Ron is taking a well-deserved few days to get some R&R, and in his absence, I bring you this week’s MMB.
ICYMI
Last week, HAVAN presented ‘Let’s Talk Mental Health in Construction,’ featuring Corey Hirsch and a panel of distinguished speakers sharing personal stories to help bring the importance of mental wellness and the impact of poor mental health to the forefront of our industry. It is an issue that impacts everyone.
Arguably, as a business owner, the number one asset you manage is your employees. Knowing how to support your team, and where to access resources is paramount to the everyday operation of your company.
In response to the presentation, HAVAN has created a page on the website offering mental health resources. An important topic, often overlooked, this page of resources will continue to grow as information is sourced. Conversely, if you have resources to share, please contact Wendy@havan.ca
HAVAN360 BENEFITS PLAN
The well-being of your employees often starts with a strong benefits plan. As a small to medium-sized company, and in particular, as an owner-operator, we know the cost of signing on to a plan can be a challenge to your bottom line.
Understanding the challenges faced by small to medium-sized businesses, HAVAN has been researching over the past year to source a plan that will support all members. We are excited to announce a newly formed partnership with ICBA Benefits to bring our members the HAVAN360 Benefits Plan. We call it HAVAN360, because this plan is all-encompassing, for everyone.
HAVAN360 is an exclusive, full-service benefits plan designed specifically for HAVAN members in good standing. Built by industry experts, for our industry, your new HAVAN360 Benefits Plan leverages the collective power of over 4,000+ member companies across Canada, powered by our partner at ICBA Benefits.
All HAVAN Members, from the owner-operator through to our largest employer member will be able to unlock top-tier and cost-effective employee benefit programs including a construction-specific hour bank, multi-employer pooled programs, and retirement services. Offering complimentary industry expert consultations, customizable plans, and financial guidance, HAVAN360 is your one-stop solution to help you recruit, retain, support, and reward your team.
In partnership with ICBA Benefits, HAVAN360 Benefits Plan opens doors to unparalleled advantages. By joining HAVAN360, you can strengthen your business at the best price, while supporting HAVAN’s advocacy work performed for the benefit of all members.
Check out HAVAN360.
HAVAN continues to work with CHBA BC and CHBA to advocate for all levels of government to work together to address the challenges of the housing industry including zoning restrictions, density limits, and NIMBYism.
Looking to stay up-to-date on Metro Vancouver’s residential housing industry? Sign up for Ron’s weekly Monday Morning Briefing and other HAVAN emails here.
QUICK BITES …
- This past Friday, Canada’s population hit 40 million. The population growth in large part is attributed to permanent and temporary migration, accounting for nearly all growth recorded in 2022 (96 per cent). Statistics Canada said that if current immigration levels remain, Canada’s population could hit 50 million in two decades.
- Vice-president and chief economist at Desjardins is suggesting Canada is heading for a soft recession, but its effects should be slight thanks to the country’s “explosive” immigration-fueled growth.
- The Canadian economy has reportedly outperformed expectations so far this year, avoiding the slowdown many forecasters were anticipating in response to the Bank of Canada’s most recent rate hike on June 7th to 4.75%. This article in BIV reports high population growth is partly responsible for the strong economic results, potentially propping up the housing market and blunting the impact of monetary policy in terms of its effect on the housing market.
- Canada needs more immigrants to deliver skilled labour, and Canada needs (much) more housing as reported in the Globe and Mail pointing to the disconnect between immigration policy being formed at the federal level, with housing entrenched at the local level.
- A housing proposal spearheaded by three First Nations that would add 13,000 homes, essentially doubling the population of Vancouver’s West Point Grey neighbourhood begins its public consultations this week. The plan includes a tallest tower of 49 storeys, with buildings designed to maximize greenspace and parks in the area, with 20 percent of housing for social housing, and another 10 percent for moderate-income rental. Unlike the Squamish Nation’s Sen̓áḵw development at the foot of the Burrard St Bridge, this project requires rezoning approval by council, and fierce opposition is expected from The Jericho Coalition, a group of Point Grey residents. You can share your opinion on the project at the city’s public consultation survey here.
- Vancouver, the second most expensive city to live in Canada behind Toronto, came in at a bargain globally, ranked 116th globally by the Mercer Cost of Living Survey that takes into consideration not only housing, but also transportation, food, clothing, household goods and entertainment. Hong Kong, was ranked the most expensive city, followed by Singapore, Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, Switzerland, New York City, Bern, Switzerland, Tel Aviv, Israel, Copenhagen, Denmark, and Nassau, Bahamas. Toronto was ranked 90th.
- And finally, for some perspective, Dubai’s Most Expensive Home Just Listed for $204 Million
