Chamber hosting breakfast with taxpayers Ombudsman
For immediate release
August 12, 2019
Chamber hosting breakfast with taxpayers Ombudsman
TRURO – Influencing positive change to the service provided by the Canada Revenue Agency, along with improving their accountability will be a focus of an upcoming breakfast with the Taxpayers’ Ombudsman.
The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce will host Taxpayers’ Ombudsman Sherra Profit on Aug. 30 at the Best Western Glengarry at 8 a.m.
Profit will also discuss the complaint process, taxpayer rights and answer questions.
The cost for breakfast is $20, plus HST, for members or $25, plus HST for non-members.
To RSVP, contact the Chamber office at 902-895-6328 or email [email protected] . The deadline to book a seat is Aug. 26.
Chamber receives national support in lobby to keep RCMP jobs in Truro
For immediate release
August 12, 2019
Chamber receives national support in lobby to keep RCMP jobs in Truro
TRURO – The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce has received support from both the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Atlantic Chamber of Commerce in its lobby to retain about 55 RCMP jobs in Truro.
Last month, in response to the RCMP’s plan to move its Truro Operational Communications Centre to Halifax Regional Municipality by February 2021, the three business organizations, along with Millbrook First Nation, submitted a joint letter to Bernadette Jordon, Minister of Rural and Economic Development. The letter calls on Jordan to demonstrate that a complete analysis, including the economic impact on Truro if the move proceeds, has been undertaken.
“Failing that, we are asking that the government work with the RCMP to halt its plans to move the Centre until an impact analysis is completed, along with undertaking meaningful effort to engage with community partners to examine solutions to retain these jobs in Truro,” said Ron Smith, President of the Truro and Colchester chamber.
“We have spoken with several key stakeholders in the community who have offered what we believe to be valid solutions to retaining these jobs, however, there is a frustrating lack of communication between the community and the RCMP, as well as government officials in their capacity to assist in this matter.”
The letter, which was sent to Jordon on July 11, as well as Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Cumberland-Colchester MP Bill Casey, has gone unanswered.
The letter expresses concern over the “impression of a lack of transparency in – and plausible rationale for - the decision to move the Centre” and asks Jordan to provide a credible explanation of why this decision is being made.
“In this election year, small communities throughout Nova Scotia, Atlantic Canada and the entire country will be looking for proof that your government is true to the words in all Ministers’ mandate letters, i.e., ‘Canadians need to have faith in their government’s honesty and willingness to listen.’ They will also be asking, ‘It’s Truro this time, are we next?’,” the letter said.
The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce represents more than 450 members and has been the recognized voice of business in this region for 129 years on economic, political and social matters impacting business.
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Letter to Minister Jordan re Truro RCMP call centre July 11
Chamber actively lobbying to retain RCMP jobs in Truro
June 6, 2019
News release
Chamber actively lobbying to retain RCMP jobs in Truro
TRURO – Retaining and attracting good paying jobs in this region is a priority for the Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber has been actively lobbying the RCMP, along with federal and provincial officials, to retain approximately 55 jobs at its Operational Communication Centre in Truro.
“While the loss of 55 jobs from Colchester region is gravely concerning, we are also concerned the RCMP plan to cluster the two largest police communications 911 systems together with "H" Division Headquarters within a few blocks in Dartmouth is putting Nova Scotian’s in a position of unnecessary risk,” said Chamber President Ron Smith.
He said Chamber’s lobbying efforts began last spring as soon as their office was made aware that the RCMP planned to transfer operations from Truro to the Halifax Regional Municipality by February 2021.
Since that time, the Chamber has held several meetings with elected officials at all levels of government to voice concerns about the move, as well as writing to Public Safety Minster Ralph Goodale and RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki.
“Centralizing the positions in HRM simply contributes to the undermining of rural Nova Scotia,” said Smith.
The Chamber received a letter from A/Commr. Lee Bergerman, Commanding Officer of “H” Division, RCMP NS, in which he cited employee health and safety, operational requirements and fiscal responsibility as reasons for the move.
“The senior management team, myself included, did not take this decision lightly,” wrote Bergerman. “This is why we asked for a comprehensive assessment of the options prior to moving forward with a decision.”
