Kimberley Community Profile and Business Guide Stake Your Claim in Kimberley

Transcription

1 Kimberley Community Profile and Business Guide Stake Your Claim in Kimberley

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3 INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES 4 Table of Contents Small Town Living 6 Affordability 7 Transportation 7 Retail 8 Business to Business 9 Light Industry 10 Skilled Trades 11 COMMUNITY PROFILE 12 Demographics 14 Labour Force 17 Income 21 Taxes 23 Real Estate 25 Business Profile 26 Education 27 Transportation 28 Utilities 31 Quality of Life 32 BUSINESS GUIDE 38 Zoning 40 Rezoning and OCP Amendment 40 Zoning Amendments 41 Subdivision 41 Subdivision Application Process 41 Building Permits 42 Development Permits 43 Development Variance Permits 44 Board of Variance 44 Sign Permits 45 Business Licenses 45 British Columbia and Canada Information 46 CONTACT INFORMATION 48 CREDITS 48 3

4 Investment Opportunities

5 01{ Small + = Town Charm Big City Amenities Opportunity Kimberley is a mountain community bursting with possibilities. Founded in 1891 with the establishment of the famous North Star and Sullivan Mines, the town has a century-long storied history of building community while adapting to changing economic conditions. Growth in Kimberley is driven by a spectacular natural setting, charming small-town character, and the relaxed lifestyle enjoyed by both locals and tourists. Year-round recreational activities abound in this safe, affordable community that is only now being discovered by the world. Explore the business opportunities that exist in Kimberley and take advantage of the area s growth, highly skilled resident labour force, excellent travel connections, and costeffectiveness of living and working locally. Opportunities exist in retail and service industries, light industry and skilled trades. The Kimberley economy is restructuring with a diversified mix of tourism, construction, forestry and entrepreneur-driven business wouldn t you like to be part of it? Stake Your Claim in Kimberley!

6 Small Town Living Kimberley offers a spectacular lifestyle for families, active retirees, and lovers of the outdoors. Recreational pursuits include world-class skiing at Kimberley Alpine Resort, fishing in the many mountain lakes, streams, and rivers, hiking the Purcell or Rocky Mountains, or golfing one of Kimberley s three championship golf courses. The community is developing a new aquatic centre and has a full complement of sports, recreational and cultural programs for all ages. Kimberley has maintained a friendly, small town atmosphere. Kimberley citizens demonstrate great community spirit with their active volunteerism and participation in community festivals and events. This creates a caring and safe community that provides the ideal place to live. At the same time, Kimberley provides a supportive infrastructure and all of the necessary connections to successfully operate a wide variety of businesses. A Population on the Rise Kimberley is experiencing growth once again, increasing the demand for locally-sourced consumer goods and services. Population grew by 1% per year from 2001 to 2004 following several years of population loss anticipating the closure of the Sullivan Mine. Housing starts are rapidly increasing from a low of 31 in 2001 to 162 in The number of part-time residents has also increased significantly as Kimberley attracts purchasers of recreational properties from neighbouring Alberta and around the world. The share of Kimberley s housing stock owned by non-residents increased from 20% in 2000 to 32% in Tourist Traffic Kimberley s thriving tourist industry draws visitors to the town with year-round recreational opportunities that include Alpine and Nordic skiing, snowboarding, golfing, hiking, fishing, mountain biking, river rafting, and horseback riding. A typical year now sees more than 120,000 skier visits to Kimberley in winter and 70,000 rounds of golf in summer. These activities are complemented by the cultural attractions that Kimberley offers, including the Bavarian City Mining Railway and the famous Kimberley International Old-Time Accordion Championships. As well, natural attractions such as Marysville Falls and the dazzling Cominco Gardens entice a wide variety of tourists to the area. Business Amenities Kimberley has all modern telecommunications requirements, including high-speed internet service throughout the community and full digital cellular coverage. City water and sewer infrastructure is sound and has capacity for growth. Kimberley also has a supportive business community through the Kimberley Chamber of Commerce. 6

7 Affordability Kimberley housing costs have increased in recent years, but remain much less expensive than other communities in the Kootenays or the closest major cities of Vancouver, Calgary, Spokane and Seattle. Industrial and commercial land costs and lease rates are similarly less expensive in Kimberley. For those interested in getting away from it all, Kimberley also has close proximity to lakefront, rural and forested acreages. Single Family Home Average Sale Price 2005 Average Price % change from 2004 Vancouver* $566,000 19% Seattle** $472,000 13% Invermere $318,000 1% Fernie $293,000 32% Spokane** $291,000 15% Calgary $278,000 14% Golden $234,000 7% Nelson $232,000 22% Kalispell** $195,000 0% Rossland $192,000 28% Kootenays $182,000 19% Cranbrook $164,000 21% Kimberley $146,000 25% Creston $135,000 24% *Vancouver price is a 3-month moving average for Oct-Dec for a benchmark property, which is a typical single family home in the market. **American city prices based on Coldwell Banker Home Price Comparison Index for 2005, converted to Canadian dollars at $1.22 to $1 US. Sources: Kootenay Real Estate Board, Greater Vancouver Real Estate Board, Calgary Real Estate Board, Coldwell Banker Transportation Kimberley has excellent transportation connections. The Canadian Rockies International Airport, located a mere 15-minute drive from Kimberley, offers numerous flights daily to Vancouver International Airport and to Calgary. The airport is extending its runway to 8,000 feet to allow larger planes to land. This will facilitate direct flights from more distant locales in North America and even Europe, including charter aircraft bringing tourists to the amazing ski resorts, golf courses and other area attractions. By road, Kimberley is only 1 hour from the U.S. border, about 3.5 hours from Spokane (332 km 206 miles) and approximately 4 hours from Calgary (392 km 244 miles) to the east. 7

8 Retail 1. Retail Prospects Kimberley s thriving four season tourist trade and increasing population are currently under-serviced by the retail sector. There are three main commercial areas in Kimberley, each offering something different to consumers. The pedestrian-only Alpine-style Platzl in the heart of Kimberley is the community s central gathering place and an active destination for festival and tourist traffic. Marysville Village is the downtown of the formerly separate community of Marysville in Kimberley s south end, featuring a charming Main Street with restaurants, offices, retail and personal services mingling along several blocks. The Kimberley Alpine Resort Village is the emerging commercial focus of the newly developed areas on Kimberley s resort mountain. There are also pockets of secondary and neighbourhood commercial development in various areas of the city. The underdeveloped retail sector in Kimberley is due in part to the economic flux caused by the 2001 closure of the Sullivan Mine. The commercial real estate market offers prime space available at reasonable lease rates, a situation that may not last long as growth continues! This creates an exciting opportunity for the savvy investor to enter the local market and participate in the next wave of growth. [INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES] 8 Potential retail opportunities in Kimberley*: 1. Computers and electronics 2. Appliances 3. Home centres, including building materials and hardware 4. Men s & Women s clothing 5. Gardening supplies 6. Shoe Store 7. Fish and seafood market *According to preliminary market analysis of Kimberley in relation to similar British Columbia communities. Investors should conduct further due diligence before pursuing any of these opportunities.

