Designer chosen for Canada’s first proton therapy facility

Stantec is designing the Ben Stelter Proton Facility and Neuroscience Centre of Excellence in Edmonton, Canada’s first cancer care facility offering proton therapy.

The radiation treatment precisely delivers a beam of protons to disrupt and destroy tumor cells. For that reason, it greatly reduces patient side-effects and is considered more successful than traditional radiation.

Design plans will address the health and well-being of on-site care teams. Alleviating patient anxiety will also be a focus since the therapy requires several visits for a series of weeks and uses large technology, which can be intimidating.

The centre will be located near the University of Alberta Cross Cancer Institute and Stollery Children’s Hospital and be owned and operated by WestCan Proton Therapy. Highcroft Healthcare Solutions will manage the financing and development of the project. The University of Pennsylvania Department of Radiation Oncology will provide clinical education, training, and standards.

Gordon Baltzer, CEO of WestCan Proton Therapy said the facility will make proton therapy accessible for all Canadians. Historically, patients with cancer who needed proton therapy treatment had to seek care out of the country.

The new centre will offer this local cancer treatment delivery at a substantial cost savings to the Ministry of Health and Alberta Health Services.

The Edmonton region has been positioning itself as a hub for life sciences, and is also where Stantec is headquartered. “We understand how proton therapy facilities are transforming cancer care and are honored to support clinicians to better serve their patients with innovative, life-saving treatment,” said Tariq Amlani, Stantec’s senior principal and Canadian Health sector leader.

The Ben Stelter Foundation, a charity focused on pediatric cancer research, advanced medical equipment, special patient experiences, and venture philanthropy, is raising funds for the facility.

Major industry-leading partners and contributors including The University of Pennsylvania Department of Medicine, Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation, Edmonton Global, The Stollery Charitable Foundation, and many other community-based supporters.

Feature photo: Left to right: Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers), Scott Argent (Stantec), Tariq Amlani (Stantec) Gordon Baltzer (WestCan).

Toronto eyes enforcement clout for EV spaces

Toronto’s commercial and multifamily landlords could be getting some enforcement clout beyond the honour system to discourage misuse of electric vehicle (EV) charging spaces in their parking garages. Later this week, Toronto Council is set to consider a new fine that would be applicable on private property and in off-street municipal parking facilities, as it debates a package of proposed citywide increases to on-street and off-street parking fines.

Currently, there is a fine schedule for on-street parking spots with EV chargers, which can see vehicle owners charged $60 per ticketed incident if they leave a combustion-engine vehicle or an EV that is either not charging or has outstayed the prescribed time limit in the space. However, there is no equivalent penalty for off-street EV charging spaces.

Council’s Infrastructure and Environment Committee has already endorsed a new $75 fine pertaining to off-street EV charging spaces, which a report from City staff suggests will support consistency and “a positive customer experience for EV charging customers”. The $75 rate would be on par with proposed increased fines for various other on-street and off-street parking infractions.

If adopted, the new fine is expected to go into effect August 1, 2024. Toronto’s municipal code will first have to be amended to add in the new private and municipal parking offences.

The staff report notes that operators of private parking facilities participating in the City’s consultation process were generally in favour of the new category of parking offence and associated fine. To make it enforceable on private property, they will need to post appropriate signage, as set out in the municipal code, to clearly state the rules.

Associated research cited in the report shows that relatively few other jurisdictions have similar fines in place yet. Ottawa and Victoria exact lower fines, of $70 and $40 respectively, for non-EV vehicles parked in off-street spaces outfitted for EV charging, while Oakville and Orillia both charge a $125 fine for any vehicle that occupies an off-street EV charging spaces but is not plugged in.

Outsourcing commercial cleaning is on the rise

In the post-pandemic landscape, commercial cleaners are still in the spotlight, with more and more companies outsourcing their cleaning services. Experts expect the commercial cleaning industry to grow to $329.4 billion by 2026, which is a compound growth rate of 4.8 per cent.

Saving time and money is the motivator for many businesses, and it’s a win-win for cleaners and their clients. Outsourcing cleaning services allows companies to save money on equipment, cleaning supplies, and additional personnel, which can be costly. As labour remains scarce in many industries, some businesses are focusing on what they do best to efficiently manage their business, trusting the experts to take care of the cleaning. Outsourcing also allows companies to benefit from the expertise, latest technology, and information related to janitorial services industry, without investing in those efforts themselves.