Smith said more questions surrounding the RCMPs decision have been raised after reviewing a Critical Ranking Chart and Financial Costing Chart received from Cumberland-Colchester MP Bill Casey through an Access to Information request.
Smith said they are awaiting the results of the recently announced independent review of the RCMP’s plan to relocate.
“The Chamber will continue to lobby to keep these jobs in the area,” said Smith. “That is the reason Chamber’s exist. To advocate on issues in the best interest of our members. It goes way beyond the impact of the loss of these worker’s salaries, the trickle-down effect will be far reaching.”
The Truro & Colchester chamber has engaged chambers from across Nova Scotia and the Atlantic Chamber of Commerce to assist with lobby efforts.
Smith said the decision is completely at odds with the federal government's 2015 campaign platform commitment to “strengthen our communities by investing in the things that make them good places to live.”
“It is difficult to understand why this move is being forced on a community when the government’s own information demonstrates the move makes little sense in terms of service enhancement or benefit to the taxpayer.”
Creating a healthy economy and retaining jobs in Colchester County is a foundational pillar for the Chamber which has been serving the area since 1890.
Smith invites people to reach out to Chamber anytime to learn about its advocacy efforts.
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Media Contact:
Sherry Martell
Executive Director
Truro and Colchester Chamber of Commerce
902-895-6328
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce announces 2019 gala award finalists
News release
April 10, 2019
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce announces 2019 gala award finalists
TRURO – The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its 2019 gala award finalists.
Kohltech, Windows and Entrance Systems, has been selected as the recipient of the Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award and Ron Meech of Meech Holdings Ltd., has been selected as the BDC Business Person of the Year.
“Kohltech Windows and Entrance Systems and Ron Meech have contributed greatly to the local economy and are leaders in the business community,” said Chamber President Ron Smith. “We are pleased to recognize these two outstanding businesses and we invite the business community to join us in honouring their contributions.
“It was a difficult decision for the judging committee to select the 2019 award recipients given the high-quality nominations received. It was an honour to have an opportunity to review the nominations which highlight amazing things that are being driven by business in the area.”
The awards will be presented on April 25 during the Chamber’s 129th annual gala dinner celebration at the Holiday Inn. Everyone is invited to celebrate the accomplishments of local business at the Chamber’s gala, which is open to members and future members. Tickets cost $50 plus tax for members and $60 plus tax for future members. To reserve seats by April 17, call the Chamber office at 902-895-6328, or email [email protected].
The Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award recognizes leadership achieving demonstrated growth in sales, workforce investment, community involvement, support of the local business community, innovation and job creation.
The BDC Business Person of the Year Award acknowledges a founder, owner, CEO, president or manager who has achieved significant success showing strong leadership skills contributing to the growth of the business.
Nominations for the Chamber awards were open to all businesses in Truro and Colchester County.
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Media Contact:
Sherry Martell
Executive Director
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce
902-895-6328
Nominate an outstanding business for a gala award
Links to online nomination forms:
Link to online application-BDC Business Person of the Year
http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07eg4zjgwpjsm9z35f/start
Link to online application – Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award
http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07eg4zk5u7jsma7kjk/start
Click links below to download a PDF
Business Person of the Year Nomination Form19
ccc Business Excellence Award nom form19
Join the Chamber on a trip to China
New for 2019 is that our Chamber will be offering an 11-day trip to China through the national Chamber partner travel group Citslinc. This trip has been endorsed by Chambers across North America. While it is a tourist-designed itinerary, there is a business conference option available for participants as well as a look at industries such as jade mining, silk farming and pearl harvesting. The trip includes stops in Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou and more. For more information contact our Chamber office.
https://www.citslinc.org/video/
Click LINK BELOW TO DOWNLOAD A REGISTRATION FORM
flyer-pro cc190928yz 11d truro NS P1-with our logo
Call for nominations for Annual Gala Dinner and Awards
News Release
Feb. 27, 2019
Call for nominations for Annual Gala Dinner and Awards
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce to honour outstanding business leaders
TRURO – The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce is currently seeking nominations to recognize outstanding business leaders at its Annual Gala Dinner and Awards celebration.
Two awards will be presented at the April 25 event; the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Business Person of the Year Award and the Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award.
