Strengthening Connections

Highlights from two Conferences

The Chamber of Commerce Executives of BC AGM & Conference held in Kelowna brought together executives from across the province, fostering stronger relationships and collaboration within our extensive network. This annual gathering serves as a pivotal platform for chamber leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue, share insights, and contribute to shaping the future of business in British Columbia. Following executives attended The BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference along with board members and policy staff participating in enriching policy sessions, gaining valuable knowledge, and networking with influential provincial government officials, including MLAs, ministers, and party leaders.

BC Chamber Executives in Kelowna at the Chamber of Commerce Executives of BC AGM & Conference

Face-to-Face Connections

Meeting in person with counterparts from various chambers was a significant highlight of the Executives Conference. This personal interaction allowed us to strengthen existing relationships and forge new ones, reinforcing our extensive network of supportive and collaborative chambers. In today’s digital age, the value of in-person meetings cannot be overstated. These engagements foster deeper trust and understanding, enabling us to work more effectively together. The camaraderie and mutual respect developed during these sessions underscore our collective commitment to advancing the business interests of our communities. The event was a testament to the power of personal connections in driving collective success, and it provided a unique opportunity for chamber leaders to exchange valuable insights and experiences. This, in turn, helps us to serve members better and address the evolving needs of the business community in Tofino.

Vancouver Island Chamber Executives connecting and sharing best practices

Collaborative Policy Sessions

The BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference was marked by a series of collaborative policy sessions that were both informative and impactful. These sessions provided a platform for chambers across the province to engage in discussions about the current and future policies that affect our business community. Attendees had the opportunity to contribute to the development of the 2024/25 Policy & Positions Manual, ensuring that the collective voice of our members is well-represented. This conference was enriched by the presence of provincial government MLAs, including, ministers, and party leaders. This collaborative environment facilitated a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in British Columbia. By working together, we can develop policies that are not only responsive to the needs of our members but also proactive in fostering a thriving business landscape across the province.

Samantha Hackett, Executive Director, Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce at BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference

Meeting Provincial Leaders

A standout aspect of the BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference was the opportunity to talk with provincial leaders, fostering a bridge between the business community and government officials. These interactions are crucial for advocating the interests and challenges faced by our members. By discussing policy issues and potential solutions, we can ensure that the perspectives of our business community are heard and considered in the legislative process. These meetings also provided a forum for networking and building relationships with key decision-makers who influence the economic landscape of British Columbia. The insights gained from these discussions are invaluable, as they help us to better understand the priorities of the provincial government and align our advocacy efforts accordingly. This direct dialogue underscores our commitment to being a proactive and influential voice for our members.

TOFINO CHAMBER NAMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Jan. 31st, 2024, TOFINO, BC – The board of directors of the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce (TLBCC) is pleased to announce the hiring of a new executive director to lead the organization.

Samantha Hackett is well known to local businesses and organizations as the general manager of Long Beach Lodge Resort, a role she has held for the past decade, and as a volunteer with several local organizations. A business leader in her own right, the board is excited to welcome Samantha to the executive director role.

“We are thrilled that Samantha will be joining the organization as its next executive director,” said TLBCC president Laura McDonald. “She is poised to lead the Chamber into its next successful chapter.”

Samantha will replace outgoing executive director Jen Dart, who will remain acting in the role until mid-March.

“Members can expect the Chamber’s high level of service and representation to continue under Samantha’s leadership,” said outgoing ED Jen Dart. “She is a highly qualified person to be taking on this position, and I couldn’t be more pleased to be handing off this role to Samantha.” 

In addition to being past chair of Tourism Tofino, Samantha is also chair of the West Coast Multiplex Society and a Tofino Sparks leader, among other volunteer roles. She was the recipient of the Chamber’s Business Leader of the Year Award as part of the 2023 Business Excellence Awards for her general manager role at Long Beach Lodge, as well as her extensive volunteer work.

The Chamber board looks forward to continuing its work with the new executive director in place. In addition to advocacy work on behalf of local businesses and organizations, the Chamber runs several programs, including the West Coast Ambassador Program and the Tofino Business Retention and Expansion Program. Members enjoy connection through communications, events, benefits and learning opportunities.

