Powell River British Columbia - coastal by nature
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coastal by nature Community Profile Powell River British Columbia
coastal by nature
Table of Contents
LOCATION 3 LOCAL ECONOMY 25
Welcome to Powell River 3 Tla’amin Nation 28
Major Cities Distance 3 Available Incentive Programs 29
Climate 4
QUALITY OF LIFE 30
DEMOGRAPHICS 5 A Cultural Capital 30
Powell River at a Glance 5 Performance Venues 31
Population 6 Celebrations and Community Spirit 31
Education 9 Recreation and Outdoor Adventure 32
Income 13 Healthcare 38
LABOUR FORCE 15 RESOURCES 39
Labour Force by Industry 15 Business Resources 39
Labour Force by Occupation 17
Major Employers 18 GOVERNMENT 40
Who’s Who 40
HOUSING 19 Crime Rate 40
Housing Characteristics 19 Taxation 41
TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE 20 CONTACTS 44
UTILITIES 23
Water and Sewer 23
Gas and Electric 23
Telecommunications 24
Location
coastal by nature
Welcome to Powell River
Located on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast, Power River offers an
amazing mixture of nature, culture and industry. The region has become a
hotspot for businesses, families, and retirees relocating from centres across
North America and the world.
Here you will find friendly locals, unique neighbourhoods, opportunities
and a wide variety of events and art venues to keep you entertained. Neatly
tucked into BC’s coastline and mere hours from Vancouver by car or minutes
by plane, Powell River is an attractive option for those seeking to capitalize
on a growing community with constantly expanding opportunities.
Major Cities Distance
Vancouver 172 km 106 mi
Victoria 258 km 160 mi
Seattle 398 km 247 mi
Portland 677 km 420 mi
Calgary 1,141 km 708 mi
LATITUDE: 49° 52.800’N
LONGITUDE: 124° 33.000’W
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Location
coastal by nature
Climate
The City of Powell River is located on the Sunshine Coast, and some of the most rich and fertile land in British
Columbia. Located just over 130 km from Vancouver, BC, Powell River is surrounded by forest, mountains, and
many freshwater bodies of water and is part of the coastal mountain range. With the Pacific Ocean to its west, the
region enjoys a temperate climate.
The mild winters bring plenty of precipitation, but less than 32 cm of show, on average, keeping the area green
year round. Annual precipitation is almost 1,400 mm. The average winter temperature (Dec – March) is 5C, while
the summer (June – September) averages a mild 17C. Fittingly for the Sunshine Coast, there is an average of
1900 hours of sunlight yearly.
Minimum Average Maximum
2°C / 36°F 4°C / 39°F 6°C / 43° January temperatures
13° / 55°F 18° / 64°F 22° / 72° July temperatures
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Demographics
coastal by nature
Powell River at a Glance
Population City (Region) 13,157 (20,070)
Five Year Regional Growth Rate 0.9%
Median Age 52.2
Total Private Dwellings 6,080
Median Household income $56,525
Average Household Income $69,732
Median Home Value $250,875
Average Home Value $277,720
Source: StatsCan 2016 Census Profile
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Demographics
coastal by nature
Population
In 2016, the City of Powell River had a
population of 13,157, virtually no change
from the 2011 census (13,165). The
region did experience some growth with
a 2011 population of 19,884 and a 2016
population of 20,707, approximately 1.0
percent growth. This compares to the
provincial average growth of 5.6%.
Land area is 28.91 square kilometres
with a population density of 455.1
persons per square kilometre. This
compares to the provincial land area of
922,509.29 square kilometres with a
population density of 5.0 persons per
square kilometre.
Census Subdivision Name 2011 2016 % Change
City of Powell River 13,165 13,157 -0.1
Powell River (Area A) 1,008 1,105 9.6
Powell River (Area B) 1,488 1,541 3.6
Powell River (Area C) 2,014 2,064 2.5
Powell River (Area D) 1,053 1,076 2.2
Powell River (Area E) 426 399 -6.3
Tla’amin Nation (formerly Sliammon First Nation) 730 707 -6.3
Total Population Powell River and Region 19,884 20,070 0.9
Source: StatsCan 2016 Census Profile
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Demographics
coastal by nature
Population Projections
(City of Powell River and Region Combined)
2020 21,044
2025 21,364
2030 21,841
2035 22,591
2040 23,886
Source: BC Stats, Sub-Provincial Population Projections 2017
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Demographics
coastal by nature
Population by Age and Gender
Age Characteristic Total Male Female
0 to 4 years 520 285 240
5 to 9 years 590 305 285
10 to 14 years 640 310 335
15 to 19 years 710 375 335
20 to 24 years 500 270 225
25 to 29 years 545 275 265
30 to 34 years 635 295 335
35 to 39 years 575 270 305
40 to 44 years 650 310 335
45 to 49 years 805 395 410
50 to 54 years 1,070 490 580
55 to 59 years 1,135 570 570
60 to 64 years 1,215 590 625
65 to 69 years 1,115 565 550
70 to 74 years 810 370 435
75 to 79 years 635 310 325
80 to 84 years 480 205 270
85 years and over 530 195 330
Median age of the population 52.2 51.2 51.9
% of the population aged 15 and over 59.6 60.2 59.0
Source: StatsCan 2016 Census Profile
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Demographics
coastal by nature
Education
The District of Powell River has become a leader in management of its School District. Using an entrepreneurial
approach, the District uses its resources to provide unique and innovative programming for students. The
District actively pursues partnerships with the Private Sector that will help to create long term employment in
the area.
Public Education System
School District No. 47 provides public education for the community of Powell River, at the heart of the Sunshine
Coast. With six elementary schools, one middle school, three secondary school, the School District has an
operating budget of approximately 21 million dollars and more than 300 employees committed to the education
of the 2,000 students.
