Industry Update | October 31, 2023

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BCHA NEWS

Bill 35, Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act, Receives Royal Assent

Good afternoon Accommodation Community,

I'm pleased to share that on Thursday, October 26th, Bill 35, the Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act, received Royal Assent in the Legislature without amendments. Short Term Rental companies like Airbnb and VRBO have until next May to comply with the new legislation.

We extend our gratitude to the Government of BC for listening to our concerns and recommendations related to affordable housing. Without protecting affordable housing for employees, a full recovery is not possible. This achievement is the result of years of dedicated work and collaboration with our industry partners, and because of you and your support of our association and advocacy work. We celebrate this milestone together.

Over the past week, we have heard questions from operators along with concerns made by the official opposition which we wish to clarify:

Hotel and Motel Shortage: The growth of STRs is not solely due to a shortage of hotel and motel spaces. During the debate, The Honourable Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing, reiterated the challenges our industry employees face in finding housing, stating that the bill would “go a long way to change that situation and many similar housing challenges in our community.” As well, he reiterated that legal short-term rentals would still be available.
Strata Hotels: Please know that Strata Hotels are not at risk of being impacted by short-term rental legislation. They are hotels, with hotel licenses, management contracts, disclosure statements, etc.
Student Housing: Although there have been concerns over access to student housing, STRs do not address this need. Quite simply, more student housing needs to be built.
90-Day Period: The 90-day threshold is meant to provide flexibility for various property rental situations, including seasonal workers and students.
Affordable Accommodation Alternatives During Crisis: Legal STRs will continue to offer alternative accommodation for various needs, as they have already. In addition, our industry has and will continue to offer compassionate rates as we have done for centuries.
Enforcement and Compliance: Enforcement mechanisms will include compliance orders that can be filed in the BC Supreme Court, administrative monetary penalties, and injunctions; Minister Kahlon has advised that the exact number of staff for enforcement will be discussed later.
Local Governments' Role: Local governments will have tools to enforce business license requirements for STRs, and further details will be provided through regulations.
Major Events: On the proposed amendment to have a designated area for major events exempt from the Act, issues that can arise would be massive evictions for a period of time to increase STR capacity for events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This is completely opposite to what the legislation is intended to do – protect long-term affordable housing. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure affordable housing for employees.

Once again, I thank each of you for sharing your voice, supporting our work, and advocating for change. This could not have been possible without you.

Ingrid Jarrett

President & CEO

British Columbia Hotel Association

Join us for the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) at the Inn at Laurel Point, 680 Montreal St., Victoria, BC V8V 1Z8 on November 14, 2023, at 3:30pm PST. Voting members in good standing are encouraged to attend. If you can't make it, you can appoint a Proxy to vote on your behalf by downloading and completing the Proxy form. Please give it to your chosen Proxy who will attend the meeting. For any questions, contact Kyla Tuddenham at kyla@bcha.com.

→ REGISTER

→ COMPLETE PROXY FORM

BCHA's Connects with TOTA-region Members

The BCHA's Project Manager, Karissa Bourgeault, and President and CEO, Ingrid Jarrett, were delighted to join the recent TOTA AGM & Summit in Penticton. Ingrid actively participated in the Emergency Preparedness Panel, where she shared valuable insights on addressing the challenges associated with climate change and the essential role the accommodation sector can play in supporting evacuees and those displaced by emergencies. The BCHA team was grateful for the opportunity to connect with fellow BCHA members in the TOTA region.

TOP STORIES

Win | British Columbia Invests in Tourism and Climate Resilience Initiatives

The province has allocated $15 million for the Destination Development Fund in 2023-2024, awarding one-time grants to 31 new recipients. These grants will bolster tourism infrastructure projects, including initiatives like the Cariboo Regional District's ski lift acquisition and installation, upgrades to the Vedder River Campground infrastructure in the Fraser Valley Regional District, and gallery expansions at the Shawnigan Lake Museum. Additionally, the province has committed $3 million to the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative led by Destination BC. This initiative will focus on developing climate preparedness and adaptation strategies, mitigating climate risks, preserving natural spaces, promoting responsible travel, and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.

