Optima Living launches U of A PhD award for senior care

Optima Living has launched a PhD Graduate Award for Innovation in Seniors Living at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Nursing.

Each year, two $25,000 awards will be presented to students in the program who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and research potential. Preference will be given to candidates whose work focuses on digital health and artificial intelligence, healthy aging, or dementia care: areas critical to improving quality of life for older adults.

The award will be funded annually, representing a total investment of $250,000 over five years. It reflects the organization’s ongoing dedication to fostering the next generation of healthcare leaders and innovators.

The award also builds on an existing partnership between the organization and the University’s Department of Medicine, which focuses on advancing knowledge and best practices in aging and dementia care.

“Partnerships like this one with Optima Living help ensure our students’ research translates into real-world improvements for Alberta seniors,” said Dr. Shannon Scott, dean of the faculty of nursing. “Beyond research, this collaboration will provide valuable preceptorship opportunities for our students, bring Optima Living’s leaders into our classrooms, and foster ongoing collaborations that strengthen our capacity to care for Alberta’s aging population.”

The Faculty of Nursing will nominate candidates and the University’s Graduate Scholarship Committee will make the final selection. Students may be eligible to hold the award for up to four years, subject to continued academic progress and program eligibility.

“This award is an extension of Optima Living’s belief that excellence in seniors care begins with excellence in knowledge creation,” said Co-Founder and Principal Farid Damji. “By supporting PhD research in nursing and partnering with the University of Alberta, we’re helping shape the future of seniors care across Alberta.”

P.E.I. boosts funding for accessible workplaces

Businesses and organizations across Prince Edward Island can access funding to make their commercial and non-profit spaces more accessible and inclusive for employees and clients with disabilities.

The provincial government’s Workforce Adaptation Fund is coordinated through local non-profit ResourceAbilities. Organizations can access up to a maximum of $50,000 annually to cover 80 per cent of eligible expenses.

Consultations were completed between the province, ResourceAbilities and the AccessAbility Advisory Council to inform the development of the fund.

“At ResourceAbilities, we see every day how accessibility opens doors to opportunity,” said executive director, Devon Broome. “This fund will help businesses and community organizations remove barriers, foster inclusion, and build welcoming workplaces for Islanders of all abilities.”

Feature photo: Workforce, Advanced Learning and Population Minister Jenn Redmond (left) with Executive Director of ResourceAbilities, Devon Broome.

Construction facing higher costs and uncertainty

Construction material costs have increased by four per cent year-over-year, which is double the Bank of Canada’s inflation target, according to the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA).

The association’s semi-annual report indicates these sustained cost increases are raising the overall cost of building at a time when trade uncertainty and other pressures continue to contribute to B.C.’s affordability challenges.

“While overall inflation in B.C. and Canada has cooled, we continue to see construction material costs rise at a higher rate in B.C.’s construction sector,” said Chris Atchison, president, BCCA. “These pressures are driving construction costs higher at a time when trade uncertainty is already causing many to rethink their investments, creating a secondary impact across the industry.”

Even as costs rise, sector activity remains steady. Industrial, commercial, and institutional (ICI) permit values are up nine per cent year over year, and the number of multi-unit residential permits issued is up 10 per cent.

The estimated value of current major construction projects underway in B.C. is $158B, a decrease of seven per cent since last year, and an increase of 41 per cent over the past five years. Proposed major construction projects is $174B, which is an an increase of five per cent since last year, and a decrease of 21 per cent over the past five years.

The introduction of Prompt Payment legislation in October is a positive sign for the industry. The legislation is designed to ensure workers and businesses are paid on time for completed work, bringing British Columbia in line with other provinces across Canada. BCCA has been a leading advocate on this issue and continues to champion the Bill’s passage.

“There are many external pressures on our industry that we cannot control, but advocating for prompt payment and fairness across our industry is something we can,” added Atchison. “We look forward to working with the government to advance this legislation and provide contractors with relief from the ongoing pressures created by trade and payment uncertainty.”

Surrey opens $133M Cloverdale complex

The City of Surrey officially opened its newest recreation facility, the Cloverdale Sport & Ice Complex.

The facility features two NHL-sized ice rinks, each equipped with four full-size team dressing rooms, two officials’ rooms, more than 200 spectator seats, and features for accessible ice sports like para ice hockey. There are also three multipurpose rooms, a meeting room and wheelchair-accessible viewing.

“Cloverdale is growing rapidly, and this new complex delivers the inclusive, accessible and high-quality recreational spaces that families have been waiting for,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “The Cloverdale Sport & Ice Complex will serve as a true community hub and premier sporting facility, supporting residents of all ages and helping to develop young athletes for years to come.”

