MRCC in the News
The Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce and its Government Relations Committee are hard at work representing the voice of business in Mission and the surrounding region. Keep up to date on our ongoing efforts and resulting wins here.
MRCC Statement re: 2024 All Candidates Forum
October 15, 2024
From the desk of the President
A recent press release was issued containing claims that the Mission Chamber failed to address a conflict of interest in regards to our recent All Candidates Forum. We acknowledge that a member of the Chamber’s Government Relations Committee and Board, and a former staff member of Pam Alexis attended the September 17th meeting, which included discussions about the questions to be asked at the upcoming All Candidates event. However, it is important to note that this meeting was attended by the full committee, including other board members, the Chamber Board President, the Chamber's Executive Director, and community members.
The GR Committee does not plan or oversee any events, including the All Candidates Forum. There were six prepared questions asked of candidates. Two were submitted by the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, two were selected from a list of submitted questions from the Fraser Valley Business Coalition which were created with input from the Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Langley, and Mission Chambers, and two were submitted by the GR Committee. The two questions submitted by the GR Committee were in relation to Mission’s high school and Mission’s hospital, both hot topics in the community. While the committee did discuss and review prepared questions, this person did not receive any privileged or exclusive information beyond what was shared with all committee members. There were an additional 46 questions submitted by the public via email or live via Slido during the event, which were also not shared in advance with anyone, including board members or committee members. Every MRCC Board member signs a binding confidentiality agreement. While we are extremely confident that the six prepared questions were not leaked to any candidate, we acknowledge that no organization can 100% guarantee information security.
As of August, the person in question was no longer employed by the MLA office and had no role in the preparation or organization of this event outside of the question portion of the aforementioned meeting. She also has never been an employee or a volunteer with the campaign for Ms. Alexis. We regret that her previous employment has led to the perception of a conflict of interest, but we can assure you that the Chamber followed its established procedures to maintain fairness and transparency.
We value the integrity of the democratic process and are committed to providing all candidates with an equal platform. We trust that the strong participation and engagement at the event demonstrate the Chamber’s commitment to fostering a fair and unbiased discussion.
We hope this provides clarity, but please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns.
Celine Dauphney
Board President
Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce
Fraser Valley Business Coalition Welcomes $2.65 Billion for Highway 1 Expansion to Mission
New provincial funding continues phased expansion of critical corridor and priority for local business alliance
FRASER VALLEY - Business leaders from the Fraser Valley are welcoming the announcement of a $2.65 billion investment from the Province to fund Highway 1 expansion through from Mt Lehman Road in Abbotsford through to the Highway 11 connection with Mission – the fourth part of the phased widening of the critical corridor.
The Fraser Valley Business Coalition – comprised of the Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Langley and Mission chambers of commerce – has identified the expansion of Highway 1 as a key priority for the region, and has advocated for the provincial government to expedite its widening and expansion through the Fraser Valley and out to Chilliwack. With 80,000 vehicles using the corridor daily, and $56 billion in goods transported annually, the importance of Highway 1 and the negative impact of congestion, traffic and delays cannot be overstated.
This $2.65 billion announcement will result in widening of the highway to add HOV lanes and bus-on-shoulder lanes in each direction, and replacement of the Peardonville Road overpass and Highway 11 Interchange. Procurement will begin in 2025 and major construction will start in 2026, with completion targeted for 2031.
“The Coalition has been a vocal advocate on the need for dedicated funding and expedited transportation funding from the Province, so this is welcome news. Abbotsford’s economy runs on Highway 1, and this new investment to widen the highway through to Highway 11 will mean more Abbotsford workers, residents and businesses can get where they are going faster and safer,” adds Alex Mitchell, CEO of the Abbotsford Chamber.
“Highway 11 provides a critical link for Mission to Highway 1 and thus the rest of the region and province, but the current infrastructure doesn’t meet the needs of Mission’s growing economy. This expansion and the new interchange will be a welcome improvement,” says Miriam Bozman, Executive Director of the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce.
“Congestion and traffic on Highway 1 delays workers from getting to their jobs, holds up shipments from making it to market, and slows down service businesses and tradespeople from getting to their job sites. Langley deserves infrastructure that meets our needs and supports our growth, so we’re pleased to see this project continuing to move forward,” says Cory Redekop, CEO of the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce.
“Highway 1 is a critical corridor for business, trade and commerce – and for too long has been slow, inefficient and congested. We welcome this announcement but will continue to push for the expansion through to Chilliwack that our community needs,” adds Leanna Kemp, Executive Director of the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce.
