What's New in the Industry

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

Olympic Transportation Plan

View the Host City Olympic brochure and up-to-date information on the Vancouver Host City website.

 

Patrick Cotter Architect Series

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BC HYDRO Advisory

Please review this final version of the 400A 120/240 Volt Metering Services Advisory from BC Hydro. This advisory comes into effect on Dec 11, 2009 and describes a new policy that applies to customers requesting a 400 Amp single-phase service will require an isolation switch ahead of the meter base in the form of a service room. Customers will no longer be able to use a self-contained 400 Amp with an integral current transformer (CT) meter base. For further information, please see the references at the end of the Advisory.

 

The Challenge Series

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The Challenge Series in Print
As the Challenge Series moves towards its final chapter, printed sets of the completed Series are becoming a reality. Printed on recycled paper using sustainable printing techniques, individually bound chapters will be enclosed within a durable slip cover, making an aesthetic and long-lasting printed set containing some 250 pages.

The final price for the completed series is $59.50 including GST . Orders may be placed by contacting print@thechallengeseries.ca, specifying your name/company, address, phone number, and the number of sets ordered. Cheques may be made payable to Roger Bayley Inc., and be sent to:

5735 Telegraph Trail
West Vancouver, BC, Canada
V7W 1R1

Books will be shipped following payment for delivery on February 8th, 2010. 

 

DTZ Barnicke releases 2010 market outlook report for the Metro Vancouver retail sector

Business confidence up at year’s end; strong sales figures give hope leading into the Olympics.

(Vancouver, BC) – DTZ Barnicke Vancouver Ltd. released their 2010 market outlook for Metro Vancouver today suggesting that improved economic conditions are giving way to stronger confidence from consumers.

With the economy officially in post-recession territory, Metro Vancouver is looking towards more stable ground leading into the New Year. Following a disappointing year in 2008 where low consumer confidence led to decreased retail sales, 2009 has posted sharp gains, including strong consumer activity in both general and specialized goods sectors. Several sectors, includ­ing sporting goods, hobby and music and books, as well as home furnishings and electronics, experienced the largest increase in sales since the summer of 2008. Overall, Metro Vancouver has continued on an upward trend the past year, with the largest gains in sales occurring over the last six months.

Looking ahead, the Olympics will undoubtedly be a turning point for Metro Vancouver and could be the true test for retail in the New Year. With the Olympics less than 60 days away, many local businesses are ramping up for what could be a strong sales period fueled by tourism and related activities.

Despite a more positive outlook for 2010 however, many businesses will still face challenges as the economy continues to re­cover at a much slower pace than expected.

Press Release
Full Report

 

HOK Interior Designer Joe Pettipas Receives 2009 IIDA Leadership Award

Toronto, ON - December 4, 2009 – Today the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO) and the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) honoured the Senior Vice President and Western Practice Leader for HOK, Joseph Pettipas, with the prestigious 2009 IIDA Leadership Award of Excellence. The award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the profession of interior design, was presented at the third annual IIDA Leaders Breakfast on December 4 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Toronto.
 
“Joe is a true leader in the interior design community,” said Susan Wiggins, executive director of ARIDO. “He continuously goes above and beyond, returning year after year, making positive contributions not only to ARIDO but to other organizations within the design profession. Joe is not afraid to challenge old ways of thinking and to forge new ways of doing things. I can't think of a more appropriate honour for him than this.”
 
“With nearly three decades of experience, Joe understands the design challenges facing the corporate, hospitality, retail and healthcare sectors of the built environment,” said Lui Mancinelli, Senior Vice President and Managing Prinicpal. “At HOK, we have long known the value that Joe’s considerable experience, talent and enthusiasm bring our clients and it is rewarding to see his peers recognize it him as well. This award is certainly well deserved.”

Since taking on the role of Western Practice leader, Pettipas has been instrumental in the development and delivery of projects in British Columbia, including the Vancouver Police Department,Vida Spa, The Yale Condominium and Fraser Milner Cosgrain offices all in Vancouver.
Pettipas is an ARIDO Fellow and has served three terms as president, in 1993 and 1994, and again in 2003.  He is an active member of IIDA, as well as Interior Designers of Canada (IDC), American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and Retail Design Institute (RDI). He has been a member of the board of directors of the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) for the past 13 years, serving as chairman from 2005-08. That organization recently recognized him for his volunteer leadership. He also serves on the board of the Design Exchange (Canada) and was recently appointed president-elect of the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers.