The facility offers a wide range of programs including ice hockey, figure skating, public lessons and dry-floor summer sports such as lacrosse and ball hockey. A new parking lot with accessible stalls, EV charging stations, and a pickup/drop-off area ensures convenient access for athletes, families and spectators.

“Surrey is one of the fastest growing cities in British Columbia and residents here deserve the chance to skate,” said Premier David Eby. “This new state-of-the-art facility will make it possible for more people to enjoy the benefits of staying active, playing sports and connecting with their community. This is all part of our government’s work to build B.C. and ensure our growing communities have the infrastructure they need to thrive.”

In response to growing demand, construction of a third NHL-sized ice sheet is scheduled to begin later this year, with completion expected in 2027. This expansion will further increase Surrey’s ice capacity and strengthen the City’s recreational infrastructure.

The total approved budget for the project is $132.8 million, including $70.2 million in funding from the Province of British Columbia, through the Growing Communities Fund from the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs. General contractor was Graham Construction.

Ontario Fire Code updates for apartment owners

Effective January 1, 2026, significant updates to the Ontario Fire Code will impact how residential buildings are equipped, maintained, and operated. The changes, outlined in Regulation 87/25, are designed to enhance fire safety and accountability across the province.

“To ensure continued compliance with the updated Fire Code requirements, building operators are strongly encouraged to consult with their fire and life safety consultant,” said Kristin Ley, Partner, Cohen Highley LLP Lawyers. “A thorough review of the forthcoming changes will help identify any necessary adjustments to procedures and reporting and ensure that all life safety equipment is up to date. Early engagement will also help avoid potential compliance issues as the new regulations come into force.”

Key updates include:

All exit doors in residential buildings—whether designated as required exits or not—must comply with Ontario Fire Code standards for locking, latching, and fastening. Locking mechanisms must either be approved by the Chief Fire Official or incorporate a simple release that allows the door to be readily opened from the inside. Additionally, electromagnetic locking devices must meet the requirements of the Building Code or receive approval from the Chief Fire Official to ensure safe and compliant egress.
Ontario will adopt national standards ULC-S536 and ULC-S537 for fire alarm inspection and verification, requiring all reports to follow a standardized format with detailed documentation. Monthly and annual inspections must use prescribed forms, and battery testing must go beyond basic voltage checks to include functional or load testing with recorded results.
Newer technologies such as voice evacuation systems and wireless carbon monoxide detectors must be included in testing protocols. Any deficiencies identified must be documented separately from general notes to create clearer action lists, and attendance logs must include specific details such as names, dates, and times. Monthly checks also require standardized logs to ensure consistency and compliance across all residential buildings.
Any keys or specialized tools needed to operate fire alarm systems or access fire protection equipment must be readily available to on-duty supervisory staff at all times.
Buildings heated by forced-air fuel-burning appliances must comply with new carbon monoxide alarm placement rules effective January 1, 2026. CO alarms are required outside each sleeping area in affected units, on every storey without a sleeping area, in the appliance service room, and in public corridors heated by the appliance, spaced no more than 25 metres apart.
If the fire alarm system is monitored by a central station, owners must obtain documentation confirming compliance with either NFPA 71 or CAN/ULC-S561 standards. Integrated fire protection and life safety systems must also be tested in accordance with the national CAN/ULC-S1001 standard.

Beginning January 1, municipalities will have the authority to issue fines for Fire Code violations using Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs). Penalties can apply to: tenants, property owners, corporations and other responsible parties. To avoid fines and stay ahead of changes, Ley advises apartment owners to audit all building systems and procedures to identify areas needing updates, and ensure their documentation and equipment meet the new standards before deadline.

For a complete list of changes, refer to Regulation 87/25 under the Ontario Fire Code.

Smarter, safer living: the evolution of access credentials in Canadian multifamily communities

For multifamily property managers, the balance between security and convenience has long been a delicate one. Traditionally, physical credentials have been the cornerstone of access systems. However, the advent of modern, secure physical and mobile credentials is reshaping the industry – demonstrating that enhanced security and resident convenience can coexist.

According to Preston Grutzmacher, the Residential Business Leader for Salto in North America, “The technology is changing fast. What was considered secure just a few years back can now be hacked with a little tech savviness and cheap app. The goal is to let people in – but do it in a safer, more convenient, smarter way.”

The pitfalls of traditional physical credentials

For years, 125 kHz prox credentials have been the standard for physical access control. They are inexpensive, compatible with nearly every access control system, and come in a variety of form factors. Unfortunately, their widespread use has exposed a significant vulnerability: their ease of cloning. With minimal technical know-how and readily available tools, these legacy credentials can be duplicated, compromising the security of the entire access control system – along with the people and property it was designed to protect.