9 Business to 2. Business 2. Kimberley also has significant potential for growth in professional and business services. Lawyers, accountants, and other professional services are needed to serve the growing residential and business markets in Kimberley and could potentially work from a community base to serve the broader East Kootenay region and national and international markets. Regional Growth The economy of the entire East Kootenay region and British Columbia overall is very strong. East Kootenay growth is driven by regional tourism, aided by the expansion of the Canadian Rockies International Airport, the resurgence of coal mining in the nearby Elk Valley, and a vigorous forest industry. The Kimberley economy is keeping pace with increased growth and diversification. Kimberley is an excellent location for servicing businesses in the Kootenays by virtue of its central location and proximity to Cranbrook, the largest community in the region. For servicing more distant clients, convenient air connections are available through Canadian Rockies International Airport to Vancouver and Calgary and their international airports, or by driving to Spokane for direct air access to the American market. Kimberley s telecommunications infrastructure supports e-businesses and professionals operating from a Kimberley location. Professional and business service firms are typically small and owneroperated. Once again, the lifestyle and amenities available to town residents at an affordable price make Kimberley a very attractive place to live. The recreational opportunities, affordable housing and small town atmosphere combine to create a very enticing package for both families and those at or nearing retirement age. Kimberley is also located near a major regional hospital in Cranbrook and has developed its own comprehensive health centre, bringing together doctors, a pharmacy and various related therapists and health practitioners in one centrally located facility. B2B opportunities in Kimberley*: 1. Accounting 2. Landscaping 3. Insurance 4. Bookkeeping 5. Graphic Design 6. Document preparation services 7. Temporary help services 8. Interior Decoration 9. Drafting/Architecture 10. Website development and support *According to preliminary market analysis of Kimberley in relation to similar British Columbia communities. Investors should conduct further due diligence before pursuing any of these opportunities. [INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES] 9

10 Light Industry 3. [INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES] 10 Kimberley is a strategic location for a wide range of light industrial and service commercial businesses. Geographically central, it has government support for development, excellent transportation connections, low costs, and a skilled local labour pool. The greatest advantage Kimberley offers to business owners and employees is the lifestyle and quality of small-town mountain life. Government Support The City of Kimberley is committed to the establishment of more light industrial land. There are several new light industrial areas designated in the recently completed Official Community Plan and the City now has a light industrial park in Marysville (south Kimberley). This land is suitable for light manufacturing, service commercial, wood products manufacturing, wholesaling, and other workshop, laboratory, office or flex space uses. Of particular relevance to wood products companies, the City of Kimberley is investigating the viability of a Community Forest that will give small companies access to a steady supply of high-quality timber from the local area. Companies in the forest products sector are further supported by timber framing courses offered through the local campus of the College of the Rockies Location While Kimberley itself is transitioning away from its mining past, there remains significant mining and forestry operations in the East Kootenays that can be serviced from a central location in Kimberley. This revival is helping to drive commerical service business to Kimberley-based companies. The mining sector is undergoing a revival in British Columbia due to higher commodity prices (coal mining is particularly prominent in the Elk Valley, just to the east of Kimberley in the Rocky Mountains). Kimberley s location just off Highway 3, which is one of the major east-west trucking routes between British Columbia and Alberta, also enhances the viability of a Kimberley location. Labour Largely as a result of its mining past, Kimberley s labour market has an above-average level of training in skilled trades. Nearly half of the Kimberley labour force has a post-secondary certificate or diploma as of the 2001 Census, significantly higher than the BC rate of 38%. Occupations that are more than twice as common in the Kimberley area include mechanics, heavy equipment and crane operators, stationary engineers, power station operators and electrical trades and telecommunications occupations. Former workers in the Sullivan Mine, many of whom stayed in the community because of its affordability and housing costs, are a group of workers with unique skills that could be applied to other manufacturing or fabrication tasks. Light industry opportunities in Kimberley: 1. Manufactured wood products 2. Auto repair 3. Custom fabrication, including metalwork 4. Environmental products 5. Food processing 6. Small-scale manufacturing or service commercial industries in support of regional resource industries (mining, forestry) or tourism (skiing, fishing, golfing)

11 Skilled Trades 4. Kimberley offers tremendous opportunity to skilled individuals in the building trades, either as business owners, independent contractors, or skilled employees. New housing development continues at a rapid pace in Kimberley and throughout the East Kootenay region. Most of the growth is fueled by the purchase of of recreational properties by non-locals from the neighbouring province of Alberta, from the United States, and increasingly from overseas markets like the United Kingdom. The market is therefore less sensitive to factors like interest rate and construction cost increases than the domestic housing market. The remaining housing growth potential in Kimberley is massive only about 40% of the approved in principle residential and tourist accommodation units have been developed, leaving a potential 4,000 housing units still to be constructed in Kimberley alone. Other resort destinations like Invermere and Fernie and rural areas surrounding Kimberley area also continue to grow through the influx of recreational home purchases from around the world. Come grow with us. Consider the following: Kimberley is an excellent choice as a home base due to its affordable housing, outstanding recreational amenities and small-town character. Average sale prices for single family homes in Kimberley were $146,419 in 2005, compared to more than $300,000 in both Fernie and Invermere and an average of $181,000 throughout the Kootenays region. In 2005, Kimberley recorded 162 housing starts, a huge increase from the 94 starts in all of 2003 and the 60 starts in The value of new construction has been increasing throughout the East Kootenays. Even though the number of housing starts varies somewhat from year to year, the average construction value per unit continues to increase (from $144,000 per unit in 2001 to $192,000 per unit in 2004). This partly reflects the increased cost of construction materials, but also shows how buyers of recreational properties are investing in high-quality homes. Kimberley s central location in the East Kootenays is ideal for serving construction projects as well as forestry and mining operations throughout the region. Skilled trades opportunities in Kimberley: 1. High-end interior finishing work 2. Timber framing 3. Electrical 4. Plumbing 5. Roofing 6. Interior design 7. Various skilled construction trades [INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES] 11

12 02 Community Profile Welcome to Kimberley! Our beautiful mountain community is nestled in the Purcell Mountain Range with panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and the scenic Kootenay River Valley. Kimberley attracts people from all walks of life - from young families to retirees, artists and entrepreneurs - who want to combine lifestyle with livelihood. The world-class Kimberley Alpine Ski Resort, as well as the golf courses at Trickle Creek, Kimberley Golf Club and Bootleg Gap, are only a few of the recreational opportunities available. Outdoor enthusiasts love to explore Kimberley s beautiful forested river valley using the extensive trail network and nature park bordering the city. Kimberley has a vibrant arts and culture scene, including the famous Kimberley International Old Time Accordion Championships. Shopaholics head directly for the Alpine-style Platzl, Kimberley s pedestrian-only retail area. Our social network includes an integrated health centre; primary, secondary, and post-secondary schools; retirement communities; and a very proactive volunteer base. Come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

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14 [COMMUNITY PROFILE] Demographics Population The East Kootenay region has grown steadily in the last few years, driven by growth in tourism and a resurgence in coal mining. Kimberley is also growing as its economy recovers from the closure of the Sullivan Mine, which was once the foundation of the community. Both Kimberley and the surrounding rural area lost population through the late 1990s leading up to the mine s closure in 2001, but have since started growing again. Population Estimates KIMBERLEY KIMBERLEY AREA* EAST KOOTENAY REGION Population Change Population Change Population Change ,983 9,002 58, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,862 1,067 *Kimberley Area includes the surrounding rural area E. Source: BC Stats 14

15 Estimated Population, Language Knowledge There is diverse language capability in the Kimberley labour market. In addition to English, there are several hundred French and German speakers. Other languages represented in Kimberley include a variety of eastern and western European languages as well as Japanese. Language Knowledge, 2001 KIMBERLEY AREA* EAST KOOTENAY REGION BC English 8, % 99.9% 97.3% French % 5.1% 7.0% German % 3.3% 3.1% Spanish % 0.8% 2.0% Italian % 1.2% 1.1% Dutch % 0.5% 0.8% Japanese % 0.2% 0.8% Portuguese % 0.1% 0.5% Ukrainian % 0.4% 0.4% Russian % 0.3% 0.6% Age Groups As of the 2001 Census, Kimberley s population profile was older than the rest of the East Kootenay region and British Columbia. Kimberley s median age of 44.3 years was nearly six years older than the provincial median of This age profile is a reflection of several things. First, the traditional mining labour force was older than in many other industries, so as the Kimberley economy diversifies into other industries the age of its labour force should move toward the provincial average. Also, the community s high quality of life, inviting community spirit, and pleasant climate make it a popular retirement location. Unlike many other resource-based communities, most residents do not leave the community to retire elsewhere. Kimberley is a popular and growing retirement destination for newcomers, including many from the United Kingdom. Population by Age, 2001 *Kimberley Area includes the surrounding rural area E. Source: Statistics Canada, 2001 Census KIMBERLEY AREA* EAST KOOTENAY REGION BC Under 18 years 1,625 20% 23 % 22 % years 1,375 17% 20 % 22% years 2,705 33% 33 % 32% years 1,835 22% 18 % 17% 75 years & up 765 9% 5% 6% Median Age *Kimberley Area includes the surrounding rural area E. Source: Statistics Canada, 2001 Census 15

