre. The regional detachment headquarters oversee administration for all RCMP in the Chilliwack, Agassiz, Hope and Boston Bar. This office includes 42 RCMP members, 8.5 Public Service employees, and 5.5 Municipal Employees. Services at this office include, the Integrated Border Enforcement Team, Criminal In addition to the local police force, Chilliwack is home to the RCMP’s regional headquarters and their regional training facility. 16 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | EDUCATION AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE HEALTHCARE | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY SAFETY & SECURITY | | ECONOMICS SPORTS & RECREATION | | DEVELOPMENT LEISURE & CULTURE | | CONTACTS ATTRACTIONS Chilliwack has some of the best sports and recreational facilities in the region. AMENITIES SPORTS AND RECREATION There are approximately 77 sports clubs in the city and multiple sports and recreational facilities. • SWIMMING: Swimming facilities include the Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre, Cheam Leisure Centre, Rotary Outdoor Pool, and Chilliwack YMCA. • ICE SPORTS: Prospera Centre Multi-plex Arena with audience seating up to 5,700 (2 rinks); and Twin Rinks (2 rinks) with seating up to 528. CHILLIWACK LANDING LEISURE CENTRE CHEAM LEISURE CENTRE THE LANDING SPORTS CENTRE CHILLIWACK YMCA ROTARY OUTDOOR POOL TWIN RINKS ARENA PROSPERA CENTRE MULTIPLEX ARENA CHILLIWACK EXHIBITION PARK STADIUM SPORTS FIELDS • INDOOR SPORTS: Landing Sports Centre (indoor tennis, ball hockey, etc.), Cheam Leisure Centre has squash courts and double-gymnasium; Chilliwack YMCA has squash and racquetball course, and in the summer Twin Rinks has ball hockey, lacrosse, rollerblading and more. There are also numerous private facilities. • OUTDOOR COURTS: Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre has sports courts for basketball, street hockey, and sand volleyball, as well as a skateboard park. Many of Chilliwack’s 87 community parks also have basketball courts, hockey nets or tennis courts. • FITNESS CENTRES: There are aerobic and weight training equipment available at Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre, Cheam Leisure Centre, and Chilliwack YMCA. There are also numerous private facilities. • FIELD SPORTS: Chilliwack has 11 public sports field Complexes, including a 2,500 seat stadium at Chilliwack Exhibition Park. School District playing fields are also open to the public. This brings the total number of ball fields to 78 and soccer pitches to 62. • OUTDOOR RECREATION: Chilliwack is known as “The Great Outside!”, with mountain trails, camping, lakes, rivers and plenty of beaches. Chilliwack is a great place for people to engage in such activities as fishing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, sailing, skiing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, parasailing, hang gliding and many more activities. • GOLF: Greater Chilliwack is home to 8 golf courses, country clubs, putting greens, and/or mini golf facilities. LEARN MORE. VISIT TOURISMCHILLIWACK.COM. NOTE: See more facilities on page 18 of this document. Also visit chilliwack.com for more parks and facilities. 17 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | EDUCATION AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE HEALTHCARE | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY SAFETY & SECURITY | | ECONOMICS SPORTS & RECREATION | | DEVELOPMENT LEISURE & CULTURE | | CONTACTS ATTRACTIONS Chilliwack is rich in culture, with its own symphony orchestra, historic treasures, and diverse event destinations. AMENITIES LEISURE & CULTURE Chilliwack offers dance, art galleries, symphony, theatre, museums, cinemas, music festivals, shopping, and a wide array of dining experiences. • MUSEUMS & ARCHIVES: The Chilliwack Museum and Archives is located in the former City Hall, a national historic building. The facility features information, photos and artifacts from the 1860s to present day. For more information, visit chilliwack.museum.bc.ca. The Atchelitz Threshermen’s Museum is another Chilliwack treasure, giving visitors a realworld experience of a working farm around the turn of the century. • MUSIC: The Chilliwack Symphony Orchestra and Chorus performs regularly at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre. Chilliwack is also home to the Chilliwack Academy of Music, a non-profit society that provides year-round lessons and classes. • THEATRE: The Chilliwack Community Arts Council, Chilliwack Player’s Guild and the University of the Fraser Valley Theatre Department put on a number of live theatre shows and musical events yearly. CHILLIWACK CULTURAL CENTRE: This $22 million facility showcases headlining theatre shows, dance shows, musicals, music concerts, and community events. The facility has a 596-seat main theatre and a 160-seat studio theatre. There are three lobbies with a combined capacity for 1,000 people; an art gallery; a crafting room; board rooms; and several studios suitable for various uses, including music, fine arts, choral, and fabric arts. • CINEMA: Chilliwack has two movie theatres: Cottonwood 4 Cinemas and the new Cineplex Galaxy Cinemas at Eagle Landing. • ARTS & CULTURE: The Chilliwack Community Arts Council supports a variety of arts, including dance, crafts, drama, painting and weaving. • EVENTS: Chilliwack is host to a variety of events year-round, attracting upwards of 90,000 attendees annually. Some of these events include Flight Fest, Party in the Park, First Nations Pow Wow, and a variety of trade shows like the Home and Garden trade show. For an upto-date listing of events and activities, please visit the Tourism Chilliwack web site at www. tourismchilliwack.com. LEARN MORE. VISIT TOURISMCHILLIWACK.COM. NOTE: See more facilities on page 17 of this document. CHILLIWACK HERITAGE PARK: This 150,000 square foot recreation and trade show facility, constructed on a 65-acre fairground, is used as a trade show and events building, and has a racetrack, rodeo arena, and two show rings for horses. ATCHELITZ THRESHERMEN’S MUSEUM: This outdoor historical site gives visitors a real-world experience of a working farm around the turn of the century. 18 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | EDUCATION AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE HEALTHCARE | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY SAFETY & SECURITY | | ECONOMICS SPORTS & RECREATION | | DEVELOPMENT LEISURE & CULTURE | | CONTACTS ATTRACTIONS Chilliwack offers multiple natural and man-made attractions that make it a popular regional destination. AMENITIES ATTRACTIONS Surrounded by the vast coastal mountain range, Chilliwack is home to the great outdoors featuring crystal clear lakes, plenty of beaches, extensive hiking trails, and several rivers. • LAKES, BEACHES & CAMPGROUNDS: Waterplay abounds at Chilliwack Lake and Cultus Lake. Provincial and private campgrounds, as well as public parks and pristine beaches, attract visitors from around the Lower Mainland. LAKES & BEACHES FISHING WHITE WATER RAFTING WATERSLIDES BRIDAL VEIL FALLS AGRI-TOURISM GOLF TRAILS “GREAT OUTSIDE” • FISHING: The Chilliwack, Vedder and Fraser Rivers are world-renowned for superb fishing, from giant sturgeon to migrating salmon to fresh water trout. Visit fishchilliwack.com. • WHITE WATER RAFTING AND KAYAKING: People come from all over the world to kayak or raft BC’s raging rivers like the Chilliwack River. Several companies offer guided rafting tours. • WATERSLIDES: Two of the region’s best waterslide parks are in the Chilliwack area. Cultus Lake Waterpark and Bridal Falls Waterpark offer multiple twisting slides, hot tub, picnic area, and snack bar. • BRIDAL FALLS: Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park provides visitors with a short hike to one of the Lower Mainland’s most beautiful waterfalls. The Bridal Falls area is also home to a family dining restaurant, a motel and RV resorts, and several other attractions including golf and waterslides. • AGRI-TOURISM: From a Circle Farm Tour through working farms and food production facilities to seasonal Corn Mazes, Chilliwack is one of the best agri-tourism destinations. • GOLF: Greater Chilliwack has 8 full-sized golf courses plus a driving range — most provide 18 holes offering a total of 40,000 yards of golfing pleasure. And for fun for the entire family, there is Tap-Ins putting course and Cultus Lake Adventure Park. LEARN MORE. VISIT TOURISMCHILLIWACK.COM. • TRAILS: There are 33 kms of enjoyable trails in Chilliwack, from challenging hikes up Mt. Thom to leisurely strolls, mountain biking, or horseback riding. Visit tourismchilliwack. com, vancouvertrails.com or chilliwack.com. 19 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE | | ECONOMICS UTILITIES | | DEVELOPMENT | TELECOMMUNICATIONS CONTACTS | MEDIA From a world-class transportation network to plentiful, economical energy, Chilliwack’s infrastructure is first rate. 20 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY TRANSPORTATION | | ECONOMICS UTILITIES | | DEVELOPMENT | TELECOMMUNICATIONS CONTACTS | MEDIA With no municipal tax on fuel, Chilliwack is the city of choice for transportation companies. INFRASTRUCTURE TRANSPORTATION BY ROAD Chilliwack is situated along the TransCanada Highway, connecting to Vancouver, the USA and Pacific Rim markets. Chilliwack is a popular truck stop for long haul trucks, as the city has no municipal tax on fuel. Chilliwack is home to about 60 national and local trucking firms, including 19 common carriers and 14 local terminals. In addition to a public bus transit system, the city also has an inter-urban bus service with Greyhound and the Fraser Valley Express. BY RAIL Chilliwack has multiple train stops and is a major interchange point between CN Railway and Southern Railway of BC, where loaded cars are redistributed for US destinations. Chilliwack also has a passenger railway stop, serviced by Via Rail. BY AIR Chilliwack Airport (YCW) services an estimated 60,000 air movements annually. It can accommodate such heavy aircraft as the RCAF Hercules, but it primarily services pilot training and recreational flights from all around BC and south of the border. For regional and international air travel, scheduled flights are available from Abbotsford International Airport (about 40 kms from Chilliwack) and Vancouver International Airport (about 100 kms from Chilliwack). BY SEA Deep sea transportation is handled by Port Metro Vancouver, which offers 28 deep-sea and domestic marine terminals, servicing containers, bulk, other commercial shipments, and several passenger cruise lines. Car and truck transportation to Vancouver Island and the surrounding islands is provided by BC Ferries, with two main ferry terminals at Tsawwassen and Horseshoe Bay. There are also several tug boat companies that offer barge transportation along the Fraser River. 