Similarly, MIFARE Classic credentials, once considered highly secure, have also become susceptible to unauthorized duplication as more advanced cloning devices have become available. These devices have proliferated as they’ve become cheaper and more widely available online. This vulnerability underscores the need for the industry to shift towards more secure technologies.

Advancements in secure physical credentials

Enter 13.56 MHz MIFARE DESFire EV3 credentials. These secure credentials are at the forefront of modern access control solutions. With a robust security protocol, they provide a level of security that is far superior to the preceding technologies. They are competitively priced, compatible with most modern access control systems and wall readers, and they also work with many smart locks for residential unit access.

The rise of mobile credentials

While 13.56 MHz smart cards are a major improvement, they may still face future challenges as technology and cyber-criminal tactics evolve. Mobile credentials, by contrast, represent the pinnacle of convenience and cybersecurity in access control – in part because they can be updated via software to stay ahead of the cybersecurity curve. The inherent security features of modern smartphones, such as biometric authentication and secure elements, provide an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access.

By leveraging the ubiquitous nature of smartphones, mobile credentials deliver a frictionless experience for users, allowing them to gain access with a device they already carry while enhancing building security for all residents.

Despite the benefits of mobile credentials, property managers must recognize that some residents or staff may always prefer a physical credential – something that doesn’t need a battery or software to work. In these instances, it is crucial to avoid legacy physical credentials and opt for secure credentials like MIFARE DESFire EV3.

By adopting a hybrid approach that offers both secure physical credentials and mobile options, properties can cater to diverse resident preferences while maintaining a high security standard and a positive user experience. Some access control platforms like Salto’s Homelok, an all-in-one smart access solution for multifamily buildings, have embraced the hybrid credential model and have hardware and software designed to accommodate legacy credentials, secure MIFARE DESFire EV3 credentials, and the latest in BLE mobile access and NFC-based credentials in mobile wallet apps.

A new era in security and a foundation for the future

This evolution of access control systems is a testament to the industry’s drive for innovation. Secure 13.56 MHz credentials and mobile credentials are not just a step forward; they are a significant leap towards a future where security is seamless, and the resident experience is front and centre.

Navigating Canada’s Aging Infrastructure: Why Reliable Emergency Communication Can’t Wait

Canada’s infrastructure is aging, and that reality extends far beyond bridges and roadways. Many facilities across the country, from high-rise residential towers to healthcare and government buildings, still rely on outdated communication systems that weren’t designed for today’s digital environment. For facility managers, this illuminates an ever-growing challenge: how to maintain code compliance and resident safety as legacy systems, particularly landline-based emergency phones, near the end of their service life.

The POTS Phase-Out is Happening in Canada Too

The shift away from Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) lines is not limited to the United States. Canadian telecom providers such as Bell and Telus have been systematically retiring copper networks, replacing them with fiber and internet-based systems. This change is good news for broadband performance but can be problematic for emergency communication systems that depend on analog lines to function reliably.

When a POTS line is discontinued, the emergency phones connected to it are at risk of failure. In an elevator entrapment, a poolside emergency, or a stairwell incident, that failure could mean the difference between a rapid response and a delayed rescue. Even before disconnection, many of these lines are prone to degradation, static, and maintenance issues that compromise reliability.

Why VoIP Isn’t a Plug-and-Play Substitute

Some property teams have turned to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) as a quick replacement for landlines. While VoIP is often reliable for standard business or tenant communications, it can introduce potentially serious risks for life safety systems.

Common vulnerabilities include:

Power outages that can immediately disrupt connectivity, leaving tenants unable to call for help during emergencies.
Bandwidth interruptions that affect call clarity or prevent calls from connecting.
Cybersecurity threats that can expose systems to tampering or data breaches.

These risks mean VoIP systems require careful and specialized IT oversight and backup power to remain compliant and dependable—resources not every facility has in place.

Emergency communication should function independently from the building’s IT infrastructure. It must work even when the power is out or when the network is down. VoIP, unfortunately, does not meet that standard out of the box.

The Cellular Advantage: Reliable, Compliant, and Future-Proof

Cellular connectivity has become the most effective and reliable solution for emergency phones. Unlike traditional or VoIP systems, cellular operates independently of the building’s internal network. This separation eliminates common points of failure and provides consistent performance during emergencies. Modern cellular emergency communication systems, like those offered by Kings III, are designed for compliance with the latest building and accessibility codes, including the updated CSA B44 elevator safety standards, which introduced two-way messaging and video monitoring requirements. They include key features such as backup power, two-way communication, and monitoring by highly trained, Advanced Emergency Medical Dispatch (AEMD)-certified operators.