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About the Fraser Valley Business Coalition
Four chambers of commerce (Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Mission), representing thousands of private sector business members from across the Fraser Valley have united as the Fraser Valley Business Coalition. The Coalition serves as a unified voice addressing the critical issues facing the business community across the Fraser Valley region. Together, the Coalition will work to advocate for the shared needs of Fraser Valley businesses.
For more information:
Alex Mitchell, CEO
Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce
ceo@abbotsfordchamber.com / 604 446 5061
Miriam Bozman, Executive Director
Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce
execdir@missionchamber.bc.ca / d: 604 286 0114 / c: 778 344 4446
Leanna Kemp, Executive Director
Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce
leanna@chilliwackchamber.com / d. 604 761 5919 / o. 604 793 4323
Cory Redekop, CEO
Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce
cory@langleychamber.com / o. 604 371 3770 / c. 604 318 0420
Grand Opening of The Purple Door Program at Mission Friendship Centre
Mission, BC – August 15, 2024 – The Mission Friendship Centre Outreach Department is proud to announce the Grand Opening of The Purple Door program, a new initiative dedicated to providing vital support and resources to our community. The opening ceremony, which includes a ribbon-cutting event in partnership with the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce, will take place on August 30th, 2024, from 9:30am to 1:30pm, coinciding with International Overdose Awareness Day.
This significant occasion brings together community members, leaders, and advocates to raise awareness of the ongoing overdose crisis, honor the lives lost, and highlight our unwavering commitment to harm reduction and compassionate care. The Purple Door program is designed to offer essential services, including harm reduction supplies, counselling, and connections to health and social services, to those most in need.
The event will feature speakers from local organizations, testimonials from those impacted by the crisis, and an opportunity for the community to come together in solidarity and remembrance.
Event Details:
Date: August 30th, 2024, 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Mission Friendship Centre (Purple Door), 33150B N. Railway Ave. Mission BC
We invite all community members to join us at this important event as we take a step forward in supporting those affected by the overdose crisis and work towards building a safer, healthier community.
For more information, please contact:
Dawn Styran, Executive Director
Mission Friendship Centre
604-302-3709, director@missionfcs.org
About the Mission Friendship Centre:
The Mission Friendship Centre is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people through culturally appropriate services, advocacy, and programs. We are committed to fostering a sense of community and belonging for all who seek our support.
About International Overdose Awareness Day:
International Overdose Awareness Day is a global event in August each year. It aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths. The day also acknowledges grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have died or suffered permanent injury due to drug overdose.
Miriam Bozman, Executive Director
execdir@missionchamber.bc.ca
D: 778-344-4446
Courthouse Creamery to Host Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Mission, BC - August 15, 2024 — The local community is invited to celebrate the ribbon cutting ceremony of Courthouse Creamery, a new family-owned and operated ice cream shop located in Mission. The ceremony, hosted by the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce, will take place on August 28th, 2024 at 1:00pm, marking the official opening of this exciting new addition to the area.
Courthouse Creamery offers a delightful array of treats that capture the essence of summer. The shop proudly serves fresh Birchwood Dairy ice cream, known for its rich and creamy texture. In addition to ice cream, Courthouse Creamery also features delicious bubble teas, perfect for a refreshing break, and classic hot dogs, making it a one-stop destination for family-friendly fare.
Owners, Kash and Fizza, are excited to have launched this business as a true family project. Their two children work there when they’re not working on their studies, and they had a lot of input into the look of the little shop. In fact, it was their 15-year-old daughter who originally championed the business idea to her parents. “We wanted our kids to be involved in the process. This is a family place and we wanted everyone in our family to have a voice in it.” said Fizza. When asked about their goals for the business, Kash said “Our goal is to create a welcoming space where families and friends can come to enjoy some of the best treats Mission has to offer. From our locally sourced ice cream to our fun bubble tea flavors, we want every visit to be a memorable experience.”
The ribbon cutting ceremony will be followed by special promotions and free samples. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the owners, explore the variety of offerings, and enjoy the delightful flavors of Courthouse Creamery.
Courthouse Creamery is located at 32818 7th Avenue, inside what used to be Mission’s historic courthouse, adding a sweet new twist to the neighborhood. The shop will be open 7 days a week from noon to 9pm, ready to serve up smiles all summer long and beyond.
Join us at Courthouse Creamery for the ribbon cutting ceremony and celebrate the start of a delicious new tradition in Mission!