21 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY TRANSPORTATION | | ECONOMICS UTILITIES | | DEVELOPMENT | TELECOMMUNICATIONS CONTACTS | MEDIA Clean and economical energy, combined some of Canada’s highest quality drinking water, gives Chilliwack top marks. INFRASTRUCTURE UTILITIES ENERGY BC HYDRO serves the electricity needs of 94% of all British Columbia’s residents, including Chilliwack. In the Lower Mainland, BC Hydro has 11 hydroelectric facilities, generating 4,940 gigawatt-hours (GWh) a year. BC Hydro provides an abundant and reliable source of clean energy at a lower cost than most major cites. Visit: BChydro.com. FORTISBC serves the natural gas needs of Chilliwack, as well as millions of other customers throughout BC. Fortis owns two liquefied natural gas storage facilities located in the Delta area and on Vancouver Island. Most homes in the area prefer to use gas for home and water heating as it is significantly less expensive than electricity or oil heating. Visit: FortisBC.com. 30 ELECTRICITY RATE COMPARISON (AVERAGE PRICE IN C/KWH) 25 SEWER The City of Chilliwack provides sewer services to most of the urban and sub-urban areas. Much of the rural sector currently relies on septic tanks. To service the 18,000 properties within the municipal boundaries, the City has a Wastewater Treatment Plant, 47 sanitary pump stations, and 4 drainage pumping stations. To learn more, visit chilliwack.com. WASTE Recycling and waste reduction efforts remain a high priority in Chilliwack. To divert garbage from going into the landfill, waste is divided into three parts: recyclable material, compostable material, and garbage. Residential Small Power 20 WATER Known for having some of the highest water quality in Canada, Chilliwack continues to work to maintain its superb clarity and taste. The City has implemented a comprehensive Groundwater Protection Plan (GPP), protecting the Sardis-Vedder Aquifer. Through a combination of quality monitoring, wellhead protection, pollution prevention, public education initiatives, as well as continuous updating and upgrading, Chilliwack maintains its superior water quality. The City has 17 water reservoirs, 8 drinking water production wells, and 13 potable water pumping stations. To learn more, visit chilliwack.com. Large Power The City provides curbside garbage and recycling collection services to all urban single-family households under a contract with Emterra Environmental. Participating households receive a quarterly bill for recycling and garbage collection on their City utility bill. Multi-family complexes will have the option to apply for participation. Rural areas are handled by private companies. 15 10 5 0 Chilliwack Calgary, AB Ottawa, ON Seattle, WA SOURCE: “ 2014 Comparison of Electricity Rates in Major North American Cities,” Hydro-Quebec Portland, OR San Francisco, CA Residents may also deposit items directly at the following facilities: • Bailey Sanitary Landfill Site and Recycling Depot (garbage and recyclable materials) • Parr Road Green Depot (compostable yard waste) • Emterra Environmental Depot (Yale Road) • Bottle Depots To learn more about waste and disposal options, visit: chilliwack.com. 22 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY TRANSPORTATION | | ECONOMICS UTILITIES | | DEVELOPMENT | TELECOMMUNICATIONS CONTACTS | MEDIA World-class telecommunications infrastructure combined with open market competition ensure top quality at a lower price. INFRASTRUCTURE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CELL PHONE COVERAGE AREA British Columbia is one of North America’s leaders in telecommunications infrastructure and services, with all communities having access to T-1 lines, and medium and large communities having access to T-3 lines. Businesses have access to a full range of data and Internet services: available bandwidth up to 100 Mbps using technologies such as fibre optics, ISDN, ADSL, Frame Relay, and ATM. TELEPHONE Historically, telephone service has been provided by Telus, Canada’s second-largest telecommunications company. However, now that telephone service can also be provided through cable lines, companies like Shaw Cable offer competitive digital telephone services. And more recently, as wireless services improve, home telephone options are available through mobility service providers. Long distance and toll free service is provided by these companies as well as multiple other secondary source providers. INTERNET AND TV Internet and television service are predominantly available through cable (Shaw Cable) and ADSL (Telus). For more information, visit: www.shaw.ca and www.telus.com. And as wireless services improve, internet services are being made available through mobility service providers. SOURCE: Telus Mobility (updated 2014) Multiple satellite companies also provide satellite connections. MOBILITY The largest providers for mobile telephone service are Telus Mobility, Rogers Canada, and Bell Canada. Other companies that have gained a strong market share in the area include (but are not limited to) Fido, Koodo, and Virgin Mobile. 23 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY TRANSPORTATION | | ECONOMICS UTILITIES | | DEVELOPMENT | TELECOMMUNICATIONS CONTACTS | MEDIA In addition to regional media, Chilliwack is home to several radio stations and publications. INFRASTRUCTURE MEDIA Lower Mainland British Columbia is serviced by multiple media outlets, including Global BC, CTV, CBC, City TV, as well as the Vancouver Sun, the Province, and many other organizations. In Chilliwack, there are also several Chilliwack-specific media outlets. PUBLICATIONS • Chilliwack Progress: This local paper is published weekly (Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays). • Chilliwack Times: This local paper is published weekly (Tuesdays and Thursdays). • Real Estate Weekly: This free local real estate advertiser is published weekly (Saturdays). • Real Estate Review: This free local real estate advertiser is published weekly (Fridays) courtesy of the Chilliwack Progress. RADIO • Star FM 98.3 (Rogers Media) • Country 107.1 (Rogers Media) • 89.5 The Drive (CHWK-FM Fabmar Communications) • Kiss Radio 107.5 (Rogers Media) A number of FM stations are broadcast over cable service to provide maximum auditory quality. TELEVISION Chilliwack provides all the cable television services of a major centre. The community also has one local broadcasting station (Shaw TV Channel 4), which hosts local community information. See Telecommunications on page 23 for more information on available services. 24 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY KEY SECTORS LABOUR& INDUSTRY | | ECONOMICS EMPLOYERS | | DEVELOPMENT LABOUR FORCE | | CONTACTS EMPLOYMENT With a talented labour pool, business and employment opportunities abound in Chilliwack. 25 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY KEY SECTORS | | ECONOMICS EMPLOYERS | | DEVELOPMENT LABOUR FORCE | | CONTACTS EMPLOYMENT Growth in manufacturing and other industries attest to Chilliwack’s desirability as an ideal place to do business. LABOUR&INDUSTRY KEY SECTORS EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR RETAIL TRADE HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES CONSTRUCTION MANUFACTURING PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD SERVICES EDUCATION TRANSPORTATION AND WAREHOUSING AGRICULTURE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES OTHER SERVICES WHOLESALE TRADE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FINANCE AND INSURANCE ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND REC REAL ESTATE MINING/QUARRYING INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY Chilliwack’s labour force by industry is diverse. • Trade (wholesale and retail): 16% • Manufacturing and construction: 17% • Services (prof, admin, food serv, FIRE): 27% • Institutions (health, education and public admin): 26% • Other (transportation, agri, entertainment, etc): 14% 5430 4910 4155 3435 3565 3165 3170 2175 2265 2265 2360 1585 1830 1225 740 765 250 445 Mfg & Const. 17% 12% 11% 9% 8% 8% 7% 7% 5% 5% 5% 5% 4% 4% 3% 2% 2% 1% 1% 99% Other 14% Services 27% Trade 16% Institutions & Social S26% ervices Mfg & Const. 