The Importance of Specialized Monitoring

While the hardware and connectivity are essential, the monitoring behind these systems is what ensures complete reliability. Kings III’s emergency dispatch centre is purpose-built for emergency response. Operators are AEMD-certified and trained to manage a wide range of emergencies, from elevator entrapments to medical incidents and severe weather situations. Calls are recorded, timestamped, and documented for compliance verification, liability protection, and continuous quality improvement.

This specialized training means callers are not only connected to a live person within seconds but to someone equipped to triage the situation, provide instructions, and coordinate with local emergency responders. That level of preparedness significantly improves outcomes in emergencies and provides property managers with the assurance that help will always be dispatched appropriately. Learn more about Kings III’s all-inclusive monitoring approach.

Built-In Redundancy and Reliability

Kings III’s cellular systems are equipped with backup batteries to ensure uninterrupted function during power outages. In addition, automated self-testing features confirm communication integrity. These features provide peace-of-mind for property managers by addressing potential issues before they become safety risks.

Equally important, detailed data logs and recordings are kept for every call. These can be used during inspections or audits to demonstrate compliance with national and provincial safety codes. For multi-property portfolios, these reports can help standardize safety protocols across different provinces and building types.

Reducing Liability While Enhancing Safety

More than an inconvenience, an unreliable emergency phone is a liability. Property owners and managers are ultimately responsible for ensuring that communication systems meet national and provincial code requirements. Upgrading to a cellular-based solution is a future-proof option that eliminates the uncertainty of aging infrastructure and helps protect against costly compliance violations. With an all-inclusive service model that covers equipment, installation, maintenance, and 24/7 monitoring, Kings III simplifies the entire process. This approach helps Canadian property teams focus on operations while knowing their emergency communication systems are reliable, code-compliant, and ready when needed.

Preparing for What’s Next

As Canada continues to modernize its infrastructure, upgrading emergency communication systems is an important part of that evolution. The POTS phase-out is accelerating, and the time to act is now. By transitioning to cellular monitoring, facilities can safeguard occupants, maintain compliance, and future-proof their properties against communication disruption. Contact Kings III to learn more about reliable emergency communication solutions for your property and ensure your infrastructure is ready for the future.

Kings III Emergency Communications has been providing complete, compliant, and affordable emergency phone solutions for elevators, poolside, stairwells, and parking areas for more than three decades, monitoring more than 70,000 emergency phones across North America.

Construction begins on Japanese monument park

Construction has begun on a monument park in Victoria to honour Japanese Canadians in B.C. who were forcibly displaced, dispossessed and interned during the Second World War.

KPMB Architects and PFS Studio have been contracted to design and construct the monument park, which is expected to be completed by fall 2026.

“The forced displacement and internment of Japanese Canadians was a grave injustice when government failed in its duty to protect people’s rights and dignity,” said Attorney General Niki Sharma. “This monument park will stand as a lasting place of remembrance, honouring the families and communities who endured so much and ensuring their stories are never forgotten. It is also a commitment to keep learning from the past toward a more just future.”

The monument park is being developed in partnership with the Japanese Canadian Legacies Society. It will be located on Academy Close in Victoria, directly south of the St. Ann’s Academy National Historic Site and within walking distance of the legislature and Beacon Hill Park.

“We are grateful to government for recognizing the contributions of the many Japanese Canadians who helped shape this province,” said Susanne Tabata, CEO, Japanese Canadian Legacies Society. “By honouring our people, most of whom have been lost to time, we reconnect their names to the communities we once called home, seeking healing across generations.”

The park’s centrepiece will be a wall of names honouring 22,000 people of Japanese descent — most born in Canada — who were displaced from their homes in B.C. during the 1940s. It will also include the names of 3,000 children born after uprooting. The wall will be surrounded by a Japanese-inspired garden that will provide space for quiet reflection and community gatherings.

Development of this site has been conducted in consultation with B.C.’s Japanese Canadian community, Victoria residents and Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations.

GTHA’s rental push gains momentum

Urbanation Inc. released its Q3-2025 rental market report, revealing a notable uptick in GTHA purpose-built rental construction amid a stalled condominium sector. As developers pivot away from condos, the region is seeing a surge in rental-focused development—but it may not be enough to close the growing supply gap.

“With the condo market effectively on pause, developers have turned their attention towards purpose-built rentals,” said Shaun Hildebrand, President, Urbanation Inc. “While it’s encouraging to see more rental projects getting underway, the level of rental construction activity in the GTHA is trailing behind other parts of the country and will not be enough to offset the supply shortage left behind by a lack of condo development.”

According to the report, 1,798 purpose-built rental units broke ground in the third quarter, marking a 25 per cent increase from the same period last year. Year-to-date, rental starts have reached 5,475 units, up 32 per cent from 2024 and the highest level since 2021. Currently, 24,893 rental units are under construction across the GTHA—the most in over five decades. Additionally, 50 new rental projects totaling 18,570 units have submitted development applications this year, a 69 per cent year-over-year increase.