→ VIEW RECIPIENTS

→ READ NEWS RELEASE

Advocacy Win | Government Extends Key Measures in Temporary Foreign Worker Program in Response to Industry Calls

The Federal Government has taken action in response to workforce concerns, specifically in the hotel industry. Minister of Employment Randy Boissonnault provided an update on the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)’s Workforce Solutions Road Map. Some crucial measures set to expire have been extended until August 30th, 2024, including the ability for hotels to hire up to 30% of their workforce through the TFW Program and employ low-wage positions for up to two years. Other changes involve reducing the LMIA validity period to 12 months and requiring annual wage reviews for temporary foreign workers to ensure they meet regional wage standards. This new requirement will begin on January 1, 2024, with the submission of a new LMIA application

→ READ NEWS RELEASE

Advocacy Win | Canada Prioritizes Visa Processing for Business Event Attendees

In a recent report released on October 31, the Canadian federal government announced a policy to expedite visitor visas for international business visitors attending major conferences and events in Canada. Effective from June 6, 2023, travelers from 67 countries can now apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) instead of a visa, with most eTA applications approved within minutes. This commitment to prioritize visa processing aims to ensure that attendees from around the world can make it to registered major conferences and events in Canada promptly.

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RESOURCES

Join go2HR's Workshop on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)

On November 29, go2HR invites you to participate in an essential workshop focused on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in the workplace. Hosted by EDI expert Kristin Bower, this session, "From Unconscious Bias to Conscious Inclusion," will help you establish a foundation for a more inclusive and equitable workplace. During the workshop, you'll explore the business case for EDI, identify unconscious biases, examine the role of culture and privilege, and learn effective bias mitigation strategies that can be applied in your work environment.

→ REGISTER

Information Available | WorkSafeBC Rate Information

We have heard from members seeking additional information related to WorkSafeBC rates and are resharing our recent information session along with an information sheet. Presented by WorkSafeBC Assessments, Consultation, and Education Services, this session covers the financial status of the workers' compensation system, premium rates breakdown, experience rating's impact on insurance costs, and a review of injury statistics.

→ WATCH RECORDING

→ DOWNLOAD INFO SHEET

BC Chamber of Commerce Introduces Funding for Property Crime and Vandalism Repairs

Recognizing the increased costs to businesses due to property crime and vandalism in rural and urban communities across the province, the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation has launched its $10.5 million Securing Small Business Rebate Program, which will provide small businesses with funds for eligible commercial property crime and vandalism repairs, or to implement eligible preventative measures.

→ LEARN MORE & APPLY

Very Last Chance to Take Advantage of an Important Hiring Opportunity!

The Destination Forum is organized by IRCC-Embassy of Canada to France and provides an opportunity for workers in France, Morocco, and other French speaking countries to meet Canadian representatives looking to bring workers to Canada. Like last year, the BCHA will attend on your behalf, interviewing and connecting your operations with job-seekers looking to be hired at your property.

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TRENDING

IN THE NEWS

-> Marriott Bonvoy Becomes the Official Hotel Partner of Live Nation Canada

-> Report drills into short-term rentals on B.C., Vancouver Island

-> Province's Pay Transparency Act takes effect Nov. 1

-> INTELLIGENCE: Expedia Group, Hotels.com and Vrbo release top desired locations for Canadian sports fans

-> Hotel Financial Performance Influenced by Changes in Hotel Food and Beverage Offerings - By Robert Mandelbaum and Ed Stacy

-> Global Business Travel Industry Sees Rebound in 2023 With Shifting Challenges and Opportunities for 2024

TALK OF THE TOWN

-> Indigenous Tourism Training Initiative

-> Share Your Voice | Emergency Management Regulations

-> Winter Tire Regulation is in Effect

-> Get Back to Workplace Safety Training with WHMIS 2015

-> More infrastructure support creates resilient tourism sector, communities

-> Register for Crisis Communication Training

AT A GLANCE

Save the Date! May 1-2, 2024 BCHA Summit

The BCHA Summit returns to unite BC's accommodation and business community for two days of industry connection and excellence May 1-2 at Fairmont Chateau Whistler.