And, as hygiene remains in the spotlight for employees and business owners, outsourcing commercial cleaning allows businesses to rely on the expertise and experience of outside companies to maintain their standards of cleanliness, sanitation, and safety. The consistency that comes with outside commercial cleaners often provides peace of mind, along with their professional services.

While building occupancy is still down, it can benefit businesses to create flexible cleaning schedules to accommodate the work-from-home hours that many employees are still practicing. Rather than cleaning the office while employees are on-site, outsourcing cleaning allows companies to have their premises cleaned and sanitized while the building is empty, around the schedules they have created for their staff.

While a clean and sanitized office can limit the spread of germs and increase attendance rates, it can also make employees happier and more productive. Research shows that 70 per cent of employees feel that office hygiene affects their overall job satisfaction. Prioritizing the health and happiness of employees will likely lead to higher retention, less turnover, and saving the cost of re-training employees or lost business.

Clark Builders awarded Kelowna school contract

Clark Builders has been successfully awarded the design build contract for the new George Pringle Secondary School in West Kelowna.

The new George Pringle Secondary School will include a neighbourhood learning centre that can offer community programming including childcare, Indigenous and other cultural services, and family resources.

The school will be built with greenhouse gas and energy reduction strategies achieved through a sustainable geo-exchange system for heating and cooling. The energy efficient design features heat recovery, building automation, and lighting control. The design also incorporates non-combustible construction materials.

This project continues Clark Builders’ legacy of design build delivery with a hand-picked team of talented and dedicated consultants led by studioHuB Architects, who are experienced in exactly this type of work. Working directly for the School District 23 Central Okanagan (SD23), the team has shepherded this project to fruition and will continue to advance the design and lead the delivery of this work.

“We are excited and honoured to be selected and join with Central Okanagan Public Schools in the work ahead to deliver a modern and sustainable George Pringle Secondary School with a neighbourhood learning centre that will reflect elements of syilx culture,” said Scott Benoit, director, project development for Clark Builders. “As design builders of educational facilities, Clark Builders and studioHuB Architects recognize how design can positively impact the social and environmental landscape to improve the wellbeing and learning outcomes of students, staff, and the community.”

The new school will accommodate 1,200 students and is expected to be ready for the September 2027 school year. The estimated cost of the project is about $124 million.

Knight Varga Interiors wins two NKBA Awards

Knight Varga Interiors was a double winner at this year’s National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Design + Industry Awards.

The Vancouver firm won two first place awards for their “Forever Home” project in the categories of Best Power Room and Best Primary Bath.

Located in a new-build project, the primary ensuite bath needed to be spatially functional as well as quiet enough for one partner to continue sleeping if the other got up early or stayed up late.

To help with sound proofing, the toilet room was placed in the corner furthest from the bedroom behind a solid-core white oak door. Storage for both clients is tucked behind vertically clad, floor-to-ceiling white oak columns flanking a sleek floating vanity with a custom integrated Corian sink and counter.

“This primary ensuite bath was a dream to design!” said principal Trish Knight. “The space is generous and the view across the city is outstanding.”

For the power room, it is the residence’s only bath on the main floor, so not only did it need to incorporate “wow factor” features to impress guests, but it also needed to be durable enough to withstand daily use by the family.

The space was long and narrow, and the clients requested a discreet toilet area that could not be seen from the hallway. Knight’s solution was to create a wall between the vanity and the toilet and clad it in the hardwood floorboards used throughout the rest of the house to create a visual break for the eye. The dramatic sink and counter were custom-made from the same slab of quartz, fabricated in Spain, and are accented by a vertical slat wall, glossy ceramic tile with a subtle plaid pattern, and grasscloth wallpaper — all of which play off each other to create “an elevated boutique feel.”

The annual awards celebrate innovative design, superior function, creativity and presentation. Hundreds of entries were received in the various categories. The 2024 winners received $5,000 for a first-place finish, $3,000 for second place, and $2,000 for third place.

