Robin Cardew is sworn in as president by Vernon councillor Kelly Fehr at the Greater Vernon Chamber's AGM. (Vernon Matters photo)

By Kevin Rothwell

AGM and elections

Chamber of Commerce charts steady course

Sep 15, 2022 | 3:30 PM

Vernon accountant Robin Cardew was confirmed to a second one-year term as president of the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce (GVCC) at the group’s annual general meeting today at the Prestige Inn and Conference Centre.

Kari Sargeant of Organizing Chaos was elected vice-president, while Ryan Mackiewich of WealthCo will serve another year as secretary-treasurer.

In his treasurer’s report, Mackiewich noted the organization is in good financial shape post-COVID due to a number of support grants. Event revenue is also up since in-person gatherings were allowed in April, further bolstering it’s strong cash position.

A board of returning and new directors was endorsed for a one-year term:

Krystin Kempton, Nixon Wenger Lawyers – past-president
Darren Bradley, North Okanagan Community Life Society – director
Scot Durward, Tolko Industries – director
Michael Molnar, Restoration Lands – director
Kirndeep Nahal, Lake City Law – director
Brett Squair, Davidson Lawyers – director
Darrin Taylor, Axis Intervention Services – director
Trevor Thera, Okanagan Indian Band Group of Companies – director
Martin Von Holst, Martin Von Holst Personal Real Estate Corporation – director
Greater Vernon Chamber board for coming year. (Submitted photo)

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Retiring from the board are Jonathan Blais, Kelly Kedrosky, Shane Kohlman, Kennedy Raine and Deb White.

“I am extremely excited about our new board of directors and each of them brings expertise and skills that will not only move the Chamber forward but will maintain the organization’s reputation as the leading voice of business in the North Okanagan,” Cardew, who owns Robin Cardew Chartered Professional Accountant, said.

“These are challenging times for businesses and non-profits, and whether it’s inflation, the labour shortage, restrictive regulations or other issues, the Chamber will continue to provide strong advocacy on behalf of its members and the business community.” Cardew noted in his address.

President Robin Cardew talks to Vernon Matters business editor Kevin Rothwell

The AGM also included a review of Chamber activities and an update on economic and development by the City of Vernon’s manager of economic development, John Perrott, and the manager of tourism, Torrie Silverthorn.

Both highlighted the unique position Greater Vernon is in, noting a significant rebound in tourism and economic development, not being experienced by many jurisdictions.

General Manager Dan Proulx thanked the members for being steadfast during the pandemic, noting the GVCC is an event-heavy organization.

“I believe we are the only chamber of commerce in the Okanagan that grew its membership during the pandemic,” Proulx said. The GVCC membership now stands at over 600 businesses and not-for-profits.

by Kevin Rothwell

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