PRINCE GEORGE, 2016 COMMUNITY PROFILE

MAYOR’S WELCOME

On behalf of City Council and the citizens of Prince George, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our great city. We are proud to be located in the heart of the province and on the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh. The Prince George area is rich in natural resources and the forest industry lies at the foundation of our diverse manufacturing sector and increasingly diversified economy. We are connected to the world by modern telecommunications, road, air, and rail, which make the city an ideal location for manufacturing, transportation, logistics and export operations. The diversification and growth of the city is also enabled by our two great post-secondary facilities: the College of New Caledonia and the University of Northern British Columbia. No city of our size in has the same diversity of educational programs and, in fact, UNBC, which is known as Canada’s Green University, was recently recognized by Maclean’s magazine as the top small university in Canada. Prince George is very competitive when it comes to attracting new business. We have innovative downtown incentive programs to stimulate development on a variety of projects in Prince George. Council recently approved an exciting multi-family housing incentive to encourage new home construction in the city centre, along major thoroughfares, and near busy retail centres. We strive to support existing businesses, grow and diversify our economy through our Business Retention and Expansion program, and work closely with many local business organizations. We celebrated our centennial in 2015 and we have seen many big economic changes in recent years. Since 2012, more than a quarter of a billion dollars has been spent on significant projects and developments in Prince George. It is an exciting time for Prince George. Great things are happening here, and I hope that you choose to become a part of our wonderful city.

Mayor Lyn Hall of Prince George

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION 6.0 GOVERNMENT 1.1 Location ...... 5 6.1 Municipal Council 12 1.2 Economic Overview ...... 5 6.2 Regional District 12 6.3 Provincial Government ...... 12 2.0 DEMOGRAPHICS 6.4 Federal Government ...... 12 2.1 Population 6 2.2 Population by Age Characteristics ...... 6 7.0 UTILITIES 2.3 Language & Immigration 6 7.1 Telecommunications 13 7.2 Waste Management & Recycling 13 3.0 LABOUR FORCE 7.3 Natural Gas ...... 13 3.1 Industry Structure by Employment ...... 7 7.4 Electricity ...... 14 3.2 Employment and Unemployment Rates ...... 7 8.0 BUSINESS CLIMATE 4.0 REAL ESTATE 8.1 City of Prince George Tax Rates 15 4.1 Non-Residential Building Permit Values ...... 8 8.2 Development Services 15 4.2 Commercial and Industrial Development ...... 8 8.3 Development Cost Charges 15 4.3 Residential Market Trends ...... 8 9.0 QUALITY OF LIFE 5.0 TRANSPORTATION 9.1 Climate ...... 16 5.1 Road Transportation ...... 10 9.2 Airshed Management ...... 16 5.2 Air Transportation ...... 11 9.3 Communications & Media ...... 16 5.3 Rail Transportation ...... 11 9.4 City Living 17 5.4 Marine Transportation ...... 11 9.5 Health & Safety 20 9.6 Education ...... 21

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1.0 INTRODUCTION Welcome to Prince George, British Columbia, the largest city in one of Wholesale & Retail Trade the fastest growing regions in Canada. Prince George offers diverse Employment in Wholesale & Retail Trade increased 29% between employment opportunities and an affordable quality of life, where 2005 and 2015, reflecting the establishment of new businesses and four-season recreation opportunities amidst the natural beauty of the the continued growth of the Cariboo development region and Prince outdoors are complemented by a full range of urban amenities. These George as the service and supply centre for communities across qualities differentiate the community from other locations, making Prince northern BC. George a preferred location to live, work, play, invest and study. Manufacturing 1.1 LOCATION Manufacturing remains one of the largest sectors in Prince George, Prince George is situated in the heart of the province, 800 km north of with a broad range of production activities including wood products, Vancouver, British Columbia and 740 km west of , . machinery & equipment, chemicals & plastics, and food & beverage Located at the junction of major provincial Highways 16 & 97, Prince manufacturing. George is also located at the confluence of the Fraser and Nechako Rivers. Healthcare & Social Assistance Established on the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh, Prince George is surrounded by vast natural beauty, yet offers full urban amenities and Over the past decade, employment in the Healthcare & Social Assistance superior connectivity to global destinations. sector has remained steady. Significant investments have been made to expand health services in the city over this time, including the BC Cancer 1.2 ECONOMIC OVERVIEW Agency Centre for the North, which is the most recent investment in The Prince George economy is well-diversified across all sectors. Over 71,363healthcare71,363 infrastructure in Prince George recent decades, Prince George has developed from a mainly forest-based CITYAccommodationCITY & Food Services economy to a city that has a strong natural resource base, but also supplies Accommodation & Food Services sees consistent employment goods and services for a broad range of sector activities throughout 83,823numbers83,823 and contributes to the overall economic growth in the city, northern BC, within Canada and internationally. Prince George is the largest CENSUSand is indicativeCENSUS of a growing tourism industry across northern BC. city in the Cariboo development region. Its estimated population of 71,363 AGGLOMERATIONAGGLOMERATION 74%74% makes up 46% of the total Cariboo population. Construction 91,277 Construction 91,277 remains one of the key employment sectors in Prince The Cariboo development region’s five largest employment sectors are: REGIONAL DISTRICTREGIONAL DISTRICT George and the Cariboo region, due both to capital investment in 47,00047,000 Wholesale & Retail Trade; Manufacturing; Healthcare & Social Assistance; Accommodation & Food Services; and Construction. Over the past decade, 320,221Prince George320,221 and local companies providing support to major ANNUALANNUAL combined employment in these sectors has seen consistent growth, SERVICEprojects AREA throughoutSERVICE AREA northernYOUNG BC. POPULATIONYOUNG POPULATION increasing the relative presence of the sectors and contributing to the (Under 55) (Under 55) EMPLOYMENTEMPLOYMENT economic strength and diversity of the region and city’s economy.