Media contact: Laura McDonald, info@tofinochamber.org

About the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce

The Tofino-Long Beach Chamber is Tofino’s longest running business organization, incorporated under the federal Board of Trade Act in 1929. Governed by a volunteer board of directors, the Chamber represents some 330 local businesses and organizations. The Chamber lobbies on behalf of its membership, educates about business issues, and exposes the public to our thriving business environment. The Chamber’s mission is to inspire business excellence by the beach and its vision is to ensure that our diverse and united business community is thriving, engaged and resilient.

TOFINO CHAMBER MEASURES INITIAL ECONOMIC IMPACT OF CAMERON BLUFFS WILDFIRE AT NEARLY $30M

July 11, 2023, TOFINO, BC – The Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce joins with other area Chambers of Commerce and Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) in sharing the significant negative economic impact caused by the Cameron Bluffs Wildfire, which closed the main route to the west coast for almost three weeks last month.

Hwy. 4 leading to the Alberni Valley was closed for a total of 17 days between June 6-23, cutting off the main point of access to Port Alberni, Ucluelet, Tofino and other west coast communities while crews on the ground battled the wildfire, that grew to some 200 hectares.

We thank the BC Wildfire Service and all those who worked tirelessly to control the fire and reopen the highway as quickly as possible. We also wish to thank local residents and agencies for coming together during this incident and supporting local businesses during this difficult time.

Nevertheless, the impact of the severe reduction in tourism visitation and other challenges associated with the wildfire has heavily impacted our local economies.

Businesses that rely on tourism – which make up the majority on the west coast – were prepared for the busy season with full levels of supplies and staff when the fire shut down Hwy. 4. Each of the local Chambers (and in some cases the DMO) from Tofino, Ucluelet and Port Alberni completed a one-week survey of local businesses during the closure period, asking them to measure losses.

In Tofino, the revenue reportedly lost by businesses during the closure period was an estimated $29.7 million. In Ucluelet that figure is $14 million, for a west coast total of nearly $44 million in losses. This number does not include the amount of revenue lost in the Alberni Valley.

Most of the affected businesses were not eligible for business interruption insurance or government assistance. Some workers were able to access EI, but many that are temporary or seasonal staff did not qualify.

“This incident highlights an oversight when it comes to supporting small businesses,” said TLBCC president Laura McDonald. “While there are emergency services for individuals, no such support mechanisms exist to help businesses weather these types of events, which can be prolonged. We would welcome a discussion with the provincial and federal governments about a disaster fund for small business.”

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For additional information, please contact:

Executive Director Jen Dart – jendart@tofinochamber.org, 250-725-3153

Tofino Chamber statement on Paid Sick Leave in BC

In response to calls from our members, the board of directors of the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce recently sent a letter to Harry Bains, the BC Minister of Labour, and our MLA Josie Osborne, urging that paid sick leave be kept to five days. Recently the BC Federation of Labour proposed extending this benefit to 15 days.

Businesses and non-profit organizations are currently dealing with a host of challenges, including acute staffing shortages and rising inflation. While the Chamber board recognizes the need for paid sick leave so that employees can recover from illness stress-free, extending the sick leave benefit at this time would place an undue burden on already strained small businesses and organizations.

To read the letter, please visit here.

Email Redirects for Members

EMAIL REDIRECT GUIDELINES

The Chamber provides a service to all members that includes one email blast per member per month. Advertise specials, business news and events, and much more. Below are the guidelines and best practices for email redirects. We are always happy to help as well, please feel free to contact us by email.

Communicable Disease Prevention Plans

Thanks to rising vaccination rates and falling COVID-19 case counts, the province of B.C. has moved forward with reopening. In Step 3 of B.C.’s Restart Plan, which began on July 1st, employers are no longer required to maintain a COVID-19 Safety Plan, and can transition to communicable disease prevention plan. A communicable disease prevention plan is meant to reduce the risk of workplace transmission of COVID-19, as well as other communicable diseases, such as seasonal influenza.

Moving from a COVID-19 Safety Plan to communicable disease plans means:

• Employers do not post plans for communicable disease prevention or have them approved by WorkSafeBC.

• The COVID-19 specific controls of the COVID-19 Safety Plan will no longer be required outside of instances of elevated risk.

• Employers must ensure that fundamental measures of communicable disease prevention are still in place at their workplace, including appropriate handwashing and personal hygiene practices, appropriate ventilation, and staying home when sick.