16 Share of Population Household Size Kimberley s average household has 2.2 residents, slightly smaller than the East Kootenay regional average of 2.4 and the BC provincial average of 2.5. This is a reflection of the slightly older age profile previously discussed. Household Size, 2001 KIMBERLEY AREA* EAST KOOTENAY REGION BC 1 person % 25% 27% 2 persons 1,125 39% 38% 34% 3 persons % 15% 15% 4-5 persons % 20% 21% 6 or more persons 20 1% 2% 4% Average number of persons in private households Source: Statistics Canada, 2001 Census

17 [COMMUNITY PROFILE] Labour Force Labour Force Education Kimberley has a highly educated workforce in comparison to the rest of the East Kootenay region, with more graduates at both the university and college level. Nearly half of Kimberley residents in the prime working age years of 25 to 64 have a post secondary certificate or diploma, which includes training in skilled trades. This is a significantly higher share than the provincial average of 38%. Labour Force Education, Age 25-64, 2001 KIMBERLEY AREA* EAST KOOTENAY REGION BC Less than High School Diploma % 20% 16% High School Diploma Only % 13% 12% Some Post Secondary 310 9% 11% 12% Post Secondary Certificate/Diploma 1, % 44% 38% University Bachelor Degree % 9% 15% University Graduate Degree/Certificate 105 3% 3% 7% *Kimberley Area includes the surrounding rural area E. Source: Statistics Canada, 2001 Census Labour Force Education 17

18 Jobs by Sector The Kimberley Area, including the immediately surrounding rural area, had just over 3,000 jobs as of the 2001 Census. The composition of these jobs has changed somewhat since that time with the closure of the Sullivan Mine, but the distribution of jobs across other sectors of the local economy is expected to have remained roughly the same. Accommodation and food services was the leading employer by sector, heralding Kimberley s continuing emergence as a popular tourism destination. Also of note is the lower share of retail employment in Kimberley compared to the East Kootenay region. This indicates significant potential for expansion to keep pace with growth in tourism and population. Jobs in Kimberley Area* by NAICS Sector, 2001 KIMBERLEY AREA* EAST KOOTENAY REGION BC Accommodation and food services % 14% 9% Mining and oil and gas extraction % 12% 1% Manufacturing % 8% 10% Retail trade % 13% 13% Health care and social assistance 290 9% 9% 11% Other services (except public administration) 205 7% 5% 5% Educational services 190 6% 6% 7% Arts, entertainment and recreation 150 5% 4% 2% Construction 130 4% 4% 3% Public administration 115 4% 5% 6% Transportation and warehousing 95 3% 3% 5% Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting 85 3% 4% 3% Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services 65 2% 2% 3% Finance and insurance 65 2% 3% 4% Professional, scientific and technical services 50 2% 3% 7% Real estate and rental and leasing 35 1% 2% 2% Wholesale trade 25 1% 3% 4% Utilities 10 0% 0% 1% Management of companies and enterprises 0 0% 0% 0% Information and cultural industries 0 0% 1% 3% TOTAL 3, % 100% 100% *Kimberley Area includes the surrounding rural area E. Source: Statistics Canada, 2001 Census Labour Force by Occupation The Kimberley labour market (including the surrounding rural area) consisted of about 4,300 people in The most common occupational category, as it is throughout British Columbia, is sales and service occupations. In general, Kimberley has more people working in resource-related occupations than the provincial average, but fewer than in the rest of the East Kootenay region. It is important to note that while the resident labour force in the Kimberley area is about 4,300 people, the number of jobs that are actually located in this area (shown in the previous table) was about 3,100. The discrepancy is explained by the number of people who travel to neighbouring areas to work (including more than 500 people commuting to nearby Cranbrook) and people whose jobs have no regular place of work, such as construction workers, sales and repair agents, and some transportation workers. 18

19 Labour Force by Occupation, 2001 KIMBERLEY AREA* EAST KOOTENAY REGION BC Sales and service occupations 1,195 28% 25% 25% Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations % 22% 14% Business, finance and administration occupations % 13% 17% Occupations unique to primary industry % 8% 4% Management occupations 350 8% 10% 11% Occupations in social science, education, government service and religion 325 8% 6% 8% Health occupations 220 5% 4% 5% Natural and applied sciences and related occupations 195 5% 4% 6% Occupations unique to processing, manufacturing and utilities 130 3% 4% 5% Occupations in art, culture, recreation and sport 90 2% 2% 3% Other (inexperienced labour) 30 1% 2% 2% Total Labour Force Age 15+ 4, % 100% 100% *Kimberley Area includes the surrounding rural area E. Source: Statistics Canada, 2001 Census The next table shows more specific occupations that are especially concentrated in the Kimberley area relative to the rest of British Columbia. The column on the right shows how much more common these occupations are in the Kimberley area mechanics, for example, are nearly 2.5 times as common in Kimberley as the rest of BC. This table indicates the type of skills that are most plentiful in Kimberley for potential new businesses. Concentrated Occupations in Kimberley Area*, 2001 Workers Ratio: Kimberley Area to BC Occupations unique to forestry operations, mining, oil and gas extraction and fishing, excluding labourers Primary production labourers Heavy equipment and crane operators, including drillers Mechanics Occupations in travel and accommodation, including attendants in recreation and sport Stationary engineers, power station operators, electrical trades and telecommunications occupations Contractors and supervisors in trades and transportation Supervisors in manufacturing Chefs and cooks Occupations in food and beverage service Technical and related occupations in health Construction trades Finance and insurance administration occupations Machinists, metal forming, shaping and erecting occupations Sales and service supervisors Technical occupations related to natural and applied sciences Occupations unique to agriculture, excluding labourers Sales and service occupations, n.e.c Child care and home support workers Nurse supervisors and registered nurses *Kimberley Area includes the surrounding rural area E. Source: Statistics Canada, 2001 Census and Vann Struth Consulting Group 19

20 Educational Specialization Post-secondary educational specialization provides another view of the skills of the Kimberley labour market. As of the 2001 Census, nearly 1,000 local residents (29%) had training in applied science technologies and trades, a substantially higher share than the 21% of BC residents with that training. The only other area where Kimberley shows a significantly greater concentration is in educational, recreational and counselling services. Post-Secondary Specialization, 2001 KIMBERLEY AREA* EAST KOOTENAY REGION BC Applied science technologies and trades % 32% 21% Commerce, management and business administration % 19% 21% Educational, recreational and counselling services % 13% 11% Health professions and related technologies % 12% 12% Fine and applied arts 205 6% 5% 6% Agricultural, biological, nutritional, and food sciences 185 6% 5% 5% Social sciences and related fields 160 5% 6% 9% Humanities and related fields 130 4% 3% 6% Engineering and applied sciences 95 3% 3% 5% Mathematics, computer and physical sciences 70 2% 2% 4% No specialization 10 0% 0% 0% TOTAL 3, % 100% 100% *Kimberley Area includes the surrounding rural area E. Source: Statistics Canada, 2001 Census Labour Force Indicators As of the 2001 Census, there were just over 400 unemployed workers in the Kimberley area. The unemployment rate of 9.6% matched the regional level, while the labour force participation rate was marginally lower due to the larger number of retirees in the community. Annual labour force indicators are only available at the Development Region level, which includes the East Kootenays as well as the Kootenay-Boundary and Central Kootenay regional districts to the west. Kimberley s economy is similar to the broader Kootenays area, which has seen the participation and unemployment rates both edge down in recent years. Labour Force Indicators Year Total Labour Force Unemployed Participation Rate Unemployment Rate Kimberley Area* 2001 (Census) 4, % 9.6% East Kootenay Region 2001 (Census) 30,165 2, % 9.6% Kootenay Development Region ,200 9, % 12.0% (Annual Averages) ,400 7, % 9.3% ,800 8, % 10.2% ,100 7, % 9.7% ,000 7, % 10.1% ,300 8, % 11.5% ,000 6, % 9.2% ,700 4, % 6.1% *Kimberley Area includes the surrounding rural area E. Statistics Canada, 2001 Census, and Labour Force Survey (annual averages) 20