PRINCE PRINCE GEORGE 6.4%GEORGE 6.4% PRINCE PRINCE 71,363 GEORGE GEORGE 65.6% 65.6% CITY BC BC 6.2% 6.2% BC 59.5%BC 59.5%

CANADA CANADA 83,823 6.9% 6.9% CANADA CANADA CENSUS 61.3% 61.3% AGGLOMERATION 74% 91,277 REGIONAL DISTRICT 47,0006.4%6.4% 65.6%65.6% 320,221 ANNUAL UNEMPLOYMENTUNEMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENTEMPLOYMENT $98,060$98,060 SERVICE AREA YOUNG POPULATION MEDIANMEDIAN FAMILY FAMILYINCOME INCOME (Under 55) EMPLOYMENTRATE (2015)RATE (2015) RATE (2015)RATE (2015)

Page 4 www.investprincegeorge.ca Fort Nelson Fort Nelson

PRINCE RAIL HOURSRAIL HOURS GEORGE 6.4% PRINCE 82FROM82 CHICAGOFROM CHICAGO Fort St. John Fort St. John GEORGE 65.6% WHEREWHERE RAIL HOURSRAIL FROM HOURS FROM BC PRINCE RUPERTPRINCE RUPERT 6.2% BC 59.5% 17 17 WE FLYWE FLY HOURS CLOSER TO HOURS CLOSER TO CANADA ASIA THAN OTHER ASIA THAN OTHER Smithers Smithers 6.9% CANADA 61.3% WEST COAST PORTS WEST COAST PORTS 12-4012-40 Terrace - Terrace - Kitimat Kitimat PRINCE PRINCE TRUCK HOURS TRUCK HOURS ACCESS TO NORTH ACCESS TO NORTH GEORGE GEORGE 6.4% 65.6% 12-2612-26AMERICAN MARKETS AMERICAN MARKETS $98,060 CONNECTEDCONNECTED TO DOMESTIC TO DOMESTIC470,849470,849 UNEMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT & INTERNATIONAL& INTERNATIONAL MARKETS MARKETS YEARLYYEARLY YXS YXS RATE (2015) RATE (2015) MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME Kamloops Vancouver Vancouver PASSENGERSPASSENGERS Victoria Victoria Kelowna

Puerto Vallarta, MexicoPuerto Vallarta, Mexico

Fort Nelson RAIL HOURS 82FROM CHICAGO WHERE Fort St. John RAIL HOURS FROM 17PRINCE RUPERT WE FLY UNBC UNBC HOURS CLOSER TO STUDENTSSTUDENTS ASIA THAN OTHER Smithers OverOver 4k 4k WEST COAST PORTS 12-40 Terrace - Kitimat PRINCE CNC CNC TRUCK HOURS ACCESS TO NORTH GEORGE STUDENTSSTUDENTS 12-26 AMERICAN MARKETS OverOver 5k 5k

CONNECTED TO DOMESTIC 470,849 & INTERNATIONAL MARKETS YEARLY YXS Kamloops Vancouver PASSENGERS Victoria Kelowna

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

UNBC Over 4k STUDENTS CNC Over 5k STUDENTS 2016 COMMUNITY PROFILE

2.0 DEMOGRAPHICS 2.1 POPULATION 2.3 LANGUAGE & IMMIGRATION The census agglomeration population of Prince George was estimated Prince George’s diverse population includes a large Francophone to be 83,823 in 2015; the population in the Regional District of Fraser-Fort community and a number of established and growing immigrant George was estimated at 91,277. BC Stats estimates that the population of communities. In 2011, more than 80% of immigrants had called Prince the region will increase over coming decades. George home for 13 years or more.