Data shows that a significant shift has also occurred in the condo sector. 61 projects representing 27,320 units have converted from condo to rental applications in 2025, alongside nine cancelled condo projects (1,778 units) that have also transitioned to rental.

Despite this momentum, market conditions remain challenging. The vacancy rate for stabilized purpose-built rentals completed since 2000 rose to 3.5 per cent. in Q3-2025, up from 2.8 per cent a year ago and nearly double the 1.8 per cent rate in 2023. Forty rental projects were in lease-up during the quarter, with more than half having been on the market for over a year.

Rental prices have also softened. Average rents for purpose-built units completed since 2000 fell 2.6 per cent year-over-year to $4.05 per square foot ($2,885 for 712 sq. ft.). When factoring in incentives—such as free rent periods, cash bonuses, and discounted parking—effective rents dropped 6.0 per cent. Incentives were widespread: 63 per cent of buildings offered them, with 33 per cent providing two or more months of free rent, up from just 11 per cent a year ago.

The secondary condo rental market mirrored this trend. Average rents declined 4.5 per cent to $3.85 psf ($2,633 for 684 sq. ft.), down 8.3 per cent from their Q3-2023 peak. Studios saw the steepest drop, falling 6.8 per cent in the past year and 13.7 per cent over two years. In Toronto proper, condo rents averaged $4.02 psf ($2,714 for 675 sq. ft.), a 3.8 per cent annual decline, while the 905 Region saw a 5.7 per cent drop to $3.47 psf ($2,442 for 704 sq. ft.).

ISSA announces 2025 Achievement Awards honourees

ISSA has announced the 2025 ISSA Achievement Awards honourees. The annual program recognizes cleaning and facility solutions industry professionals who are driving the industry forward through their positive contributions in their businesses and beyond. The five honourees will be recognized on November 11 during the ISSA Spotlight Event and Awards ceremony at ISSA Show North America 2025, which takes place November 10 to13 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.

“Each year, we’re reminded that the power of our community lies in its people, the innovators, mentors, and changemakers who elevate standards across the globe,” said ISSA 2025 Board President Laurie Sewell. “I’m proud to recognize this year’s honourees for their outstanding commitment and contribution to the cleaning and facility solutions industries.”

The 2025 Achievement Awards and their recipients are:

ISSA Honourary Lifetime Achievement Award
Charles Wax, Former President and CEO, WAXIE Sanitary Supply
This award honours an individual who, in the opinion of the ISSA Board, deserves recognition for substantial contributions to the advancement of the industry and/or to ISSA over a significant period of time. With more than five decades of leadership, Wax left an indelible mark on the JanSan community. As President and CEO of WAXIE Sanitary Supply for over 30 years, he built one of the industry’s most respected companies. His unwavering commitment to excellence, partnership, and professionalism influenced countless customers, suppliers, and peers. A dedicated supporter of ISSA, Wax attended the ISSA Show annually, walking the show floor with his management team as a powerful symbol of his belief in the strength and unity of the cleaning industry.

Jack D. Ramaley Industry Distinguished Service Award
Kathleen Albertson, Client Relations Manager, GDI Services, Inc.
Reserved for individuals with at least 10 years of outstanding service to the professional cleaning industry, this award recognizes Kathleen Albertson’s transformative leadership, unwavering integrity, and deep commitment to elevating both industry standards and human lives. As a survivor of domestic abuse, Albertson vowed to help others – a mission that has shaped her career, her community service in the greater Philadelphia area, and her lasting impact on the cleaning industry. She has built a remarkable network of partnerships to benefit Cleaning for a Reason, an ISSA Charity that provides free home cleanings for cancer patients. Through collaborations with PBS, Fabulous Shoe Night, Helen’s Angels, PBMOA, Allan Industries, and GDI Integrated Facility Services, she has mobilized resources, forged alliances, and expanded awareness. Her work has created innovative pathways for employee engagement and corporate giving, helping make compassionate service a core part of company culture.

Manufacturer Representatives’ Distinguished Service Award
John Riches, President, Riches Associates
This award recognizes individuals who support manufacturer representatives, the industry, and ISSA. For more than 30 years, Riches has been a premier Canadian manufacturer representative dedicated to the cleaning industry. He excelled at building relationships across distribution and end-user channels and was generous with his time and resources. He organized annual fundraising events for ISSA charitable causes such as Cleaning for a Reason and served as an ISSA Board member as well as Chairman of the Manufacturer Representatives Council.