School Enrolment Elementary Secondary Total Funding Per Student
2016/17 1,156 938 2,096 $10,168
2017/18 estimates 1,905 $10,404
Source: School District No 47 Profile, Ministry of Education
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Demographics
coastal by nature
Over
50% of Powell River’s workforce
has postsecondary education
Educational Attainment of Persons 15 years or older, 2016
City of Powell River British
Powell River Regional District Columbia
No certificate, diploma or degree 19.9% 19.2% 15.5%
High school diploma or equivalent 31.3% 29.4% 29.4%
Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree 48.7% 50.8% 55.0%
Apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma 28.9% 28.6% 15.9%
College, CEGEP or other non-university 40.4% 38.1% 32.9%
certificate or diploma
University certificate, diploma or degree below 5.9% 6.9% 6.4%
bachelor level
University certificate, diploma or degree at 24.6% 26.2% 44.7%
bachelor level or above
Bachelor’s degree 5.7% 6.8% 14.0%
University certificate, diploma or degree above 5.1% 4.8% 8.1%
bachelor level
Source: StatsCan 2016 Census Profile
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Major Field of Study of Persons 15 years or Older, 2016
City of Powell River British
Powell River Regional District Columbia
Education 8.2% 7.9% 6.7%
Visual and performing arts, and communications technologies 3.4% 3.6% 4.6%
Humanities 3.9% 4.0% 5.8%
Social and behavioural sciences and law 9.0% 8.4% 11.5%
Business, management and public administration 13.9% 13.1% 20.0%
Physical and life sciences and technologies 1.0% 1.4% 4.0%
Mathematics, computer and information sciences 2.1% 1.9% 3.8%
Architecture, engineering and related technologies 26.4% 27.9% 20.15%
Agriculture, natural resources and conservation 4.2% 4.3% 2.4%
Health and related fields 18.7% 18.2% 15.1%
Personal, protective and transportation services 10.3% 9.2% 5.8%
Source: StatsCan 2016 Census Profile
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Colleges and Universities in the Area
The Vancouver Island University is an innovative campus providing excellent and unique educational opportunities
in collaboration with the local community.
Vancouver Island University at Powell River is a strong, visible, permanent, year-round campus offering quality
programs relevant to community development initiatives. The campus will augment and expand its programs and
services through developing a widely known core specialty drawing on community strengths, to help maintain
and enhance a vibrant and viable presence in the region. The University also has an aggressive international
studies program bringing students from around the world. For more information on programs offered, please
contact:
Vancouver Island University
Powell River Campus Switchboard: (604) 485-2878
3960 Selkirk Avenue Fax: (604) 485-2868
Powell River, BC V8A 3C6 Toll-Free: (877) 888-8890
pr.viu.ca
Eton College has entered in to a new partnership agreement with the Vancouver Island University and School
District 47. The new college campus is co-located with VIU and brings about a multitude of opportunities and
advantages. Students will be allowed to earn both Eton College’s Travel, Tourism & Flight Attendant Preparation
Diploma and VIU’s Tourism Studies Diploma.
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Income
Private Households Projections
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Powell River Regional District 10,077 10,218 10,304 10,437 10,504
Source: BC Stats, Sub-Provincial Population Projections, 2014
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Private Household Income as a Percentage (CDN $)
City of Powell River British
Powell River Regional District Columbia
Less than $30,000 22.7% 21.1% 18.9%
$30,000 to $49,999 21.4% 21.8% 16.4%
$50,000 to $79,999 23.7% 22.5% 21.2%
$80,000 to $99,999 10.8% 10.3% 4.8%
$100,000 to $124,999 9.0% 8.3% 11.2%
$125,000 to $149,999 5.3% 4.9% 7.3%
$150,000 and over 7.0% 6.8% 14.1%
Median Household Income $56,525 $53,056 $69,995
Average Household Income $69,732 $67,240 $90,354
Source: StatsCan 2016 Census Profile
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www.powellriver.info/liveinvest/Labour Force
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At a Glance
Total labour force (aged 15 years and over) 11,100 (17,085 Region)
Employed 5,930 (8,965 Region)
Median Age 52.2
Participation rate 53.4%
Employment rate 49.5%
Unemployment rate 7.3%
Self-employed 14.4%
Median commute duration (minutes) 10.3
Source: StatsCan 2016 Census Profile
Labour Force by Industry
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Employment by Industry as a Percentage
City of Powell River British
Powell River Regional District Columbia
Agriculture, forestry, fishing & hunting 5.1% 7.1% 2.7%
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction 1.0% 2.1% 1.1%
Utilities 0.7% 0.6% 0.5%
Construction 7.6% 8.0% 8.2%
Manufacturing 8.0% 8.3% 6.5%
Wholesale trade 1.6% 1.6% 3.4%
Retail trade 15.2% 12.9% 11.7%
Transportation and warehousing 6.1% 5.9% 5.3%
Information and cultural industries 1.2% 1.3% 2.8%
Finance and insurance 2.2% 1.9% 3.9%
Real estate and rental and leasing 1.3% 1.5% 2.3%
Professional scientific and technical services 2.7% 3.2% 8.1%
Management of companies and enterprises 0.0% 0.0% 0.2%
Administrative and support, waste management and 4.0% 4.6% 4.5%
remediation services
Educational services 6.9% 6.4% 7.2%
Health care and social assistance 15.0% 14.3% 11.2%
Arts, entertainment and recreation 2.4% 2.2% 2.4%
Accommodations and food services 8.2% 7.7% 8.5%
Other services (Except public administration) 5.4% 5.4% 4.6%
Public administration 5.3% 5.0% 5.1%
Source: StatsCan, 2016 Census Profile
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Labour Force by Occupation
Employment by Occupation as a Percentage
City of Powell River British
Powell River Regional District Columbia
Management occupations 9.3% 10.5% 11.3%
Business, finance and administration 10.9% 10.8% 15.2%
Natural applied sciences and related occupations 4.3% 4.4% 6.7%
Health occupations 9.9% 9.3% 6.7%
Occupations in education, law and social, 10.5% 10.0% 11.1%
community and government services
Occupations in art, culture, recreation and sport 3.0% 2.9% 3.8%
Sales and service occupations 26.1% 23.4% 24.5%
Trades, transport and equipment operators and 17.2% 18.6% 14.9%
related occupations
Natural resources, agriculture and related 4.1% 5.3% 2.6%
production occupations
Occupations in manufacturing and utilities 4.6% 4.7% 3.2%
Source: StatsCan 2016 Census Profile
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Major Employers
Major Employers and High Growth Companies in Powell River
Catalyst Paper Corporation 410
School District #47 340
Powell River Association for Community Living 205
Western Forest Products 200
City of Powell River 150
Texada Quarries Ltd 80
Source: City of Powell River
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www.powellriver.info/liveinvest/Housing
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Powell River offers a wide range of housing options at a very affordable price – whether you’re looking for heritage,
modern, waterfront or farm. The bottom table breaks down the housing characteristics for Powell River based on
the 2016 census. The Powell River Real Estate Association collects data quarterly providing a current reflection of
the local housing market.