• Beginning in Step 3, protocols such as physical distancing, barriers, directional arrows, and mask-wearing are no longer required. However, during the transition period, the provincial health officer has issued a statement recommending that employers maintain some of their current protocols, specifically those that do not negatively impact business operations. Many local businesses are choosing to keep some measures, including recommending masks as per the provincial recommendation.

• Employers must also be prepared to implement or maintain additional measures if the risk of communicable disease in their region or workplace becomes elevated, as advised and directed by public health.

You can view more information about creating a communicable disease prevention plan, including a template to help you get started here.

While businesses do not have to maintain a COVID-19 Safety Plan, there are still sector-specific regulations in place during Stage 3 of B.C.’s Restart Plan:

Food & Liquor Serving Premises

Gatherings & Events

Overnight Camps for Children or Youth

Providers of Accommodation for Workers in Forestry, Aquaculture or Resource Sectors

Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Facilities

Shared staff accommodation and COVID-19

Dear Members, 

In case you missed our recent session with representatives from Island Health focused on shared staff accommodation, we wished to provide highlights from the discussion. Please note, contained below are some recommendations and best practices. Businesses need to adhere to WorkSafe BC’s recommendations around shared staff units, posted below and also available here.

We've been seeing around the province that resort communities have become small hot spots for COVID-19, and now with several local cases being reported, we are dealing with this in Tofino. Thankfully there are things we can learn from those who have experienced COVID transmission in a business and shared staff accommodation situation. 

Thanks to Chris Fehr and his team at Tofino Resort and Marina for their willingness to share their recent experience dealing with this. Chris suggested this meeting in order to share this information to benefit other local businesses. He shared some of the key questions they encountered and we asked Island Health representatives to provide answers to these. 

1. What has been the common point of exposure for employees, guest transmission or socializing outside of work? Socializing outside of work has been the common point of exposure.  

2. Would you recommend seasonal employees get tested or quarantine prior to moving into staff accommodation? Testing will not provide reasonable proof of infection, the staff could have been exposed after the test and are incubating the virus. It is also possible that they previously had the virus and still test positive but are not contagious.

3. How would you suggest isolating a single employee when in a staff accommodation that has shared common areas such as kitchens? The advice here was to utilize any extra space available, eg. guest rooms or other units if there is a positive test result or need for isolation. In other resort communities, having the option of another space like a guest room to isolate staff has been very beneficial to containing spread.

4. Is it safe to isolate employees as a group if everyone in tests positive? If all the staff members in a shared staff accommodation are positive or infected, they can isolate together. There should be no contact with other individuals who are not infectious. 

5. Should we be utilizing temperature checks in staff housing or arrival to work? Temperature checks are not effective or predictive, and therefore not recommended. 

6. Should the communal spaces be limited to a maximum number of people at a time? Again, staff accommodations should be treated as similar to households, so limited in number and contained to that space. This is where we are lucky right now that we are not in high season and there may be more flexibility in terms of space. The number of people sharing a space should be limited as much as possible for the next few months. By the time we hit the summer season, things are very likely to look different. 

7. Should all outside visitors be banned from entering the staff accommodation premises? Yes. Again, staff accommodations need to be treated as households and follow the same recommendations. Outside guests who are not part of that household should not be entering shared staff accommodations. 

Other notes and recommendations: 

-Keep in mind that the realities of living in staff accommodation can be challenging for your staff. The mental health aspect of dealing with this can be significant, especially for young workers. Check in with your staff and make sure resources are available to them. 

-Treat shared staff accommodation units as "households". Gatherings are against public health orders, so no visitors are allowed. 

-Distancing is the key principle, so limiting as much as possible the number of people in close contact. Spread beds out as far as possible when sharing rooms is necessary, and do not use bunk beds. Staff should be sleeping head to foot from one another. Also, see the WorkSafe BC recommendations below.

-Communicate early and often with staff about any changes to business' situation and make sure they are aware of all of your business' policies and procedures around COVID. Make it very clear that staff experiencing symptoms should not work and ensure this is understood by all. 

-Include COVID protocols and expectations in shared staff accommodation in onboarding process. 

-Cohort model is recommended if possible - cohort staff into smaller groups that both live and work together. 

-Cleaning is important but focus needs to continue to be on washing hands. Droplets are transferred most commonly by touch so this is the most important area of focus. 