21 [COMMUNITY PROFILE] Income Household Income Distribution Compared to the region and the province, Kimberley has a greater number of households earning less than $35,000 and fewer households earning more than $75,000 in income. This is consistent with an older population with smaller households. The higher prevalence of high-paid mining and forestry jobs throughout the East Kootenays contributes to the region s household income being higher than the provincial average. Household Income, 2001 KIMBERLEY AREA* EAST KOOTENAY REGION BC Less than $35,000 CDN 1,440 39% 37% 37% $35,000 to $49,999 CDN % 16% 16% $50,000 to $74,999 CDN % 24% 21% $75,000 CDN and over % 24% 26% Median Household Income $41,945 $47,401 $46,802 Total Households (Occupied, Private) 3,675 22,955 1,534,340 *Kimberley Area includes the surrounding rural area E. Source: Statistics Canada, 2001 Census, compiled by Invest Taxfiler Income Based on individual tax returns for 2003, the median income for Kimberley residents was about $22,800, slightly less than the regional median. Median income strictly from employment sources was $19,400 in Kimberley, considerably less than the regional and provincial medians. Taxfiler Income, 2003 Source: Canada Revenue Agency, compiled by Statistics Canada 21

22 Source of Income Total community income was 64% derived from employment in 2001, a slightly lower share than the provincial average of 66%. Kimberley s heritage as a mining town is reflected in the importance of pensions, which contributed 19% of total community income compared to only 12% in BC. Retirees are clearly more likely to rely on pensions than on their own personal investments, which accounted for only half as much income (4%) as the provincial average of 8%. Source of Income, 2001 KIMBERLEY EAST KOOTENAY REGION BC Employment 64% 70% 66% Pension 19% 13% 12% Investment 4% 6% 8% Self Employment 3% 3% 5% Other 7% 5% 5% Tax-Exempt 4% 3% 3% Source: Canada Revenue Agency, compiled by Statistics Canada Source of Income Trends Income source trends in Kimberley are consistent with general North American trends of an aging population. Throughout British Columbia the share of income from employment is steadily declining while the share of employment from pensions is increasing. Source of Income Trends Year Employment Pension Investment Self Employment Other Tax-Exempt % 16% 7% 3% 5% 4% % 16% 5% 2% 5% 4% % 17% 5% 2% 6% 3% % 17% 5% 3% 5% 3% % 18% 5% 2% 5% 4% % 19% 4% 3% 7% 4% Source: Canada Revenue Agency, compiled by Statistics Canada

23 [COMMUNITY PROFILE] Taxes Property Tax Property tax in British Columbia is levied on the value of land and buildings. There are no property taxes on the value of inventory, machinery and equipment, or other tangible goods. Municipalities collect all property taxes, including the portions that are allocated for schools, hospitals and the regional district. Taxes are calculated by applying the tax rates in the table below to the assessed value of land and buildings, as determined each year by BC Assessment, a Crown corporation. Each property is assigned to one of ten classes that reflect its use the most common of these are shown in the table. Starting in 2006, the City of Kimberley will implement a $100 parcel tax for the financing of the new Aquatic Centre. The parcel tax will be applicable to each folio and will cover capital and operating costs. In 2007, the estimated parcel tax will be $135. Property Tax Comparison Municipality Class 1 - Residential Class 5 - Light Industry Class 6 - Business Class 8 Recreation/ Non-Profit Invermere Kimberley* Golden Fernie Cranbrook *Kimberley also has a residential flat tax of $686 for land with improvements (buildings) and $275 for land with no improvements. Sources: BC Ministry of Community Services Because the total amount of property tax paid is affected by land values in each community, a comparison of tax rates does not reveal the whole story. The next table compares total residential taxes and charges (including municipal fees for things like water, sewer and libraries) for a representative house. Total Residential Taxes and Charges on a Representative House, 2005 Golden $1,970 Kimberley $2,248 Cranbrook $2,395 Fernie $2,588 Invermere $2,866 Source: BC Ministry of Community Services Federal and Provincial Taxes The Province of British Columbia has a 7% sales tax. Various business inputs, including production machinery and equipment, software development and construction labour are exempt from the tax. Canada has a 6% value-added tax called the Goods and Services Tax (GST). It is fully recoverable for all business inputs. Corporate and personal income taxes are levied by both the federal and provincial governments, although all taxes are filed together and paid to the federal Canada Revenue Agency. These taxes are summarized here. 2% Hotel tax will be in place December 1, Funds collected by the tax will be used for tourism projects, promotion and marketing. 23

24 Corporate Income Tax, 2005 Small Business* Manufacturing Non-Manufacturing Federal Rate 13.12% 22.12% 22.12% Provincial Rate 4.50% 12.00% 12.00% Local Rate None None None Total 17.62% 34.12% 34.12% * Small Business is defined as having less than $200,000 CDN of net business income. Personal Income Tax, 2005 Federal Provincial Local Capital Gains 8% % 3.03% % None Earned Income 16% - 29% 6.05% % None Unearned Income (e.g. dividends) 3.33% % 1.19% - 12% None Source: Material adapted from Invest BC (see for more information ). Employers pay workers compensation and employment insurance premiums on their company payrolls. Workers compensation premiums are determined by the type of business activity and average $1.98 per $100 of gross payroll for all types of businesses. The average rate for office workers is $0.26 per $100 of gross payroll. Employment insurance premiums are based on gross payroll up to $39,000 per worker. The rate is 2.73% of payroll so the maximum annual cost per worker is $1,065 (if worker is paid $39,000 or more). For a complete summary of taxation in British Columbia, see the Invest BC website at Development Cost Charges Development Cost Charges (DCCs) are used by some municipalities in British Columbia to pay for servicing and public amenities associated with new developments. They are usually levied on new developments based on the number of housing units or the total area of industrial or commercial development. Kimberley does NOT levy Development Cost Charges on development projects at this time.

25 [COMMUNITY PROFILE] Real Estate Housing Prices Housing prices have increased rapidly in Kimberley in recent years, rising 49% from 2003 to Average prices throughout the Kootenays rose by 27% over the same time period. The average price of a home in Kimberley was 20% less than the Kootenay average in As recently as 1998, Kimberley homes were 37% cheaper than the Kootenay average. Single Family Home Sales KIMBERLEY KOOTENAYS Units Average Units Average Sold Price Sold Price $68,698 1,558 $97, $81,601 1,454 $113, $79,858 1,229 $117, $85,585 1,459 $118, $86,695 1,529 $123, $76,734 1,464 $121, $84,861 1,426 $125, $95,179 1,416 $126, $93,040 1,525 $131, $94,831 1,678 $136, $97,968 1,885 $143, $116,917 2,456 $153, $146,419 2,498 $181,913 Average Annual Growth 6.1% 5.4% *Defined as the area covered by the Kootenay Real Estate Board. Source: Kootenay Real Estate Board Building Permits After several years of strong growth, building activity in Kimberley exploded in The total value of building permits was 39.3 million, nearly three times the 2004 total. The number of housing starts reached 162, an increase of more than 150% from Large multiple unit projects have a significant influence on building permit totals in a given year. The $15.5 million value of commercial permits in 1999, for example, was greater than the total of all permits issued in Kimberley in any of the following five years. This large number is associated with the construction of new facilities at Kimberley Alpine Resort. Building Permits Value of Building Permits ($ thousands) Residential Industrial Commercial Institutional/Government Total Housing Starts 1999 $6,902 $364 $15,460 $108 $22, $7,982 $0 $2,368 $40 $10, $3,621 $300 $192 $6,142 $10, $5,062 $0 $1,518 $2 $6, $12,660 $19 $1,451 $951 $15, $11,102 $135 $1,098 $648 $13, $35,182 $0 $2 $4,150 $39, Source: Statistics Canada and City of Kimberley 25

26 [COMMUNITY PROFILE] Business Profile As of the end of 2004, the Statistics Canada Business Register shows 389 business establishments in Kimberley, including 217 with employees. Establishments without employees are entirely owner-operated or use only contract or family labour. Leading Employers 1. Kimberley Alpine Resort 2. School District #6 3. City of Kimberley 4. Kimberley Special Care Home 5. Bootleg Gap Golf 6. Overwaitea Food & Drugs 7. Kimberley Golf Club 8. Barrie MacKay Contracting Ltd. 9. Mark Creek Market 10. Kootenay Savings Credit Union Business Establishments by Sector, 2004 NAICS Sector Total Establishments Total with Employees Construction Retail trade Real estate and rental and leasing 39 9 Other services (except public administration) Accommodation and food services Professional, scientific and technical services Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services Health care and social assistance Transportation and warehousing Arts, entertainment and recreation 12 8 Manufacturing 11 4 Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting 8 5 Wholesale trade 7 7 Finance and insurance 6 4 Mining and oil and gas extraction 3 3 Information and cultural industries 3 3 Management of companies and enterprises 3 2 Educational services 2 0 Public administration 2 2 Utilities 1 1 Total Source: Statistics Canada Business Register Small companies dominate the business community in Kimberley, with 90% of all business establishments having fewer than 10 employees and 99% having fewer than 50 employees. Business Establishments by Number of Employees Employee Range Number of Establishments % % % % % % % % Total with Employees % Total without Employees % Total Establishments % Source: Statistics Canada Business Register