Photo: Janis Nicolay/Janis Nicolay Photography

Attracting foreign construction workers

Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially ended the Express Entry pause to help fill employment slots in key sectors, including the construction field. The Canadian government has an urgent need for workers in specific sectors to help the country grow and succeed. With a shortage of skilled labour in Canada, there is opportunity for companies to hire foreign workers to spur economic growth, and to provide immigrants with quality jobs to improve their lives and personal economic outlook.

The construction field is a job market that is in demand throughout most provinces in Canada including Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, Alberta, and Manitoba and will continue to grow. According to BuildForce Canada, 245,100 people are expected to retire from construction jobs over the next eight years (by 2032) and the industry will need people to fill these roles. This is where the opportunity for foreign workers to enter the workforce in Canada comes into play.

Currently, Canada welcomes around 500,000 new immigrants every year (which is one of the highest rates per population of any other country). According to Canada’s Immigration Ministry almost 100 per cent of Canada’s labour force growth can be attributed to immigrants, and by 2036, immigrants are expected to make up about 30 per cent of the country’s population.

There are multiple programs in place such as the Federal Skilled Workers Program (FWSP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and more that can work specifically to place foreign workers in construction jobs throughout the country, but it can be confusing to navigate what requirements workers must meet, even with the Express Entry pause ended, it can take longer than workers and companies would prefer if they don’t have everything in place.

Consulting construction firms looking to hire and attract these foreign workers in Canada can help make the process easier by educating themselves, and prospects, on the requirements they must meet for Express Entry by focusing on:

What insurance coverage is required.
What options for insurance coverage are available that are affordable.
How they can get this information to prospective foreign workers.

Another thing employers should consider when recruiting immigrant workers, is the appeal of bringing their extended families with them. Canada’s super visa program allows aged extended family members from other countries to visit Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Instead of having to leave their parents and grandparents behind, employers can attract immigrant employees by educating workers on the super visa.

Each year, the (IRCC) issues approximately 17,000 super visas to parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada. The super visa provides multiple entry to eligible applicants for up to 10 years, with an authorized stay for each individual entry for up to five years. IRCC plans to issue up to 36,000 super visas each year by 2025 under the Family Immigration Plan.

There are some crucial things employers should make sure immigrant employees know about:

1. Insurance Requirements

Foreign workers are often eligible for provincial health care coverage; however, many provinces have a waiting period before coverage is in effect. Employers must obtain and pay for this coverage with no financial impact to employees.

For family members applying for super visas there are requirements that must be met before obtaining entry into Canada. While the overall list can be found on the Government of Canada website it consists of a letter of invitation, income testing, proof their host is a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or registered Indian. There’s also a very important portion that requires health insurance.

The required health insurance must be from a Canadian insurance provider, and must cover health care, hospitalization, and repatriation for a minimum of one year for super visa applications. Health insurance plans can be expensive, especially when trying to meet the requirements for super visa applicants as these applicants are older.

Note: When shopping for a health insurance plan, look for one that covers more than just the basics – it will save money in the long run. The minimum coverage requirement is $100,000 for Super Visas. Consider a higher coverage limit due to the high cost of healthcare in Canada and the age of the applicant as they may not be in optimal health.

2. What the application process looks like

While the process might seem intimidating with the different factors and situations that change, what proof visiting family members will need, what documents they must upload, etc., it’s quite simple. Families need to receive an invite code first, and they begin by creating an account on the IRCC Portal. From there, they complete the online form and upload their required documents, and then pay online.

The time for new applications to be processed varies depending on the country where extended family members are coming from. It can take around 2-6 months to process the application, so if family members want to be visiting during the holidays, it’s best to start sooner rather than later.

Current processing times can easily be checked on the Government of Canada website.

After applying, family members may have to undergo an interview with officials, get a medical exam, or a few other things before being allowed entry into the country. Once their application has been approved, they’ll receive a letter with instructions on submitting their passport, but if it’s refused, they’ll receive a letter explaining why.

Super visa support immigrant families

The super visa is a great way for aged immediate family members to visit for long periods of time from other countries. While immigrant workers need to undergo the Express Entry process, informing them and educating them on a simple way for extended family to visit without restriction, will make the move more appealing, and fill the tens of thousands of jobs Canada needs in the very near future.