“The Chamber looks forward to hosting this special evening each year, celebrating our business community and honouring those that have made significant contributions to our local economy by not only investing in the community but inspiring others through their success,” said Chamber President Joanne McRae. “We have so much to be proud of here and we want everyone to celebrate with us.”
To view the full award criteria and to access 2019 nomination forms, visit www.trurocolchesterchamber.com, or email [email protected] .
The deadline to submit completed nominations is April 1, 2019.
The Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award recognizes a business that has been in operation for at least 10 years and has had an outstanding impact on the community in Truro or Colchester. The BDC Business Person of the Year Award acknowledges a founder, owner, CEO, president or manager who has achieved significant success in business showing strong leadership skills and business acumen contributing to the consistent growth of the business.
The Chamber is now accepting seating reservations for the April 25 gala dinner at the Holiday Inn, Truro. Reserve Seats by April 17. Cost for members $50 plus HST ($60 plus HST for future members). For more information contact the Chamber office at 902-895-6328 or email [email protected].
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Links to online nomination forms:
Link to online application-BDC Business Person of the Year
http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07eg4zjgwpjsm9z35f/start
Link to online application – Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award
http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07eg4zk5u7jsma7kjk/start
Federal Small Business and Export Promotion Minister to speak in Truro
March 21, 2019
News release
Federal Small Business and Export Promotion Minister to speak in Truro
Swift action needed to improve broadband internet access
TRURO – Newly announced support for business will be one of the topics to be discussed at a Chamber breakfast next month with the federal Small Business Minister.
On April 8, Truro and Colchester Chamber of Commerce will host a roundtable breakfast with Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business and Export Promotion.
Ng will speak about benefits for small business identified in the Liberal’s 2019 budget, released on March 19, along with answering questions presented by the business community.
One of the the recently announced benefits, support for rural broadband, could help grow business in the Colchester region, said Chamber president Ron Smith.
While the Liberal government has committed $1.7 billion, specifically earmarked for rural and remote and Northern communities as part of its plan to have Canada-wide high-speed internet access by 2030, swift action needs to be taken by Internet Service Providers to get projects moving as soon as possible.
“Our members have told us repeatedly that access to better, and in some case any, high speed internet will assist with business growth and retention in this region,” said Smith. “Lack of access was identified as one of the greatest barriers to growth and we have been lobbying on our member’s behalf to all levels of government to seek improvements.”
Last fall, the Truro and Colchester chamber was among 450 chambers from across the country to vote on policy recommendations that were forwarded to the federal government for consideration. The budget recognizes some of those recommendations, such as expanding Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) programs, new partnerships with industry for WIL, and enhancements to skilled trades apprentice programs.
However, two other major barriers to growth identified by Truro and Colchester chamber members, and echoed by business across the nation, were not addressed in this year’s federal budget. The Chamber has joined calls from across the nation for a comprehensive review of the taxation system to make it fair and less cumbersome for businesses and a broad-based commitment to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses.
“For years our Chamber has been asking the federal government to review its taxation system with an eye to modernizing it for today’s business world,” said Smith. “It is unacceptable that we are using the same system that was implemented more than 50 years ago. Business has changed and the government needs to evolve with us.”
The Chamber will continue to work with the federal government to ensure the voice of the business community is heard to identify critical priorities for them to maintain competitiveness and prosperity. A report 50 Years of Cutting and Pasting, Modernizing Canada’s Tax System is available on the Chamber’s website, www.trurocolchesterchamber.com.
The breakfast with Minister Ng is open to anyone in the business community, however, the cost to attend is $25 for Chamber members and $30 for non-members.
To reserve a seat at the breakfast roundtable, call 902-895-6328 or email [email protected]
The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce has been the voice of business in this region for 129 years. It represents more than 430 member businesses and advocates on their behalf at all levels of government on issues of political, economic and social importance.
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View Canadian Chamber of Commerce report by clicking the link below:
190214-50YearsOfCuttingAndPastingModernizingCanadasTaxSystem
For more information about Canadian Chamber of Commerce's position on the budget, visit:
http://chamber.ca/media/news-releases/190319-budget-2019/
Young Entrepreneurs and Professionals invited to Talk Taxes
Young Entrepreneurs and Professionals are welcome to join us for a FREE lunch on April 2 to talk about taxes and meet connections to build your business!