17% Other 14% Services 27% Trade 16% Institutions & Social Services 26% AGRICULTURE AVIATION & AEROSPACE EDUCATION FILM FOOD PROCESSING HEALTHCARE MANUFACTURING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES REAL ESTATE RETAIL/WHOLESALE TRADE TECHNOLOGY TOURISM Also see Sector Profiles. Click on the images at right. EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR RETAIL TRADE 5430 12% HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES 4910 11% CONSTRUCTION 4155 9% MANUFACTURING 3435 8% PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION 3565 8% ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD SERVICES 3165 7% EDUCATION 3170 7% TRANSPORTATION AND WAREHOUSING 2175 5% AGRICULTURE 2265 5% ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES 2265 5% OTHER SERVICES 2360 5% WHOLESALE TRADE 1585 4% PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 1830 4% FINANCE AND INSURANCE 1225 3% ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND REC 740 2% REAL ESTATE 765 2% MINING/QUARRYING 250 1% INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY 445 1% 26 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY KEY SECTORS | | ECONOMICS EMPLOYERS | | DEVELOPMENT LABOUR FORCE | | CONTACTS EMPLOYMENT Employers appreciate Chilliwack’s high quality workforce with lower overhead costs. LABOUR&INDUSTRY EMPLOYERS Chilliwack continues to undergo significant business growth and urban development. In the last ten years, Chilliwack business licenses have more than doubled to reach a total of about 4,500 business licenses, with an average of approximately 500 new business licences each year. LEADING EMPLOYERS COMPANY SECTOR(S) # EMPLOYEES School District #33 Public Sector 1,800 Chilliwack General Hospital Healthcare 1,400 Convergys Technology 750 Tycrop Manufacturing Manufacturing and Technology 400 City of Chilliwack Public Sector 343 IMW Industries Manufacturing and Technology 280 Chilliwack Society for Community Living Healthcare 280 RCMP Public Sector 225 Residential Care Facilities Healthcare 210 University of the Fraser Valley (Chilliwack) Public Sector 209 Sto:lo Nations – First Nation Govt. Public Sector 181 Vantage Foods Food Processors 175 Rainbow Greenhouses Agricultural 170 Johnston Packers Food Processors 125 Visscher Group of Companies Forestry and Manufacturing 120 Fraser Valley Regional District Public Sector 115 Envision Financial Financial 107 Masonite International Manufacturing 106 VIEW THIS DATA BY SECTOR. SEE THE SECTOR PROFILES. CLICK ON THE IMAGES ON PAGE 26 CHILLIWACK SCHOOL DISTRICT #33: Administrative and teaching staff: 1,800 employees. New Chilliwack Secondary School pictured. CHILLIWACK GENERAL HOSPITAL: Administrative and medical staff: 1,400 employees. New outpatient care facility pictured. CONVERGYS CHILLIWACK CALL CENTRE: A staff of 700 employees provide customer care and technical support in English and in French for many of Convergys’ top clients. TYCROP MANUFACTURING: About 400 employees design, engineer, build and provide technical support of mobile equipment for specialized markets around the world. IMW INDUSTRIES: With a staff of 280, IMW is a global leader manufacturing CNG and LNG fueling systems. UNIVERSITY OF THE FRASER VALLEY (UFV): With a staff of 235, UFV provides masters and bachelor degrees, as well as career diplomas and trade and technology certificates. 27 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY KEY SECTORS | | ECONOMICS EMPLOYERS | | DEVELOPMENT LABOUR FORCE | | CONTACTS EMPLOYMENT With a talented workforce, employers can maintain their competitive edge. LABOUR&INDUSTRY LABOUR FORCE Chilliwack’s current labour force is estimated at about 44,725 people. Adding the neighbouring communities, there are about 140,000 people within a 30 minute commute and about 1.5 million people in the Lower Mainland, aged 15 and over that are actively in the workforce. LABOUR QUALITY More people in Chilliwack (31.2%) have a high school diploma as compared to the rest of BC at 25.1%. More people in Chilliwack also have a post-secondary certificate or college diploma at 42.2% as compared to 37.6% in the rest of BC. (Of population aged 24 and over). LABOUR TYPE Compared to the BC average, Chilliwack has more people working in trades (18.8%) and manufacturing (3.9%). Occupations in healthcare, sales, and service are comparable to the rest of BC. There is also a notable number of management occupations (10.6% of the workforce), as well as workers in business, finance, and administration (13% of the workforce). Interestingly, natural resources like agriculture only account for 3.7% of the workforce. WORKFORCE TRAINING Chilliwack is home to Canada Education Park, which offers a variety of training facilities, including the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), the Agriculture Centre of Excellence (ACE), the RCMP Pacific Region Training Centre (PRTC), the Canadian Police College, the Justice Institute of BC (JIBC), and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Learn more about career training options on page 14 of this document. NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES BY OCCUPATION INDUSTRY POPULATION BY EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT (15 + YEARS) BRITISH COLUMBIA CHILLIWACK Management 11.44% 10.56% Business, Finance, Administration 16.01% 13.34% Natural, Applied Sciences, and Related Occupations 6.68% 3.56% Health 6.40% 6.19% Education, Law, Social Services 11.53% 13.94% 35.00% BC 25.00% 20.00% Art, Culture, Recreation, Sport 3.41% 1.77% Sales, Service 24.05% 24.40% Trades, Transport, Equipment operators, and Related Occupations 14.62% 18.75% 10.00% Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Related Production Occupations 2.62% 3.66% 5.00% Manufacturing and Utilities 3.24% 3.89% 0.00% SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census: Chilliwack and BC (accessed 2014) Chilliwack 30.00% 15.00% High School Diploma Trade Certificate College Diploma University University (above bachelor) SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census: Chilliwack and BC (accessed 2014) 28 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | LABOUR & INDUSTRY KEY SECTORS | | ECONOMICS EMPLOYERS | | DEVELOPMENT LABOUR FORCE | | CONTACTS EMPLOYMENT With a talented workforce, employers can maintain their competitive edge. LABOUR&INDUSTRY EMPLOYMENT NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES BY INDUSTRY British Columbia’s south west Lower Mainland is home to 60% to 72% of the province’s workforce. There were 1.5 million people working in the region in 2014. Full-time employment is more common in this region than in other parts of the province, with 79% employed fulltime, of which about 13% are self-employed. The Labour Market outlook for the next decade shows that about 40% of new jobs will be attributed to new growth, while about 60% will be attributed to the replacement of retiring workers. For more information, visit WorkBC.ca. INDUSTRY BRITISH COLUMBIA Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting 61210 2.7% 2265 5.2% Mining, Oil and Gas Extraction 25450 1.1% 250 0.6% Utilities 13215 0.6% 120 0.3% CHILLIWACK Construction 181510 7.9% 4155 9.5% Manufacturing 148810 6.5% 3435 7.8% UNEMPLOYMENT According to the 2011 Census, about 6.7% of the Chilliwack labour force was unemployed, which was slightly less than the provincial average of 7.8%, indicating that employment in Chilliwack remains strong. As of January 2015, unemployment estimates have improved to 5.6% for the southwest mainland region. Wholesale Trade 90560 3.9% 1585 3.6% Retail trade 266265 11.6% 5430 12.4% Transportation and Warehousing 118675 5.1% 2175 5.0% Information and Cultural Ind. 62235 2.7% 445 1.0% For more information, view WorkBC labour market statistics. Finance and Insurance 91790 4.0% 1225 2.8% Real Estate/Rental/Leasing 54840 2.4% 765 1.7% Professional/Scientific/Tech. Services 179355 7.8% 1830 4.2% Management of Companies and Enterprises 2440 0.1% 0 0.0% Also see Statistics Canada’s economic indicators for BC. PERSONAL INCOME TAX RATE EMPLOYMENT FEDERAL 15.00% - 29.00% Administrative Support, Waste Management and Remediation 98890 4.3% 2265 5.2% 3,646,840 PROVINCIAL 5.06% - 16.80% Educational Services 167875 7.3% 3170 7.2% 2,354,245 LOCAL n/a Health Care and Social Assistance 249030 10.8% 4910 11.2% 41,720 2,171,465 UNEARNED INCOME 56915 2.5% 740 1.7% 61.2% 64.6% Accommodation and Food Services 179625 7.8% 3165 7.2% UNEMPLOYMENT RATE 6.7% 7.8% Other Services (except public admin.) 112745 4.9% 2360 5.4% FULL-TIME 76% 77% Dependant on dividend type, income and tax credits Arts, Entertainment and Recreation PARTICIPATION Public Administration 143875 6.2% 3565 8.1% PART-TIME 24% 23% CHILLIWACK BC POPULATION (15 YEARS +) 73,050 LABOUR FORCE 44,725 EMPLOYED SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census (accessed 2014) SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census (accessed 2014) SOURCE: Income Tax Rates, Canada Revenue Agency (updated 2014) 29 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | LIVING COSTS ECONOMICS AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE BUSINESS COSTS | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY BUSINESS LICENCES | | ECONOMICS INCOME & INSURANCE | | DEVELOPMENT | CONTACTS DEVELOPMENT COSTS | TAXATION With a low cost of living and doing business, Chilliwack offers a clear cost advantage for employers and employees. 30 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | LIVING COSTS AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE BUSINESS COSTS | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY BUSINESS LICENCES | | | DEVELOPMENT | CONTACTS DEVELOPMENT COSTS | TAXATION ECONOMICS INCOME & INSURANCE | Chilliwack provides all the benefits of doing business in BC’s Lower Mainland — at a much lower cost. ECONOMICS LIVING COSTS AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE (BC) CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (BC) The cost of living in Chilliwack is significantly lower than Vancouver, primarily due to lower land values. The average cost of a single-family detached home in Chilliwack is $315,428 or about 30% less than Metro Vancouver and about 85% less than Vancouver West. Average monthly shelter costs for owned dwellings in Chilliwack is $1,089. For rented dwellings, the average monthly cost is $857. (2011 Census) All-items 117.7 Total expenditure $74,837 Food 127.4 Total current consumption $58,808 Shelter 113.3 Food expenditures $8,271 Household operations, furnishings and equipment 111.7 Shelter $18,101 Clothing and footwear 101.0 Household operations $3,945 Transportation 126.3 Household furnishings and equipment $1,973 Gasoline 186.4 Clothing and accessories $3,129 AVERAGE HOUSING PRICE (MLS) CONSUMER PRICE INDEX BY CITY Health and personal care 113.2 Transportation $10,319 CHILLIWACK (CHILLIWACK TO BOSTON BAR) British Columbia 117.7 Detached $400,000 Health care $2,929 119.2 Recreation, education and reading 112.6 Vancouver, BC Attached $267,750 Calgary, AB 128.8 131.4 Apartment $146,500 Toronto, ON 123.3 Alcoholic beverages and tobacco Seattle, WA 241.6 All, excluding food and energy 112.1 San Francisco, CA 245.0 All, excluding energy 114.9 Portland, Oregon 235.5 Energy 157.5 Los Angeles, CA 239.2 Goods 112.3 Tobacco and alcoholic beverages Services 122.4 Games of chance FRASER VALLEY (DELTA TO MISSION) Detached $741,000 Attached $344,300 Apartment $217,200 GREATER VANCOUVER (WHISTLER TO PITT MEADOWS) Detached $1,342,500 Attached $589,100 Apartment $462,800 * NOTE: CPI data for Chilliwack is not available. BC average is the closest available representation of Chilliwack. SOURCES: 2013 CPI, CANSIM Statistics Canada (accessed 2014), and 2013 US Bureau of Labor Statistics: Regional Resources (accessed 2014) SOURCE: Real Estate Boards: Chilliwack average (CADREB), Fraser Valley benchmark (FVREB) and Greater Vancouver benchmark (REBGV). (updated 2016) NOTE: All funds listed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated. See Exchange Rate. SOURCE: 2013 CPI, CANSIM Statistics Canada (accessed 2014) Personal care $1,142 Recreation $4,529 Education $1,468 Reading materials and other printed matter $137 $1,389 $121 Miscellaneous expenditures $1,357 Income taxes $10,233 Personal insurance payments and pension contributions $3,809 Gifts of money, support payments and charitable contributions $1,987 SOURCE: 2012 Summary Tables, Statistics Canada (accessed 2014) 31 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | LIVING COSTS AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE BUSINESS COSTS | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY BUSINESS LICENCES | | ECONOMICS INCOME & INSURANCE | | DEVELOPMENT | CONTACTS DEVELOPMENT COSTS | TAXATION Canada’s competitive advantages plus Chilliwack’s low overhead costs helps businesses succeed. ECONOMICS BUSINESS COSTS COMPETITIVE ALTERNATIVES 2014 (TEN YEAR AVERAGE TOTAL COSTS) With business costs 7.2% lower than the US, Canada ranks #2 among all other countries rated in KMPG’s Competitive Alternatives study (2014). Vancouver, with an index of 94.6, is the closest major city to Chilliwack. However, Chilliwack has significantly lower land and facility costs, and as such would be closer to the Canadian average index of 92.8. REDUCING COSTS Canada’s cost advantage has also improved over the last couple of years, reducing costs by 2.2%. In particular Canada saw a decrease in office lease costs and sea freight. Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada, has a clear cost advantage over the US baseline. COST ADVANTAGES (CANADA) SEGMENT INDEX (against US baseline of 100) COST ADVANTAGE Digital 82.2 17.8% R&D 84.2 15.8% Corporate Services 87.6 12.5% Manufacturing 96.2 3.8% * SOURCE: 2014 KPMG Competitive Alternatives Study COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SUBURBAN OFFICE DOWNTOWN SUB -MFG CANADA $27.06 sq.ft. $44.32 sq.ft. $5.49 sq.ft. VANCOUVER $18.47 sq.ft. $26.68 sq.ft. $10.28 sq. ft. CHILLIWACK $8.00 sq.ft. $10.00 sq.ft. $7.41 sq. ft. * SOURCE: 2014 KPMG Competitive Alternatives Study; 2014 Colliers’ Metro Vancouver Office Report, Q2, and 2014 Colliers Metro Vancouver Industrial Market Report, Q2, and Chilliwack Real Estate Board, CADREB. (accessed 2014) COMPETITIVENESS: GLOBAL RANKING RANK GOVERNMENT: Institutional Effectiveness 1 and 2 ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS: World Competitiveness Yearbook 2 - highest at 66.7% ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTIVITY 2 EDUCATION 1 and 2 REGULATORY: MARKET ACCESS 2 ENERGY: self-sufficiency 2 LABOUR COSTS: Statutory Plans 2 - one of the lowest GDP GROWTH 3 LABOUR FORCE: Participation 1 * SOURCE: Canada’s rankings from 2014 KPMG Competitive Alternatives Study NOTE: All funds listed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated. See Exchange Rate. 32 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | LIVING COSTS AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE BUSINESS COSTS | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY BUSINESS LICENCES | | ECONOMICS INCOME & INSURANCE | | DEVELOPMENT | CONTACTS DEVELOPMENT COSTS | TAXATION Low overhead costs draw business to Chilliwack and successful profits keep them here. ECONOMICS BUSINESS LICENSES Any person or group operating, trading or advertising a business for profit in Chilliwack requires a business license, including non-residents. Inspections and approvals (concerning land use, fire, health, gas, waste, etc.) may be required. ANNUAL LICENSE (JANUARY TO DECEMBER) • Resident Business: $100 * plus the following: (1) $0.25 per m2 of commercial floor space occupied; (2) $0.50 per m2 of restaurant/assembly floor space occupied; (3) $0.10 per m2 of industrial floor space occupied. • Non-resident Business: $100 • Residential Rental Business: $100 * plus $2 per rental suite • Accessory Home Occupation/Cottage Industry: $10/$106 SEASONAL LICENCE • Summer – (May 1 to October 31) – One-half Annual Fee. • Winter – (November 1 to April 30) – One-half Annual Fee. For information on the requirements for a license phone the City of Chilliwack at 604-793-2909 or visit chilliwack.com. NOTE: All funds listed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated. See Exchange Rate. RESOURCES: BUSINESS PERMITS AND LICENCES BC Business Registration and Name Approval BC One Stop www.bcbusinessregistry.ca Municipal Permits and Licenses * Business Licence * Inter- Municipal Business Licence • Commercial Kennel Licence • Mobile Vendors Permit Biz Pal Chilliwack Licenses * Business Licence * Special Occasion Licence * Music Licensing • Dog Licensing City of Chilliwack www.chilliwack.com Chilliwack Permits * Temporary Use Permits * Building Permits • Building Inspection Permits • Development Permits * Other Permits City of Chilliwack www.chilliwack.com www.bcbizpal.ca Chilliwack continues to undergo significant business growth and urban development. In the last ten years, Chilliwack business licenses have more than doubled to reach a total of about 4,500 business licenses. 33 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | LIVING COSTS AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE BUSINESS COSTS | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | BUSINESS LICENCES | ECONOMICS | INCOME & INSURANCE | DEVELOPMENT | CONTACTS DEVELOPMENT COSTS | TAXATION With a lower cost of living and comparable wages, Chilliwack residents enjoy a higher standard of living. ECONOMICS INCOME AND INSURANCE WAGES & INCOME Chilliwack’s average family income is $79,360 per year (2011 Census), which is comparative to other cities of its size and distance from a major urban centre. British Columbia’s minimum wage is $10.25 (CAD) per hour up to an average managerial wage of $37.52. PAYROLL Employers must deduct Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions, Employment Insurance (EI) premiums and income tax from an employee’s remuneration and then remit to the Government of Canada. Employers must also contribute 1.4 times the amount of an employee’s EI premiums. Personal income tax rates vary based on earned income. See chart. Learn more. Visit the Canada Revenue Agency: cra-arc.gc.ca. Also visit servicecanada.gc.ca. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY WorkSafeBC is responsible for enforcing the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation and providing insurance coverage and support for employers and workers in the case of injury or disease. The cost of the insurance is based on this formula: (base rate ± experience rating adjustment) x assessable earnings. For more information visit worksafe.com. BENEFIT PACKAGES Benefit packages are paid for in part or in whole by the employer. Benefit packages usually include medical coverage, dental, disability insurance, and a pension plan. Employees get a minimum two weeks of paid vacation and 10 statutory holidays. Learn more about benefits. Visit the Canada Revenue Agency: cra-arc.gc.ca UNIONS There are dozens of unions in Canada that represent the interests of more than three million affiliated workers across the country. For more information, visit Canadian Labour Congress. AVERAGE FAMILY INCOME AVERAGE SALARIES (BC) CHILLIWACK $79,360 CLASSIFICATION CDN$ FRASER VALLEY $83,058 Management $37.52 METRO VANCOUVER $99,723 Business, Finance, Administration $23.03 BC $91,967 Sciences, Natural, Applied and Related $32.38 ABBOTSFORD $88,468 Health Occupations $29.80 MISSION $84,135 Education, Social Science, Government $29.44 Art, Culture, Recreation, Sport $25.21 VANCOUVER $104,278 KAMLOOPS $89,103 HOPE $66,902 LANGLEY CITY $77,507 SURREY $92,446 LANGLEY TOWNSHIP $101,897 Sales and Service $16.14 Trades, Transport, Equipment Operators $25.78 Primary Industry $20.93 Manufacturing, Processing, Utilities $22.49 BC’s Minimum Wage $10.25 SOURCE: Statistics Canada 2014 and BC Min Wage (updated 2014) SOURCE: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census (accessed 2014) PERSONAL INCOME TAX RATE (RANGE) TYPE FEDERAL Earned Income Unearned Income (e.g. Dividend) PROVINCIAL (STATE) LOCAL 15.00% - 29.00% 5.06% - 14.70% N/A Dependant on dividend type, income and tax credits Dependant on dividend type, income and tax credits N/A 7.50% - 14.50% 2.53% - 7.35% N/A Capital Gains SOURCE: Canada Revenue Agency (updated 2014) NOTE: All funds listed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated. See Exchange Rate. 34 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | LIVING COSTS AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE BUSINESS COSTS | | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | BUSINESS LICENCES | DEVELOPMENT | CONTACTS DEVELOPMENT COSTS | TAXATION ECONOMICS | INCOME & INSURANCE Chilliwack has one of the lowest business and development costs in BC’s Lower Mainland. ECONOMICS DEVELOPMENT COSTS MUNICIPAL SURVEY OF TAXES & DEVELOPMENT COST CHARGES LAND COSTS In Chilliwack, depending on location, the average land costs