Housing Characteristics
Residential - Single Family Home 2018 2017 % Change 2016
Average Board Wide $413,250 $360,959 14.5% $275,532
Median Board Wide $412,000 $315,000 30.8% $275,000
Source: Powell River Real Estate Board, March 2018
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www.powellriver.info/liveinvest/Transportation & Infrastructure
coastal by nature
Powell River lies along the shores of the Georgia Strait at the heart of the Malaspina Pennisula. A deep inlet
separates the area from the rest of the British Columbia mainland, resulting in a rare unspoiled natural beauty.
From Vancouver follow the Sunshine Coast route for 145 km/90 miles. Complete your journey with a 50-minute
ferry ride between Saltery Bay and Earl’s Cove. The road, which runs along the coast from Saltery Bay in the
south to Lund in the north, is the northernmost portion of Highway 101, the world’s longest highway, which begins
14,880 miles/24,000 km to Quellon at the south end of Chile.
Transportation
Powell River is a community that relies on air and water for passengers as Distance to Major Centres
well as cargo. The community has developed an efficient transportation Vancouver 172 km
system that caters to its residents and visitors, as well as the logistical
Victoria 258 km
needs of the goods being shipping in and out of the community. Within
Seattle 398 km
the community you will find reliable public transportation, friendly taxi
services as well as water taxi, and other transportation means. Portland 677 km
Calgary 1,141 km
Vehicle/Ferry
Powell River is located 172 kilometres from Vancouver and
travellers will need to utilize the BC Ferry system. From
Horseshoe Bay, take the ferry to Langdale and continue up
the coast to the second ferry from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay
to arrive at the Upper Sunshine Coast. The length of trip
from downtown Vancouver to Powell River is approximately
5.5 hours. From Vancouver Island, travellers will take
the ferry from Comox to Powell River, a scenic 80-minute
crossing of the Strait of Georgia. Both trips offer the
traveller opportunities for outstanding scenery and views
of coastal mountains and wild marine life.
Major Roadways serving Powell River
Highway 101 is the longest continuous highway in the world, running from Southern British Columbia to South
America (Peru, Chile). Hwy 101 (Highway Code 19) is a provincial highway running north/south and connects
Powell River with Vancouver.
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Air Service
Pacific Coastal Airlines offers daily direct flights from Powell River’s Municipal Airport to Vancouver International
Airport’s South Terminal. Flight time is 25-minutes and shuttle service is provided to connect travellers to domestic
and international flights at Vancouver’s main terminal.
Across the Strait of Georgia the Comox Valley Airport is serviced by major airlines including Air Canada and
WestJet. Daily flights to Vancouver and Calgary are offered daily. Access to the Comox Airport is provided by the
BC Ferries and is an 80-minute crossing.
Powell River Municipal Airport
Hub Status Commercial
Hours of Operation 6am – 9:30pm Mon-Fri;
6am – 7:30pm Sat-Sun
Number of Runways 1
Runway Length 3,627 feet/1,106 metres
Air Carrier Companies Pacific Coastal Airlines
Helicopter Pad Land on apron
Helicopter Companies Oceanview Helicopters
Flights to Largest Cities Services: Vancouver Mon – Fri: 4 return flights
Sat – Sun: 3 return flights
Comox Valley Airport
Hub Status Commercial
Hours of Operation 5:30am – 11:00 pm
Number of Runways 2
Runway Length 10,000 feet/3,048 metres
5,000 feet/1,524 metres
Air Carrier Companies Air Canada, Central Mountain Air, Pacific
Coastal Airlines, Transat Holidays, Westjet
Helicopter Pad Yes
Helicopter Companies Oceanview Helicopters
Flights to Largest Cities Services: Vancouver Mon – Fri: 4 return flights
Sat – Sun: 3 return flights
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Courier Services
Powell River is home to courier companies that offer many services to the area. Courier services are offered by the
following handlers: DHL, Federal Express, Purolator, UPS Canada.
Ports
Powell River is close to two major ports, making importing
and exporting goods relatively easy. Port Metro Vancouver,
the largest and busiest port in Canada, is easily accessed
from Powell River. The Port’s jurisdiction covers nearly 600
kilometres of shoreline and extends from Point Roberts at the
Canada/U.S. board up through the Fraser River. The Port is the
most diversified in North America, with 28-deep-sea marine
cargo terminals, 2 international cruise terminals and several
domestic intermodal short sea shipping terminals.