IMPORTANT - Any staff member who experiences COVID has the right to confidentiality. Island Health is the lead and will follow process for notification and contact tracing. Your staff do not have to disclose their medical information and you do not have to inform the public. It is Island Health's responsibility to make the necessary notifications. 

-Your responsibility is to manage yourself, your staff and your business should a case arise. 

-COVID-19 is present everywhere and the identification of individuals or locations can set a tone of bias and/or complacency.

WorkSafe BC Recommendations regarding shared staff accommodation:

• Evaluate the risks and consider strategies for shared staff accommodation, including housing people in groups of 6 or less and defining teams of workers who live and work together in exclusive groups (referred to in some industries as “teams” or “pods”). This will help reduce the risk of transmission to larger groups.

• Avoid having staff share a room if possible. If not possible, limit sharing to within teams or pods as noted above, arrange beds at least 2 metres apart, and head-to-toe. Use temporary barriers between beds, such as curtains.

• The BC Centre for Disease Control has issued Protecting Workers, Contractors, and Employers Working in the Natural Resource Sector During the COVID-19 Pandemic that might provide useful information for managing shared worker accommodations.

• Develop policies restricting employees or others from employee housing if they are ill or require isolation. Develop a plan to manage staff who develop symptoms of COVID-19 while in staff accommodation.

• Post signage promoting good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.

• Stagger mealtimes, open additional dining areas, and limit group activities to decrease crowding and social interaction.

• Cleaning products should be readily available, monitored daily and restocked daily as required.

• High touch surfaces such as counters, handles, control switches should be cleaned a minimum of twice per day with regular household cleaning products, disposable wipes or a diluted bleach solution. This also includes food storage and preparation surfaces, serving areas, drinking stations, waste disposal facilities, tables, chairs, work surfaces, desktops and washroom facilities. Follow the directions on the cleaning product label.

• Maintain a cleaning schedule and log.

• Ensure staff are trained on the protocol and correct use of cleaning product

 Visit here from more information from WorkSafe BC.

COVID-19 Resources

FEDERAL SUPPORT FOR BUSINESSES

·      The Canadian Emergency Business Account (CEBA) is now offering loans of up to $60,000 to eligible businesses, representing a $20,000 increase to the original $40,000 loans. If recipients repay the loan by December 31st, 2022, up to $20,000 is forgivable. Applicants have until March 31st, 2021 to apply.  Visit the website for more information or to start your application.

·    The Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) replaces the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CERA) as a program to help businesses affected by COVID-19 pay rent.  Unlike the previous program, CERS does not require the participation of the landlord and will be provided directly to the tenants. Mortgage support is now available for owner-occupied properties.  

·      The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) has been extended until June of 2021. The government will provide up to 65% of an employee’s wages in an effort to support businesses and organizations keeping employees on the payroll. Eligibility requirements have changed and no longer require a minimum drop in revenue. 

PROVINCIAL SUPPORT FOR BUSINESSES

·      The Small and Medium Business Recovery Grant Program As part of its recovery plan, the provincial government has budgeted $300 million in targeted financial support to BC businesses that have experienced a decline in revenue since March 2020 This program offers grants between $10,000 and $30,000 with businesses in the hard-hit tourism sector eligible for an additional $5,000-10,000 in funding. This program runs until March 31st, 2021 or until all funds have been allocated. More information on the program can be found by watching this video or by emailing the program office if you have questions

·      The planned carbon tax increase has been delayed until further notice

·      Delay of new PST registration requirements — The new PST registration requirements on e-commerce and the implementation of PST on sweetened carbonated drinks have been delayed and are under review 

·     Deferral of insurance payments - ICBC clients currently on a monthly Autoplan can defer their payments for up to 90 days with no penalty. This is available for businesses as well as individuals . 

SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS

·      The Canada Emergency Relief (CERB) benefit ended as of December 2nd, but an expanded Employment Insurance program has taken its place to support those who remain laid off

·      The Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) will provide  support to the self-employed or gig workers who  are not eligible for EI, but who saw their employment/self-employment income reduced by at least 50% due to COVID-19.  

·      The BC Recovery Benefit  is a one-time payment of $500 for individuals or $1000 to families and single parents as part of the BC Government’s economic restart program. You can determine your eligibility and learn about the application process at

·      Rental assistance is available to families with a gross income of less than $40,000.  