are roughly as follows: • Industrial: $550,000 - $700,000 per acre • Commercial: $800,000 per acre Downtown / $1M - 1.2M Sardis-Vedder • Agricultural: $ 50,000 - $100,000 per acre DEVELOPMENT COST CHARGE When construction value exceeds $50,000, property developers must pay a Development Cost Charge (DCC) prior to obtaining a Building Permit. These fees are used to fund capital improvements to the sewer, water, drainage, and road infrastructure and the acquisition of parkland and open spaces. View Chart. BUILDING PERMITS A Building Permit is required if you are going to construct a new building, renovate or improve unfinished areas of a dwelling, make structural changes or repairs, move a building, build an accessory building larger than 10m2, demolish all or a portion of a structure or dwelling, or install a wood burning appliance or a hearth stove. Costs are based on a percentage of the construction costs. For example, the building permit for a $15,000 deck would cost approximately $191. Or an average permit for a new Single Family Dwelling would be about $2,000. Visit chilliwack.com. OTHER PERMITS, LICENSES, OR FEES Depending on the needs of your building project, other permits or costs may be necessary. These include, but are not limited to: water/sewer connection fees, geotechnical reports, and tree and green space management plan and security. For more information on permit and licensing fees, visit chilliwack.com. “Rated tops. Lowest tax burden. Best timing.” — NAIOP 2014 MUNICIPAL REPORT CARD NOTE: All funds listed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated. See Exchange Rate. (EXAMPLE: LIGHT INDUSTRIAL BUILDING; 10 ACRES; 50,000 SQ. FT) COMMUNITY LAND IMPROVEMENTS INDUSTRIAL TAX RATE TOTAL TAXES DCC RATES TOTAL DCC TOTAL MUNICIPAL CHARGES Chilliwack 5,500,000 2,611,000 8.94670 74,785 20.78/SQ.M. 96,526 171,311 Abbotsford 7,100,000 2,611,000 10.56300 102,577 58.00/SQ.M. 269,419 371.996 Maple Ridge 8,000,000 2,611,000 12.30380 130,556 12.15/SQ.M. + 3,794 /HA 71,792 202,348 Langley Township 8,000,000 2,611,000 9.7041 102,970 66.12 /SQ.M. 307,137 410,108 Delta 9,000,000 2,611,000 10.23740 125,093 33.16/SQ.M. 154,033 279,126 Surrey 9,000,000 2,611,000 6.09370 70,754 63.29/SQ.M. 293,992 364,746 Coquitlam 9,000,000 2,611,000 13.52510 157,040 60.36/SQ.M. 280,381 171,311 DEVELOPMENT COST CHARGE (DCC) BYLAW 2000, NO. 2689 Residential Subdivision (PER PARCEL) WATER SEWER ROADS DRAINAGE PARKLAND $1,711.36 $2,256.52 $15,443.81 $1391.10 $3,546.72 Multi-Family Residential Development – Townhouse (per unit) $1,258.35 $1,659.21 $12,312.93 $717.99 $1,830.56 – Apartment (per unit) $1,006.68 $1,327.37 $11,610.94 $717.99 $1,830.56 $855.68 $1,128.26 $6,233.68 $717.99 $1,830.56 – Small Apartment (per unit) – Congregate Living $728.24 $960.22 $2,471.01 $717.99 $1,830.56 $1,258.35 $1,659.21 $12,312.93 $717.99 $1,830.56 Commercial (per m²) $7.61 $5.01 $31.21 n/a n/a Institutional (per m²) $7.61 $5.01 $18.73 $7.99 $19.79 Industrial (per m²) $4.34 $2.86 $13.58 n/a n/a Subdivision or Mobile Home Park Development (per pad space) SOURCE: City of Chilliwack (updated 2016) 35 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | LIVING COSTS AMENITIES | | INFRASTRUCTURE BUSINESS COSTS | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY BUSINESS LICENCES | | ECONOMICS INCOME & INSURANCE | | DEVELOPMENT | CONTACTS DEVELOPMENT COSTS | TAXATION Canada’s marginal effective tax rate is lower than all G-7 countries and about 17 points lower than the USA. ECONOMICS TAXATION CORPORATE INCOME TAX/FRANCHISE TAX Governments at all levels work to limit or reduce taxes and make investment attractive. Federal and provincial governments also provide incentives to attract business investment. BUSINESS INCOME UP TO $500,000 BUSINESS INCOME OVER $500,000 MFG. & PROCESSING FEDERAL FEDERAL TAXES Canada’s overall marginal effective tax rate is by far the lowest in the G-7 at about 17 percentage points lower than that of the United States. Federal corporate income tax is between 11% and 15%. Visit Invest in Canada. (Note: Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) is 5%). Rate (range) 11% 15% NOTE: Various capital asset classes permit accelerated depreciation. PROVINCIAL TAXES With a low corporate tax rate of between 2.5% and 11%, in addition to several tax incentives and credits, as well as some other tax breaks, BC is among the lowest major industrialized nations. Learn more. Visit Trade and Invest BC. (Note: Provincial Sales Tax (PST) is 7%). LOCAL MUNICIPAL TAXES Business tax rates in the City of Chilliwack are almost two-thirds less than neighbouring communities. Property tax rates are calculated by the City of Chilliwack. The City of Chilliwack also offers revitalization tax incentives. View chart and visit chilliwack.com. NOTE: $500,000 threshold is based on taxable income over or below that amount, reduced only when taxable capital exceeds $15,000,000 (Federal & Provincial). COMPARISON OF MUNICIPAL TAXES MUNICIPALITY PROPERTY TAXES ON A REP. HOUSE RESIDENTIAL TAXES / CAPITA BUSINESS & OTHER TAXES/CAPITA TOTAL TAXATION PER CAPITA Chilliwack 2,721 526 225 751 Abbotsford 3,169 548 325 873 Langley Township 3,123 595 374 969 North Vancouver City 4,223 569 456 1,025 SOURCE: City of Chilliwack (updated 2016) 15% PROVINCIAL Rate (range) Federal Tax Deductible 2.5% No Rate (range) 0% NOTE: British Columbia has no local corporate income taxes. TOTAL CORPORATE INCOME TAX 13.5% (Federal and Provincial) 11% No 11% No 0% 0% 26.0% 26.0% SOURCE: KPMG (updated 2014) NOTE: There are no provincial payroll taxes, no capital tax, and no property tax on most production machinery or equipment. Also note: Federal tax laws require employers to pay only 4.95 per cent of payroll for social security taxes and 2.63 per cent for employment insurance. REAL PROPERTY TAX RATES: MUNICIPALITY $ PER $1000 OF ASSESSED PROPERTY (LAND/BUILDINGS) BUSINESS LIGHT INDUSTRY MAJOR INDUSTRY RESIDENTIAL Chilliwack 9.7 9.6 0 4.8 Kent 11.0 14.8 0 4.1 SOURCE: Trade and Invest BC (updated 2016) NOTE: All funds listed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated. See Exchange Rate. 36 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | HIGHLIGHTS DEVELOPMENT AMENITIES | | INDUSTRIAL INFRASTRUCTURE | COMMERCIAL | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | INSTITUTIONAL | | ECONOMICS RESIDENTIAL | | DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN | | CONTACTS FUTURE GROWTH With low overhead costs and a desirable quality of life, Chilliwack growth and development is booming. 37 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS HIGHLIGHTS | AMENITIES | | INDUSTRIAL INFRASTRUCTURE | COMMERCIAL | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | INSTITUTIONAL | | ECONOMICS RESIDENTIAL | | | DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN | CONTACTS FUTURE GROWTH Chilliwack enjoys an average of 12% annual growth, generating about $121 million in yearly investment. DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS RECENT DEVELOPMENT Over the past decade, Chilliwack has seen about $1.5 billion in investment. • INDUSTRIAL: Industrial development totalled about $155 million, generating about 215,000 square meters of industrial space over the last 10 years. View Page 39. • COMMERCIAL: Commercial investment has grown significantly with about $230 million in new building permits over the last decade, providing about 150,000 square meters of new floor space. View Page 40. 200 150 100 50 0 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Low overhead costs, combined with population growth, a world-class education system, and a skilled labour force, are some of the factors that have led to this development boom. Chilliwack: All Building Permit Values (adjusted) 250 $ Million Chilliwack continues to grow steadily from year to year. Annual fluctuations aside, Chilliwack’s building permit growth over the last 30 years averages to about 12% per year generating about $121 million in annual investment. Accumulated investment over the last three decades has reached a total of $3.6 billion. Of this total, about 60% was invested in residential development, and the remaining 40% invested in commercial, industrial, institutional and agricultural development. ALL BUILDING PERMITS ($ MILLIONS) Residential Commercial (incl. estimates for First Nations) Institutional Industrial Agricultural SOURCE: City of Chilliwack (updated 2016) Note: The total values include First Na4on Reserve commercial developments. • INSTITUTIONAL: Institutional construction has also grown in value with about $216 million of investment, providing about 85,000 square meters of new floor space over the last 10 years. View Page 41. • RESIDENTIAL: Most notably, Chilliwack’s residential sector has seen the most growth with about $1 billion in construction over the last decade. View Page 42. INDUSTRIAL: Langley Concrete chose Chilliwack for low land costs and easy access to markets. RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL: Master-planned community Garrison Crossing. • DOWNTOWN: From the Chilliwack Cultural Centre to several multi-family residential developments, Downtown Chilliwack has seen significant improvements. View Page 43. 