Closest Custom Port of Entry Comox Valley Airport
Type of Entry Point Airport
Location 1250 Knight Road, Comox, BC
Services Available Designated for CANPASS permit holders
Closest Port Port of Powell River – Barge Terminal
Location/City Powell River – Catalyst Harbour
Type of Port Ocean
Turning Basin Unlimited
Shallow Water Barging Facilities Yes
Deep Water Barging Facilities Yes
General Cargo Facilities Yes
Containerized Facilities No
Storage Facilities Yes
Highways Serving Port #101
Railways Serving Port No rail service available
Source: Chamber of Shipping British Columbia
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Water and Sewer
Powell River’s water originates from the Haslam Lake Watershed. Haslam Lake is located with the traditional territories
of the Sliammon and the Sechelt First Nations. The City of Powell River is responsible for sewer maintenance and is
mandated by the Ministry of Environment to ensure safe treatment and disposal is with Ministry regulations. The City
is regulated to ensure safe water treatment and discharge of sewage and storm water as well as water conservation
and sustainable environmental initiatives.
Residential properties in Powell River are billed for water, garbage and sewer annually. The charges are included
on the annual property tax notice. Commercial properties are billed for water charged annually and rates are set
based on individual commercial services. For example, a restaurant with up to 25 seating spaces is billed $676.30
annually, while a bed & breakfast is billed $455.45. Bylaw 2325, 2015 provides a schedule of waterworks user
rates for 2016.
Name of Water Production Provider City of Powell River
Rate Capacity (permitted amount) 14.10 Mgd
Average Daily Demand 2.07 Mgd
Peak Demand 5.0 Mgd
Residential Cost (single family dwelling) $307.45
Industrial or Commercial See City of Powell River Bylaw 2325
Source: City of Powell River
Name of Sewer Production Provider City of Powell River
Rate Capacity (permitted amount) 5.66 Mgd
Average Daily Demand (LWMP – Stage 3) 2.14 Mgd
Peak Demand (LWMP – Stage 3) 4.32 Mgd
Sewer Collector System Chargs See City of Powell River Bylaw 2328, 2015
Sewer Connection Fees See City of Powell River Bylaw 2328, 2015
Source: City of Powell River
Gas and Electric
Electric Power Supplier
Electric power for the City of Powell River is provided by BC Hydro, a crown corporation of the provincial government.
BC Hydro is regulated by the BC Utilities Commission. For business customers the rate that is charges for electricity
will depend on the annual peak demand and total annual energy usage. Detailed rate information can be found at
https://www.bchydro.com/accounts-billing/rates-energy-use/electricity-rates/business-rates.html
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BC Hydro – Residential Rates
Basic Charge $0.1835 per day
Energy Charge Step 1
$0.0829 per kWh for first 1,350 kWh in an average two
month billing period (22.1918 kWh per day).
Step 2
$0.1243 per kWh over the 1,350 Step 1 threshold.
Rate Rider 5% Rate Rider applied to all charges before taxes and
levies.
Natural Gas Supplier
Natural gas is provided by Fortis BC, and primarily provides gas for heating and hot water. FortisBC has received
direction from the BC Utilities Commission to change the cost of gas for most customers starting October 1,
2016. From the average residential customer, the natural gas bill will increase by $3.50 - $7.00 per month.
Basic residential charge is currently set at $0.3890 per day plus delivery charge of $4.018 per GJ). Detailed
rate information for both residential and business customers can be at https://www.fortisbc.com/About/
RegulatoryAffairs/GasUtility/NatGasTariffs/FortisBCEnergyInc/Pages/Mainland-VancouverIsland-Whistler.
aspx
Telecommunications
Powell River is well serviced for both telephone and wireless services to residents and businesses. Telus supplies
the telecommunications infrastructure throughout the city. Telus provides Internet 150/150 on their fibre network
allowing users to update and download at 150 Mbps – rates start at $42.00 per month. Telus home phone rates
start at $15.00 per month. Current plan and rate information can be found at http://www.telus.com
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Powell River offers an excellent mix of industrial, commercial and residential development, and has become a
hotspot for businesses and individuals looking to relocate to an area offering an abundance of opportunities.
The Region has experienced a surge in migration with Real Estate sales hitting record levels in 2016 and 2017,
which has led to a significant increase in residential development ($15 million in 2016 and 2017. $20 million in
applications filed in first quarter of 2018). Inside the City a healthy mixture of Single Family dwellings and Multi
Family Residential developments are either on the way or completed. Many of Powell River’s new residents (evenly
split between retirees and working age people) have become entrepreneurs and started new businesses or are
telecommuters using the region’s fibre optic network to work remotely.
Region’s Chief Exports:
• Paper
• Lumber
• Green energy
• Crushed limestone
• Seafood
• Education
• Tourism
The Powell River Region has a strong history of creating innovative partnerships to move projects forward for the
betterment of the community. The City took a bold approach to reducing major industrial tax rates for Catalyst
Paper Corporation ($18-million in savings) and in turn made a deal to take ownership of needed lands and assets.
School District 47 and Vancouver Island University have partnered to create dual credit trades programs that have
become a model for the rest of British Columbia. The City partnered with the Tla’amin Nation to form a Limited Part-
nership to sell lands surplus to Catalyst Paper’s operations for redevelopment to create new jobs and tax revenues.
These partnerships are just a few examples of how the community works in a cooperative manner to make things
happen.
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Developers and investors have recognized the value proposition that the City offers and have invested in the
community as well. The range of new developments stretches from sectors such as International Education,
Horticulture, Food and Beverage Production to Aviation Maintenance and Repair.
Sino Bright School
A prime example of new development is Sino Bright Schools (SBS). SBS operates 13 campuses in mainland China
and has committed to building a new private school campus and dormitories in Powell River for a first year enrolment
of 400 students (Grades 9 to 12). Besides the $30 million investment in the facility, the school will generate $10.5
million a year in new revenues annually and approximately 100 new jobs in the community.
Sante Veritas Therapeutics Inc
Sante Veritas Therapeutics Inc is proceeding with plans to open a new production facility in Powell River. This facility
will be located in the old Catalyst administration building and surrounding lands. The company will spend upwards
of eight million dollars on construction in its first phase of development (five phases are planned currently). After
extensive research the company selected Powell River for its production facilities due to the availability of labour
and industrial power, as well as the overwhelming support from local government in assisting the company with its
plans. The company has applied and received approval from Health Canada for the project and plans to grow the
highest quality products in compliance with all government regulations and to act in an environmentally responsible
manner. All plants will be grown utilizing natural ingredients in a secure environment, be contaminant free and
subject to third party testing.