·      Rent increases in BC are banned until at least July 10th of 2021

·      Deferral of Insurance ICBC clients currently on a monthly Autoplan can defer their payments for up to 90 days with no penalty.  

ACCESS TO FUNDING

• The Business Credit Availability Program is working with financial institutions to co-lend term loans of up to $6.25 million for operational cash flow

• Export Development Canada (EDC) is working with financial institutions to issue new operating credit and cash flow term loans of up to $6.25 million

• Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) Similar to CEBA, the RRRB provides loans to small businesses with terms meant to benefit them as they recover. There is no interest accrual or principal payments through December 31, 2022 and if 75% of loan is repaid by December 31, 2022, the remainder of the loan is forgiven. https://www.wd-deo.gc.ca/eng/20059.asp

• Relief Measures for Indigenous Owned Businesses Interest free loans of up to $40,000 are now available for Indigenous owned businesses that are current or former clients of an Aboriginal Financial Institution

Protocols for Ill Workers

Protocols for ill workers have been provided to local employers for reference by Tofino General Hospital physician lead Dr. Carrie Marshall. Please see here for clickable version.

COVID-19 - Information for Businesses and Organizations

There are many opportunities to find support for your business/non-profit right now, but we know that wading through the information can be overwheming.

The District of Tofino and the Tofino Long Beach Chamber of Commerce have compiled some of the best employer support services to serve the needs identified by our community, however we realize that this listing may not be comprehensive and we urge you to keep checking back for updates.

Please visit the District of Tofino Business Resources page for the most up to date listing of supports.

A summary of the benefits available to businesses through Community Futures Alberni-Clayoquot

Tofino Staff Accommodation Development - Recruiting Interested Businesses and Organizations

The Tofino Housing Corporation is looking to recruit 4-10 businesses (or Organisations) who need new or would prefer different Staff Accommodation for their employees. The THC will work with the group of businesses over the next 2-3 years to find a site, investor/developer and operator. The Staff Accommodation will be financed and developed by the investor/developer and operated on contract. Each business will be charged a monthly rental and operating fee and will charge their employees how much rent they feel appropriate. 

What? A new purpose-built building or buildings designed to meet the staff accommodation needs of the participating businesses  

Bed / Unit Types? Will depend on the needs of the participating businesses. Could be shared dorm-style rooms with communal kitchens, 1 bedrooms with shared kitchens or small 1 or 2 bedroom independent units.

How Many Beds / Units in the Development? Will depend on the needs of the business group, but anticipate needing at least 30 + beds before initiative will be viable.

Where? We need to find a willing landowner partner, but we have some ideas where it might go. Mostly likely the land will need to be rezoned. 

Cost? To be determined but in the range of $700-1400 per month (lease fee + operating fee) depending on bedroom, unit and building style. Our goal is to negotiate the best deal for the participating businesses. 

Next Steps?

• Contact Ian Scott at 250-884-6202 or execdirec@tofinohousingcorp.ca by February 14th, 2020

• If you decide you are serious about participating then you or a representative need to attend a founders meeting on February 18th. Contact Ian Scott for time and location.  

• If you like what you hear at the founders meeting you will need to follow up and sign a Commitment Letter and pay a commitment fee to the THC (expected at $500-$1000 per room) to cover costs associated with securing an agreement with a developer/investor.. 

• March 2nd on. With Commitment Letters in-hand THC works to find investor/developer and willing landowner. Offers are presented to the group of businesses for consideration.  

Ian ScottInterim Executive Director
Tofino Housing Corporation
execdirec@tofinohousingcorp.ca
(c) 250-884-6202

Be a Part of Coast Safety Culture

Be a part of coastal safety culture.

As a valued member of the Tourism Industry on the west coast of Vancouver Island, we would like to offer you the attached handout, “How to be CoastSmart”, to share with your guests, customers and other travellers.  This handout can help visitors recognize coastal hazards and plan for a safe and memorable time on the coast.

This handout can be used:

·         As an attachment to reservation confirmation emails

·         As part of in-room information binders

·         At checkout desks and sales desks

·         In restaurants and gift stores (posted on bulletin boards)

·         Added to your website

·         Any other way your organization would like to help spread the word about ocean safety

Unfamiliar with CoastSmart?