38 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS HIGHLIGHTS | AMENITIES | | INDUSTRIAL INFRASTRUCTURE | COMMERCIAL | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | INSTITUTIONAL | | ECONOMICS RESIDENTIAL | | DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN | | CONTACTS FUTURE GROWTH With plenty of economical land, Chilliwack is the ideal location for industrial development. DEVELOPMENT INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT Chilliwack’s industrial sector has grown significantly over the last 30 years, with a total of more than $255 million in industrial building permit values, averaging out to about $33.5 million per year. During this same period, Chilliwack also saw nearly $150 million in agricultural building permit values, averaging about $5 million in improvements per year. In the last decade alone, Chilliwack saw about $155 million in industrial building permit values, generating about 215,000 square meters of industrial space for a total of about 230,000 square meters. INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AREA: VILLAGE WEST INDUSTRIAL AREAS VILLAGE WEST (75% OF INDUSTRIAL LAND AREA) Located north of the TransCanada Highway and west of Chilliwack Proper • • • • • Chilliwack Business Estates Cattermole Industrial Estates : 200+ acre heavy industrial park. Highway 1 Business Park : 84 acre industrial park. Progress Way Industrial Park: 72.6 acre industrial park, with 21 industrial parcels. Kerr Avenue/Brannick Place Agri-Industrial Subdivision: 67.3 acre food processing industrial subdivision. VIEW CITY OF CHILLIWACK ONLINE MAPPING TOOL AT WWW.MAPS.CHILLIWACK.COM Chilliwack Industrial Building Permits INDUSTRIAL BUILDING PERMITS ($ MILLIONS) Millions $35 Permit Value New Floor Space m2 70,000 $30 60,000 • Legacy Pacific Industrial Park: This industrial and food processing park has undergone a number of major expansions in recent years, adding about $23.5 million in new development. $25 50,000 $20 40,000 COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL CORRIDOR $15 30,000 A small percentage of industrial land exists in Chilliwack Proper and Sardis-Vedder. This area also includes the Chilliwack Municipal Airport. $10 20,000 $5 10,000 RURAL INDUSTRIAL (25% OF INDUSTRIAL LAND AREA) COSTS AND INCENTIVES Chilliwack industrial land prices range from $550,000 to $700,000 per acre. Lease rates vary from $5 to $8 per square foot plus approximately $2 to $3 triple net. Also view incentives: • Industrial Revitalization Tax Exemption $0 0 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 SOURCE: City of Chilliwack (updated 2016) 39 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | HIGHLIGHTS AMENITIES | | INDUSTRIAL INFRASTRUCTURE | COMMERCIAL | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | INSTITUTIONAL | | ECONOMICS RESIDENTIAL | | | DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN | CONTACTS FUTURE GROWTH With growing economic prosperity, the demand for commercial development is blossoming. DEVELOPMENT COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT The City of Chilliwack has seen more than $408 million in new commercial permit values over the last 30 years, with an average annual permit value over the last decade of about $20 million per year. Current estimated floor space is about 445,000 square meters, of which 33% is general merchandize, 10% food, 21% automotive, 15% office/business, and 20% amusement, food and beverage, and other. In the last decade, Chilliwack has seen about $230 million in new commercial growth, providing about 150,000 square meters of new floor space. $35 $30 This 5-acre site has 7 new commercial buildings, including Tim Hortons, BMO Bank of Montreal, Pharmasave and a medical office. $20 The Promontory Hillside Plaza is a three-storey building with businesses on the ground level (4 CRUs for a total floor space of 1,090 m2) and 19 apartments on the upper floors for a total construction value is $5 million. And Promontory Heights Plaza is an outdoor mall including Shoppers Drug Mart, ScotiaBank, two medical/dental offices, restaurants and several CRUs with a total floor area of 3015.1 m² (32,454 sq.ft.) at a construction value of $3.25 million. $25 15,000 10,000 $15 $10 5,000 $5 0 Total Chilliwack 2015 $0 2010 PROMONTORY PLAZAS 20,000 1985 This 1,960 m² (21,094 sq.ft.) retail/commercial development has created 19 strata units of new retail space at a construction cost of $1.8 million. 25,000 $40 VILLAGE AT SARDIS PARK COMMERCIAL CENTRE VEDDER VILLAGE MALL 30,000 $45 2005 This 65,032 m² (700,000 sq.ft.) commercial development includes Home Depot, Walmart Supercentre, and Galaxy Cinema (Cineplex). $50 2000 EAGLE LANDING COMMERCIAL BUILDING PERMITS ($ MILLIONS) Chilliwack Commercial Building Permits 1995 This $25.25 million project includes several commercial buildings including Cooper’s Foods and five mixed-use buildings (128 apartments above street-level businesses) framing the pedestrian-friendly “high street” open mall. EAGLE LANDING GARRISON VILLAGE OPEN MALL 1990 GARRISON VILLAGE OPEN MALL Millions RECENT NOTABLE PROJECTS M2 New Floor Space m2 (adjusted) Notes: 1: 1997 and 2011-2013 values include Vedder Crossing Plaza in Tzeachten Reserve and Eagle Landing Shopping Centre in Squiala Reserve (estimated values only), respectively. 2. Floor space records prior to 1996 are not available.. SOURCE: City of Chilliwack (updated 2016) 40 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS HIGHLIGHTS | AMENITIES | | INDUSTRIAL INFRASTRUCTURE | COMMERCIAL | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | INSTITUTIONAL | | ECONOMICS RESIDENTIAL | | DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN | | CONTACTS FUTURE GROWTH Canada Education Park, with many notable training facilities, makes Chilliwack a regional destination for education. DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT In the institutional sector, the construction value of developments over the past 30 years total almost $530 million, with the average annual permit value of about $38.5 million. In the last decade, investment in institutional construction totalled $216 million, providing about 85,000 square meters of new space. RECENT NOTABLE PROJECTS CANADA EDUCATION PARK Established in 2003, this 200-acre site showcases several major institutions including the RCMP Pacific Region Training Centre (PRTC), Canadian Police College, Justice Institute of BC (JIBC), Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), and the Agriculture Centre of Excellence (ACE). The Park’s projected student population is expected to grow exponentially with the number of full-time students increasing to 18,470 by 2020. CHEAM LEISURE CENTRE This $9 million renovation of the former Cheam Centre showcases a 6-lane, 25 metre swimming pool, lazy river, hot tub, sauna, squash courts, weight training room, fitness equipment, double gymnasium, and meeting and multi-purpose rooms. UNIVERSITY OF THE FRASER VALLEY TRADES AND TECHNOLOGY CENTRE In 2006, UFV upgraded 85 acres of the former Canadian Forces Base (CFB) and transformed it into a modern Trades and Technology Centre with a total floor space of 10,684 m² (115,000 sq.ft.) at a total investment of $29 million. In 2011, UFV also renovated 5,000 m2 (53,800 sq.ft.) of the former CFB Engineering Building and built 9,000 m2 (97500 sq.ft.) of new construction. CHILLIWACK CULTURAL CENTRE CHILLIWACK GENERAL HOSPITAL (CGH) The new $19.5 million Chilliwack Cultural Centre, opened September 2010, consists of the Chilliwack Art Gallery; HUB International Theatre, a 584-seat proscenium arch theatre; Rotary Hall Studio Theatre, a 168-seat black box studio theatre; 21 music instruction rooms; four arts and crafts studios; meeting rooms; and related amenities. In 2011, CGH completed a $35 million Emergency and Lab building, with an improved entry and major renovations to the ambulatory care facilities. Chilliwack: Institutional Building Permit Value (adjusted) INSTITUTIONAL BUILDING PERMITS ($ MILLIONS) PROSPERA CENTRE SPORTS ARENA $70 This 9,476.1 m² (102,000 sq.ft.) facility consists of two arenas; the main arena has 5,700 seats. In 2005, it expanded its seating capacity to accommodate major spectator events for a total project cost of $21.5 million. $60 $50 Millions $40 $30 $20 $10 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 $0 Total Permit Value in Nominal $ CHILLIWACK CULTURAL CENTRE CHILLIWACK GENERAL HOSPITAL : NEW TRAUMA CENTRE SOURCE: City of Chilliwack (updated 2016) 1985-2014 (30 yr.) Average Total Value in Nominal $ 41 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS HIGHLIGHTS | AMENITIES | | INDUSTRIAL INFRASTRUCTURE | COMMERCIAL | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | INSTITUTIONAL | | ECONOMICS RESIDENTIAL | | | DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN | CONTACTS FUTURE GROWTH Affordable housing enables residents to enjoy a superb quality of life. DEVELOPMENT RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT Most of Chilliwack’s growth has occurred in the residential sector, comprising 60% of assessments. Over the last 30 years, Chilliwack saw more than $2.2 billion in new residential development, averaging $75 million per year. In the last decade, Chilliwack saw nearly $1 billion in residential investment. There are currently about 34,000 households in Chilliwack with about 750 new housing starts per year, averaged over the last decade. Of the new housing starts in 2014, about 52% are single family housing and 48% multi-unit complexes. SOUTHERN HILLSIDES: PROMONTORY - RYDER LAKE - EASTERN HILLSIDES There are nearly 3,700 private dwellings on the hillsides. Promontory, established in 1992, has seen the greatest growth, with 2,250 housing starts in the last 15 years. This is a hillside neighbourhood predominantly featuring single-family homes and townhouses, with a planned capacity of 10,000 people. Ryder Lake is an established neighbourhood of estate homes with acreage. The Eastern Hillside is seeing the most recent growth with a planned fully serviced urban development, featuring The Falls Country Club and a residential resort, with an ultimate capacity for 13,000 people. RESIDENTIAL AREAS There are about 3,500 private dwellings, predominantly single-family detached homes, in these areas. As these areas are predominantly located in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) little future development is expected. To see a map of Chilliwack and its neighbourhoods, visit chilliwack.com. Chilliwack: Housing Starts RESIDENTIAL HOUSING STARTS (UNITS) Units SOUTH: SARDIS - VEDDER - GARRISON CROSSING 1,600 South of the highway is Sardis and further south is Vedder. This area was established in 1970 and predominantly features mixed-use commercial/residential and multi-family residential complexes in its core, with some single-family homes on the outskirts. There are about 11,500 private dwellings in this area, with about 3,700 housing starts in the last 15 years. 