27 [COMMUNITY PROFILE] Education Kimberley s public school system has a total of four schools. Primary Schools Grades Lindsay Park School Kindergarten to 3 Marysville School Kindergarten to 3 McKim Middle School 4 to 7 Secondary Schools Selkirk High School 8 to 12 Post-Secondary Kimberley is home to a regional campus of the College of the Rockies. The Kimberley campus features several specialized programs, university transfer courses (based on local demand), and a full range of vocational and general interest courses. The specialized programs offered in Kimberley include: Timber Framing Program Timber frame techniques are taught through a 12-week program intended to prepare students to work in the timber frame industry, or a 5-day course providing an overview of timber frame construction. The 12-week program introduces students to CAD drafting, square rule layout, design and joinery. CADWORKS This course is designed for timber frame and log home construction and teaches students about versatile computer design in two and three dimensions, interface with AutoCAD, and designing special features like staircases. Straw Bale Construction Workshop This new workshop covers both theoretical and practical aspects of building a straw bale home from the ground up. Topics covered include the construction of foundations and windows, running electrical, plastering walls, and raising the roof. In addition, the college provides facilities for specialized training, including video conferencing, computer-based courses, satellite training for accessing training programs throughout North America, and a learning support centre with computer lab and projection screen. College facilities are also used as part of the Kimberley Community Skills Centre, which is a community-led organization that facilitates affordable training for community groups. Nearby Cranbrook hosts the main campus of the College of the Rockies, which offers programs in Trades, Recreation (including Adventure Tourism Business Operations, Mountain Activity Skills Training, and Eco-Tourism Leadership), Tourism, Business, Computer Science, Health, Child Youth, and University Studies (designed for transfer to a university). The Rocky Mountain Sport School in Kimberley offers world-class sports training opportunities for students in Grades 6 to 12. Classes are arranged to allow for optimum training in hockey, tennis, horse riding, skiing and snowboarding. Kimberley is also home to a collection of schools run out of the Chapman Camp Education Centre, including Alpine English School (for non-english speakers from overseas) and the Kimberley Dance Academy, and the Children of the Rockies music and learning center. 27

28 [COMMUNITY PROFILE] Transportation Kimberley is well served by its transportation connections, with easy air or road access to western Canada and the U.S. Pacific Northwest. Road Kimberley is located on Highway 95A. It is slightly removed from Highway 3, one of the main east-west routes running west to Vancouver and east through the Crowsnest Pass into Alberta. Highway 95A runs north as the combined Highway 93/95 to meet the Trans-Canada Highway at Golden. Kimberley is located in close proximity to two U.S. border crossings at Kingsgate via Highway 95 and Roosville via Highway 93. Air Distance from Kimberley to Major Centres Km Miles Cranbrook, BC U.S. Border (Kingsgate, BC / Eastport, Idaho) Kalispell, Montana Lethbridge, Alberta Spokane, Washington Calgary, Alberta Kelowna, BC Edmonton, Alberta Seattle, Washington Vancouver, BC The Canadian Rockies International Airport is a 15-minute drive from Kimberley. It provides direct flights to Vancouver and Calgary and is undergoing a runway extension and expansion of the terminal area to accommodate larger aircraft from more distant North American and European locations. This will increase tourist visitation and enhance Kimberley s viability as a location for businesses that require occasional travel to major North American markets. In addition, there are three other sizable airports within a few hours drive of Kimberley that provide further access to locations throughout North America and Europe. Daily Flights Website Canadian Rockies International Airport Cranbrook, BC (15 minute drive) Vancouver, Calgary Glacier Park International Airport Kalispell, MT Salt Lake City, Seattle, Spokane, Minneapolis, (2.5 hour drive) Calgary, Phoenix Non-Stop Destinations Calgary International Airport Calgary, AB (4 hour drive) 27 Domestic locations (including Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa), 15 United States locations (including Newark, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, Orlando), 9 International locations (including London, Amsterdam, Munich) Spokane International Airport Spokane, WA (3.5 hour drive) 13 United States destinations (including Los Angeles, Chicago, Seattle, Salt Lake City, Denver Phoenix), 1 Canadian location (Calgary) 28

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30 Public Transit Kimberley is served by Kimberley Public Transit, which provides service through the city as well as scheduled round trips to Cranbrook on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On the Cranbrook shuttle, seats must be booked ahead and customers with medical appointments have priority over customers travelling for shopping. Door-to-door service is available for the mobility-impaired. For more transit info, call or go to Customs Ports of Entry The closest customs port of entry is at the Canadian Rockies International Airport. Other ports of entry are at the two border crossings at Kingsgate (108 km away) and Roosville (120 km away). Transportation-Related Services Kimberley has ready access to a full variety of transportation-related services located in Kimberley, at the nearby Canadian Rockies International Airport, or in Cranbrook. Courier and Delivery Services Location Phone Canada Post Kimberley (250) Greyhound Canada Kimberley (250) ACE Courier Services Cranbrook (250) BDC Courier Service Cranbrook SHIP-BDC Federal Express Cranbrook GO-FEDEX DHL Canada Cranbrook CALL-DHL Overland Freight Lines Cranbrook (250) Air Freight Services Air Canada Cranbrook (250) ( BDC Courier Service Cranbrook SHIP-BDC Pacific Coastal Airlines Cranbrook ( Trucking Services (Local) Canadian Freightways Ltd Kimberley (250) Dumontier Trucking Kimberley (250) Equicare Kimberley (250) Klaus Trucking Ltd. Kimberley (250) Overland Freight Lines Kimberley (250) Canadian Freightways Limited Cranbrook Cranbrook Parcel & Delivery Cranbrook (250) Detroit Diesel-Allison British Columbia Ltd Cranbrook (250) L S McLellan Trucking Ltd Cranbrook (250) Tom Buzzell Trucking Cranbrook (250) Glen Transport Ltd Skookumchuck (250) Passenger Bus Service Greyhound Daily from Calgary & Vancouver. Six buses daily go west and one east Vehicle Rentals U-Haul Kimberley (250) Budget Canadian Rockies International Airport (250) Avis Canadian Rockies International Airport (250) National Car and Truck Rental Canadian Rockies International Airport (250) Rent-A-Wreck Canadian Rockies International Airport (250) Shuttle Services and Taxi Services L & K Taxi Kimberley (250) Key City Cabs (Cranbrook) Cranbrook (250) Star Taxi (Cranbrook) Cranbrook (250) A Touch of Class Limousine Service (Cranbrook) Cranbrook (250)