Omar Kaywan, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer at Goose Insurance.

First Nations tapped as social housing suppliers

First Nations will gain new standing as social housing suppliers in Vancouver under a proposed amendment to the City’s charter. Enabling legislation recently tabled in the British Columbia legislative assembly will convey the same exemptions from development fees that not-for-profit organizations and federal, provincial and municipal governments receive for their social housing projects.

While First Nation reserve lands within Vancouver’s boundaries are already exempt from such fees, other lands that First Nations own privately have been subject to levies the City of Vancouver collects to cover the cost of infrastructure and amenities to serve new development. Under the proposed amendments, those costs would be waived if the subject development is social housing.

“Local First Nations have the potential to be a significant supplier of housing. This amendment is intended to reduce costs for First Nations and create opportunities for development, including new social housing,” the B.C. government states.

Exemptions would apply on lands owned by a First Nations band within B.C. territory, the Nisga’a Nation, a Nisga’a village, the shíshálh Nation or any of their affiliated corporations. As with government and not-for-profit developers, Vancouver Council will have leeway to define what constitutes social housing.

Vancouver to gain more authority over landscaping

Vancouver Council will gain more authority to impose landscaping requirements on new development and hand off responsibility for revoking dog licences under proposed amendments to the City’s charter. The British Columbia government characterizes the enabling legislation, which was recently tabled in Bill 4, as a tool to support Vancouver’s climate change adaptation policies and streamline administrative processes.

Under current rules, Vancouver Council can pass a bylaw to establish requirements for “the provision, maintenance and retention of landscaping” in situations where a developer must seek special approval for a conditional land use or if the development site is located in a designated district or zone where special approvals are required. The proposed amendment would allow the City to broadly apply landscaping requirements as a condition of any development permit.

Along with that, development proponents could be asked to submit supporting plans to show how they will ensure landscaping is introduced or retained and then maintained. They may also be required to produce and submit reports assessing a site’s existing landscape and/or the projected effects of proposed new landscaping.

Meanwhile, Council would no longer have to act as the dog licensing court, with a proposed rule change to allow it to delegate that authority to an animal control officer employed on City staff. Currently, Vancouver’s chief licensing officer can recommend the revocation of a dog licence, but Council must make the final decision. Appeal processes for dog owners would remain in place with any shifting of authority.

Investing in robotic lawnmowers

Smart technology continues to lead the way into a brighter future for cleaning and maintenance, creating an increase in automation for outdoor maintenance. With the continued labour shortage, many maintenance managers are leaning on technology to help bridge the gap. As well, many of today’s tech trends allow companies to lower their carbon footprint to increase sustainability and get closer to their ESG goals.

The use of robotic lawnmowers is on the rise, providing simple solutions for groundskeeping and an alternate way to conduct outdoor maintenance. The robotic lawnmower market was valued at 6.2 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach 15.6 billion by 2032, so many maintenance managers are seeing value in these tools.

The benefits

Besides saving time and labour, robotic lawnmowers offer several other benefits to maintenance managers:

Many robotic lawnmowers have a self-mulch feature, so you don’t have to manage the clippings, and they go right back into the soil.
Often, they are programmable through mobile devices, so they can be scheduled, stopped, and started off-site from an app.
They cut in random patterns without leaving path marks, so your property aesthetic remains pristine.
Studies show that a regular lawnmower emits 89 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, whereas the robotic, battery-powered units use less energy for charging eliminating all pollution from gasoline.
Using sensory technology, once they have completed the area, they can be programmed to head back to their charging stations so they’re ready for the next use.
They are quiet. The average robotic lawnmower emits sound at about 100 decibels which on par with the same noise level as a car horn.

Some factors to consider:

Weather is important. As robotic lawnmowers should not be used in inclement weather, you will need to be mindful when the machine is operational.
Slope may be an issue for some models. While some manufacturers claim that they are capable of addressing a 70 per cent slope, others are limited to 25 to 45 per cent.
Time and money are initial factors. Investing in the machinery can be expensive and programming and learning the technology will take time.
There may be areas that will need to be maintained by hand if the lawn buts up to landscaping.