Pettipas has taught at Ryerson University's School of Interior Design where he specialized in the study of colour and colour psychology. As an interior designer, Pettipas has completed large-scale projects in the United Arab Emirates, Doha, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, China, Indonesia, Mexico, Canada, and the United States. These projects include indoor entertainment and shopping complexes, a five-star hotel addition to an existing shopping mall, and the ground work for a new city of 150,000 inhabitants. At HOK, he is chiefly responsible for the ongoing relationship between the aesthetics of design and the requirements of producing successful projects on target, on time and on budget.

 

The Passing of Jack Poole

I know that all of us are deeply saddened by the passing of industry legend, Jack Poole.  Our heartfelt sympathies and prayers go out to Jack’s family and to our friends at Concert Properties who had the opportunity to work with and be mentored by this great man.  We have lost a true Olympian – a man who saw beyond the ordinary and aimed for the extraordinary – whether it be through the creation of a company that is known for its commitment not only to quality development but also for its contributions to the social well-being of the communities across Canada in which it builds; or whether it be because of his relentless commitment to British Columbia and his willingness to take bold steps and to make gutsy decisions to help make this Province “the best place on earth”. 

His leadership of VANOC and the 2010 Olympic Games is a shining example of his tenacity and his passion.  The hosting of the Games themselves is perhaps the best tribute to Jack who worked tirelessly to persuade British Columbians to support the Bid.  He would not accept anything other than excellence from the creation of the facilities to the VANOC organization itself because he knew the importance of setting British Columbia above and beyond other Games hosts. The flame was lit yesterday and shortly thereafter, Jack passed away.   I am certain Jack is following every step of the journey the torch is on and smiling down on the runners.

Jack always paid attention to what was going on and when he called, you had to be on your toes.  He would take the time to say “well done” which meant a lot and occasionally he would let you know when a change of course was in order.  The very fact that this busy man with such important matters on his plate took the time to call was a reflection of the depth of his commitment to our industry.   

Over the next few days I know there will be many tributes to Jack.  It is to be expected when you lose such an icon.   But in our industry, we also know the other Jack – the sometimes quiet and reflective man and the sometimes gregarious and passionate man who inspired many a young developer to reach higher and give back more.

We will miss him.

Maureen Enser, Executive Director
Urdan Development Institute - Pacific Region

 

Vancouver 2020 - A Bright Green Future

October 20, 2009 - Mayor Gregor Robertson announces a 10-year plan to make Vancouver the world's greenest city by 2020.

View the pdf of 'Vancouver 2020 - A Bright Green Future' - here.

 

Olympic Transportation Plan - What to Expect in 2010 - Posted October 14, 2009

The City of Vancouver has provided the below information on the Olympic Transportation Plan:

Host City Olympic Transportation Plan Brochure (pdf)

Their website has also been updated and can be viewed here: "What to Expect".

 

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - BOB RENNIE'S ANNUAL UDI ADDRESS, MAY 21, 2009.

Bob Rennie, of Rennie Marketing Systems, returned for his annual UDI address on May 21, 2009.

Speakers notes can be downloaded here.
(Zip file includes 3 documents at 160kb: Speaker Notes and 2 Lower Mainland Condo Stats spreadsheets).

*Audio and DVD available for purchase on request*

Download a copy of the 2009 Annual Report here.

The Olympic Village Challenge Series - Millennium Water: The Southeast False Creek Olympic Village

The Challenge Series tells the story of Vancouver’s Olympic Village at Southeast False Creek: Millennium Water. Published in eight monthly installments, available on the web and in print, it focuses on the visioning, planning, design and construction processes and celebrates collaboration and sustainable innovation.

The Challenge Series is a resource to educate and inspire communities, professionals, owners and builders seeking to create meaningful opportunities out of the challenges of climate change. Further details can be viewed/downloaded here: www.thechallengeseries.ca.