1,400 The southern Vedder area also features one of the city’s most recent flagship developments: Garrison Crossing. Established in 2004, Garrison Crossing is a “master-planned” residential neighborhood (153 acres), designed to accommodate 1,500 to 1,800 compact single homes, townhouses and condominiums, together with 7432.2 m² (80,000+ sq.ft.) of “vertically mixed” commercial/institutional/residential development. It incorporates many “neo-traditional” and “new urbanism” neighborhood features, such as pedestrian friendly roads and pathways, “green streetscape”, an urban wood lot, and a Legacy Walk on the history of the former Canadian Forces Base (CFB). 600 1,200 1,000 800 400 200 Mobile Home Secondary Suites and Other Apartment Townhouse Duplex 2015 2011 2007 2003 1999 1995 1991 1987 1983 1971 0 1979 North of the Trans Canada Highway, Chilliwack Proper consists of about 16,000 private dwellings. The area in and around downtown Chilliwack is seeing the greatest growth in multi-family residential development and mixed commercial/residential development with about 3,000 housing starts in the past 15 years. The western section of this area, Village West, is mostly seeing industrial development. Chilliwack Mountain is also seeing some subdivision and could accommodate residential development to a capacity of 4,500 people. AGRICULTURAL LAND RESERVE (ALR) AREAS: GREENDALE - YARROW - ROSEDALE 1975 NORTH: CHILLIWACK PROPER - VILLAGE WEST - CHILLIWACK MOUNTAIN Single Note: Housing starts in First Na0on Reserves are not included. SOURCE: City of Chilliwack (updated 2016) 42 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | HIGHLIGHTS AMENITIES | | INDUSTRIAL INFRASTRUCTURE | COMMERCIAL | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | INSTITUTIONAL | | ECONOMICS RESIDENTIAL | | DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN | | CONTACTS FUTURE GROWTH Redevelopment initiatives and incentives are transforming the pedestrian-friendly downtown. DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT Initiatives by the Downtown Chilliwack Business Improvement Association, the City of Chilliwack and Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation (CEPCO) have led to multiple revitalization projects, including: • Downtown storefront facade and canopy improvement program: multiple retailers. • Five Corners Plaza: $2 million providing 1,672 m² (18,000 sq. ft.) of floor space. • Court House: $5.5 million investment providing 2,972.9 m² (32,000 sq. ft.). • Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre: $13 million. FIVE CORNERS PLAZA COURT HOUSE STORE FRONT FACADE IMPROVEMENT PROSPERA CENTRE ARENA CHILLIWACK LANDING LEISURE CENTRE COAST CHILLIWACK HOTEL • Prospera Centre Arena: $21.5 million for 9,500 m² (102,000 sq. ft.) construction. • Chilliwack Cultural Centre: art gallery, 500+ seat performance theatre, 250 seat studio, music rooms, instruction rooms, arts and crafts studios and related amenities (5,987 m2) valued at $22 million (2009/2010). • Central Community Park: $1.3 million investment (2005). New design includes an outdoor amphitheater, water feature, special lighting, pathways, interpretative signage and significant architectural details. • Coast Chilliwack Hotel (First Avenue): $5 million renovation of 110 guest rooms, banquet rooms and meeting facilities, an indoor pool with hot tub and sauna, a fitness facility, and Preston’s, the hotel’s in-house restaurant. (2008). • Multi-family Residential Projects: - Birch Street Condominium Apartment: 58-unit apartment valued $4.7 million (2007). - TRI-R Development: A 55-unit condominium (6,059 m2) valued at $7 million (2009). - Fairview Apartments: 55-unit apartment (3,488 m2) valued at $2.3 million (2009). LEARN MORE • Chilliwack Downtown Plan (Downtown Core Task Force) • Downtown Revitalization Tax Exemption (City of Chilliwack) 43 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | HIGHLIGHTS AMENITIES | | INDUSTRIAL INFRASTRUCTURE | COMMERCIAL | LABOUR & INDUSTRY | INSTITUTIONAL | | ECONOMICS RESIDENTIAL | | DEVELOPMENT DOWNTOWN | | CONTACTS FUTURE GROWTH Incentives, initiatives and progressive action is transforming Chilliwack into an attractive site selection destination. DEVELOPMENT FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES CEPCO continues to work with several public and private parties to make industrial, commercial and institutional lands available for development or investment. Some areas of potential growth include: ZONING AREAS: CITY OF CHILLIWACK COMMERCIAL Chilliwack has plenty of commercial opportunities. Downtown Chilliwack, in particular, with its recent renovations, redevelopment, and street-scaping improvements, has become a popular location for new investment. Explore the vision and learn about tax incentives: • Chilliwack Downtown Plan • Downtown Revitalization Tax Exemption • Also visit Downtown Chilliwack Business Improvement Association INDUSTRIAL With low industrial land costs, Chilliwack is ideal for manufacturing, food processing, technology, warehousing and more. Various sites are available. Contact CEPCO to explore site locations. Also explore industrial tax incentives: • Industrial Revitalization Tax Exemption RESIDENTIAL As much of Chilliwack’s land is part of the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), most residential development is designated along the hillsides. See the Affordable Housing Strategy. AGRICULTURAL The City of Chilliwack supports sustainable agricultural development. The Official Community Plan was amended to adopt the Agricultural Area Plan. Learn more. LEARN MORE The City of Chilliwack’s plan for long-term growth and development can be viewed in their 2040 Official Community Plan. VIEW MORE MAPS AT MAPS.CHILLIWACK.COM . NOTE: The majority of Chilliwack’s land is dedicated to agriculture at 64%. This land is part of the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR). The remaining 36% of Chilliwack’s land is divided as follows: 20% Residential, 10% Commercial, and 6% Industrial. Within these areas, there remains another 4% of land that is available for further development or redevelopment. 44 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE CHILLIWACK ECONOMIC PARTNERS CORPORATION CONTACTS | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY GOVERNMENTS | | ECONOMICS TRADE & INVESTMENT CANADA | | DEVELOPMENT IMMIGRATION | | CONTACTS RESOURCES Multiple programs and resources are available for businesses, investors and immigrants. 45 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE CHILLIWACK ECONOMIC PARTNERS CORPORATION | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY GOVERNMENTS | | ECONOMICS TRADE & INVESTMENT CANADA | | DEVELOPMENT IMMIGRATION | | CONTACTS RESOURCES Chilliwack Economic Partners helps new and existing businesses succeed CONTACTS CHILLIWACK ECONOMIC PARTNERS CORPORATION (CEPCO) HEALTHCARE AND EDUCATION CEPCO understands the importance of healthcare and education to our community and economy. As a result, CEPCO actively assists our local health authority and hospital with the attraction of healthcare professionals. CEPCO also works with the Chilliwack School District, the University of the Fraser Valley, and other post secondary institutions on a variety of initiatives and programs. Also ask about Chilliwack’s Canada Education Park. SITE SELECTION AND INVESTMENT CEPCO helps businesses explore site selection and investment options in the City of Chilliwack. They provide community information (demographics and labour force data) and project development assistance (fast-track building permits and approvals, zoning, development cost charges, engineering and infrastructures). Research assistance, as well as connections to government funding and other entities, is also available. IMMIGRATION SUPPORT CEPCO works with applicants and representatives of the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in order to fast track the immigration of business investors and skilled professionals. Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation (CEPCO) is responsible for the City of Chilliwack’s economic development. CEPCO’s main purpose is to enhance the community’s economic prosperity and quality of life by attracting new business and development and by providing business retention, location and support services to new and existing businesses. BUSINESS RELOCATION OR EXPANSION Whether you want to expand or relocate your business, CEPCO will assist you with coordinating various aspects of your move to Chilliwack. From streamlining permits and approvals to coordinating human resource consulting or housing, CEPCO’s goal is to have your business up and running as soon as possible. BUSINESS RETENTION Supporting Chilliwack’s existing businesses is one of CEPCO’s top priorities. Through one-onone consulting, industry events, and business seminars, CEPCO can help local businesses discover ways to increase productivity and profitability. EMPLOYEE ATTRACTION, RETENTION AND TRAINING If you are looking to improve your productivity, CEPCO can assist you in accessing provincial and/or federal funding for technical training, soft skills training, human resource consulting and other programs. If you are looking to attract new employees, CEPCO can help connect you to local employment service providers. CHILLIWACK CREATIVE COMMISSION The Chilliwack Creative Commission acts on behalf of CEPCO to attract and facilitate film production in the community. Visit chilliwackcreativecommission.com. CHILLIWACK AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION The Chilliwack Agricultural Commission’s mandate is to encourage the continued development of Chilliwack as a centre of excellence in agriculture with projects and activities that facilitate a diverse and sustainable agricultural sector. Visit chilliwackagriculturalcommission.com. CHILLIWACK ECONOMIC