POPULATION NATIVE TONGUE % OF TOTAL POPULATION AREA 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 English 88.2% Prince George 73,803 73,509 73,850 73,321 71,363 Panjabi (Punjabi) 1.8% Regional Distric of 93,887 93,452 93,712 93,288 91,277 French 1.5% Fraser - Fort George German 1.5% SOURCE: BC Stats Tagalog (Pilipino, Filipino) 0.5% Northern BC’s population was estimated to be 320,221 in 2015 and includes Cantonese and Mandarin 0.5% eight Regional Districts: SOURCE: Statistics Canada

REGIONAL DISTRICT POPULATION (2015) Fraser-Fort George 91,277 Bulkley-Nechako 39,997 Cariboo 62,263 71,363 Kitimat-Stikine 38,621 CITY Northern Rockies 5,957 Peace River 63,918 83,823 Stikine 655 CENSUS Skeena-Queen Charlotte 17,533 AGGLOMERATION TOTAL 320,221 74% SOURCE: BC Stats 91,277 2.2 POPULATION BY AGE CHARACTERISTICS REGIONAL DISTRICT 47,000 The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George and Prince George have a relatively young population in comparison to BC as a whole, with 30.9% of 320,221 ANNUAL the population aged 24 or younger. Given the trend of the aging population SERVICE AREA YOUNG POPULATION 30% in North America, Prince George is well positioned to provide a relatively (Under 55) EMPLOYMENT British Columbia productive workforce in the coming years. 30% 25% British Columbia Fraser-Fort George

30% 25% 20% British Columbia 71,363Fraser-Fort George Northern British Columbia 25% 20% 15% 30%Fraser-Fort George CITYNorthern British Columbia British Columbia 20% 15% 10% Northern British Columbia 25% 15% PRINCE 10% 5% 83,823 Fraser-Fort George GEORGE 6.4% PRINCE CENSUS GEORGE 65.6% 10% 5% 0% 20% 0-14 15-24 25-44 AGGLOMERATION45-64 65+ Northern British Columbia BC 5% 0% Age Groups 76.2%4% BC 0-14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65+ 59.5% 15% 0% Age Groups 0-14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65+ 91,277 CANADA CANADA Age Groups 6.9% 61.3% 10% REGIONAL DISTRICT 47,000 5% 320,221 ANNUAL SERVICE AREA YOUNG POPULATION 0% 0-14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65+ (Under6.4% 55) 65.6%EMPLOYMENT Age Groups SOURCE: BC Stats UNEMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT $98,060 RATE (2015) RATE (2015) MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME www.investprincegeorge.ca Page 5

PRINCE GEORGE 6.4% PRINCE Fort Nelson GEORGE 65.6% RAIL HOURS BC FROM CHICAGO 6.2% BC 82 WHERE Fort St. John 59.5% RAIL HOURS FROM 17PRINCE RUPERT WE FLY CANADA 6.9% CANADA 61.3% HOURS CLOSER TO ASIA THAN OTHER Smithers WEST COAST PORTS 12-40 Terrace - Kitimat PRINCE TRUCK HOURS ACCESS TO NORTH GEORGE 6.4% 65.6%12-26 AMERICAN MARKETS $98,060 UNEMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENTCONNECTED TO DOMESTIC 470,849 & INTERNATIONAL MARKETS MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME RATE (2015) RATE (2015) YEARLY YXS Kamloops Vancouver PASSENGERS Victoria Kelowna

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Fort Nelson RAIL HOURS 82FROM CHICAGO WHERE Fort St. John RAIL HOURS FROM 17PRINCE RUPERT WEUNBC FLY Over 4k STUDENTS HOURS CLOSER TO ASIA THAN OTHER Smithers WEST COAST PORTS 12-40 TerraceCNC - KitimatSTUDENTS PRINCE TRUCK HOURS Over 5k ACCESS TO NORTH GEORGE 12-26 AMERICAN MARKETS

CONNECTED TO DOMESTIC 470,849 & INTERNATIONAL MARKETS YEARLY YXS Kamloops Vancouver PASSENGERS Victoria Kelowna

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

UNBC Over 4k STUDENTS CNC Over 5k STUDENTS 2016 COMMUNITY PROFILE

3.0 LABOUR FORCE vices vices EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY (2015) 3.1 INDUSTRY STRUCTURE BY Oil & Gas ying,

EMPLOYMENT echnical Ser vices T Quarr and rade In the Cariboo development region, Assistance T arehousing ood Ser Real Estate and Leasing W and Other Supportive Ser

service-producing industries Mining, vices

provide the majority of employment, Culture and Recreation ishing, Building, vices F Insurance, y, employing 72% of the workforce. Administration inance, orestr

Goods-producing industries employ ransportation and T Public F Information, Wholesale and Retail Healthcare and Social Accomodation and F Professional , Scientific, Business, Construction F Educational Ser Other Ser Manufacturing the remaining 28% of the workforce. 3.2 EMPLOYMENT AND 17.6% 11.8% 11.2% 8.2% 8.1% 7.3% 6.4% 5.4% 5.1% 4.6% 4.0% 3.7% 3.3% 3.2%

UNEMPLOYMENT RATES 0 SOURCE: Statistics Canada 101 Prince George consistently maintains a higher employment rate than the province of BC and Canada as a whole. High employment rates and low unemployment in recent years indicate the strength of the local economy and reflect the resilience of the economy throughout economic cycles.

