The South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce is seeking a little “justice” for local businesses in anticipation of the new correctional centre.
President Holly Plante said they are working with BC Corrections and Partnerships BC to establish a registry where local businesses can create a description and contact listing to showcase what they have to offer for specific jobs, products and services.
“This would be huge,” Plante said. “It would be the platform for the construction company, Corrections Canada and contractors to be able to connect with local businesses and skilled locals for employment.”
Plante said this has been done in other communities such as Campbell River with the BC Hydro dam and the local chamber of commerce. She noted that Colleen Evans from the Campbell River and District Chamber of Commerce worked with Partnerships BC just to launch this registry.
“Both Colleen and Partnerships BC are going to support us to do the same here with this project.” Plante said they are in the process of getting this on their website.
The chamber also hopes to create a “perfect your pitch” event for local businesses to be coached on how to make business friendly proposals and submit bids for upcoming opportunities with the correctional centre.
BC Corrections spokesperson Marnie Mayhew said they plan to meet with the Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) on October 8, and hold public information sessions in Osoyoos on October 10 and Oliver on October 9.
These meetings will update the public on the status of the project, discuss employment opportunities, and answer questions.
Plante said the $200 million facility will create long-term jobs (250) for the region.
Chris Scott, an advisor to the OIB, said the entire contract to manage and finance the operation is more than 60 per cent greater than the construction costs.
“This project will create secondary benefits well in excess of $500 million,” he pointed out.
Plante said one of three short-listed construction companies will be announced as the winning bidder in 2014. This company will bring some key employees to the project, and will hire locals as well.
“Our region will need to work closely with the construction company selected and Correctional Service Canada to ensure that adequate housing is available for employees.”
Plante said the percentage of jobs open to local residents depends on the construction company which is awarded the contract and their business practices.
“I have been told for sure, based on past projects, that they like to hire as many skilled people as they can locally to reduce their costs on housing and having to relocate people.”
Scott said there are some significant opportunities for temporary housing, and the OIB should investigate a potential work camp in Senkulmen Business Park to house employees.
He noted that local contractors, including a company formed between Greyback Constuction and the OIB, will be able to bid on sub-contracts. In addition, Oliver Ready-Mix will be involved as there is a high potential that the prison cells will be poured in a processing facility located at Senkulmen, Scott said.
“We are in contact with this firm that will require 50 workers.”
Plante sees various businesses and services required for the correctional facility, including those that provide elevators, overhead doors, gym equipment, metal decking, roofing, flooring, painting, drywall, mill work, masonry, fencing, kitchen equipment, plumbing, electrical, and spray insulation.
Scott said food and beverage services will be required during the construction phase.
“Long term there will be training opportunities for band members to learn security and operate the very sophisticated security systems that are being installed.”
Plante said the chamber sees a need for communities to work together to encourage contractors and new residents to live south of Penticton.
Earlier this year the chamber recommended that the OIB, Town of Oliver and Town of Osoyoos work together to create a relocation package for newcomers.
Plante said people moving from larger cities to locate in Oliver do not see a big deal driving 20 minutes to go to the lake or eat at a restaurant in Osoyoos. And people who move to Osoyoos don’t mind driving 20 minutes to visit the hospital in Oliver.
“Collectively, Oliver and Osoyoos enhance the overall lifestyle offered in our region,” Plante said.
She noted the mayor and council in Osoyoos and the Osoyoos Indian Band were willing to partner in this relocation package, but Oliver council made the decision to keep these packages separate.
Plante said the correctional centre will bring a wide range of professionals, workers and families to the area, which means these people will be buying groceries and gas, getting their vehicles serviced, renting or buying homes, dining out, sending kids to school and volunteering.
“The possibilities are endless, she said.
Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