Network with leaders, owners, operators, vendors, and tech partners, and drive profitability in the ever-evolving world of hospitality-- featuring a 50+ vendor marketplace, the BCHA Awards of Excellence, inspiring keynotes, a development track, a welcome reception at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, and more!

AWARD NOMINATIONS WILL OPEN SOON!

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2023 Western Canadian Lodging

Hyatt Regency Nov. 1-2 Discount code: BCHA

TIAC Tourism Congress

November 21-22 | Westin Ottawa

Learn More

IMPACT Conference

January 21-24 | Victoria Westin Ottawa

Learn More

2024 BC Tourism Industry Conference

March 6 & 7

Registration Coming Soon!

BCHA Summit

Fairmont Chateau Whistler | May 1-2, 2024

Registration Details Coming Soon

2024 HAC National Conference, REIMAGINED!

Le Westin Montreal |May 22-24, 2024 Read

ALLIED MEMBERS

CONNECTING MEMBERS WITH TRUSTED VENDORS

Sunco Communications: Your Hotel's Trusted Telecom Partner

Sunco Communications has been the go-to partner for hotel operators, offering full-service communication solutions for over two decades. From guest room phones to 24/7 managed services, Sunco specializes in enhancing efficiency and the guest experience while reducing costs. They excel with Mitel, Phonesuite, and Intello by Telus platforms. BCHA members enjoy benefits like a free telecom bill audit, discounted rates, and dedicated support for seamless integration. Contact the sales department at 1-855-910-7784 or salesforce@sunco.ca.

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CorMac Projects Inc.: Your Construction Partner

CorMac Projects Inc., an Alberta/B.C.-based General, Hospitality, and Hazardous Materials Contractor, serves Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia. They tackle diverse projects for clients in retail, hospitality, industrial, commercial, financial, and government sectors, ranging from small renovations to base building. Their growth stems from lasting client relationships and a commitment to corporate principles of integrity, reliability, and professionalism. BCHA members enjoy free consultation and value engineering services for hospitality projects. Contact Corey Hanson at 403-457-4080 or coreyh@cormacproject.ca.

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RHB Enterprises Inc.: Your Hospitality Furnishing Partner

RHB Enterprises Inc., a trusted name since 1999, specializes in consulting, sourcing, and delivering contract furnishing products to the hospitality industry. They simplify the supply chain as a single point of contact for renovations, new builds, or PIPs, saving time and costs. Offering a selection of domestically manufactured products, they ensure low minimums, short lead times, and maintain environmental and ethical standards. BCHA members enjoy preferred pricing and access to industry expertise for renovations or new builds. To learn more, contact Justin Berube at 1 (866) 208- 7675 ext 2011 or justin@rhbenterprisesinc.ca.

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HERE'S TO YOU!

HAVE NEWS TO SHARE? EMAIL KELSEY@BCHA.COM

Canadian Tourism Awards | 2023 Finalists Unveiled

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada has revealed the finalists for the Canadian Tourism Awards 2023. These finalists have made significant contributions to shaping Canada's tourism sector. Congratulations to all the finalists, especially BCHA Member Klahoose Wilderness Resort who was named a finalist in the Indigenous Tourism Experience Award Category! Join the celebration on November 22 to honor these exceptional individuals and organizations.

→ SEE FINALISTS HERE

Erin O'Byrne Joins go2HR as Workplace PH&S Coach

Our partners at go2HR has welcomed Erin O'Byrne as the newest addition to their team in the role of Workplace PH&S Coach. Erin will collaborate with Valerie in the Mental Health Team to oversee and extend mental health programs, services, and resources to employers in the tourism and hospitality sectors. With over two decades of experience in mental health and wellness, leadership coaching, HR, training, and facilitation, complemented by numerous certifications, Erin brings a wealth of expertise to her new role. Congratulations Erin!

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LAST LAUGH

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