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE (%) EMPLOYMENT RATE (%)

9% 72% 2015 2015 8% 70% 2014 7% 68% 2014

6% 2013 66% 2013 5% 64% 2012 2012 4% 62% 2011 3% 2011 60% 2% 58% 1% 56% 0% 54% Prince George BC Canada Prince George BC Canada SOURCE: Statistics Canada SOURCE: Statistics Canada

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4.0 REAL ESTATE 4.1 NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PERMIT VALUES ($000) 4.3 RESIDENTIAL MARKET TRENDS Building activity has been strong over the last few years in Prince George, Stable growth in demand for new single and multi-family housing units with non-residential permits making up the majority of construction has kept annual housing starts steady in recent years. Given projected permits issued. population and economic growth, the housing market is expected to remain strong. Housing prices have been rising steadily in the city; since TOTAL PERMIT NON- %NON- YEAR 2009, housing prices have increased by 20.9%, which is an indicator of the VALUE RESIDENTIAL RESIDENTIAL attractiveness of the community and the confidence in the local economy. 2015 $88,216 $33,652 38.1% However, Prince George is still one of the most affordable cities in Canada, 2014 $125,612 $76,770 61.1% 2013 $102,429 $64,951 63.4% both for home ownership and rental accommodation. 2012 $117,571 $73,595 62.6% 2011 $97,807 $59,554 60.9% HOUSING STARTS IN PRINCE GEORGE 2010 $126,097 $81,814 64.9% 300 SOURCE: BC Stats 269 2015

4.2 COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT 250 2014 Prince George offers a number of development opportunities with a good 213 211 195 selection of affordable land and properties in various areas of the city 200 2013 suitable for commercial, residential, and industrial projects. 157 158 Official Community Plans (OCPs) for the Regional District of Fraser- 150 2012 Fort George (www.rdffg.bc.ca) and the City of Prince George (www.princegeorge.ca) outline land use policy (present and future). 100 2011 Proposed development must be consistent with the OCPs and local 2010 development guidelines. For more information on commercial and industrial 50 development refer to the Prince George Business Investment Guide at www.investprincegeorge.ca. 0 SOURCE: The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation

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MLS® AVERAGE HOME SALE PRICE The percentage of household income required to finance home ownership in Prince George is considerably lower than in other areas of $1000000 $902,801 the province (28.3% in Prince George compared to 87.1% in Vancouver). $800000 HOUSING AFFORDABILITY INDEX $622,046 YEAR PRINCE GEORGE NORTHERN BC VANCOUVER $600000 $521,616 2015 28.3% 27.9% 87.1% $369,536 $400000 $326,398 $284,611 2014 29.0% 29.1% 82.6%

$200000 2013 31.5% 31.9% 81.6%

$0 2012 31.6% 31.6% 82.2% Prince Kamloops Victoria, Greater Greater Edmonton, George, & District, BC Vancouver, Toronto, AB 2011 31.4% 30.2% 90.6% BC BC BC ON SOURCE: BC Northern Real Estate Board SOURCE: BC Northern Real Estate Board, The Canadian Real Estate Association, Kamloops & District Real Estate Association

AVERAGE MORTGAGE PAYMENTS ACROSS CANADA AVERAGE RENT IN DIFFERENT CITIES ($/MONTH, 2 BEDROOMS) $1800 20% Down Payment $3500 25yr Amortization $3,308 $1600 5yr Closed Term Mortgage $1400 $1,375 $3000 $1,261 $1,286 2.7% Interest Rate $1200 $1,129 $2500 $2,279 $1,911 $1000 $928 $2000 $806 $800 $1,354 $1500 $1,196 $1,043 $600 $1000 $400 $500 $200

$0 $0 Prince Kamloops Victoria, Greater Greater Edmonton, Prince Kamloops, Vancouver, Victoria, Edmonton, Toronto, George, & District, BC Vancouver, Toronto, AB George, BC BC BC BC AB ON BC BC BC ON SOURCE: The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation SOURCE: Scotiabank, BC Northern Real Estate Board, The Canadian Real Estate Association, Kamloops & District Real Estate Association

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5.0 TRANSPORTATION DISTANCE TO MAJOR CITIES BY HIGHWAY KILOMETRES MILES Prince George offers superior transportation connectivity for local FROM PRINCE GEORGE businesses and residents via road, air, rail, and marine infrastructure. This transportation network gives Prince George businesses and residents easy Vancouver, BC 786 488 access to anywhere in the world. 5.1 ROAD TRANSPORTATION Calgary, Alberta 793 493 Prince George is located at the junction of the north-south Highway 97 and east-west Highway 16. The provincial and federal governments have Edmonton, Alberta 742 461 made considerable investments into road infrastructure in northern BC, including widening the 440-km portion of Highway 97 between Cache Creek and Prince George to four lanes and improvements to the Pine Pass. The Prince Rupert, BC 722 449 competitive advantages of Prince George’s transportation infrastructure are enhanced by the wide variety of transportation service providers Fort St. John, BC 458 285 located in the city.