ISSA Rising Star Award in Honour of Jimmy Core
Donnell Hines, Regional Operations Manager, Integrity National Corp.
This award acknowledges one member of the 2025 Class of 30 ISSA Emerging Leaders who has made notable contributions to their organization and the industry. Known for his hands-on management style, Hines works alongside his team to ensure projects are completed efficiently and on time. A certified building service manager, he has helped create detailed training programs and cleaning schedules that directly improve team performance and morale. His clear communication and commitment to continuous learning set a strong example, and he regularly attends training alongside employees to deepen his industry knowledge.

ISSA Trainer of the Year Award Honouring Marion Ivey
Bill McGarvey, Director of Training and Sustainability, Imperial Dade
New in 2025, this award recognizes outstanding excellence in training and education within the commercial cleaning and facility solutions industries. A Master Trainer who has worked with ISSA’s Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) since 2011, McGarvey has supported content updates and new course design and has partnered with organizations, including the Owen J. Roberts School District, to implement CMI’s Certified Custodial Technician (CCT) program. He also served on the committee that developed ISSA’s Cleaning Industry Training Standard (CITS) and was instrumental in shaping the vision for a CITS-Verified multi-functional training facility in Warminster, PA, used by thousands of employees and visitors.

Join ISSA in celebrating these five Achievement Awards recipients at the ISSA Spotlight Event and Awards ceremony on Tuesday, November 11, at 9:00 a.m. PST at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas. Register now for ISSA Show North America 2025 here. For Las Vegas hotel and travel discounts, visit www.issashow.com/en/travel.

To see last year’s honourees, please visit this link.

Ontario proposes full HST rebate for first-time homebuyers

Ontario is proposing to rebate the full 8 per cent provincial portion of the HST for first-time home buyers who are purchasing new homes valued up to $1 million.

The provincial initiative, to be included in the 2025 Fall Economic Statement, will save first-time homebuyers $130,000 on a $1-million home, when combined with the federal measure to eliminate the GST on new homes at or under $1 million as well as reducing it on new homes between $1 and $1.5 million.

“In the face of tariffs and global economic uncertainty, it’s never been more important to make life more affordable for the hardworking people of Ontario,” said Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy. “Ontario families deserve more money back in their pockets and we are continuing to build on our track record of doing just that.”

The new rebate would work alongside the existing Ontario HST New Housing Rebate, which offers up to $24,000 in relief. Together, the rebates would cover the full 8 per cent provincial HST for homes up to $1 million.

For homes between $1 million and $1.5 million, the new rebate would gradually decrease. This ensures that the combined amount of relief available under both Ontario rebates never falls below the amount that is currently provided through the existing rebate.

The Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) has praised the move, having long viewed the heavy tax burden as a major obstacle to home construction.

“Lowering the excessive tax burden on the purchase of a new home for first-time buyers, in line with what the feds have done, will help those who have been priced out of the market,” said RESCON president Richard Lyall. “First-time buyers account for roughly 35 per cent of new home purchases but they have been particularly hard hit, given the housing-cost-to-income-ratio which, in recent years, has moved beyond historic averages. This initiative will help to prevent younger talent and families from leaving the Greater Toronto Area and the province.

“The timing of this action is critical as the outlook for the residential construction industry is grim just now. In Toronto, for example, housing starts are near a 30-year low, and sales have ground to a halt. Forecasts indicate this weakness is expected to continue.”

ACEC honours National Awards winners

The Association of Consulting Engineering Companies (ACEC) National Awards gala honoured 16 projects with Awards of Excellence and several others with Special Awards for their innovation and impact.

Consulting engineering firms from across Canada were recognized for their work on projects that connect communities, improve safety and enhance the quality of life in Canada and around the world.

An Award of Excellence and ACEC Project of the Year went to Limberlost Place, a groundbreaking tall-timber building in Toronto. Fast + Epp earned the top award as well as the Catalyst Award for pushing the boundaries of tall-wood construction and setting a new precedent for sustainable design.

Built for George Brown College in Toronto, Limberlost Place is a 10-storey, net-zero carbon, exposed mass timber building that made its mark as Ontario’s first tall timber institutional project.⁠
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The project’s innovative beamless, large-span structural system integrates timber–concrete composite (TCC) CLT slab bands and perpendicular CLT infill panels, supported by glulam columns. Extensive testing at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) validated the system and informed the final design, with all findings made open-source to foster innovation and advancement in the industry.⁠

Other Special Award winners were:

AtkinsRéalis – Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation (Outreach Award).
Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd. and Stantec for the BMO Centre Expansion in Calgary (Prosperity Award).
EXP Services Inc. for the Nignen Women’s Shelter in New Brunswick (Engineering a Better Canada Award), developed through engagement with the Natoaganeg First Nation.
HH Angus and Associates for the INITIATE2 Infectious Disease Treatment Module (Ambassador Award).
WSP Canada for the PSPC – SPIB, Laboratories Canada – Mississauga Project (Breton Environmental Stewardship Award).