CoastSmart is about strengthening coastal safety culture.  The districts of Ucluelet and Tofino along with Parks Canada are working together to promote CoastSmart. Visitors can benefit from encountering a common respect for the ocean that is reinforced by businesses and organizations across the region.  This culture is rooted in enjoying the coast in the safest way possible. But it cannot be established by a single effort; it takes a community to foster its continued growth. This handout and the other tools developed for the CoastSmart initiative are meant to capture local knowledge about coastal safety, empowering others to make informed decisions.

Why is it important?

This area of Vancouver Island is well-recognized as a premier destination for coastal tourism activities.  Visitors from around the world come here to experience a range of coastal activities, from surfing, to beach-walking, storm-watching and stand-up paddle-boarding. 

The districts of Ucluelet, Tofino, and Parks Canada are actively developing trails that provide visitors and residents with increased access to exposed shorelines and local businesses are successfully promoting a wide range of water activities.  Unfortunately, many visitors are inexperienced with the dynamic nature of the coast. Rip currents and large waves can take visitors by surprise.  It is critical that people are educated about the hazards and how to make safe choices.

We hope that you will share this handout with the visitors you encounter and be part of the coastal safety culture!

If you have questions or would like to be more involved in CoastSmart, please email info@coastsmart.ca. For additional information and resources visit CoastSmart.ca.

Find the printable flyer by logging in to our online resources: http://business.tofinochamber.org/login/. Contact us info@tofinochamber.org if you have any questions.

Export Navigator Workshop

On Friday, Sept. 20th the Chamber hosted a workshop for those local businesses interested in expanding their market beyond Tofino. Brady Calancie of the provincial Export Navigator program led the session, and we were fortunate to have Steve Perrault from the federal Western Economic Diversification Canada program attend as well. 

Those business representatives in attendance were interested in export to alleviate seasonal stressors, and also to expand their business’ capabilities and profitability. The idea of exports inevitably leads to a host of questions around capacity and determining which markets are most suitable for your own business’ expansion. 

The Export Navigator program is an amazing – and free – resource for businesses who are looking to export products to other markets. It helps business owners determine if their business is ready for export, has the capacity, resources and willingness to move into other markets, and if they are likely to succeed in their market of choice.  

We know that Tofino has a wealth of Made in Tofino products that have the potential for success outside of our local market. We would urge local businesses interested in export to visit here to find out more about the Export Navigator program, and here to email Brady directly. 

Brady’s territory includes the north Island, and the program is supported by Community Futures Alberni Clayoquot, Small Business BC, and the federal government. Thanks to Brady and Steve, and all the local business owners and representatives who were able to attend. 

2020 Early Bird Membership Renewal - A Special Offer for Existing Members

A special offer for our loyal members: 

Pay during the month of September 2019 and receive a 10% (pre-tax) discount on your 2020 membership.

Please contact our office to be billed for the early bird discount. This offer does not apply to new memberships and full 2020 dues must be received by Monday, Sept. 30th.

Regular renewal invoices will be sent in October and will be payable until Dec. 31st, 2019.

Please take a moment when you receive your invoice to fill out our 3-5 minute Member Survey so we continue to improve our services. We thank-you for your continued support of the Chamber and Tourism Tofino.

Questions asked to Ministry of Transportation project managers regarding Kennedy Hill upgrade project

We have been contacted by several members regarding the unexpected delays and closures on Hwy. 4 as part of the Kennedy Hill upgrade project. We have been in touch with the Ministry of Transportation project managers Darren Englund and Mike Boissonnault on three main questions regarding traffic direction after closures, posted versus actual opening times after closures, and the reason for unexpected closures. Please see the points below and send us your feedback or additional questions at any time. 

*Italics indicate our questions. 

Why does westbound (towards Tofino) traffic go first after a closure, given that many people travelling out of town have appointments or are trying to catch ferries and planes? (answered by Darren Englund)

 The deciding reason was actually not based on the comments received but rather relating to queue management and safety of that approach to the project site.  With the sharp corners and windy alignment on the Alberni side of the site, the more we can keep queues on that side of the site shorter, this helps to avoid someone approaching the end of a building queue at speed.  The Tofino side of the site is relatively long tangents, and site lines to the queue allow approaching drivers (even when above the posted speed) to safely come to a stop at the end of the queue.  For this reason, it was decided that the Alberni side (Ucluelet/Tofino bound) traffic would be released first.