31 [COMMUNITY PROFILE] Utilities Water and Systems Water and sewer systems in Kimberley are provided by the City of Kimberley. Water is drawn primarily from Mark Creek and Matthew Creek. Water is stored in a 275 million litre reservoir located on Mark Creek about 6 km upstream from the city for servicing all of Kimberley except the Marysville (south Kimberley) area. Marysville water is drawn from a direct inlet in Matthew Creek about 8 km to the west. Kimberley has one sanitary sewage treatment facility, called the Pollution Control Centre (PCC), in Marysville near the confluence of Mark Creek and the St. Mary River. It uses the activated sludge method of treatment and discharges treated effluent into the St. Mary River. Water System Sources of Water Mark Creek, Matthew Creek System Facilities Concrete dam with 275 million litre reservoir, 8 concrete storage reservoirs, 3 chlorinating plants, 3 pump stations, over 115 km (71 miles) of water main pipe Rated Capacity 12 million gallons per day (mgd) Average Daily Demand 3.6 mgd Peak Demand 6 mgd $ per 1,000 gallons* (industrial) $1.18 Water Connection Fee* $1,500 Sanitary Sewer System System Facilities Rated Capacity Average Daily Flow Peak Flow Sewer Connection Fee* $1, *Rates are subject to change. 1 treatment facility with an aerobic digester, 2 settling ponds and 2 clarifiers; 2 lift stations; more than 80 km (50 miles) of sanitary sewer lines 14,500 cu.m. 4,000 cu.m. 12,000 cu.m. Kimberley s storm sewer system has 38 km (23.6 miles) of sewer mains and 626 catch basins. It discharges water into various drainage courses that ultimately reach the St. Mary River via Mark Creek or is discharged into ground. Telecommunications High speed internet is available throughout Kimberley from Rogers Cable. DSL service from Telus is currently available throughout Kimberley with the exception of Marysville. Service is expected to be extended to Marysville in Local telephone service is provided by Telus. Long distance service is available from a variety of providers. Cellular telephone coverage is available from Telus Mobility, Rogers or Bell. Electricity BC Hydro provides electrical service to Kimberley. Information on services and rates for a particular business situation can be obtained by calling or visiting Natural Gas Natural gas infrastructure in Kimberley is provided by Terasen. Information on service and rates can be obtained by calling or visiting The provision of natural gas service in British Columbia is currently being unbundled, meaning that it will be possible to purchase gas from a variety of competitive firms (similar to the ability to purchase long distance telephone service from a variety of companies). This is currently available for commercial operations only and the situation may change rapidly as new companies enter the gas-reselling market. 31

32 Quality of Life Recreation Opportunities Kimberley is home to a huge variety of recreational opportunities. The city s spectacular natural setting along the St. Mary River, surrounded by the Purcell and Rocky Mountains, provides the perfect location for world-class outdoor activities, festivals, and cultural events. Summer Rafting & Kayaking Boating & Fishing Golfing & Disc Golf Hiking & Walking Tours Mountain Biking Wildlife Viewing Camping Horseback Riding Chairlift Rides Basketball Bocce Lawn bowling Skateboarding Tennis Soccer Baseball & Softball Winter Backcountry Travel Cross-Country Skiing Snowmobiling Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding Dog Sledding Snowshoeing Fitness Yoga Kimberley Dynamiters (Junior B hockey team) Public Skating Curling Hockey Speed Skating Figure Skating Volleyball Attractions Sullivan Mine Railway & Interpretive Centre (250) Kimberley Arts Centre (250) Kimberley Summer Theatre (250) The Platzl and Cuckoo Clock Kimberley Heritage Museum (250) Regalanes Bowling Alley (250) Werner Movie Theatre (250) Kimberley Public Library (250) Festivals Kimberley International Old Time Accordion Championships* : 2nd week in July July Fest: 3rd weekend in July Kimberley Arts Festival Arts on the Edge: August International Music & Dance Festival: 1st weekend in September Kimberley Country Fair: September International Folk Dance: September 32 *In July 2005, 644 accordion players gathered at Kimberley s International Old Time Accordion Championships and shattered the Guinness World Record for the largest accordion ensemble by playing for a consecutive 29 minutes and 30 seconds!

33 Quality of Life Parks and Amenities 107th Avenue Park Al Fabro Walkway (trail) Bocce Pits Central Park Cominco Gardens Coronation Park/Centennial Hall Forest Crowne Park +Trails Garden Park Giegerich Park Kimberley Lions and Rotary Nature Park Kimberley Nature Park Kimberley Riverside Campground Legion Park Lions Park Lois Creek Forest Recreation Site Mark Creek Trails Marysville Eco Park Marysville Falls McDougal Park Nordic Trails Purcell Park Rotary Park St. Mary River Boat Launch Swan Park Triangle Park Upper Lois Creek Golfing Trickle Creek Golf Course The only golf course in BC to earn a 4 1/2 star rating from Golf Digest Magazine. 18 holes, par 72, 6896 yards (250) Kimberley Golf Club Founded in 1924, the Kimberley Golf Club has hosted a number of championships over the years. 18 holes, par 71, 6251 yards (250) Bootleg Gap Golf Club This championship course includes a unique 9-hole course. 27 holes, par 72, 7182 yards (250) Way Lyn Ranch Golf Course A challenging country-style executive par 3 course. 18 holes, par 62, 3007 yards (250) St. Eugene Mission Golf Course Les Furber-designed course was awarded a top three ranking in Golf Digest s Canada s Best New Courses category for holes, par 72, 7007 yards Cranbrook (250) Cranbrook Golf Club One of the highest-rated semiprivate courses in the Rockies. 18 holes, par 72, 6803 yards Cranbrook (250) Mission Hills Executive Par 3 This friendly public executive par 3 course offers lessons from a CPGA professional. 18 holes Cranbrook (250)

34 Quality of Life Rich Sporting Heritage Kimberley has a history of producing sporting champions. Kimberley native Gerry Sorensen, whose name now graces the road leading to Kimberley Alpine Resort, was a five-time winner on the World Cup ski circuit in the early 1980s. She became only the second Canadian woman to win the World Alpine Downhill Championship, capturing the title at Schladming, Austria in In hockey, the Kimberley Dynamiters have brought worldwide renown to the community. They captured the Allan Cup, Canada s senior hockey championship, in 1936 and again in The 1936 team was Canada s representative at the world hockey championships in London, England in 1937, and successfully brought the world title back to Canada. Indoor Recreation Facilities Civic Centre (Home of the Kimberley Dynamiters) Indoor Ice Arena (250) for bookings Marysville Arena Indoor Ice Arena (250) for bookings Kimberley Curling Club Six sheet curling rink (250) Kimberley Indoor Sport Centre Two indoor tennis courts (250) Kimberley Skateboarding Club (250) Kimberley Aquatic Centre (To open in 2006) Tanglefoot Training Centre (250) Kimberley produced a former Dominion welterweight boxing champion, Jack Butula, who captured the title in a bout in Vancouver in Patrick Morrow, who in 1982 became only the second Canadian to scale Mount Everest, was also a Kimberley resident. Paralympic Sport Facility In 2005, Kimberley was awarded $3.9 million in funding to develop a world-class Paralympic athletic training centre the first of its kind in Canada. The multi-sport development and competition centre will allow athletes with a disability the opportunity to train for all four Paralympic winter disciplines in one community: Alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, Wheelchair curling and Sledge hockey. This initiative will draw athletes with disabilities from across the country and supports Kimberley s ongoing efforts to provide an accessible community to all. 34 Clubs and Services Sports Organizations Kimberley Nordic Club Kimberley Gymnastics Club Kimberley Shotokan Karate Seniors Fastball League Bicycle Club Ladies Baseball League Slo-Pitch (Mixed Softball) Kimberley Junior Dynamiters North Star Figure Skating Club Seahorse Swim Club St. Mary Fly Fishers Kimberley Open Darts League Rocky Mountain Riders North Star Ski Racers Kimberley Lawn Bowling Club Special Interest Kimberley Senior Citizen Society Royal Canadian Air Cadets Kimberley Pipe Band Kimberley Camera Club Kimberley Wildlife & Wilderness Club Sullivan Mine & Railway Historical Society North Star Quilters Association Kimberley Community Literacy Program Kimberley Garden Club

35 Quality of Life Churches Kingdom Hall of Jehovah s Witnesses All Saints Anglican Church Marysville Community Church Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart Holy Cross Lutheran Church St. Andrew s Presbyterian Kimberley Fellowship Baptist Church United Church of Canada Kimberley Pentecostal Church Children s Clubs Lee Haskell Youth Centre Kimberley Family Centre 4H Club Girl Guides of Canada Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts North Star Skating Club Minor Hockey Minor Baseball Minor Soccer Gymnastics Club Kimberley Dance Academy North Star Racers Jack Rabbits Nordic Skiing Baby Goose Kimberley Play and Learn Service Clubs United Way Knights of Columbus Alcoholics Anonymous Knights of Pythias Kimberley Nature Park Society Kootenay Society for the Handicapped Beta Sigma Phi Sorority Ladies Auxiliary to the Legion Canadian Cancer Society Ladies of the Eagles Canadian Diabetic Association Ladies of the Rebekah Kimberley Chamber of Commerce Lady Lions Club Eagles Lions Club (Kimberley) Friends of the Kimberley Public Library Lions Club (Marysville) Eastern StarMasons Elks (B. P. O. E. #90) Parent-Teachers Association Helping Hands Food Bank Pythian Sisters Temple #27 Red Cross Kimberley Health Care Auxiliary Seniors Helping Seniors Kimberley Rotary Club Kimberley Arts Council Royal Canadian Legion (Kimberley) Kimberley Community Development Society Wildsight Toastmasters Average January temperature -8.6 C/approx -14 F Average July temperature 17.4 C/approx 66 F 35