BC Hydro Power Smart - Call for Papers for 2009 Power Smart Business Forum
BC Hydro Power Smart has issued a Call for Papers for its 2009 Power Smart Business Forum. Experts within the property management sector who have experience and/or case studies on measuring and monitoring energy efficiency or reducing a building’s overall carbon footprint are invited to submit a brief abstract. For more information including the full list of proposed conference topics and to submit an abstract, visit bchydro.com/forum. The deadline for submissions is July 24, 2009 at 5:00pm PST.

April 21, 2009 - New UDI 'Interim Membership'

The Urban Development Institute is offering a new temporary category of membership for industry professionals who, through economic uncertainty, have lost employment with current UDI member companies.

This new “Interim Membership” offers:

In order to qualify for this six month membership, you must have a letter of sponsorship from your former company. The dues are $10 for six months and are payable with your completed application. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Amex or cheque. (This membership is renewable for an additional 6 month period for a maximum of 12 months).

We are happy to offer you this opportunity to keep in touch with other industry professionals and hope you use it to your best advantage.

If you have any questions, please contact: Maggie Carate, Coordinator of Member Services, UDI Pacific Region, mcarate@udi.org, or 604-669-9585 ext 226.

Fire Safety Planning for Construction and Demolition Sites - Information Bulletin
The purpose of this Information Bulletin from the Ministry of Public Safety is to provide the construction and demolition industry with an easy to follow checklist to assist them in meeting the fire safety requirements of British Columbia’s Building and Fire Codes. The goal is to prevent fires in and around construction/demolition sites and reduce the fire risk to life and property.

Construction Projects Find Big Savings Using State-of-the-art Plansync

PlanSync, (http://www.plansync.ca ) a leading global  provider of plan-coordination and virtual construction that has recently  completed services for the Vancouver International Airport and Vancouver  Trade and Convention Centre, reports that significant cost savings are  realized through their proprietary CrossCheck system and 4D Virtual  Construction services.  Higher levels of plan coordination, scheduling,  on-site organization and project familiarization are just a few of the  benefits realized by owners and builders.  PlanSync estimates that  between 5 and 20% of construction costs could be saved with these services,  which could add up to millions for larger projects.  

After  recently completing a comprehensive plan-coordination check for Delta Land  Development’s Hotel Georgia project which is currently under construction in  downtown Vancouver, PlanSync is now working with Shangri-La Hotels and  Resorts, streamlining their new project in Toronto.

While PlanSync’s  services have proven to be effective as a cost-saving tool for large  building construction, they are also beneficial to energy, environmental,  commercial, industrial, health care and transportation projects.   Facilities management companies can also utilize the byproduct model  to access detailed and hidden information about their buildings within a  virtual 3D environment.

PlanSync’s services start upon receiving the  electronic drawing files from the project architect and engineers.  The  files are then converted to a 3D format and assembled into a single,  interactive 3D model.  The model is analyzed by specialized software  and industry professionals that identify drawing discrepancies and  coordination errors.  The model is also placed into the builder’s  project scheduling software transforming it to a virtual time machine.   Contractors, consultants, quantity surveyors, trades and others can  then interact with the building within a 3D environment at any given moment  in the future.

These technologies are certainly impressive and the  way of the future for the design and building industries; however, companies  do not have to wait if they outsource to PlanSync.

March 18, 2009 - HPO New Homes Registry - New Online Tool

The Homeowner Protection Office (HPO) has announced the launch of a new service for Licensed Residential Builders - the HPO Online Registration of New Homes. Licensed builders will be able to register new homes using the new online system starting April 1, 2009. Benefits of online registration include:

A detailed information bulletin and demo of this new system is available here.

 

March 12, 2009 - Mayor Dianne Watts announces economic stimulus plan for City of Surrey.

City of Vancouver Consultation on the 2009 Operating BudgetInformation on the City of Vancouver’s 2009 Operating Budget, and how you can participate in the budget consultation, is now available online. Please go to this link. From there, you will be able to:

FINTRAC REGULATION CHANGESOn February 20, 2009, a number of new FINTRAC regulations will significantly affect real estate developers. Do you know what these entail? Sales people will need to be trained on the new procedures and your firm will need to implement certain record-keeping and reporting systems to comply. Penalties for non-compliance can reach up to $2 million in fines or 5 years jail time. Visit the FINTRAC website for further information on information for specific industries.