Pacific Aquaculture International
Pacific Aquaculture is the subsidiary of Linghai Shenziting Sea Cucumber Hatchery, a leading seafood producer in
China’s Liaoning province. The company has made significant investments in Powell River, including a new Head
Office, a newly opened shellfish hatchery and has plans for future farming and sales operations. The company plans
to expand into the North American market, followed by potential growth into international markets. The company has
invested $10 million to date in the construction of its 34,000 square metre, state-of-the-art hatchery facility. To this
facility will be added a research and development lab, nursery facilities and the corporate administration offices.
The company plans a total investment of C$40 million over five years and anticipates the business expansion will
create 30-50 jobs in various occupations in the local community.
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Pacific Coastal Airlines
Pacific Coastal Airlines (PCA) provides regular schedule services to and from the Powell River Airport and the
Vancouver International Airport. PCA is the sixth largest airline operating at Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
based on total outbound seats, and third largest based on take offs and landings. PCA has maintained a solid
relationship with Powell River and is pursuing an opportunity to relocate the majority of its maintenance division
to the Powell River Airport. The facility would service PCA and other carriers and would include avionics, paint,
mechanical and upholstery and create a number of full-time trade jobs in Powell River.
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Tla’amin Nation
Our community resides just north of the city of Powell River in British Columbia, along Highway 101. Our Nation is
one of the many indigenous Coast Salish tribes inhabiting the Pacific Northwest Coast. Our people are descendants
of a rich heritage with a history that stretches back well over 4000 years into the past.
All of our economic and political systems along
with our spirituality were based on our relationship
with the traditional territory of our ancestors and
their unique relationship with the land.
Our traditional territory spanned along the northern
part of B.C.’s Sunshine Coast, extending down
both sides of the Straight of Georgia, occupying
an area over 400 square kilometres in size. This
consisted of numerous permanent and temporary
settlements within our borders. Our people also
frequently ventured outside of our territory to trade
with our neighbours up and down the coast.
Today, our community has over 1100 members with the majority living in the main village site in Sliammon. We have
a young population that is rapidly growing with over 60% of our members under the age of 40.
Tla’amin Final Agreement (Treaty)
Since 1876 Aboriginal rights have been governed by the “Indian Act” imposed upon indigenous peoples by the
separate colonies of British North America prior to confederation.
Over the last 20 years, the Tla’amin Nation has been negotiating a fair treaty settlement with the Province of British
Columbia and the Government of Canada. The goal of the treaty is to restore our right to self-govern and for the
legal return of land title.
The negotiations have finished, and the Tla’amin Final Agreement has been approved and ratified by all parties
involved. We are now in the final stages of moving into self-governance, with the Treaty Effective Date anticipated
to be in April 2016.
The Treaty will bring many benefits to our people and future generations, and will dramatically alter the status of
our Nation in a very positive way.
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Incentive Programs
Revitalization Tax Exemption
Powell River, has the ability to create a Revitalization Tax
Exemption Bylaw to support the redevelopment of certain
areas in the community. While no specific bylaw has been
established, the community is willing to work with those
interested in redevelopment opportunity to create one.
Typically these bylaws would allow for the Council to enter
into an agreement with property owners within a designated
area and upon issuance of an exemption certificate to the
assessor, those improvements are exempt from municipal
property value taxes for a period of time not longer than
five years, and with a 50% phase-in for the 6 year. The
terms, including the phase-in process can be negotiated as long as it fits within the BC Community Charter.
Personalized Service
The City of Powell River is committed to working with those interested in investing in Powell River. Whether you
are an existing business or looking to open a new business in the community, Council has established an effective
economic development program. The community recognizes that you can invest anywhere and it is our goal to
make sure that we work with you to ensure you not only select our community but that you remain for the long
term. Through effective approached for business attraction and business retention we work with you to find the
information you need to make informed decisions and to guide you through the process of establishing in the
community.
In order to expand or to get help starting your business in Powell River we encourage you to contact our economic
development staff. Staff will help you in many ways including:
• guide you through the process to make starting, growing or locating your business in Powell River easier
• work to establish a Revitalization Tax Exemption Zone in certain areas of the community
• connect you with key business associations and business resource tools not only in the community but through
our extensive connections with senior levels of government and association’s in BC and Canada
• provide information about Powell River’s business community and regional economy
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A Cultural Capital
Welcome to the traditional territory of the Tla’amin
Nation. The Tla’amin people have used and occupied
these lands since time immemorial and their rich culture
is celebrated. Named a Cultural Capital of Canada in
2004, Powell River offers a wide and varied range of
activities for arts and culture enthusiasts.
Powell River’s mill town roots are on display in the Historic
Townsite. Check out landmark buildings as well as the
nearby Catalyst paper mill and the floating breakwater
of ships’ hulks. The wide and varied collection of historic
items at are nearby Powell River Historical Museum is a
highlight.
The City boasts Canada’s oldest continuously operating move house in the Patricia Theatre. Located in the heart
of the Townsite Heritage District, the Theatre has been beautifully restored to its former glory, but boasts the best
in audio/video technology. Vaudeville shows and weddings are hosted in this stunning venue.
Powell River Academy of Music
In its short history (founded in 1982) the Powell River Academy of Music has grown to become a performing arts
school, encompassing music, dance, visual arts and theatre with a student body of over 800 and a faculty and staff
of 34. The Academy has not only grown in scope and size but also has established world renowned festivals; the
International Choral Kathaumixw; the Symphony Orchestra Academy of the Pacific as well as the Annual Concert
Series to enrich the lives of the students and the citizens of Powell River.
Kathaumixw
The community hosts many festivals, art galleries and regular musical and theatre performances, including the
International Choral Festival ‘Kathaumixw’ (hosting over 2500 performers from 5 continents).
