BOMA BC Meeting with BC Liberal MLAs
On November 18th, 2022, British Columbia will be swearing in a new Premier, the Honourable David Eby. As such, on October 18th, 2022, BOMA BC met with BC Liberal MLAs to discuss ongoing advocacy issues for the commercial real estate industry.
BOMA BC chose to meet with members of the opposition to brief them on BOMA BC’s top advocacy issues in case of any major changes in direction from the government, or even an early election.
BOMA BC met with MLAs Peter Milobar and Mike Bernier to discuss:
- Property tax assessment challenges:
- Highest and best use taxation on development potential has led to disproportionate tax bills for some underdeveloped properties. The Provincial government recently introduced a solution – Tax Relief for Small Businesses. BOMA BC communicated the opportunities and challenges with the legislation, and where obstacles still exist.
- Energy efficiency incentives and support for existing buildings:
- As leaders in sustainability and climate action, BOMA BC members have voluntarily taken robust action to decarbonize and reduce emissions from existing buildings. However, far more reductions are needed to meet upcoming municipal and provincial carbon pollution limits. BOMA BC communicated to the opposition that more support is required if the industry is asked to make substantially more energy efficiency reductions in the coming years.
In the coming months, BOMA BC will meet with additional Provincial MLAs, including Cabinet Ministers in the NDP Government, and will continue our advocacy work into 2023 with all political parties.
If you want further information or would like to provide feedback, please contact Zach Segal, Director of Government Relations at zsegal@boma.bc.ca