To submit FINTRAC reports electronically, or to view information on electronic reporting, go here.
To submit FINTRAC reports manually (paper reports), or to view information on paper reports, go here.

CITY OF VANCOUVER - PROPOSED APPLICATION AND SERVICE FEE INCREASESVancouver City Council is recommending fee increases starting January 1, 2009.
A summary of the increases can be viewed here.
View the report on 2009 Zoning, Building and Trade Permit Fee Increases here. And the report on the 2008 Interdepartmental Review of Development, Building and Related fees here. (both dated November 28, 2008)

On December 18th, City Council "approved a 4% inflationary increase to Zoning, Building and Trade Permit fees; additionally, the Board of Variance fee has been set at $275, and the NSF fee is $35.' These increases will come into effect on January 1, 2009. For reference, click here for the council report with an appendix showing the new fee schedules.

Council also approved the recommendations contained in the report "2008 Interdepartmental Review of Development, Building and Related Fees."

HOST CITY TRANSPORTATION PACKAGEThe final Host City Transportation Package is now available at the Host City website (http://olympichostcity.vancouver.ca/gettingaround/whattoexpect.htm).
The news release can be downloaded here.

METRO VANCOUVER ELECTION RESULTSIncluding Okanagan, Vernon and Victoria.
Download a pdf of the 2008 Civic election results here.

LAUNCH OF COURSES IN BROWNFIELD REDEVELOPMENTThe School of Construction and the Environment at BCIT and the UBC Continuing Studies are launching a series of courses in Brownfield Redevelopment. The purpose of the program is to provide current and prospective practitioners in the brownfield redevelopment industry with the relevant knowledge and skills within an interdisciplinary framework. Starting in January 2009, the suite of part time studies courses will include an introduction to brownfield redevelopment, planning and environment (sustainability), legal and finance, technical and environmental strategies, and land development and real estate of brownfield redevelopments.For further information, contact Steve Finn at steve_finn@bcit.ca.

Important Consumer Information about Pre-sale ProtectionFor Immediate Release - New Tool Helps Homebuyers Navigate Presales
Vancouver, BC – July 24, 2008.
The news release download is available here.
A consumer information download from BCREA is available here.
The backgrounder is available here.
View UDI's new Consumer Information page for important information on presale transactions


Terasen Energy Services brings alternative energy solutions to B.C. condo developmentsBURNABY, BC, July 15 2008/CNW/ - A growing number of B.C. developers are signing agreements with Terasen Energy Services, introducing innovative geoexchange energy solutions to their developments and lessening the demands on the province's electricity grid... read more here.

Changes to the BC Building CodeNew green requirements for energy and water efficiency in the BC Building Code will become effective on September 5, 2008.  For more information go to: http://www.housing.gov.bc.ca/building/green/index.htm

Also, Letter to Stakeholders from Jeff Vasey, Executive Director, Building and Safety Policy Branch

More information the BC Building Code: (added April 22, 2008)
1) Backgrounder: Legislation Enhances 'Green' Communities
2) News Release: 'Green' Legislation Supports Local Communities

Introduction of Bill 27 Minister Ida Chong introduced Bill 27, the Local Government  (Green Communities) Statutes Amendment Act for first reading in the Legislature on April 15th, 2008.  This Bill includes amendments to the DCC/DCL provisions that the Ministry brought forward for discussion at the November DFRC meeting.  This Bill also includes other land use related amendments to the Local Government Act and the Vancouver Charter, with other consequential amendments.  Bill 27 is available at: : http://www.leg.bc.ca/38th4th/1st_read/gov27-1.htm

 In summary, the key amendments related to DCCs are:

• Required DCC exemption for small housing units of 29 square metres and under

  • This size can be increased by local government bylaw

  • The Minister can replace the 29 square metres with a different size, or set a maximum size by regulation.