Prisma
It is also home to an International Symphony Academy with a faculty from some of the world’s finest orchestras
and students working on their doctorate or masters degree in music.
Malaspina Art Society
Powell River also has many active fine arts organizations such as the Malaspina Art Society. The community is
home to many privately run galleries catering to a wide range of tastes. Whether its paintings, sculptures, carvings
or luthiers, there are many artists in the region producing very impressive work.
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Performance Venues
The Community is also proud to have two large state of the art performance venues in the Evergreen Theatre
(800 seats at the Recreation Complex) and the Max Cameron Theatre (500 seats at Brooks Secondary School).
Patricia Theatre
Powell River is also home to Canada’s oldest continuously operating movie house in the Patricia Theatre.
Located in the heart of the Townsite Heritage District, the Theatre is a little over a hundred years old and has
been beautifully restored to its former glory, but also boasts the best in digital technology.
Celebrations and Community Spirit
May Shellfish Festival
Pacific Region Int’l Summer
June Music Festival Academy
BC Bike Race
Sea Fair
July Texada Sandcastle Weekend
Diversity Festival
Arts Alive in the Park
August Blackberry Festival
Aurora Festival
September Sunshine Music Festival
October Sunshine Coast Art Crawl
For a full calendar of events go to www.powellriver.info
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Recreation and Outdoor Adventure
Powell River boasts a stimulating blend of sport and recreation, outdoor adventure, and cultural amenities. At the
heart of this active community is the Recreation Complex which features twin ice sheets, aquatic centre, fitness gym
and studio, 720 seat performing arts theatre, and several meeting rooms to accommodate all your needs. Green
spaces, sports fields, and trails are abundant throughout the community and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts
include kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, golfing, boating, hiking, biking, fishing, and scuba diving. The city is also
host to world-class art galleries, tremendous dining opportunities, and memorable events and festivals.
The Powell River area is a dream destination for people looking for year-round, unforgettable experiences. The area
offers world-famous hiking and biking trails, tranquil lakes and more beaches than can be imagined.
Trails
Duck Lake Trails
The Duck Lake Protected area is home to a vast network of well-maintained, multi-use trails popular with hikers,
bikers and horse riders. The area boasts incredible wood bridges and boardwalks, waterfalls and lakes. Powell River
also hosts one of the stages of the world-famous BC Bike Race offering the ultimate single-track mountain biking
experience.
Inland Lake
Inland Lake, established as a Provincial Park in 1997,
has a 13 km multi-use trail which incorporates a series of
boardwalks, bridges and a crushed limestone path that loops
around the entire lake and is fully wheelchair-accessible.
There are drive-in and walk-in campsites available at this
park, as well as opportunities for swimming, cycling, fishing,
canoeing and boating.
Sunshine Coast Trail
The 180 km Sunshine Coast Trail is Powell River’s crown jewel, offering the longest hut-to-hut hiking experience in
Canada. The SC Trail can be explored in smaller sections for shorter day hikes, or via one extraordinary multi-day
hiking vacations. Thirteen shelters (free to all visitors, no reservations required) now dot the trail at stunning locations
showcasing incredible vistas of fresh water lakes and the Salish Sea.
Willingdon Beach Trail
This well-maintained beachfront trail right in the heart of the city offers a relaxing level walk through a forested park
setting. Along the trail there are interesting flora and fauna finds as well as turn-of-the-century logging equipment
with interpretive signage of the area’s industrial history.
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Beaches and Parks
Donkerley Beach
Located 16 km south of Powell River just off Highway 101 on Donkersley Road. A lovely stretch of white, sandy beach
with pebbles above the high-tide mark. A favourite for swimmers, beachcombers, families and dog walkers.
Gibson’s Beach Regional Park
Located 2 km north of city centre down a 1 km gravel road. Grassy picnic area above a rocky/sandy beach overlooking
Malaspina Strait and Harwood Island. Boat launch available.
Haywire Bay
Located at the Haywire Bay campsite on Powell Lake.
Take Haslam Street and follow the signage to get to this
sandy lakeside beach.
Heisholt Lake
Located on Texada Island, Heisholt Lake, aka “the
quarries” is an abandoned mine just south of the Ferry
terminal that offers emerald green, warm swimming
waters with limited clay-based beach. A favourite
swimming hole for locals.
Mowat Bay City Park
Located on Powell Lake in the Cranberry neighbourhood. Sandy beach with freshwater swimming for families. Also
with boat launch, playground, washroom facilities.
Myrtle Rocks Regional Park
Located alongside Highway 101 across from Maris Road. Use beach access trail. Rocky beachcombers beach with
some swimming opportunities with the right tide.
Palm Beach Regional Park
Located in Lang Bay, featuring a sand and pebble beach with large playing field, public washrooms, playground and
covered picnic/barbecue area.
Saltery Bay Mermaid Cove Provincial Park
A provincial campground with a beautiful nature trail. A pathway leads to a small island idea for swimmers at high
tide and beachcombers at low tide. Also offers an excellent shore dive to a 9-foot bronze sculpture.
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Savary Island
Located a 20-minute water taxi ride from Lund. The island is all sandy beaches and summer fun with the warmest
ocean swimming waters in the Pacific Northwest.
Shelter Point Regional Park
On Texada Island with mixed pebble and sand beaches. Beach-front picnic areas, campsites, boat launch, food
concession, showers and nature tail with old-growth forest just up the hill from the park.
Willingdon Beach City Park
Located in the heart of Powell River, Willingdon Beach features sandy beach areas, a water park, playground, fishing
pier, picnic areas and a fish bearing creek.