For more information, please contact:
Miriam Bozman, Executive Director
execdir@missionchamber.bc.ca
D: 778-344-4446
(FRASER VALLEY) May 23, 2024 – The inaugural Fraser Valley Economic Summit was held this week and brought together BC Premier David Eby, the Mayors of Langley Township, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Mission, alongside 200 business leaders for a full day of discussions and advocacy on regional economic opportunities, emerging sectors, and pro-growth policies. The Summit was organized by the Fraser Valley Business Coalition, a new alliance of the Greater Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, and Mission Regional chambers of commerce, representing thousands of local businesses across the region.
The inaugural summit featured a keynote economic update from Ken Peacock of the BC Business Council, who provided a comprehensive overview of the economic realities for both BC and the Fraser Valley region. The Summit also included thought-provoking panel discussions featuring local professionals and thought-leaders tackling the Valley’s critical infrastructure needs, food security and agriculture, and workforce development, as well as a free-wheeling discussion on the strengths and needs of the region with the four regional Mayors and Chair of the Fraser Valley Regional District.
The Summit was punctuated with a lunch address by Premier David Eby, who highlighted his government's economic initiatives and spoke to the choice facing British Columbians in the upcoming provincial election.
"The summit was a tremendous success, bringing together the leaders of our regional economy to map out a bold economic vision for the future of the Fraser Valley. It’s time for the Fraser Valley to get its fair share - our region’s success is key to the economic success of all of British Columbia, and the FV Business Coalition is committed to driving that message forward. ” said Alex Mitchell, CEO, Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce.
Cory Redekop, CEO of the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce said: "This event highlights the immense potential of our region. By bringing attention to the opportunities and challenges facing the Valley, we are paving the way for a more prosperous future."
"The level of engagement and the quality of discussions were outstanding. The insights gained here will help influence our regional opportunities," said Leanna Kemp, Executive Director of the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce.
Miriam Bozman, Executive Director of the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce added "The summit underscored the importance of regional collaboration and proactive planning. The ideas and connections made today will help us drive economic growth and innovation."
Background:
Four Chambers of Commerce (Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Mission), representing thousands of private sector members from across the Fraser Valley have united as The Fraser Valley Business Coalition. The Coalition emerges as a unified voice addressing critical issues facing the business community across the Fraser Valley region.
The collective strength and expertise of these four influential business organizations will drive a non-partisan mission of elevating the economic issues impacting the region and its businesses. Together representing thousands of members across the Fraser Valley, the Coalition will work to support, connect and advocate for the needs of local business.
Associated Links:
Video of Premier Address: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLi2FlyI7go
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March 6, 2024 – Today, four Chambers of Commerce representing thousands of private sector members from across the Fraser Valley have united as The Fraser Valley Business Coalition. The Coalition emerges as a unified voice addressing critical issues facing the business community across the Fraser Valley region.
The collective strength and expertise of these four influential business organizations will drive a non-partisan mission of elevating the economic issues impacting the region and its businesses. Today’s official launch will be followed by a collaborative campaign, leading up to the first ever Fraser Valley Economic Summit, on May 21st at the University of the Fraser Valley. The summit will be a gathering of the region’s business leaders and key voices to discuss the future needs of the Fraser Valley, showcase local innovators and current projects, and announce a list of action items on behalf of the Coalition for British Columbia’s next Provincial Government to seize today’s economic opportunity.
“Our economy, businesses and communities across the Fraser Valley are growing — the region’s economic success is key for all of British Columbia. We are calling on the provincial government to make key investments in trade-enabling infrastructure, our future skilled workforce, and decisive policy change to unlock the economic potential of the region,” said Alex Mitchell, CEO of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce. “The Abbotsford Chamber is thrilled to be chairing this Coalition to ensure that the voice of business in the Fraser Valley is heard in Victoria and across the region - it’s our time.”
“It’s clear: the Fraser Valley is the future. This is where the economic activity and population growth will be going forward, and as such our region deserves the investment and support it needs to be successful. The Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce is pleased to be part of this coalition to ensure the voice of the Fraser Valley is heard and our region isn’t kept waiting for the critical transportation, housing and healthcare infrastructure our people and businesses need,” says Cory Redekop, CEO of the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce.
Key Focus Areas of the Coalition:
- Investing in Critical Infrastructure: Understanding the pivotal role that infrastructure plays in economic growth, the coalition will advocate for solutions that enhance the region's critical infrastructure, calling for the reinforcement and protection of the corridor (Highway 1) that connects the goods and people of British Columbia to the rest of Canada and the US.