ACEC also gave out three individual awards: the 2025 Beaubien Award for lifetime achievement was presented to Steve Fleck (retired, formerly of Stantec); the Allen D. Williams Scholarship Award went to Gurleen Gang, an up-and-coming leader at Ecora Engineering in B.C.; and the Chair’s Award was presented to Catherine Karakatsanis of Stantec, who was the first woman to be president of FIDIC, the International Federation of Consulting Engineers.

Photo: Paul Fast (L) and Robert Jackson with the ACEC award for Limberlost Place.

Construction report charts path to cutting emissions

Nine of Canada’s largest general contractors — Aecon, Bird, Chandos, EllisDon, Graham, Ledcor, Multiplex, PCL, and Pomerleau — have partnered with The Transition Accelerator to release a groundbreaking report that charts a path on how to meet the scale of Canada’s construction challenge while reducing emissions from jobsites across the country.

Drawing on operational data from more than 600 real-world projects, Growing and Greening Canadian Construction: Five Ways for Canadian Construction Companies to Build More and Emit Less is the first initiative of its kind in Canada to rigorously analyze construction-site emissions and identify practical, high-impact actions to reduce them—and potentially improve efficiency and affordability in the process.

Construction is central to Canada’s future growth, and the sector recognizes the need to address jobsite emissions, an area with limited representation in national emission inventories. The Canadian Construction Sustainability Alliance brings together industry leaders to tackle the challenges and opportunities of building a low-carbon Canada.

Based on real operational data from more than 600 projects nationwide, Growing and Greening Canadian Construction identifies five priority actions for the sector:

Electrify light-duty vehicles and small equipment;
Optimize and electrify temporary heating;
Adopt renewable diesel as a bridge fuel;
Connect sites to grid power instead of diesel generators; and
Deploy hybrid and electric excavation equipment.

The report proposes a gradual and pragmatic path to achieve the sector’s decarbonization goals:

By 2030: A 25 per cent reduction in emissions is achievable through the early adoption of four key measures: vehicle electrification (5 per cent), heating optimization (5 per cent), adoption of renewable diesel (10 per cent), and grid connection (5 per cent).
By 2035: A 55 per cent reduction could be achieved with large-scale implementation, notably through increasing the use of renewable diesel (20 per cent) and the early deployment of electric excavation machinery.
By 2040: The sector could achieve a 75 per cent reduction, with renewable diesel as the main driver (25 per cent), followed by vehicle electrification and grid connections (15 per cent each).

“This report is clear: top Canadian construction companies are ready to lead the industry through the climate transition while our industry continues to build the infrastructure required to ensure Canada’s ongoing prosperity,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, president, Canadian Construction Association.

GTA new condo sales drop 44% since last September

There were 438 new home sales in the Greater Toronto Area in September. This figure was down 29 per cent from September 2024 and 80 per cent below the 10-year average, according to Altus Group.

The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) said that typically, this month would amount to 2,233 units based on the previous 10-year average and these historic lows are evident across all home types.

Condo apartments, including units in low, medium, and high-rise buildings and stacked townhouses, accounted for 155 units sold in the GTA in September, down 44 per cent from September 2024 and 90 per cent below the 10-year average.

Meanwhile, there were 283 single-family home sales, down 16 per cent from last September and 61 per cent below the 10-year average. These include detached, linked, and semi-detached houses and townhouses (excluding stacked townhouses).

The benchmark price for new condo apartments was $1,033,317, flat versus 2025, and remaining at an apparent price floor. New single-family homes posted an average price of $1,437,447, which was down 8.2 per cent over the last 12 months.

“New home sales across the GTA stumbled to another record low for the month of September,” said Edward Jegg, research manager at Altus Group. “In fact, new home sales are down year-to-date across all the markets tracked by Altus Group led by Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Hamilton, and Kitchener-Waterloo where sales have fallen by over half compared to last year.”

For the first time, BILD and Altus Group have included Simcoe County in their sales reporting. In the latest figures, there were 18 single-family new home sales and one condominium apartment, with the weighted average price of single-family new homes at $1,153,415.

Total new home remaining inventory in the GTA decreased slightly compared to the previous month, to 21,749 units, as very little new inventory was added. BILD predicts this trend will continue as market conditions persist. This includes 15,875 condominium apartment units and 5,874 single-family dwellings, which represent a combined inventory level of 22 months, based on average sales for the last 12 months — which is the highest inventory level seen to date.

“The market downturn we are experiencing is historic and will have long-term consequences for housing affordability, the jobs that are provided by our sector, and the economic activity and revenue generated by the new residential construction sector across the country,” said Justin Sherwood, chief operating officer at BILD. “Now is not the time for half measures. We are at a moment in time where we have the opportunity to avoid the consequences of this historic national housing downturn through bold action.