36 Quality of Life Skiing Kimberley Alpine Resort Box 40, Kimberley BC Canada, V1A 2Y5 (250) Distance from 3.2 km (2 miles) city centre Top Elevation: Base Elevation: Total vertical rise: Lift facilities: Dining Facilities: Ski School & Services: 1982m (6500ft) 1230m (4035 feet) 751m (2465 feet) - Parking facilities available 2.5k Quad-chair, 2400 skiers per hour 1829 m (6000 ft.) T-Bar, 950 skiers per hour Tamarack Double Chair, 1080 skiers per hour 1098 m (3600 ft.) Easter Triple Chair, 1200 skiers per hour 1981 m (6500 ft) Rosa Triple Chair, 1500 skiers per hour Kootenay Haus Kelsey s Restaurant Stemwinder Bar and Grill Slope Side Cafe and Deli Kimberley Alpine Resort - contact directly SkiSeason Early Dec. to Average Snowfall: 400cm Mid April Average Temperature: -5 C / 23 F Cross Country Skiing: Night Downhill Skiing: 26 km (16 miles) prepared cross-country ski trails, 3.5 km (2.1 miles) lit loop Trails open every evening until 10: 00 pm. One of the longest illuminated runs in North America

37 Quality of Life Health And Community Service Hospitals East Kootenay Regional Hospital (Cranbrook) with specialty services in Anesthesia, Internal Medicine, General Surgery Orthopaedics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, ENT, Ophthalmology, Radiology, Pediatrics, Psychiatry and Pathology. (250) Kimberley Health Centre (250) Kimberley Hospice Society (250) Kimberley Family Resource Centre (250) Kimberley Veterinary Clinic (250) Medical Clinics Kimberley Medical Clinic (250) Kimberley Vision Care (250) Retirement Communities Pioneer Lodge & Lion s Manor (250) Gardenview Lodge (250) The Pines (250) Valleyview Lodge (250) Western Lodge (250) Social Housing Gatehouse Gardens (250) Community Protection Services In case of emergency Dial 911 in Kimberley Police Protection: Royal Canadian Mounted Police Kimberley detachment (250) Citizens on Patrol (250) Victim Services (250) Fire Protection: Kimberley Fire Department (250) Emergency: 911 Search & Rescue: Kimberley Search & Rescue (250) Ambulance: BC Ambulance Service EMERGENCY (250)

38 Business Guide For further information relating to the planning and development of Kimberley, contact the Planning and Development Services department: Manager Planning and Development Services Economic Development Officer (250) ext 218 (250) ext 220

39 03The Business Guide on the following pages provides an overview of City of Kimberley regulations for land use, the development and construction of buildings, and other relevant licensing and regulations for businesses. The final page of the guide also provides links to registration and startup tools for all new businesses in British Columbia. The Official Community Plan (OCP), adopted July 12, 2005, acts as a framework for continuing development in Kimberley.

40 Zoning regulates how land is used. Each property is assigned a zone, as described in Kimberley s Zoning Bylaws. The bylaws specify the use or range of uses that are allowed in each zone, as well as the allowed building densities, site coverage, and building form. ZONING To determine the zoning of a particular property, contact: Corporate Administration Assistant (250) ext 212 hharper@city.kimberley.bc.ca Detailed development information is available on the City of Kimberley website: Rezoning and OCP Amendment Rezoning is changing the zoning of a property. A property owner may request a change in their property s zoning to obtain a use or a density that is not permitted under the existing zoning. Zoning can only be changed by applying for an amendment to the City of Kimberley Zoning Bylaw or the Alpine Resort Zoning Bylaw. The proposed zoning must conform to the land use designation outlined in the Official Community Plan. If this is not the case, an OCP Amendment application is also required. Zoning and OCP amendment applications are reviewed by staff and presented to the Administration Committee and Council prior to staff drafting an amending bylaw. If the zoning amendment is supported by Council, the necessary amending bylaws are drafted for the required Council readings and a public hearing. All zoning amendments affecting properties within 800 metres of Highway 95A are referred to the Ministry of Transportation for their approval. 40 [BUSINESS GUIDE]

41 Zoning Amendments The application process has these steps: 1. Complete the Application for Zoning Amendment form. 2. Include with the application the following items: a. Certificate of title, dated within 30 days of the application (available from the Kamloops Land Title Office or a notary public or lawyer). b. Five sets of property maps or sketches if greater than 11 by 17 in size, one additional copy reduced to 11 by 17. c. Five copies of all additional information in support of the application, which may include photographs, development proposal and rationale with conceptual drawings, or a municipal policy review. d. Payment of application fee. e. A completed Site Profile form in accordance with the Waste Management (Amendment) Act. 3. The approval process then commences with a staff review of the application, a recommendation by the Administration Committee to Council, and if Council elects to proceed, the drafting of a bylaw, initiation of a public hearing, and if required, submission to the Ministry of Transportation for approval. 4. If all necessary approvals are granted, Council gives final consideration and votes to adopt or reject. Rejected applications can not be appealed but may be resubmitted after a period of six months. For further information on zoning or OCP amendments, contact: Manager, Planning and Development Services (250) ext 218 nhenderson@city.kimberley.bc.ca Subdivision Subdivisions are defined as the division of land into two or more parcels. This includes a simple lot line adjustment, but with respect to this approval process, does not include a site consolidation. These subdivisions are governed by the Land Title Act. Converting a building or bare land into strata parcels pursuant to the Strata Property Act is also a subdivision. The subdivision procedure following is general in nature and the complexity or simplicity for the procedure will be dependent upon each subdivision application. It is recommended that all applicants make preliminary enquiries at City Hall to determine the feasibility of the proposal prior to proceeding. The applicant completes the Application for a Subdivision and submits it to Administration along with the associated fees, proof of ownership and an Environmental Site Profile. The process is more involved for large complex subdivisions than for simple one or two lot subdivisions. Subdivision Application Process The following information is generally required. a. The proposed dimensions and areas (m2) of the proposed lots, including parking locations and number of spaces. b. The location of any existing buildings, structures, utility poles and underground service lines if any are located on the property proposed for subdivision. [BUSINESS GUIDE] 41

42 Subdivision Application Process (cont d) Dependent upon the complexity of the subdivision, this may not have to be a legal survey plan, but should be legible and easily interpreted. Larger more complex subdivisions may also need to provide: c. The proposed access route(s), including width and alignment details. d. All proposed and existing works and services (water lines, sewers, drains, culverts and other utilities). City staff may be able to assist in obtaining this information. e. All bodies of water and drainage courses. f. Topographic information (contours). g. Surrounding properties and their respective land use. h. The five percent dedication of land for parks upon subdivision will be used to acquire lands that complement the City s park and trail system and to fulfill park needs. If the subject parcel does not contain acceptable lands for the City park and trail system, the owner of the land being subdivided must pay to the municipality an amount that equals the market value of the land according to the provisions outlined in the Local Government Act. Following the technical review, the applicant is informed of the servicing and other requirements which must be met prior to final subdivision or the application is denied. If the applicant receives conditional approval, a BC Land Surveyor needs to be retained to prepare the required plans for final approval and registration in the Kamloops Land Title Office. For general questions regarding subdivisions, contact: (250) ext 209 nennis@city.kimberley.bc.ca Building Permits Building permits are used to regulate building construction to ensure that all buildings comply with health, safety and zoning requirements as established by the Province of British Columbia and the City of Kimberley. The application process includes the following steps: 1. Complete the Application for a Building Permit form and include the following items: a. Proof of property ownership or letter of authorization by owner. b. Detailed plot plan, indicating the location of the proposed work on the property in relationship to the distances from the property lines. c. Construction blueprints/sketches in duplicate showing building dimensions, details of the foundation, floor plans with proposed use, elevations, and structural section details. d. Provide Homeowner Warranty Registration form (for all new dwellings). e. Application fee calculated on the basis of the project s estimated construction value. Minimum charge is $25 for values less than $1,000, plus $6 per $1,000 of construction value up to $50,000, plus $5 per $1,000 of construction value over $50,000. All fees are subject to change. 2. The application will be reviewed by the Building Inspector for building code and zoning compliance and the building permit fee will be assessed. Once the fee is received, the permit will be issued. 3. As the construction project proceeds through the various stages, it is the owner or his authorized agent s responsibility to request and arrange for inspection. The stages of inspection will be noted on the Building Permit. For futher information on building permits, contact: Building Inspector (250) ext 208 info@city.kimberley.bc.ca 42 [BUSINESS GUIDE]