PARTNERS CORPORATION ADDRESS: #201 – 46093 Yale Road, Chilliwack, BC V2P 2L8 TELEPHONE: 1-800-561-8803 or 1-604-792-7839 EMAIL: info@chilliwackpartners.com WEBSITE: www.chilliwackeconomicpartners.com 46 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | | AMENITIES INFRASTRUCTURE CHILLIWACK ECONOMIC PARTNERS CORPORATION | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY GOVERNMENTS | | ECONOMICS TRADE & INVESTMENT CANADA | | DEVELOPMENT IMMIGRATION | | CONTACTS RESOURCES Government at all levels provide services to support business growth and development CONTACTS GOVERNMENT PROFILES MUNICIPAL: CITY OF CHILLIWACK The municipal government consist of a mayor, 6 councillors and 323 staff members. City services include engineering/operations (such as roads, sewer, drainage), civic services, fire and police, development (including planning, building, and business licensing), parks and recreation, as well as finance and administration. Economic development initiatives are handled through Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation. Visit: www.chilliwack.com. REGIONAL: FRASER VALLEY REGIONAL DISTRICT The Regional District is made up of seven electoral areas and six member municipalities, including Chilliwack, Abbotsford and Mission. Their services are diverse and include regional parks, pest control, and waste management. Their goal is to establish a vision and support the long-term development of the region. Visit: www.fvrd.bc.ca. PROVINCIAL: GOVERNMENT OF BRITISH COLUMBIA The provincial government ministries include education, agriculture, fisheries, family, energy, finance, forests, health, human resources, public safety, transportation, water, land and air protection, and more. The Provincial Government owns a number of crown corporations, including (but not limited to) BC Ferries, BC Hydro, BC Transit, ICBC, and Tourism BC, and are involved in numerous other provincial programs, activities and services. Visit: www.gov.bc.ca. FEDERAL: GOVERNMENT OF CANADA The Government of Canada has several departments, agencies and crown corporations, from Agriculture and Agri-Foods Canada to Statistics Canada to Western Economic Diversification Canada. Services include Service Canada, Canada Business, Canada International, and many more. Visit: www.canada.ca. CONTACTS CITY OF CHILLIWACK MAYOR: COUNCILLORS: TELEPHONE WEBSITE: Sharon Gaetz Sue Attrill, Chris Kloot, Jason Lum, Ken Popove, Chuck Stam, Sam Waddington 604-792-9311 www.chilliwack.com PROVINCE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA CHILLIWACK’S BC ACCESS CENTRE LOCAL AGENT:604-795-8415 WEBSITE: www.servicebc.gov.bc.ca MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY MLA: John Martin Chilliwack Constituency Office TELEPHONE: 604-702-5214 EMAIL:john.martin.mla@leg.bc.ca MLA: Laurie Throness Chilliwack-Hope Constituency Office TELEPHONE: 604-702-9633 EMAIL: laurie.throness.mla@leg.bc.ca GOVERNMENT OF CANADA: MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT MP: Mark Strahl TELEPHONE:604-847-9711 EMAIL:mark.strahl@parl.gc.ca WEBSITE:www.markstrahl.ca 47 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE CHILLIWACK ECONOMIC PARTNERS CORPORATION | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY GOVERNMENTS | | ECONOMICS TRADE & INVESTMENT CANADA | | DEVELOPMENT IMMIGRATION | | CONTACTS RESOURCES The Government of Canada supports International Trade with over 150 DFATD offices world-wide. CONTACTS DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT CANADA (DFATD) Part of the mandate of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada is to encourage international trade and increase economic opportunity through their Canadian Trade Commissioner Service. INVEST IN CANADA The Canadian Trade Commissioner Service has over 150 trade offices around the world to assist current and prospective international investors. They provide confidential strategic expertise, market intelligence, connections, facilitation, and support at no charge. Discover Canada’s investment advantages, its vibrant industries, and learn how to establish your business in Canada. Visit Invest In Canada. EXPORTING FROM CANADA The Canadian Trade Commissioner Service has offices in every province to help companies and organizations navigate the complexities of international markets. Whether you are looking to export or invest in a foreign venture, the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service can provide market intelligence and support free of charge. Learn more. Visit Export from Canada. OPENING NEW MARKETS Learn more about Canada’s international trade agreements and other services for business. Visit Foreign Affairs,Trade and Development Canada. VIEW FEATURE VIDEO ON INVEST IN CANADA WEBSITE: WWW.INTERNATIONAL.GC.CA Financial stability, low business costs and a highly skilled and educated workforce have made Canada a top investment destination. 48 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE CHILLIWACK ECONOMIC PARTNERS CORPORATION | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY GOVERNMENTS | | ECONOMICS TRADE & INVESTMENT CANADA | | DEVELOPMENT IMMIGRATION | | CONTACTS RESOURCES Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada welcomes immigrants and investors to build a life here. CONTACTS IMMIGRATION There are several ways to immigrate to Canada through both the provincial and federal governments in Canada. PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAM (PNP) The government of British Columbia’s Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training administers the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows applicants to enter as either a “skilled worker” or a “business entrepreneur.” For more information, visit their website Welcome BC. FEDERAL IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS There are multiple federal immigration programs administered by Immigration Canada. These include: • Federal Skilled Worker Program • Federal Skilled Trades Worker Program • Canadian Experience Class • Start-up Visa Program • Self-Employed Persons Program • Family Sponsorship • Live-in Caregiver Program • Temporary Foreign Worker Program For more information, visit the Government of Canada website. IMMIGRATION FOR STUDENTS British Columbia’s teachers and institutions are ranked among the best in the world, and the cost of studying here is lower than in many other locations. Learn More: Study for Minor Children | Post-Secondary Studies | English As A Second Language (ESL) | Get Ready to Study in B.C. VIEW THE BC NEWCOMER’S GUIDE. VISIT WELCOME BC. Explore immigrant investment opportunities in Chilliwack. Contact Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation. 49 OVERVIEW | DEMOGRAPHICS | AMENITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE CHILLIWACK ECONOMIC PARTNERS CORPORATION | | LABOUR & INDUSTRY GOVERNMENTS | | ECONOMICS TRADE & INVESTMENT CANADA | | DEVELOPMENT IMMIGRATION | | CONTACTS RESOURCES Multiple business resources are available to support business growth and development. CONTACTS BUSINESS RESOURCES CHILLIWACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce supports business growth, education, connections, and economic development, as well as environmental, cultural, and governmental concerns. Visit chilliwackchamber.com. BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (BIA) – DOWNTOWN CHILLIWACK The Downtown Chilliwack Business Improvement Association (BIA) is a non-profit organization representing over 240 property owners and 360 businesses. They are responsible for revitalizing and enhancing downtown Chilliwack through physical improvements, regulatory controls, customer attraction, and business development programs. Visit downtownchilliwack.com. TOURISM CHILLIWACK Tourism Chilliwack helps strengthen and develop the tourism industry through marketing community attractions, supporting local tourism businesses and greeting visitors at the Visitor Information Center, located on Luckakuck Way beside Heritage Park, just off the Trans Canada Highway at Lickman Exit 116. Visit tourismchilliwack.com. BUSINESS RESOURCE LINKS CANADA’S PACIFIC GATEWAY Transportation infrastructure between North America and the world SERVICE CANADA Information for employers, immigrants and more. Includes information on employment insurance, hiring, funding, and other resources CANADA BUSINESS NETWORK www.canadabusiness.ca Information on starting, planning, and managing a business SMALL BUSINESS BC Small business information, resources, and services BC BUSINESS REGISTRY Register your business name and more at OneStop Business Registry EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT CANADA esdc.gc.ca Information on funding, labour market data, training, employee insurance, and more EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS BRANCH Information on Employment Standards and more pacificgateway.gov.bc.ca servicecanada.gc.ca www.smallbusinessbc.ca www.bcbusinessregistry.ca www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb EMPLOYER’S ADVISORS OFFICE www.labour.gov.bc.ca/eao WORKSAFE BC Enforcement body of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation. Also provides workforce insurance and compensation BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BANK OF CANADA The Business Development Bank of Canada provides business consulting and loans based on cash flow and quality management COMMUNITY FUTURES SOUTH FRASER Business Start-up Loans, Self Employment Program (SEP), workshops and coaching WESTERN ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION www.wd.gc.ca Helps with business and economic development through business support, research, training, and funding programs FARM CREDIT CANADA Canada’s leading agriculture lender www.worksafebc.com www.bdc.ca www.southfraser.com www.fcc-fac.ca 50 #201 – 46093 Yale Road, Chilliwack, BC, Canada V2P 2L8 1.800.561.8803 or 1.604.792.7839 | info@chilliwackpartners.com Attracting and Facilitating Economic Growth www.chilliwackeconomicpartners.com