Opening times have not been precise. For example, when the posted opening is 7am but the road doesn’t open until closer to 8am. (answered by Mike Boissonnault)

The contractor strives to ensure the road can be safely opened for morning traffic after the night time blasting operations.  Traffic is released after closures as single lane alternating, with west bound traffic as the priority.  Although west bound traffic may be released around 7am, it may take 10-15 minute before east bound is mobile.  Although there may be occasions when the target time of a 7am opening cannot be achieved, it is related to ongoing clean up of blast rock off the highway and to ensure when the road is open, it provides for safe passage of traffic.

 What is the reason for the unplanned longer closures we’ve experienced this summer and if they are related to heavier blasting, is that something that will continue this fall? (answered by Mike Boissonnault) 

I am aware that there have been occasions where more materials than anticipated from blasting operations have occurred.  The significantly greater volume and size of materials that have fallen onto the road surface have required more time to safely remove.  I am also aware that the current blasting operations are removing rock from higher elevations above the road.  With this type of blasting, there is a risk that entrainment of rock from lower elevations is subsequently released, resulting in greater volumes of material removed from the rock face.  Despite the highly trained folks setting up blasting operations, there can be unexpected outcomes resulting in more material released than anticipated.  Once again, the road cannot be opened until it is safe to do so.  When greater volumes of materials are released, work crews place this as top priority to open the road as safely and as quickly as possible.  When these unexpected events occur, media notices and stakeholder updates will be provided so everyone impacted by the event is informed in a timely manner.  The blasting operations are scheduled to continue into the fall season.

Sending a Chamber email redirect

The Chamber provides a service to members whereby emails can be redirected to the entire membership. Typically these notices are used to announce specials, changes in hours, special events, or other news.

These emails have a broad reach to members in local our area and beyond.

Guidelines for email redirects:

• We may need up to 72 business hours to redirect your email, depending on how the number of requests pending. Please plan ahead (ie. if you would like an email to be redirected by the weekend, please send it by Tuesday afternoon.).

• Emails will be sent out in the order they are received (no “queue jumping”).

• Each member may send one redirect per month.

• We will only redirect information that is directly related to your business (no third party redirects).

Format for email redirects:

• Please send your email exactly as you would like it to appear to members. Note at the top “for re-direct” so Chamber staff are aware that is it meant to be sent out. We will remove this prior to sending.

• Please make sure your email is clearly addressed (ie. “Dear Chamber members”).

• Catch the reader’s attention with your subject line. We will put “Member Redirect” before your subject.

• Please ensure your file is no larger than 1MB. No attachments please - paste the content into the body of your email.

• Please do not address your email to multiple addresses. Chamber redirects should be sent on their own to info@tofinochamber.org.

How to upload your content to backend of website

It’s quick and easy to upload your content, including photos, to the backend of our website. From there it is published on your Chamber website directory and to Tourism Tofino’s website (if you are a tourism level member). Feel free to contact us if you have any trouble by emailing us.

Go to www.tofinochamber.org.

• In top level navigation click on Directory drop-down menu and choose “Member Login”.

• Choose “No Login? Sign up now” link under Login and Password entry boxes.

• Verify your identity by entering the primary administrative email address that is on file with the Tofino Chamber.

• An email will be sent to the address you provided. Follow the instructions in the email to finish creating your account. You will be able to login and begin connecting with the Chamber and fellow members immediately.

• *If you do not receive an email, please check your junk mail folder or check with the Tofino Chamber to ensure the correct address is on file.

TLBCC board elections 2019

This year, there are two vacancies on the Chamber board for which we have three nominees. Amanda Moore, Ryan Teremy and Stephanie Hughes submitted nomination papers before the Feb. 28th deadline. The election takes place by ballot at the Annual General Meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, March 27th from 6-8pm at 1909 Kitchen at Tofino Resort and Marina. Unfortunately at this time we are at capacity for the AGM, but please email our office to be put on the waitlist (Info@tofinochamber.org).

Also at the AGM, members will vote on changes to our bylaws that will allow for electronic board elections in the future. Other bylaw changes are mainly for housekeeping purposes. A notice of proposed bylaw changes was emailed to members prior to the AGM, but please contact our office for a copy.