- Enabling Economic Development: The coalition will push for hospitable hosting conditions for business to complete major projects, and look at land use in the context of the Industrial land shortage in Metro Vancouver to promote sustainable economic development in the Fraser Valley.
- Removing Barriers to More Attainable Housing: Recognizing the challenges posed by housing shortages and affordability concerns, the coalition will work collaboratively to propose strategies that address the housing needs of the workforce and support the unprecedented growth the region is currently experiencing.
- Giving the Fraser Valley its Fair Share in Health Care and Education: The coalition is committed to the improvement of health care services and education opportunities to support the growing workforce.
- Promoting Innovation in Agriculture/Agri-tech: As one of the most productive agricultural regions in Canada, the coalition will advocate for policies and initiatives that support the growth and innovation within this sector.
- Finding solutions to Crime and Vandalism: Businesses continue to experience higher operating costs when responding to crime and vandalism, and need relief from the costs associated with property crime.
“The Fraser Valley Business Coalition symbolizes a collective vision for growth, innovation, and sustainability within our region. By uniting with our neighbouring Chambers, The Chilliwack Chamber aims to leverage shared goals and resources to tackle the critical challenges that face our businesses and residents alike. The coalition's focus on strategic investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and crime reduction directly aligns with our interests. We believe that by working together, we can amplify our voices, foster economic development, and enhance the quality of life across the Fraser Valley; Leanna Kemp, Executive Director, Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce.
Formation of the Fraser Valley Business Coalition marks a significant step toward addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for businesses and people in the region.
“This Coalition represents a pivotal moment for the Fraser Valley, one that the Mission Chamber is proud and grateful to be a part of. We look forward to uniting the diverse voices of our local businesses to speak with one strong voice on issues that matter”, said Miriam Bozman, Executive Director of the Mission Regional Chamber. “We’re not just creating a coalition, we are laying the groundwork for a more vibrant and resilient local economy by addressing the unique challenges that face our region with an amplified voice together.”
The FV Business Coalition: Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce, Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce, Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce, and Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce, together represent thousands of members across the Fraser Valley and work to support, connect and advocate for the needs of local business.
September 19, 2023 - In response to the release of plans for new Highway 1 upgrades by the Province, four Chambers of Commerce representing the Fraser Valley, including Abbotsford, Langley Township/City, Mission, and Chilliwack, are uniting to push for an expedited completion of this Highway 1 expansion project to bring better transportation capacity to the region.
The Highway 1 corridor is the lifeblood of commerce and connectivity, accommodating more than 80,000 vehicles daily. These vehicles include the employees who power our businesses, the tourists who fuel the visitor economy, and the dedicated service providers and truckers who facilitate the transportation of goods, build our homes and businesses, and maintain our infrastructure.
Today, congestion grinds the corridor to a halt regularly, stopping trade, slowing business, and making it too difficult for people to get around the region. With population in the Fraser Valley expected to increase by 47% by 2050, the Chambers are pushing for completion of Highway 1’s expansion as soon as possible, and are encouraging the Province and the Ministry of Transportation to speed up preloading, design, planning, procurement and other timelines and schedules to get this valuable project started – and finished – sooner.
Completing a transportation investment project of this scale requires long-term funding commitments. Completion of the Highway 1 widening through Chilliwack may take decades, but industry, taxpayers, and local governments need to be able to rely on senior levels of government to commit to these necessary investments.
This initiative will be a game-changer for the region, bolstering economic growth, improving connectivity, and elevating the region’s potential.
The four Chambers call upon all levels of government and relevant stakeholders to expedite and invest in this corridor expansion as soon as possible, and to together, pave the way for a thriving and prosperous Fraser Valley.
“Abbotsford’s business community is growing and plays an essential role in the region, being home to the Abbotsford International Airport, University of the Fraser Valley, and other regional assets. Key transportation infrastructure has fallen behind, making this one of the top economic issues facing our community. Getting Highway 1 expanded with better underpasses, more lanes, and now the inclusion of high efficiency transit options is of critical importance,” says Alex Mitchell, CEO of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce.
Joint Submission - Highway 1 Widening Project - Fraser Valley Chambers of Commerce
If you're interested in getting involved in advocacy efforts, there's always room on our Government Relations Committee. Don't hesitate to call us to get more info at 604-826-6914 or drop by our office.