Nunavut

Yukon Territory Northwest Territories Yellowknife Anchorage C A N A D A Fort Nelson

British Manitoba Columbia Alberta Prince George Saskatchewan Prince George Airport (YXS) Edmonton Newfoundland Prince Rupert Kitimat & Labrador Ontario Quebec Kamloops Calgary Regina Victoria Vancouver Thunder Bay

Seattle New P.E.I. Ottawa Brunswick Portland Saint Paul Montreal Nova Scotia Toronto U N I T E D S T A T E S Halifax Detroit Boston Omaha Salt Lake City Chicago Denver Kansas City New York Sacramento Reno Washington San Francisco Albuquerque Memphis Legend Los Angeles Phoenix Dallas Atlanta Railroad Highway Austin Jacksonville Prince George Airport (YXS) San Antonio Houston Shipping Miami

Transportation in Prince George • Prince George (YXS) • CN Intermodal: Prince George Distribution Centre • Provincial Highways 16 and 97 • 800 km from the Port of Prince Rupert • 800 km from Port Metro Vancouver

www.investprincegeorge.ca Page 9 71,363 CITY 83,823 CENSUS AGGLOMERATION 74% 91,277 REGIONAL DISTRICT 47,000 320,221 ANNUAL SERVICE AREA YOUNG POPULATION (Under 55) EMPLOYMENT

PRINCE GEORGE 6.4% PRINCE GEORGE 65.6% 71,363 CITY

BC 2016 COMMUNITY PROFILE 83,823 6.2% BC CENSUS 59.5% AGGLOMERATION 74% 91,277 CANADA REGIONAL DISTRICT 6.9% CANADA 47,000 61.3% 5.2 AIR TRANSPORTATION 320,2215.3 RAIL TRANSPORTATION ANNUAL SERVICE AREA YOUNG POPULATION The Prince George International Airport (YXS) has the fourth longest Prince George is the divisional(Under 55) headquarters and regional operations EMPLOYMENT in Canada (11,450 ft) and provides domestic and international air service for hub for CN Rail’s activities in northern BC. With its transcontinental rail passengers and cargo. , , Pacific Coastal and network, CN offers the shortest and fastest routes connecting domestic WestJet operate out of YXS with multiple flights every day to Vancouver, and international markets. This gives Prince George a strategic position to Calgary, Victoria, Kelowna, Kamloops, Smithers, Terrace/Kitimat, Fort Nelson facilitate the export of containerized products to Asia via the Port of Prince and Fort St. John. Direct access to major hubs gives Prince George residents Rupert. CN’s Prince George intermodal facility recently expanded to meet PRINCE 71,363 access to the world. Northern Thunderbird AirGEORGE connects6.4% the north and BC’s increased export demand.PRINCE 6.4% 65.6% GEORGE 65.6%CITY interior through charted flights. The Prince George International Airport BC VIA Rail serves a growing visitor market, providing passenger service from $98,0606.2% BC 59.5% also handles international travel with scheduled seasonal flights to Mexico. 83,823 UNEMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT Prince Rupert to Jasper via Prince George. CENSUS More than 470,000 passengers pass through theCANADA airport on an annual basis AGGLOMERATION 6.9% CANADA 61.3% MEDIANwww.pgairport.ca. FAMILY INCOME5.4 MARINE TRANSPORTATION 74% RATE (2015) RATE (2015) 91,277 YXS is the Transpacific Logistics Alternative, located on the Great Circle Prince George is strategically located along the NorthwestREGIONAL Transportation DISTRICT 47,000 Route between major Asian and North American markets. corridor, with road and rail access to the Port of Vancouver and the Port of Visit www.pgairlogistics.ca for more information.6.4% Prince Rupert (the closest65.6% Northern American port to Asia)320,221 for trade directed ANNUAL SERVICE AREA $98,060YOUNG POPULATION UNEMPLOYMENT east. Lack of urban congestionEMPLOYMENT and plenty of rail capacity along the northern (Under 55) EMPLOYMENT RATE (2015) mainline facilitates theRATE high-speed (2015) movement of goods betweenMEDIAN Prince FAMILY INCOME Rupert and all points east. The Port of Prince Rupert is currently undergoing construction to expand its capacity from 750,000 TEUs to 2,000,000 TEUs. Fort Nelson PRINCE Fort Nelson GEORGE 6.4% PRINCE RAIL HOURS RAIL HOURS GEORGE 65.6% 82FROM CHICAGO Fort St. John BC WHERE 6.2% BC FROM CHICAGO RAIL HOURS FROM 59.5% 82 WHERE 17FortPRINCE St. John RUPERT WE FLY CANADA 6.9% CANADA 61.3% RAIL HOURS FROM HOURS CLOSER TO ASIA THAN OTHER Smithers WEST COAST PORTS PRINCE RUPERT 12-40 Terrace - 17 WE FLY Kitimat PRINCE TRUCK HOURS ACCESS TO NORTH GEORGE 12-26 AMERICAN MARKETS 6.4% 65.6% HOURS CLOSER TO $98,060 ASIA THAN OTHER Smithers UNEMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT CONNECTED TO DOMESTIC 470,849 WEST COAST PORTS MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME 12-40 Terrace - & INTERNATIONAL MARKETS RATEYEARLY (2015) YXS RATE (2015) PRINCE Kamloops Kitimat Vancouver TRUCK HOURS PASSENGERS Victoria Kelowna ACCESS TO NORTH GEORGE AMERICAN MARKETS Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 12-26 Fort Nelson RAIL HOURS 82FROM CHICAGO WHERE Fort St. John RAIL HOURS FROM CONNECTED TO DOMESTIC 470,849 17PRINCE RUPERT WE FLY