Recreation and Water Adventure
Boating
Pristine waters, countless islands, private coves and habours, abundant wildlife; what more could a boater want in
a destination? With several of the world’s most stunning Marine Parks in the immediate area, including Desolation
Sound, Harmony Islands, Copeland Islands and Teakerne Arm, the boating adventure on the Sunshine Coast is
second to none. Fresh water adventure is also plentiful – the 50-km-long Powell Lake is a boater’s dream come true,
complete with endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Kayaking
For ocean kayakers, Powell River is a
world-class experience. Some of the
premiere spots include Desolation Sound,
the Copeland Island, Mitlenatch Island,
Savary Island and Texada Island. Not only
does the natural setting feature rugged
mountains and glittering ocean waters, but
it’s also well-sheltered from the elements
thanks to the bulk of Vancouver Island and
nearby Texada Island. Kayaking to the Hulks
provides an opportunity to touch the side of
a WWII ship, the 10 ferro-concrete ships that
now comprise the world’s largest floating
breakwater.
Powell River presents easy access to more than 30 lakes including the world-famous Powell Forest Canoe Route – a
semi-circle of eight major lakes and portages. The best time of year to go is between June and October.
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Fishing
Powell River is the cutthroat capital of Canada! From fly-fishing our countless freshwater lakes and rivers or
angling in saltwater, fishing is a year-round pastime on the upper Sunshine Coast. Coho Point and Blubber
Bay on Texada Island and the waters around Harwood Island are some of the best spots for salmon. Or, hire a
charter and fish the pristine waters while you take in the signs of world-famous Desolation Sound Marine Park.
Bottom fish for lingcod, snapper or chicken halibut around Powell River, or drop a trap for prawns or crabs. Hit
the beaches for clamming or pick oysters.
Recreation and Sports
Powell River Recreation Complex
There are two adjoining NHL-sized ice sheets:
a 1,500 seat arena and a 150 seat rink which
provides space for figure skating, minor hockey
and recreational skating. The Complex also
houses a 25-metre swimming pool with an
adjoining shallow free-form children’s pool. Two
air-conditioned fitness rooms offer Apex strength
training equipment and Olympic free weights and
space for aerobics or fitness classes.
Powell River Kings
If you enjoy sports, you will love Powell River. Powell River is home to the Powell River Kings Junior ‘A’ Hockey
Club of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). The Kings play their home games a Hap Parker Arena.
Outdoor Recreation and Groups
Powell River Cycling Association
In August of 2009 a group of local mountain
bikers, road cyclists, cycling advocates
and the Wild Women Cycling Club decided
it was time to join together to provide a
common voice for the cycling community
in Powell River. The Powell River Cycling
Association (PRCA) was incorporated as
a society on October 1, 2009. The society
promotes, assists and advocates for the
use of the bicycle for sport, recreation and
transportation.
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Powell River Parks and Wilderness Society
The Sunshine Coast Trail (SCT) was conceived in 1992 when a handful of outdoor enthusiasts realized the amount of
accessible old growth on the Upper Sunshine Coast was vanishing. They formed the Powell River Parks and Wilderness
Society (now known as PAWS), a registered non-profit charitable society, to set aside protected areas linked by forested
trail corridors.
Over the years PAWS has attracted many members, somewhere around 500 in total. Members get involved on a number
of levels — from financial or in-kind contributions to trail-building/maintenance and hut-building to lobbying for the
protection of the trail and other greenspaces in this area.
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Clubs and Organizations
Powell River’s clubs and organizations cover the full spectrum of interests, with something for nearly everyone.
Service groups such as Beta Sigma Phi, Freemasons, Gizeh Shrine Club, Kiwanis Club, Knights of Columbus, Lions
Club, Moose Lodge, Order of the Eastern Star, Rotary Club, Royal Arch Masons, and the Sons of Norway represent the
area very well. There are clubs and associations for all interests and all ages.
Powell River Arts Council
The Malaspina Art Society (MAS) is a charitable non-profit organization that operates a public art gallery at Malaspina
University College. It exhibits the work of local and visiting artists. In addition, MAS displays the work of Powell River
artists at the Culinary Arts Program restaurant located in Brooks Secondary School on Marine Avenue in the Historic
Townsite. The Malaspina Art Society is a part of various associations. It supports twelve dance groups, theatre,
film, various music groups including many facets of choir and band, as well as camera clubs, arts such as painting,
woodworking, sculpture, pottery and glassmaking, to name a few.
Academy of Music
The Academy of Music is a performing arts school encompassing
music, dance and theatre. With a student body of 700 and a faculty and
staff of 28 it has established significant festivals for the students and
community.
Senior Resource Centre
Formed in 1953, the Senior Citizens Association became a chartered
branch in 1954 and has followed the provincial charter since. Currently,
the centre is home to more than 230 members, and offers weekly
activities, monthly meetings, events, a Seniors One Stop resource centre, a genealogy centre, computer classes and
a meeting space for different community groups.
Powell River Library
The Powell River Public Library is a fully functional library, opened six days per week (closed Sundays). It has programs
such as the Story Times, Internet and Computer Basics Tutorials, Book Clubs and LearningExpress (an interactive, on-
line learning platform designed to assist people of all ages succeed on academic or licensing tests they must pass).
Townsite Heritage Society
Formed in 1992 to protect, enhance, maintain and promote the historical character and integrity of the traditional
neighbourhood and business section of the Powell River Townsite by educating children, adults and tourists.
powellrivertownsite.com
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Healthcare
Powell River Community Health operates under the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, and they ensure that
residents of Powell River are given the best care possible. The Powell River General Hospital, opened in September
1994, and is the only hospital serving the Region. With 33 beds, a fully equipped Intensive Care unit, operating and
emergency rooms, x-ray and physical therapy facilities, oncology department, laboratory, hydro-therapy pool and
a helipad for air ambulance, the hospital provides state of the art services 24 hours a day. Other health services
available in the area include audiologist, speech pathologist, dental hygienist, licensing officer, environmental
health officer, public health nurses, home care nurses, continuing care case managers, and a dietician.