Outdoor maintenance is a big job so investing in technology and automation to save time and money – like robotic lawnmowers – may just be the solution managers need to help streamline their operations, go greener, and improve efficiency.

McGill achieves sustainable milestone

McGill University has become the oldest in Canada to receive a Platinum STARS rating for sustainability. The achievement is the highest rating available from what is considered to be one of the most reliable means of measuring an educational institution’s track record on sustainability indicators.

The Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System is a transparent, self-reporting framework for colleges and universities to measure their sustainability performance. It is administered by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education. Earning Platinum makes McGill one of 14 globally and five in Canada to reach this status. In 2017, the university set out to achieve this target by 2030.

“Reaching the Platinum sustainability rating is a significant milestone that we are proud of, but it’s not the end of our journey,” said François Miller, executive director of sustainability, in a media release. “With the world facing serious climate and biodiversity challenges, universities like McGill will continue to play an important role in finding solutions.”

The university held gold status for the past eight years. Since then, it has integrated LEED standards into its design standards. All new construction or significant renovations are now built to LEED Gold specifications, where eligible. McGill also diverts most of its construction waste away from landfill.

The university also increased access to sustainability resources for its community, such as a new fellows program to support faculty in integrating sustainability into their courses, an elective on climate crisis and climate action and an introductory sustainability module that is available to all staff and students. The McGill Sustainability Policy and Strategic Academic Plan has also incorporated expanded commitments to sustainability-focused teaching and learning.

Looking ahead, McGill plans to release a new Climate & Sustainability Strategy in 2025 that considers the next iteration of the STARS framework. Current projects underway are a research, teaching, and learning hub dedicated to sustainability systems and public policy and installing new electric boilers to reduce the downtown campus’ energy-related emissions from buildings by 29 per cent to reach carbon neutrality by 2040.

Few funds with Quebec’s student housing promise

There are few funds or details to accompany the Quebec government’s new promise to help post-secondary institutions secure affordable student housing in the private market. Finance Minister Eric Girard flagged plans to increase the number of student housing units as he introduced the 2024 provincial budget earlier this week, but just $7.5 million over five years is allocated for the effort.

That funding — $1.5 million per year until 2028-29 — is meant to support both the acquisition of student housing and the maintenance budget for Quebec’s private subsidized colleges. As outlined in the budget document, the provincial government intends to enable post-secondary institutions to forge rental guarantee agreements with housing providers, thus ensuring that “student-friendly housing” will be reserved in new developments.

“By enabling institutions to guarantee a minimum occupancy rate, this initiative aims to increase private-sector interest in the construction of student housing,” it states.

The remainder of the funding is intended to bring private subsidized colleges on par with maintenance levels at provincial CEGEPs. “This initiative is intended to provide college students a safe learning environment and high-quality training facilities that promote student retention and success,” the budget document maintains.

Turning to an older demographic of residents, the budget promises about $122 million over three years for private seniors’ residences, primarily to extend COVID-related extra support that was about to expire. The funding will go to operational expenses, for care-giver staff and to help cover increases in insurance premiums, rather than asset improvements.

“Some seniors continue to face housing challenges, as several private seniors’ residences have had to close their doors in recent years due to financial difficulties,” the budget document observes.

How cleaners are prioritizing profits in 2024

The commercial cleaning landscape continues to evolve, and cleaners are shifting their practices and their business models to boost profitability in 2024. Inflation continues to play a role this year, as 62 per cent of cleaners think that clients will continue to focus on getting the most value for their money.

As expected, increasing revenue is vital, as 63 per cent of cleaning businesses’ top priority this year, followed by increasing cash flow (57 per cent) and hiring or retaining employees. How are cleaning companies planning to boost their profits? 34 per cent of commercial cleaners plan to raise their prices, a significant drop from the 90 per cent who predicted increases in 2023.

Employee retention is also a prevailing strategy to raise bottom lines, as 86 per cent of cleaning companies plan to increase staff salaries, with 54 per cent of those companies enforcing a minimum increase of five per cent. Along with this, empowering staff with current tools and increased efficiency is a focus for cleaning companies, with 27 per cent of the industry considering building information modelling.