• Authority for local governments to waive or reduce DCCs for

  • For profit affordable rental housing

  • Small lot subdivisions that are designed to result in low GHG emissions

  • A development designed to result in a low environmental impact

    • A DCC bylaw to waive and/or reduce would have to include:

      • A definition of "eligible development" in the above categories

      • The amount or rates of DCC reduction

• In setting DCCs, the considerations a local government must take into consideration under section 934(4) has been expanded to include:

  • How development designed to result in a low environmental impact may affect the capital costs of infrastructure

  • Whether the charges will discourage development designed to result in a low environmental impact

• Local governments will be required to to prepare and consider an annual DCC report that includes DCCs received, expenditures, balance, and any waivers and reductions.
• Note that School Site Acquisition Charges will also be non-payable for the small unit housing, and any waivers or reductions provided by local government are to be applied to SSACs to the same extent also. 

Brownfield Renewal Creates Greener B.C. CommunitiesAgriculture and Lands Mininster Pat Bell today outlined an innovative solution to revitalize abandoned and underutilized lands known as brownfields so that British Columbians can get the most value out of the land in their communities.
More information here. (Feb 2008)

BC Energy Plan Outlines Vision for Clean Energy"The BC Energy Plan provides made-in-B.C. solutions to the global challenge of ensuring secure, reliable and affordable energy," said Neufeld. "The Province will require zero net greenhouse gas emissions from all new electricity projects and support the development of clean energy technology. This plan balances the economic opportunities available from our wide range of natural resources while leading the world in sustainable environmental management."
Ministry of Energy: A Vision for Clean Energy Leadership (Feb 2007)
BC Energy Plan Website

Budget 2007 Builds A Housing Legacy “A strong economy allows us to sustain and improve our public programs and services,” said Taylor. “At the same time, a strong economy can create challenges such as housing affordability. Today, I am proud to present a budget dedicated to housing. Budget 2007 is a major step towards ensuring that every British Columbian has access to a safe, appropriate and affordable place to call home.”
Ministry of Finance: Budget 2007 (Feb 2007)

Throne Speech Launches B.C. into Pacific Century The third session of the 38th parliament was launched today with a speech from the throne that calls for bold action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, create better choices for students and patients, and a plan to reduce homelessness.
Office of the Premier: Throne Speech (Feb 2007)

Prime Minister Unveils New Canada EcoTrust The Canada EcoTrust for Clean Air and Climate Change will be designed to allow each province and territory to develop technology, energy efficiency, and other projects that will provide real results. The Government of Canada will work with all provinces and territories to fully develop this new, national fund.
Prime Minister: Canada EcoTrust (Feb 2007)

Prime Minister: Commitments to Communities"So, as I said, we have much to talk about. About how we’re going to move forward. As municipalities. As provinces. And, most importantly, I hope you all agree, as a country. In any government, delivering on commitments requires team work. At the federal and provincial levels, team work is constitutionally required by our system of government."
Stephen Harper: Commitments to Communities

Cement Association: 2006 Sustainability ReportCement Association: Press Release
Cement Association of Canada 2006 Sustainability Report

Communities in Transition E-NewsletterREFBC: Communities in Transition E-Newsletter
REFBC: Communities in Transition Website

2006 Housing Starts in 2006CMHC Press Release: Housing Starts Will Slow Down in 2006

UDI Pacific Industry Forecast 2006Vancouver Sun Forecast Article
Vancouver Province Forecast Article
24Hrs. Forecast Article

Real Estate Foundation of BC: Year in Review REFBC 2005 Annual Report
REFBC Website

Real Estate Institute of BC: New EOREIBC Press Release Re: New Executive Officer

Canada West Foundation: New ResourcesDialogues Spring 2006 Download

City of Vancouver: Bruce Maitland RetiresCity of Vancouver Notice Re: Bruce Maitland's Retirement

New Condo Buyers in Greater Vancouver 2006 SurveyNew Condo Buyers in Greater Vancouver 2006 Survey

REFBC Announces Northrup as ChairReal Estate Foundation of BC Press Release Re: Northrup Appointment

Seattle: High-Rise Boom?Seattle Times Articles
High-rise boom coming to Seattle? (April 2006)
Additional Articles (Requires Free Registration)

Builders Without Borders: February 2006 NewsletterBuilders Without Borders: BC Construction Industry Tsunami Initiative February 2006 Newsletter

TransLink: Evergreen Line Open House DatesEvergreen Line Open House Information (March - June 2006)