& INTERNATIONAL MARKETS HOURS CLOSER TO ASIA THAN OTHER Smithers UNBC WEST COAST PORTS YEARLY YXS 12-40 Terrace - Kamloops Over 4k STUDENTS Kitimat PRINCE TRUCK HOURS ACCESS TO NORTH GEORGE Vancouver CNC 12-26 AMERICAN MARKETS PASSENGERS Victoria Kelowna Over 5k STUDENTS CONNECTED TO DOMESTIC 470,849 & INTERNATIONAL MARKETS Puerto Vallarta, Mexico YEARLY YXS Kamloops Vancouver PASSENGERS Victoria Kelowna

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Page 10 www.investprincegeorge.ca

UNBC UNBC Over 4k STUDENTS CNC Over 4k STUDENTS Over 5k STUDENTS CNC Over 5k STUDENTS 2016 COMMUNITY PROFILE

6.0 GOVERNMENT 6.1 MUNICIPAL COUNCIL 6.2 REGIONAL DISTRICT In its 2016-2018 priorities, Prince George City Council is focusing its attention The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George’s number of Elected Officials is 14. on four key initiatives which include Social Development, Environment, Economic Development and City Government. With focus on these DIRECTORS (RDFFG) MUNICIPALITY/ELECTORAL AREA initiatives, Council hopes to, among other things, address homelessness, Warren Wilson “A” Salmon River - Lakes improve air quality, grow affordable and accessible housing, diversify and Lara Beckett “C” Chilako River - Nechako grow the economy, and improve employee engagement. Bill Empey “D” Tabor Lake - Stone Creek Council’s Vision: To be a high functioning, focused, effective, efficient, Art Kaehn “E” Hixon - Woodpecker responsive, productive, and accountable Council. Kevin Dunphy “F” Willow River - Upper Fraser Council’s Mission: To provide high quality services and good governance for Terry Burgess “G” Crooked River - Parsnip the City of Prince George within available resources. Danielle Alan “H” Robson Valley - Canoe Mayor Lyn Hall City of Prince George TITLE NAME Mayor Lyn Hall Murry Krause City of Prince George Councillors Frank Everitt Frank Everitt City of Prince George Garth Frizzell Albert Koehler City of Prince George Albert Koehler Murry Krause Mayor Pat Crook District of Mackenzie Terri McConnachie Mayor Loranne Martin Village of McBride Jillian Merrick Mayor Jeannette Townsend Village of Valemount Susan Scott Brian Skakun 6.3 PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT

PREMIER Name Christy Clark Party Affiliation Liberal Re-elected May 14, 2013 MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY Electoral District Prince George – Mackenzie MLA Mike Morris Party Affiliation Liberal Electoral District Prince George – Valemount MLA Shirley Bond Party Affiliation Liberal 6.4 FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

PRIME MINISTER Name Justin Trudeau Party Affiliation Liberal Elected November 4, 2015 MINISTERS OF PARLIAMENT Riding Name Cariboo - Prince George Ministers of Parliament Todd Doherty Party Affiliation Conservative Riding Name Prince George - Peace River Ministers of Parliament Bob Zimmer Party Affiliation Conservative

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7.0 UTILITIES 7.1 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 7.3 NATURAL GAS Prince George’s high quality, reliable telecommunications infrastructure Fortis BC (www.fortisbc.com) delivers natural gas to homes and businesses ensures that residents and businesses are well-connected. Wireless and in Prince George. For more information, refer to the rate schedule that fixed-line telephone and broadband services are available through several applies to the Inland region for residential buildings. These rates are providers. updated quarterly and available through the For Homes section of the Fortis BC website. 7.2 WASTE MANAGEMENT & RECYCLING 7.4 ELECTRICITY The Province of British Columbia has introduced the new Multi-Material BC (MMBC) recycling program to provide curbside recycling collection of BC Hydro (www.bchydro.com) supplies electricity for residents and packaging and printed paper for residents who currently receive curbside businesses in Prince George. BC’s electricity rates are amongst the lowest in garbage collection (www.multimaterialbc.ca). Additional recycling depots North America. Electricity rates depend on three factors: demand, supplied and the regional landfill are managed by the Regional District of Fraser- voltage and customer load. Fort George. Business waste management infrastructure and policies vary RESIDENTIAL AVERAGE PRICES (IN ¢/KWH) depending on the characteristics of the operation. The City of Prince George $0.30 (www.princegeorge.ca) or the Regional District Fraser-Fort George (www. rdffg.bc.ca) can be contacted for more information. $0.25

$0.20

$0.15

$0.10

$0.05

$0.00 Montreal Prince Calgary Seattle Toronto San New George Francisco York SOURCE: Hydro-Quebec 1,000 kWh/Month