Investing in new technologies or cleaning practices can also help cleaning companies attract new clients, add revenue streams, and stand out from the competition to build the bottom line. Trying out new products like electrolised water or salt-free cleaners and adopting new techniques may be a way for cleaners to limit the strain on their budgets while increasing profits.

Sustainability also continues to be important according to 80 per cent of cleaners, with the reduction of plastic waste and green cleaning products topping the list of priorities from clients. Switching to chemical-free or organic products may allow companies to better connect with their customers and align their values to encourage long-term loyalty.

Commercial cleaning companies have pivoted many times in the last few years and those looking to get ahead in 2024 may have to do so again. Standing out in this competitive industry is key to growing a client base that will build the bottom line. As cleaners strive to get ahead in 2024, creative strategies and approaches may be necessary to stand out, keep employees happy, and provide an elevated customer experience.

Vancouver hub to help energy building reporting

The City of Vancouver has launched Energize Vancouver, a resource hub that will support Vancouver’s large existing building owners to track and improve energy performance and reduce building emissions.

Energize Vancouver is a multi-year initiative dedicated to upgrading and retrofitting Vancouver’s large existing commercial and multi-family buildings to provide healthier, safer, and more comfortable indoor spaces, while reducing emissions and improving energy performance.

Energy and Carbon Reporting (starting in 2024): Annual reporting of energy-use and carbon pollution for buildings larger than 100,000 square feet (9,290 square metres). Building owners will need to use ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager to benchmark their building’s annual energy and carbon use and submit a report via the City’s Building Performance Reporting.
Greenhouse Gas Intensity (GHGi) Limits (starting in 2026): Compliance with specified annual GHGi limits for office and retail buildings (100,000 ft. sq. and above), which will progressively lower over time.
Heat Energy Limits (starting in 2040): Meeting specified limits for natural gas and district energy consumed by office and retail buildings (100,000 ft. sq. and above).
Future compliance: Stay informed about upcoming regulations and proactively plan for retrofits, efficiency measures and investments in renewable energy sources to reduce GHG emissions.
Resources: Energize Vancouver includes detailed reporting requirements, how-to-guides, videos, supports and help centre access.

Tax credit overhaul redirects Quebec revenue

Quebec employers are losing a tax credit for having workers aged 60+ years on their payrolls. The newly released 2024 provincial budget terminates the measure, five years after its inception, arguing that it does little to enhance the government’s intended objective to retain experienced workers in the labour force.

Cancellation of the refundable tax credit for employers with annual payrolls no greater than $7.5 million is projected to save nearly $252 million over the next five years, and is part of a broader tax credit overhaul that is expected to redirect an extra $1 billion to Quebec revenues by 2029. The larger share of that will come from a realignment of tax credits for IT ventures related to multimedia, film production and development of e-businesses.

The budget document confirms the government’s priority is “refocusing tax assistance to the IT sector on the highest value-added jobs,” allowing it to retrieve more than $874 million in revenue over the next five years. It also concludes incentives aren’t necessary to boost older workers’ attractiveness to employers.

“The government continues to encourage experienced workers to participate in the labour market, in particular by offering the tax credit for career extension under the personal income tax system, which benefits just over 350 000 taxpayers per year,” the budget document states.

For the 2024 tax year, qualifying employers will still be able to claim an applicable portion of the tax credit on their contributions for workers aged 60+ years from January 1st until budget day, March 12th. Small and medium businesses are also encouraged to make better use of the tax relief that continues to be available.

The budget document cites Revenu Québec data indicating that just 14 per cent of such business operators are taking advantage of tax credits, and suggests it’s “mainly because they are unfamiliar with the measures available to them and the application process”. Revenu Québec launched an outreach campaign in the fall of 2023 with the goal of providing information and support in applying for tax credits to up to 50,000 small and medium business by the end of 2027.

The latest adjustments to tax credits come ahead of a broader review of the tax system and government expenditures set to begin this spring. As well, five provincial agencies — Hydro-Québec, Loto-Québec, the Société des alcools du Québec, the Société québécoise du cannabis and Investissement Québec — have been instructed to identify “revenue optimization measures and expense rationalizations” that will allow them to collectively save $1 billion over the four years from 2025-26 to 2028-29.

