COEDC Newsletter

Business Stories, Resources, Events and more

View in Browser Economic Development News(letter) August 24th, 2023 Our thoughts are with all those who have been effected by the wildfires throughout our region and with the courageous frontline responders who have been working diligently to battle the ongoing fires. If you or your staff have been impacted by the fires throughout the Central Okanagan we encourage you to visit www.cordemergency.ca for the most up-to-date information including a full list of evacuation alerts and orders, news releases and resources for those who have been permitted to return home. You can also sign up for e-updates through www.cordemergency.ca to receive the latest information directly to your inbox. Visit Website Travel Restrictions In a Statement issued Tuesday, August 22nd, Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, announced the Emergency Order restricting non-essential use of temporary accommodations will be lifted effective Wednesday, August 23rd for: Kelowna Kamloops Oliver Osoyoos Penticton Vernon Restrictions will remain in place for West Kelowna, where non-essential travel for the purpose of staying in temporary accommodation, including hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, hostels, RV parks and campgrounds, remains prohibited. This restriction will support access to accommodations for evacuees and personnel providing emergency and critical services. The public is asked to avoid non-essential travel to areas impacted by wildfires. Roadways must remain clear for emergency response operations. Learn More Business Continuity Resources Preparing for the unexpected is a best practice for business operational continuity. Visit www.investkelowna.com/business-continuity-resources for business continuity resource and guides to help prepare your business for an emergency Resources Supporting Local Businesses Local businesses are feeling the impact of the wildfires, yet they’ve shown their love for Kelowna and the Central Okanagan by working together and going above and beyond to offer support to emergency personnel, those who have been evacuated or have experienced loss. Here are some ways you can support our extraordinary local businesses and our community: Purchases If you’re in a position to do so, visit local businesses and make purchases now, get gift cards to use in the future, or order online for products that can be delivered to you. Social media support Comment, like, share, or send a direct message to businesses thanking them for their hard work and contributions to our community. Be patient Many businesses have staff directly affected by the fires, so please be patient and kind as they work to give you the best experience possible. Businesses may also have adjusted hours, please check their social media and websites for the most up-to-date information. Provincial Wildfire Business Impact Survey The British Columbia Economic Development Association (BCEDA) will be measuring some of the initial economic impacts of the 2023 BC wildfires. BCEDA has developed a Provincial Wildfire Business Impact Survey which will be distributed throughout BC’s business communities. The scope of the economic impact of the 2023 BC Wildfires stretches beyond the immediate affected areas, reaching the surrounding communities and businesses. This survey is applicable to any wildfire-impacted businesses in BC’s Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Impacts can include road closures, evacuation alerts/orders, smoke, cancellation of major events, delivery interruptions, public perception of closure and more. Survey results will be shared in an aggregate format with Provincial, Indigenous, Local and Regional Governments to help distinguish businesses and communities’ short and long-term needs. An additional survey, to be distributed to Indigenous and Local Governments will also be developed to measure further impacts. Survey www.investkelowna.com COEDC | 1-(877) 332-2673 ‌ ‌ ‌