There are few truths universally acknowledged on the Sunshine Coast (BC Ferries needs to get its act together is admittedly one of them) so it’s significant when we reach unanimity.
It was with little fanfare Nov. 8 that the Sechelt Chamber of Commerce voted to dissolve at the end of the year. Earlier that evening, the Pender Harbour Chamber of Commerce voted to do the same – Gibsons the day before. All of the votes were unanimous.
As of Dec. 31, the three chambers will be no more and the wheels are already turning to strike the Sunshine Coast Chamber of Commerce.
We will always struggle with localized identity and advocacy but the members of the chambers have overwhelmingly recognized we have more issues that are the same than are different.
We heard earlier this month that a living wage on the Sunshine Coast is $25.61. Just two years ago it was $19.79. This astronomical rise affects workers and small business owners alike, workers who are scraping by and business owners who cannot afford to give 30 per cent raises.
From inflation to worker shortages to rising crime to ferry uncertainty, Sunshine Coast businesses are facing pressure in all directions, and a chamber has a role to play in making sure their concerns are heard by those in positions of political power. A brand new organization will also hopefully stir fresh faces and fresh ideas.
But, at the very least, those who serve Port Mellon to Egmont can stop paying three membership fees – so that’s a win.