“We all need to devote special efforts to improving the efficiency of government interventions in the tax system and the performance of Québec’s state-owned enterprises,” says Quebec’s Finance Minister, Eric Girard.

Concert Properties appoints Ruth Legg VP of ESG

Ruth Legg has been named vice president of environment, social and governance at Concert Properties, effective March 26, 2024.

Legg will play a key role in building, supporting and advising on the company’s overall ESG strategy and approach, including tracking and reporting on key ESG topics and metrics, and managing internal and external ESG communications and reporting requirements.

“Concert Properties is innovating and pursuing exciting ESG strategies that I am eager to contribute to alongside the team, providing comprehensive ESG solutions,” she said. “I am excited to be joining the company at this time of growth, with a focus on a more sustainable future.”

She joins the real estate company after two decades of experience as an executive ESG leader working in financial services, most recently serving as Americas Head of Supply Chain Sustainability and Diversity at HSBC where she led strategic climate programs to drive operational sustainability progress and the first pathway for HSBC’s supply chain to reach its net-zero carbon emissions 2030 commitment.

“Ruth’s expertise—and passion for—environmental stewardship, social responsibility and strong governance will be a valuable asset to our company as we continue our focus on building resilient, inclusive and sustainable communities across Canada, and progress towards a net-zero future,” said Christine Bergeron, president and CEO of Concert Properties.

Throughout her career, Legg guided several notable initiatives, including North America Ceres award for innovative sustainability reporting at the Vancouver Olympics and the first public sustainability strategy and performance framework at British Columbia Lottery Corporation.

She has also been recognized as one of Canada’s ESG leaders for her contributions towards a low-carbon, clean economy, winning the 2017 Emerging Leader award from Clean50.

Skeena Terrace rezoning application approved

Vancouver City Council has given the green light to the rezoning application for Skeena Terrace. This approval paves the way for replacing and expanding social housing at the 10.8-acre site, adding nearly 2,000 affordable homes and community amenities.

“This approval marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to address the affordable housing crisis and create inclusive communities,” stated Mayor Ken Sim. “The redevelopment of Skeena Terrace represents a collaborative approach to providing safe, affordable, and sustainable housing options while enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.”

The redevelopment of Skeena Terrace will serve a wide range of needs, offering social housing options tailored to various household types, ages, mobility requirements, and income levels. Approximately 66 per cent of the proposed homes will be available at or below the BC Housing-Housing Income Limits, ensuring that they remain accessible to those in need by limiting rental costs to no more than 30 per cent of gross household income.

In addition to expanding the stock of affordable family-oriented housing in the Hastings-Sunrise area, this redevelopment will also introduce new community-serving spaces, including a 74-space childcare facility. As well, the project integrates walking, rolling, and cycling connections into the neighbourhood, fostering a vibrant and sustainable community that is both accessible and livable.

Skeena Terrace is located on the unceded traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations. It is located in the Hastings Sunrise neighbourhood and is bound by East Fifth Avenue (North), Lougheed Highway (South), Cassiar Street (West), and Skeena Street (East).

Edmonton housing market heating up

The Greater Edmonton Area’s housing market has been gaining momentum ahead of spring, showing residential sales increases of 36.9 per cent in February over January 2024 and 52.6 per cent year-over-year.

New listings for the month amounted to 2,762, up 27.7 per cent since the beginning of the year. Apartment condominium sales increased 46 per cent in February from the previous year and 48 per cent from the previous month.They also went down in price, hitting $181,347, which is around three per cent lower than last February. Condo units are averaging 65 days on the market, showing no change since January.

Row and townhouses, with sales up by 49.2 per cent year-over-year, are currently priced at 9.7 per cent more than last year, selling at an average of $275,735. They are sitting on the market eight days less than the previous month.

Detached sales are also higher since last year, at 60.5 per cent, while the average price increased to $508,411. Semi-detached units sold for an average of $385,163, a 7.7 per cent increase year-over-year,

“It’s expected that the spring market will be busy this year, but when you see detached single family homes are already selling 60.5% more units than last year, it makes you sit up and take notice,” said Realtors Association of Edmonton 2023 board chair Melanie Boles in a press release. “If the month-to month change in sales continues at this pace, then it will be a hot market indeed.”

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