Derek Long, co-founder and executive director of Whatcom County, Washington’s, Sustainable Connections Group, will speak on the importance of supporting local businesses during Shop Local Victoria’s first annual general meeting on Wednesday. Long will discuss how “buy local” campaigns strengthen economies, especially when faced with increasing growth of big-box stores. Shop Local Victoria, a grass-roots movement launched a year ago with 10 members, has increased its membership to more than 100.
“The relationship between the local shopkeeper and their community has always been relevant and is still very important in these challenging retail times,” said Shop Local Victoria founding member and president Gayle Robinson. “Local business people shop here, buy here, donate here and, most importantly, help to keep this city vibrant, unique and alive.” To join Shop Local, businesses must meet certain criteria.
Among other things, they must be privately held, business owners with more than a 50 per cent stake must live in the Greater Victoria area and the businesses must pay all their own rent, marketing expenses and other expenses without assistance from a corporate headquarters. The AGM is set for 6 p.m. at Glo Restaurant & Lounge on the Selkirk Waterfront and is free for members and $20 for guests. Call 250-385-3429 or email shoplocalvictoria@shaw.ca
Clear message for sewage
The Capital Regional District has issued a request for proposals for a company to supply communications services and issues-management advice on the controversial wastewater treatment program.
“The program is the largest capital project ever undertaken by the CRD and has generated significant public interest,” the request for proposal states. “The CRD is committed to ensuring targeted and timely communications to the stakeholders and the public.” A strategic communications plan will be developed by the successful applicant. The request closes at 2 p.m. April 10.
Plans for a sewage treatment plant on McLoughlin Point and a sewage sludge plant on Viewfield Road, both in Esquimalt, have drawn sharp criticism. The CRD has also issued a tender for contractors to conduct an underwater drilling investigation to support the treatment plant. It closes April 18.
The plan is to carry out technical work to provide information toward installation of a future submarine pipeline crossing from the McLoughlin Point plant to Ogden Point.