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce elects new officers
March 15, 2019
News release
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce elects new officers
TRURO – The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated 129 years serving the business community at its Annual General Meeting held March 13 in Truro. A new slate of officers and directors was elected by the membership which will see Ron Smith, Manager of Business Development, Old Fletcher Farm Property Limited, a division of Masstown Market Limited, step into the president’s seat.
More than 80 people attended the meeting where Smith spoke about the positive growth across many sectors taking place in this region
“Our community shows continuous improvements and growth in commercial, industrial, residential and social infrastructure,” said Smith. “The last number of years have shown large-scale investment in both public and private construction projects from our rural areas to our revitalized downtown cores. Each project offering more and more opportunity to retain and attract people to live and work in Colchester County.”
Smith has served on the Chamber board for four years and was elected to serve a one-year term as President. He said during the next year the Chamber will continue to focus on membership growth and supporting the needs of business.
“Serving with the Chamber has presented the privilege to meet one-on-one, in groups and en masse many of our local business people, community proponents and interested citizens, all willing to work together and strive for a more inclusive and prosperous Truro Colchester,” said the newly elected President. “It is amazing to see behind the scenes what many of our local business people have contributed in time, resources and pure financial gifts to help this area prosper, often below the radar and without acknowledgement.”
Outgoing president Joanne McRae, CPA, CA, Senior Manager with MNP, said there were many Chamber accomplishments to celebrate during the past year and looks forward to continuing her work with the board in the role of Past President.
“During the past year, we have continued to collaborate with government of all levels, local businesses and organizations, the Truro and Colchester Partnership for Economic Prosperity, and other Chambers in the region to ensure the voices of our members and businesses from the area are heard and their interests are protected as our region continues to grow and flourish,” said McRae.
At the end of 2018 there were 431 members in the Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce making it the largest Chamber in Nova Scotia outside metro.
Other newly elected executive and directors are: Vice-President Mathew Mossman, Sales Manager at Cat Country and Big Dog Radio; Treasurer Amanda Pothier, owner of Atkinson’s Accounting; Solicitor George White, Patterson Law; and directors Dr. David Gray, Dean of Dalhousie Agricultural Campus; Karen Baillie, Elegant Steps; Karen Gillespie, Nova Scotia Community College; Bob Brown Lynds Industrial Services; Nancy Johnstone, Lock and Stone Property Management; Peter Thiesen Pulse Property Services; Connie Baird, Party Time Rentals and Sam Abushenaf, PuroClean Restorations; David Ritcey, Community Credit Union; Julie Taylor, Skin Decision; Trina Langille, Warmth By Design; and Phil Smith, Home Hardware Stores Ltd., Eastern Dealer Support Center.
The Chamber’s Annual Awards and Dinner Gala will be held on April 25 at the Holiday Inn.
The Chamber has issued a call for nominations for BDC Business Person of the Year and the Community Credit Union Business Excellence awards.
To reserve a seat at the gala or for more information about award nominations, call 902-895-6328 or email [email protected]. Deadline for nominations is April 1, 2019.
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Cutline: (group)
Newly elected executive and directors are, front row, from left, Treasurer Amanda Pothier, owner of Atkinson’s Accounting; Solicitor George White, Patterson Law; Past President Joanne McRae, CPA, CA, Senior Manager with MNP; Ron Smith, Manager of Business Development, Old Fletcher Farm Property Limited, a division of Masstown Market Limited; Vice-President Mathew Mossman, Sales Manager at Cat Country and Big Dog Radio, and Executive Director Sherry Martell. Second row, Connie Baird, Party Time Rentals; Nancy Johnstone, Lock and Stone Property Management; Phil Smith, Home Hardware Stores Ltd., Eastern Dealer Support Center; Peter Thiesen, Pulse Property Services; Karen Gillespie, Truro Campus, Nova Scotia Community College; and David Ritcey, Community Credit Union.
Other elected directors are: Dr. David Gray, Dean of Dalhousie Agricultural Campus; Karen Baillie, Elegant Steps; Bob Brown Lynds Industrial Services; and Sam Abushenaf, PuroClean Restorations; Julie Taylor, Skin Decision; Trina Langille, Warmth By Design. PHOTO BY BRENNAN GILLIS