“Our provincial and federal governments have a responsibility to those who work in the sector, and Canadians seeking to buy a new home at an affordable price, to take bold steps to reduce the GST on all new homes as part of the federal budget on November 4th, and upcoming Fall Economic Statement. To do otherwise is an admission of acceptance that the loss of almost 100,000 jobs nationwide and acute affordability challenges in the coming years are acceptable outcomes.”

FM industry gathers for 30th annual World Workplace

Nearly 4,000 facility management (FM) professionals from across the globe gathered for World Workplace 2025, marking the event’s 30th year and celebrating the 45th anniversary of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).

This year’s conference, which took place in Minneapolis, Minnesota, honoured outstanding individuals advancing FM, including the induction of Laurie Gilmer, Benjamin Goudy and Frank Ngoh as IFMA Fellows — the association’s highest honour. Recipients of IFMA’s Awards of Excellence were also recognized for advancing knowledge, demonstrating volunteer leadership and driving professional growth across the industry.

The conference also featured educational sessions, facility tours. high-energy networking events, and keynote speakers—Daymond John, FUBU founder and Shark Tank investor, and David Eagleman, host of the science podcast Inner Cosmos.

“World Workplace brought the global FM community together like never before,” said Michael V. Geary, CAE, president and CEO of IFMA. “The energy and optimism reflected both where our profession stands today and where we’re heading. Whether you were a first-time attendee or a long-time member, your experience was a powerful reminder of the value of professional connection, knowledge-sharing and celebration.”

IFMA is already gearing up for World Workplace 2026, taking place November 18 to 20, 2026, in Anaheim, California.

Photo: IFMA CEO and President Michael V. Geary.

PCL earns two innovation awards

PCL Constructors Westcoast has received the Collaborative Project Award from Building Transformations Innovation Spotlight Awards 2025 for its tech-enabled work on the new St. Paul’s Hospital project in Vancouver.

The Collaborative Project Award honours a team that demonstrates exceptional leadership and innovation in construction or infrastructure through digital technologies and integrated processes that drive successful, coordinated project outcomes.

The award recognizes PCL Constructors Westcoast for the collaborative efforts in delivering the $1.7 billion New St. Paul’s Hospital project in downtown Vancouver. The project team is leveraging BIM, virtual reality, drones and Internet of Things (IoT) technology to deliver 46 clinical departments and more than 6,500 complex healthcare-specific rooms with precision and quality. The project sets a new benchmark for collaborative, tech-enabled healthcare infrastructure—advancing industry practices, economic growth and community impact.

“This recognition exemplifies our relentless pursuit of innovation and our commitment to redefining what’s possible through technology. It highlights how our teams are intelligently leveraging digital solutions and data-driven insights to solve complex challenges, elevate productivity and create lasting value for our clients, partners and the communities we live, work, play and build in,” said Mark Bryant, chief information officer at PCL.

PCL Construction also earned a Digital Products Award. PCL partnered with Vita Industrial to deploy the Vita Load Navigator at McCarrons Water Treatment Plant.

CAWIC recognizes Stephanie Morand

Stephanie Morand, EllisDon community engagement manager for the New Surrey Hospital and BC Cancer Centre projects, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) DEI Excellence Award.

The award honours individuals who champion inclusive practices, amplify underrepresented voices, and foster workplace cultures where everyone can thrive. As part of CAWIC’s broader Excellence Awards program, it highlights the importance of systemic change and celebrates those driving progress toward a more inclusive construction industry.

“I’m deeply honoured to receive this award,” said Morand. “It reflects the collective effort of so many people working to make construction more inclusive. I’m proud to be part of a team that believes in equity, visibility, and meaningful change.”

Morand’s leadership has been instrumental in bringing the principles of British Columbia’s Enhanced Inclusion and Development Agreement (EIDA) to life. Through equitable hiring, Indigenous engagement, and culturally grounded design, she has helped embed inclusive workforce development into major infrastructure projects. Her work ensures that community benefits are not just promised but delivered.

Beyond her project work, she serves as the co-chair and Vancouver Area Leader of PEACE, EllisDon’s employee-led 2SLGBTQ+ group. She leads local programming and has coordinated EllisDon’s participation in the Vancouver Pride Parade, organizing volunteers and representing the company’s commitment to inclusion on a national stage.

“Stephanie brings heart, strategy, and authenticity to her work with PEACE but most importantly, in everything she does outside of it,” said Jennifer Khan, vice president, Inclusive Diversity, EllisDon. “From organizing Pride events to mentoring new volunteers—and now leading 2SLGBTQ+ initiatives in the Vancouver area—her impact ensures EllisDon’s commitment to inclusion is lived out in meaningful, visible ways.”