Greater Victoria businesses are renowned for their generosity, and have always gone out of their way to help people in our community in need. However, our region is facing a crisis caused by failed policies and political posturing that has left too many neighbourhoods feeling unsafe.

From encampments in Beacon Hill Park and other public spaces, to temporary housing in former hotels, there is a growing concern that we are losing the safe community all of us depend on.

So what can we do to make a difference? As The Chamber, we will continue to advocate to all levels of government to invest in long-term solutions that go beyond temporary fixes. Housing alone is not the answer. There also needs to be readily available mental health and addiction services. The Chamber would like to see an expansion of the number of therapeutic recovery communities, which have the highest measurable success rates for treating people who want to end their dependence on drugs and alcohol.

As individuals, you can help by learning as much as you can about the issues that lead to homelessness and getting out to vote in coming elections. The City of Victoria is planning a new date for a by-election that was postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak. If you're not happy with decisions made by a council majority, make sure you know which councillors vote as a slate and who your alternatives are.

The Chamber has spoken out in the past about the dangers of populist politics, and will continue encouraging people to get out and vote to ensure better representation of our entire community.

The Chamber supports a motion by Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps for residency requirements to prioritize placement in supported housing. The 2020 Point-in-Time Homeless Count, released this week by the Community Social Planning Council, provides a snapshot of the number of people living outdoors or in shelters on a given night.

Volunteers and staff combed the region on March 11 and reported at least 1,523 people experiencing homelessness. The survey showed that 84% of people had been living in Greater Victoria for more than a year. A further 4% weren't able to answer or chose not to answer.

Our region has struggled for years to help people transition to more permanent housing. We do not have the capacity to become a destination for people from across the country who would be better served by accessing services in their communities.

The Capital Regional District has released a report that sheds some light on the connection between affordable housing and transportation networks.

One of The Chamber's main advocacy priorities continues to be the need for fundamental infrastructure that allows people to live and work in our region. Transportation and affordable housing are key.

The CRD study shows the value of a regional approach to transportation planning. By expanding transit, reducing commute times and improving active transportation networks, we can make sure our region's limited geography is used wisely.

Last week, the federal government announced plans to move Canadians off the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) and onto an updated Employment Insurance system. The CERB was an early response to the pandemic to help Canadians who suddenly lost their income as the economy was shut down.

Some employers have voiced concern that the CERB has made it harder for them to get staff back to work. The new program will make it easier for people to begin earning money without having their benefit clawed back, and will better protect contract workers.

The government also announced it was extending the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance program. It now covers July and August.

The Chamber continues to ask landlords, who must apply for the subsidy on behalf of their tenants, to work with their customers to ensure the long-term health of businesses.

If you need to extend COVID-19 temporary layoffs beyond Aug. 30, make sure to file your application by Aug. 25. The provincial government sent a reminder today to employers who want to retain staff who have been laid off. Under the Employment Standards Act, layoffs become permanent after 24 weeks and require severance.

The Chamber loudly advocated for an extension as many employers abiding by physical distancing restrictions are not yet able to bring back staff. Forcing organizations to let go of workers would mean the loss of trained teams and a large, unexpected expense.

The provincial government heard our concerns and allowed employers to apply for a variance to the deadline. The two-step application requires 50% support from the employees and the completion of an online application.

The provincial government also announced today that it would review layoff and recall rights of workers in the hard-hit hotel sector.

A provincial rebate program is helping businesses transition to electric vehicles. The CleanBC Specialty-Use Vehicle Incentive is offering $2 million in new rebates.

"Eligible specialty-use vehicles include electric passenger buses, airport and port service vehicles, motorcycles, low-speed utility trucks and heavy-duty transport trucks. Rebates range from $1,700 to $50,000 per vehicle and are available for businesses, local and regional governments, and non-profit organizations that are purchasing five or fewer vehicles," says a statement from the BC government.

HarbourAir used the rebate program to purchase a fully electric shuttle for passengers travelling between Vancouver's harbour and the Vancouver International Airport.

Patio Season has arrived in Greater Victoria! Use this handy checklist to discover patios with incredible views, delicious food and cold drinks to enjoy on a hot day.

Before heading to a Chamber member patio, ensure they are open by visiting the Chamber Member Service Update page or by contacting them directly.

Take a photo of yourself completing the Patio Checklist, and tag us with @victoriachamber and #YYJPatioChecklist for a chance to be featured on our social media channels. Stay safe and support local this season.

If you're an employer looking for your next great hire, make sure to post your career opportunities on the Chamber job board.

The job board is an exclusive benefit of Chamber membership.

If you have any difficulty posting, please email members@victoriachamber.ca. We will get back to you within one business day. We know how important hiring the right person can be.

All jobs posted to our job board have been vetted by a member of The Chamber team.

This summer, ensure you take care of your physical, mental, social and nutritional health as we enjoy warmer weather. For the month of August, The Chamber will be suggesting ways to take healthier steps during a truly unique summer.

As one of Canada’s fittest cities, Greater Victoria is known for its beautiful trails, expansive bike lane network and many waterways. Take care of your physical health by staying active through the help of a Chamber member.

Many gyms and fitness facilities are re-opening, or offering virtual workout options. Be sure to lace up a new pair of shoes and pick up sports equipment at a local retailer to enjoy activity with others in your bubble.

You can also explore Greater Victoria while staying fit by purchasing a new e-bike from a local retailer. Rebates are available for this fun and active mode of transportation.

Whether you’re swinging between the trees at WildPlay Element Parks or jumping for joy at Flying Squirrel Victoria, be sure you monitor your health and stay home if you feel ill. Follow provincial health guidelines and utilize Teladoc Telemedicine Services if you require a doctor, an exclusive benefit of Chamber’s Plan

Let us know at members@victoriachamber.ca