With signs the economy is turning for the better, Salmon Arm Chamber of Commerce president Jim Kimmerly is optimistic about the year ahead.
Kimmerly says he and the chamber board believe the economy is already beginning to see improvement. He points to the local forestry sector in particular, where increased demand is having a positive impact.
“Darrell Embley, vice president of Canoe Forest Products believes, as many in the industry do, that a sector super cycle is developing. This happens when lumber demand is high, supply is tight and prices are rising,” says Kimmerly in a news release.
Kimmerly also points to USNR, which is looking to hire more skilled workers to help meet the needs for upcoming projects. At a recent celebration at USNR, vice president Dale Brown said things have picked up to a point where he’s having to turn business away, and the company is now looking at “ramping up.”
Another positive sign, says the chamber, is the recent commercial construction that’s been occurring over the past year, from building improvements downtown to the construction of Askew’s Uptown, as well as renovations at two malls. Kimmerly says this all points to better economic times ahead.
“Developers and corporations do not spend money on business projects unless they see opportunities,” says Kimmerly.
As for future growth and development, the chamber is optimistic about the Salmon Arm Economic Development Society’s recently completed five-year economic development plan.
“The chamber board was given an overview of the plan and we are confident that, with good execution, new and desirable businesses will be attracted to our area, creating more employment opportunities, especially for young people,” says Kimmerly.
All of these events, says Kimmerly, are leading to exciting times for Salmon Arm, “and a time for optimism, with real hope for a strong and sustainable future.”