Available Health Practitioners Powell River British Columbia
Physician per capita 191 per 100,000 110 per 100,000
Specialists per capita 45 per 100,000 94 per 100,000
Supplementary practitioners 131 per 100,000 133 per 100,000
Sources: BC Community Health Profile Powell River, 2014
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Business Resources
Powell River Economic Development
The Powell River economic development office is a department of the City of Powell River. The office works to
strategically grow Powell River’s business and employment base and ensure the City maintains a competitive business
environment. powellriver.ca
Powell River Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber is a non-profit organization led by a board of volunteer community business people dedicated to the
economic vitality of its members. The Chamber works with local businesses, service organizations, residents and
local government to shape the community’s future. powellriver.chamber.com
Powell River Community Futures
The Community Futures offices provides a variety of different services – business development loans, to training
and workshops – and program supports to rural small- and medium-sized business owners and entrepreneurs be it
wanting to start, expand, franchise or sell a business in the community. prfutures.ca
Marine Area Business Association
An association of businesses and services on Marine and Willingdon Avenues from Alberni to Wharf Street. Works to
foster a strong culture of neighbourhood and community for area merchants and customers. Sponsors and organizes
the Blackberry Festival and Street Party, the Santa Claus Parade, holiday lighting of Marine Avenue and the Historical
Mural Project.
Town Centre Mall Merchant’s Association
Powell River Town Centre is a lifestyle “power centre” with close to 400,000 sq.ft. of retail, full-service hotel, two
apartment buildings with ground floor retail and office units and numerous high provide food service outlets. http://
www.prtowncentre.com/
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Four levels of government provide services to the residents of Powell River and area – City of Powell River, Regional
District of Powell River, Province of British Columbia and the Canadian Federal Government. Texada Island and
Savary Island have improvement districts for specific aspects of local governance.
In addition, the Tla’amin Nation negotiated a fair treaty settlement with the Province of BC and the Government of
Canada. The agreement provides Tla’amin Nation with certain rights and benefits regarding land and resources, and
self-government over its lands, resources and its members.
Who’s Who
City of Powell River
Form of Government: CAO / City Council Number of City Departments: 10
Number of Council Members: One Mayor, 6 Council Members City Employees:
District of Powell River
Form of Government: Administrative Officer / Regional Board Number of City Departments: 4
Number of Board Members: One Board Chair, 6 Board Members Members District Employees:
Province of British Columbia
Form of Government: British Parliamentary Number of Elected Officials: 85
Premier and Party Affiliation: John Horgan, New Democratic Party of BC Year Elected: 2017
Name of Provincial Government Representative for Powell River: Current Term Expiration: 2021
Nicholas Simons, New Democratic Party
Government of Canada
Form of Government: British Parliamentary Number of Elected Officials: 338
Prime Minister and Party Affiliation: Justin Trudeau, Liberal Party Year Elected: 2015
Name of Federal Government Representative for Powell River: Current Term Expiration: 2019
Rachel Blaney, New Democrats Party
Crime Rate
Crime Rate Per 1,000 Residents, 2016
Violent Crime Property Crime
177 489
Source: Policing and Security Branch, Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, August 2017
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Taxation
Corporate Income Tax
Small Business Manufacturing Non-Manufacturing
Federal
Rate 10.5% 15% 15%
Accelerated Depreciated Permitted Yes Yes Yes
Provincial
Rate 2.5% 11.0% 11.0%
Formula (i.e. Sales, Property & Payroll) Sales & Payroll Sales & Payroll Sales & Payroll
Accelerated Depreciated Permitted No No No
Local
Powell River does not charge corporate 0% 0% 0%
income taxes
Total Federal and Provincial Corporate 12.5% 26.0% 26%
Income Tax
Source: Canada Revenue Agency 2016
Personal Income Tax
Federal State/Provincial Local
Earned Income 15% - 29% 5.06% - 16.8% 0%
Capital Gains 7.5% - 14.5% N/A 0%
Source: Canada Revenue Agency 2016
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Sales Use Tax
Rate Notes
Federal Goods and Service Tax (GST) 5% GST on business inputs is fully recoverable.
Provincial (State) Sales Tax (PST) 7% 0% for production machinery and equipment
for eligible manufacturers.
Local 0% Powell River has no local sales tax.
Total (Effective Combined Rate) Business 7% Net of GST. 0% for production machinery and
equipment for eligible manufacturers.
Sales Tax Rate by Utility
Rate Notes
Electric Power 7% GST is fully recoverable
Natural Gas 7% GST is fully recoverable
Fuel Oil 7% GST is fully recoverable
Water 0% GST is fully recoverable
Sewer 0% GST is fully recoverable
Hazardous Waste Disposal 7% GST is fully recoverable
Telephone Subject to Sales/Use Tax
Yes/No Rate Notes
Local Yes 7% GST is fully recoverable
Long Distance In State Yes 7% GST is fully recoverable
Long Distance Out of State Yes 7% GST is fully recoverable
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Machinery and Equipment Subject to Sales/Use Tax
Yes/No Rate Notes
Production No 0% GST is fully recoverable
Non-Production Yes 7% GST is fully recoverable
Pollution Control Yes 7% GST is fully recoverable
Office Furniture/Fixtures/Equipment Yes 7% GST is fully recoverable
Notes:
1) Some tax exemptions are available for new equipment
Sales/Use Tax on Tangible Property
Yes/No Rate Notes
Office Building Construction Materials Yes 7% GST is fully recoverable
Industrial Building Construction Materials Yes 7% GST is fully recoverable
Manufactures’ Raw Materials No 0% GST is fully recoverable
Standard Software Yes 7% GST is fully recoverable
Custom Software Yes 7% -
Sales/Use Tax on Intangible Property
Yes/No Rate Notes
Accounts Receivable No 0% -
Capital Stock No 0% -
Stock/Bond Transaction Fee No 0% -
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City of Powell River
Scott Randolph, Phone: 604-485-8653
Director of Economic Development
and Communications
6910 Duncan Street Cell: 604-223-3482
Powell River, BC V8A 1V4 Email: srandolph@powellriver.ca
Website: www.powellriver.info/liveinvest/
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