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8.0 BUSINESS CLIMATE 8.1 CITY OF PRINCE GEORGE TAX RATES 8.2 DEVELOPMENT SERVICES The City of Prince George features residential property taxes and The City’s Official Community Plan (OCP) establishes the framework for comparatively lower housing prices that have provided a lower tax burden directing future growth and land use in the City of Prince George. The and stable housing environment over the last five years. OCP provides for long-term land use in terms of residential, commercial The City of Prince George also features property taxes that are competitive and industrial development, as well as parks and recreation, green space with other municipalities in BC, making the city a great place for finding a and agricultural land. A complete copy of the OCP is available on the high quality of life and business opportunities. City’s website: www.princegeorge.ca. A number of development review processes are required by the City, including: Development Permits, TOTAL RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TAXES ($)* (PER $1,000 OF ASSESSED VALUE) Building Permits, Development Variance Permits, Business Licenses 13.00 and Land Use Changes, such as rezoning. Any proposed land use or 12.75 development must be consistent with its OCP designation and meet zoning, 12.50 other city bylaw and safety requirements. For more detailed information 12.14078 12.2049 12.11744 12.25 contact the City of Prince George Development Services Department 11.98593 11.94087 12.00 (www.princegeorge.ca). 11.75 In order to ensure that the City’s municipal land use regulation, building 11.50 and fire codes, and other community safety requirements are followed, 11.25 businesses operating in the City of Prince George need a valid business 11.00 license. The cost of a license depends on the type of business, and licenses 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 must be renewed annually. A complete listing of Business License Fees is SOURCE: City of Prince George available on the City’s website (www.princegeorge.ca). 2016 MUNICIPAL PROPERTY TAXES ($)* (PER $1,000 OF ASSESSED VALUE) 8.3 DEVELOPMENT COST CHARGES (DCCS) 70 59.98351 There are four area-specific DCC rates (A, B, C, and D), with rates reflecting 60 52.21349 a truer cost of servicing development in the outer lying areas of the city. 50 Lower DCC rates are applied for certain development conditions in 36.33719 40 order to encourage sustainable growth. DCC rates are area specific to 25.04869 30 reflect a truer cost of service development. Specific inquiries should be made to the City of Prince George Development Services Department. 20 12.25493 10.02343 (www.princegeorge.ca) 10 0 Utility Major Light Business Recreation Farm Industry Industry SOURCE: City of Prince George

AREA A* AREA C* AREA D* TYPE OF DEVELOPMENT (INCLUDES THE BCR, AREA B* (INCLUDES THE PRINCE (INCLUDES THE DANSON AND CARTER GEORGE AIRPORT DOWNTOWN CENTRAL INDUSTRIAL AREAS) AUTHORITY) BUSINESS DISTRICT)

Single-Family/Two-Family Residential (per parcel) $3,529 $6,578 (See Note 1) (See Note 1)

Higher Density Single/Two-Family Residential (per parcel) $2,899 $5,370 (See Note 1) (See Note 1)

Multi-Family Medium to High Density (per unit) $2,295 $4,283 (See Note 2) $229

Commercial (per m2) $32.28 $61.08 $35.33 $2.85

Industrial (per ha) $53,250 $98,483 $51,448 $5,282

Institutional (per m2) $24.31 $46.11 $26.72 $2.10

Note 1: If a development deemed to be single-family/two-family residential proceeds in Areas C or D, rate calculated for the corresponding land use in Area A will apply. Note 2: If a development deemed to be multiple-family residential proceeds in Area C, the rate calculated for the corresponding land use in Area A will apply. SOURCE: City of Prince George

* Rates current at time of publication

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9.0 QUALITY OF LIFE

AVERAGE* JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC Temperature (°C) -8.0 -3.9 -0.9 6.1 11.0 14.4 16.5 16.0 11.3 5.7 -1.6 -6.5 Rainfall (mm) 10 9 16 28 45 63 56 49 50 51 22 9 Snowfall (cm) 44 23 10 2 0 0 0 0 0 4 22 43 SOURCE: The Weather Network *30 year average

9.1 CLIMATE 9.3 COMMUNICATIONS & MEDIA Prince George has a moderate climate due to its central location in BC. 9.3.1 LOCAL RADIO & TV STATIONS With an average of 2,000 hours of sunshine per year, residents of the city experience all four seasons and enjoy the outdoors all year round. The Prince George has seven local radio stations which offer a variety of average summer temperature (June to August) is 15.6 °C with an average different genres of music and talk programming for their listeners. high of 22.1 °C, and the average winter temperature (December to February) Prince George’s local TV station (CKPG) provides residents with is a moderate -6.1 °C with an average high of -2.2 °C. popular programs and up-to-date news airing at numerous times throughout the day. 9.2 AIRSHED MANAGEMENT 9.3.2 NEWSPAPERS Prince George is committed to ensuring good air quality for residents. The Prince George Air Improvement Roundtable (PGAIR) researches, monitors The Prince George Citizen is Prince George’s daily newspaper. They and implements air quality improvements in order to reduce the emission provide print and online issues. of air contaminants that cause air quality concerns, and prevent air quality 9.3.3 NEWS WEBSITES problems from developing. The roundtable requires the cooperation of all levels of government, industry, community stakeholders and the general public Prince George has one online news source called Opinion 250. (www.pgairquality.com).