43 Development Permits Development permits are required when the property to be developed is situated within a development permit area, as designated in the Official Community Plan. A development permit is a permit approved by Council that sets forth conditions for multi-family residential, commercial, and industrial development. Once approved, it becomes binding on the existing and future owners of the property. A development permit may specify requirements regarding the character of development, including landscaping, siting, form, and the exterior design and finish of buildings, including paint, siding, and windows. Development permits may also have conditions for environmental protection or protection from hazardous conditions. A development permit may vary or supplement other bylaws, including those regarding land use and subdivisions. Development permits cannot vary the permitted uses of land or the density of development. A development permit is not a building permit (required for construction), but must be obtained prior to the building permit application. The development permit process can proceed only after any necessary rezoning approval is in place. c. Five sets of all relevant plans and documentation, which may include a site survey, development program, site plan, floor plans, elevations and sections, roof plan, signage scheme landscape and grading plans, preliminary building code analysis, and on-site and off-site servicing plans. Where plans are greater than 11 by 17 in size, one additional copy reduced to 11 by 17 must be submitted. d. Application fee of $1,500 for a new development permit or $200 for an amendment to an existing development permit (note that all but $100 will be refunded in both cases if the application does not proceed to registration with the Land Title Office). All fees are subject to change. 4. The approval process then commences with a staff review of the application, including referral to provincial agencies if necessary, and will include staff workshops and meetings with the proponent throughout the process. 5. Following the resolution of issues and appropriate amendments to the proposal, a staff report is prepared for Council s consideration. The proponent should be prepared to present their proposal to Council. For contentious proposals, Council may elect to hold a public information meeting to obtain public comment before making a final decision. 6. Council has four options: (1) approve the proposal, (2) approve the proposal subject to the satisfaction of specified conditions, (3) request further information and/or modification of the proposal prior to further review, or (4) reject the proposal. 7. If Council approves, the final step is to post a letter of credit to cover all proposed landscaping and paving. 8. The Development Permit is filed with the Land Title Office and becomes binding on the current and any future property owners. Any amendments must be approved by Council. The development permit application process includes the following steps: 1. Discuss the proposal with City of Kimberley staff before submitting a formal application. 2. If the proposal is in the resort lands, it must be presented to the Design Review Committee, which is an advisory body appointed by the resort owner with one City representative. If the proposal design evolves over time, subsequent presentations to the Design Review Committee are required to ensure continued Committee support of the application. 3. Complete the Development Permit Application form and include the following items: a. Certificate of title, dated within 30 days of the application (available from the Kamloops Land Title Office or a notary public or lawyer). b. Letter certifying the calculation of gross floor area. The City of Kimberley is currently offering a fee exemption for revitalization projects. Development permits for exterior building upgrades, such as painting, windows, doors, siding, etc. are now exempt from the $200 application fee, although the regular development permit approval process must be followed. For further information on development permits contact: Manager, Planning and Development Services (250) ext 218 nhenderson@city.kimberley.bc.ca Detailed development information is available on the City of Kimberley website: www. city.kimberley.bc.ca [BUSINESS GUIDE] 43

44 Development Variance Permits Under Section 922 of the Local Government Act, Council may vary most land use bylaw requirements except those that govern land use and the density of development. All other variances of Zoning, Subdivision or Sign Bylaws may be authorized by issuing a development variance permit. Variances that are commonly requested are to regulations governing building height setbacks and signage. Once the development variance permit has been approved, a building permit must be obtained for the construction of any buildings. See also the following section on the Board of Variance as a possible alternative to a development variance permit. To determine the zoning of a particular property contact: (250) ext 212 hharper@city.kimberley.bc.ca The application process for a development variance permit requires completion of the Application for Development Variance Permit form but is otherwise the same as the development permit process. Board of Variance The Board of Variance in Kimberley consists of three members of the public selected in accordance with the Local Government Act. A person can make application to the Board of Variance for a minor variance from the bylaw if the person alleges that compliance would cause the person hardship. The Board of Variance can vary a bylaw respecting the siting, dimensions or size of a building or structure, as well as servicing requirements in an area zoned for agricultural or industrial use. For futher information on building permits, contact: Building Inspector (250) ext 208 info@city.kimberley.bc.ca Application can be made after a building application has been submitted and refused by the Building Inspector. A $75.00 application fee is required. All fees are subject to change. Adjacent property owners will be notified and provided an opportunity to express any concern at a hearing. The Board will subsequently make its decision to either approve or deny the request. 44 [BUSINESS GUIDE]

45 Sign Permits Sign permits are required BEFORE constructing, placing, erecting, displaying, painting, altering, repairing, or relocating a sign. The City s general objectives with respect to signage are as follows: Identify individual establishments with signage that contributes to the character and interest of both the businesses and the town. Signage should be primarily orientated toward pedestrians and slowmoving traffic. For additional information regarding the Sign Bylaw contact: Manager, Planning and Development Services/Signage Approval Officer (250) ext 218 nhenderson@city.kimberley.bc.ca Encourage refinement, variety and creativity in signage without clutter. Signage should not be the most dominant visual element of the town s commercial areas. The sign permit application process requires completion of the form Application for a Sign Permit and payment of a $30 fee. All fees are subject to change. Business Licenses All businesses located in or providing services within the City boundaries must be in possession of a valid business license. The license runs for the full calendar year and has variable fees based on the type of business licensed. Fees are pro-rated to half the annual rate after August 1 of each year. Licenses are acquired by completing an application form and paying the appropriate fee. Checklist for New Businesses Fire and building inspections may be required before a business license is granted. Provincial health and liquor inspections are required for businesses preparing food or selling liquor. Comply with the appropriate Zoning Bylaw and any legal restrictions on the property. Apply for a sign permit before erecting exterior signage. If your business is located in a designated Development Permit Areas (DPAs), you will need a development permit for exterior construction. Building permits are required for any building construction, including alterations, repairs or additions. Businesses in the downtown pedestrian-only Platzl area and those located nearby are are subject to an annual fee for the provision of three City parking lots. If your business is located in the Platzl, you will be subject to an annual fee for restoration work through If your business will use public sidewalks for a cafe or similar use, you must acquire additional insurance naming the City of Kimberley as an additional named insured. For further information on business licensing, contact: Chief Corporate Administration Officer (250) ext 211 gstratton@city.kimberley.bc.ca For further information on business startups, contact: Economic Development Officer (250) ext 220 hhornoi@city.kimberley.bc.ca [BUSINESS GUIDE] 45

46 British Columbia and Canada Information Detailed information on starting a business in British Columbia and the range of provincial and federal regulations affecting new businesses may be obtained through the Canada/BC Business Service Centre at Relevant topics are covered for every stage from initial business planning to the expansion of existing companies. Some of the relevant topics include: Registering a business name. Exporting Business planning Complying with tax regulations Becoming an employer Further Information Further information on municipal regulation can be obtained from the staff at City Hall in Kimberley. They are happy to answer any questions and provide assistance with application processes necessary to obtain permits. City Hall is open Monday to Friday 8:30 AM 4:45 PM There are several programs relevant to international migrants interested in relocating to British Columbia. These include the BC Provincial Nominee Program, which facilitates the immigration of individuals with the most potential to contribute to the BC economy. Business investment outside the Greater Vancouver area (e.g. Kimberley) is one of the goals of the program and therefore enhances immigration applications. Further information is available at: More general business immigration information for British Columbia is available at: index.htm. City of Kimberley 340 Spokane Street, Kimberley, BC V1A 2E8 phone (250) fax (250) info@city.kimberley.bc.ca Kimberley Vacations (Reservations) (250) (Manager) info@kimberley.ca Kimberley Chamber of Commerce (250) info@kimberleychamber.ca 46 [BUSINESS GUIDE]

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