British Columbia Construction Industry Encouraged to Participate in Upcoming Municipal Elections

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As British Columbia prepares for municipal elections on October 17, construction leaders stress the importance of voting to influence local policies that affect the industry. Key figures advocate for streamlined processes and local investments to enhance construction efficiency and community development.

Canadians with an interest in the electoral process are in for an eventful October, particularly in British Columbia where residents will be casting their votes in two significant elections. Following a provincial election on the 24th, British Columbians will head to the polls for municipal elections on the 17th, coinciding with local elections across the province, including 189 local government bodies that will be selecting mayors, city councilors, and school trustees.
Jordan Bateman, vice-president of advocacy at the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA), emphasizes the necessity for voters to consider candidates who are supportive of the construction sector. He points out the disparities in municipal support for construction across the province, highlighting Surrey's efforts to streamline permit approvals and application processes as a model for efficiency. "Time is money in construction," Bateman states, underscoring the importance of timely permit processing.
In contrast, Bateman notes that Vancouver has room for improvement regarding its permit approval system, although city officials are reportedly aware of the existing challenges. Jeannine Martin, president of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association, echoes Bateman's sentiments, stating, "A decision at the council table can affect the cost of your next project, when your crew gets to work, and whether a project goes ahead at all." She calls on municipal leaders to provide clarity on project requirements and fees to facilitate smoother operations for construction companies.
In northern British Columbia, Jaime Sims, membership development coordinator for the Northern Regional Construction Association, advocates for municipal leadership to foster an environment conducive to responsible development. He stresses the importance of efficient permitting processes and collaboration among local governments, Indigenous communities, and industry stakeholders to ensure sustainable growth that retains residents in the region.
Rory Kulmala, CEO of the Vancouver Island Construction Association, is also urging local investment. He believes that when municipalities prioritize infrastructure and capital projects, it creates opportunities for local businesses and contractors. Kulmala mentions that VICA has been proactive in engaging with election candidates to communicate crucial construction priorities, emphasizing the interconnectedness of housing affordability, infrastructure capacity, and construction costs.
In the Okanagan, Clifford Kshyk, CEO of the Southern Interior Construction Association, highlights the need for municipalities to invest more in infrastructure and housing. He points out that delays in permitting and high development costs are exacerbating construction expenses, making affordable housing increasingly difficult to achieve. Kshyk notes that these charges can inflate the cost of new homes by as much as 30 percent.
The significance of participating in municipal elections is further reiterated by Michael Geller, a Vancouver developer and retired architect. He asserts that municipal elections are crucial because local governments are closest to the community and manage neighborhood planning and building permits. Christina DeMarco, a retired planner in Vancouver and Metro Vancouver, adds that these levels of government make essential decisions that shape communities and daily lives through land use plans and development approvals.
In conclusion, Bateman from the ICBA reiterates the importance of engaging in both municipal and provincial elections, encouraging all stakeholders in the construction industry to make their voices heard at the polls this October.

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