B O M A B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A Y E A R I N R E V I E W 2 0 1 2 COMMITTEE REPORTS
Government Relations BOMA
HAS BEEN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE’s leading advocate and catalyst for change on all issues affecting the existing building industry
since 1911. BOMA speaks to proposed legislation, regulation, codes and policy at the provincial, regional and local level. Drawing on its comprehensive network of member expertise, BOMA is able to identify issues and develop positions for proactive advocacy on behalf of a diverse membership.
In 2012, BOMA addressed many issues such as…
National Energy Building Code – Canada’s commercial building sector is a significant energy user accounting for about 14%of end use energy consumption. BOMA, in 2012, provided input to the recent new version of the National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB). Recognizing that national regulations for new construction are an effective tool to achieve consistency in policy direction, the updates include a simplified administrative approach which is welcomed by the industry.With respect to existing buildings, BOMA maintains that energy standards are best decided by the industry and should be voluntary. MetroWaste Flow –Metro Vancouver has the authority for the management of
BOMA BC has been meeting with the City of Vancouver on green initiatives and BOMA BESt
municipal solid waste in the region and has set aggressive waste reduction and recycling goals. A developing strategy introduced byMetro Vancouver calls for control over tipping fees, disposal bans and material prohibitions. BOMA consultation provided an opportunity for industry feedback. Safety Authority – BOMA has submitted comments to the BC Safety Authority
(BCSA) as part of their process for 2012-14 fee setting. The BCSA has safety responsibility for electrical, elevating devices, gas, boiler, pressure vessel and refrigeration technologies. The 3%increase to all fees was, in part, for system development intended to make the permitting process simpler, more logical and aligned with assessment of risk. BOMA supports the principle of technology investment for more efficient and effective services, however, fee increases can only be acceptable if an enhanced level of service is indeed received. BOMA also responded to the BCSA 2013-14 Business Plan. Worker Health & Safety – BOMA has reviewed and in some cases provided input
toWorkSafeBC policy and regulations dealing with matters such as Fall Protection, Mental Stress&Disorders,Workplace Bullying &Harassment and property management classification for assessment premiums. City of Vancouver – BOMA has been meeting with City officials regarding their
‘Greenest City’ initiative and the proposed ‘green’ regulations pertaining to building/office renovations. BOMA advocates for minimal disruption to the permit process and reference to recognized industry environmental standards such as BOMA BESt certification. BOMA had tremendous success in influencing City property tax policy for a more balanced sharing of the tax burden.
BOMA thanks the many members who volunteer their time to represent the Association on numerous government and industry advisory committees.
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