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9.4 CITY LIVING In Prince George, a full range of urban amenities complement four-season Further proof of the city’s winter sports know-how was made clear when recreation found in the natural beauty of the outdoors. Prince George is a Prince George was chosen to host the 2015 Canada Winter Games. From growing city that offers an abundant selection of activities for residents and February 13 to March 1, 2015 the city hosted 2,400 athletes, 1,000 coaches visitors alike. Recreation, dining, culture, and entertainment opportunities and officials, up to 4,500 volunteers, hundreds of media, and thousands of abound, facilitating community involvement and contributing to the quality visitors. of life in the city. 9.4.2 DINING OUT IN PRINCE GEORGE 9.4.1 RECREATION & SPORT Prince George is home to a top-notch food community with highly Prince George is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with 120 parks within awarded restaurants and diverse festivals. As the major service centre city limits, campsites, golf courses, and many other outdoor facilities. for northern BC, Prince George has the chain restaurants that one A ten-minute drive in any direction brings residents and visitors in would expect in a larger city, from fast food to formal dining. Meanwhile, contact with numerous hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, and the downtown core offers a wide breadth of local options. There’s swimming holes. In fact, there are over 1,600 lakes and rivers within an plenty to choose from whether you crave upscale Persian, romantic hour’s drive of Prince George; the city is perfect for a weekend getaway! Mediterranean, craft beer and farm fresh foods, barbeque platters and Prince George’s world class sport facilities provide a wide range of brisket, or fine dining delicacies. sporting activities, with 18 outdoor and six indoor soccer fields, over Throughout the year, the people of Prince George are treated to 30 tennis courts, seven indoor ice rinks, two aquatic facilities (one numerous food festivals, including the Theatre Northwest Wine deemed world class), gyms (one with the largest indoor running track Festival, Kiwanis Ale Festival, Summerfest Taste Pavilion, Taste of India, in BC), curling rinks, and numerous other sporting facilities. A truly four- and Vaisakhi Sikh Parade. season recreation city, Prince George boasts spectacular cross country skiing trails, a world class biathlon range, challenging downhill skiing and snowboarding, and a 400 metre outdoor ice oval. In fact, the city is the home of The Prince George Iceman, the only winter multisport event of its kind. Prince Georgians definitely don’t hibernate in winter!

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9.4.3 CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT Prince George has a thriving arts scene, and those searching for a An active arts community made up of writers, artisans, and craftspeople cultural experience won’t be disappointed. The city has a professional of all kinds enhances life in Prince George by facilitating a broad range theatre company (Theatre Northwest), a first-class symphony (Prince of unique artistic experiences. Many downtown boutique shops feature George Symphony Orchestra), incredible art museums (The Two Rivers locally made artwork, handcrafts, and traditional Native arts and and Groop galleries), and many innovative dance companies. The the city’s series of fall arts fairs are considered “must attend” events. Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre is always a delight with Shopping opportunities in Prince George abound with many national its informative and entertaining exhibits and the Railway and Forestry and international retailers and two large shopping malls featuring Museum offers an educational step back in time and is even dog friendly. popular brands and a vibrant downtown core with unique, locally Not to mention Huble Homestead, only 40 km from downtown, which owned shops lining the streets. offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history of Sports fans will have a great time taking in the local talent. The the early 1900s. University of Northern British Columbia’s Northern Sports Centre is Prince George also enjoys a growing music scene. Since 2008, the home to the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) division men and annual Coldsnap Music Festival has been warming up both residents women’s Timberwolves soccer and basketball teams. The Coliseum, and visitors every winter as one of Canada’s premiere winter music located downtown, is the host arena of the city’s Junior “A” Hockey Club, festivals. The Casse-Tête Festival, a three-day showcase of experimental the Prince George Spruce Kings; meanwhile, the CN Centre is home music, is going strong after its inaugural year in 2013. Many local pubs to the ’s and is also a and restaurants host touring and local musicians as well as open-mic venue for big name performers of every variety, having hosted both nights, so live music is never hard to find in Prince George. Elton John and the Cirque du Soleil.

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9.4.4 MEETINGS AND CONVENTIONS 9.4.5 VISITOR SERVICES Prince George is the natural meeting place for rivers, highways, and The Prince George Visitor Information Centre is located at 101-1300 – most importantly – people! The city offers exceptional value with all First Avenue, near downtown along Highway 16. The Centre is a the comforts and amenities necessary to host an unforgettable event. welcoming place, providing free wireless Internet access, a guest As the hub for northern BC, Prince George is host to many industry, lounge area, free computer use, restroom facilities, a gift shop, and corporate, association and community meetings and conventions. displays from various local artists. You can even borrow bicycles and The Prince George Civic Centre is the city’s premiere meeting and fishing rods at no charge. The Visitor Centre staff will be delighted conference venue. With 40,000 square feet of flexible space and a to help you find anything you need to know about Prince George. reputation for exceptional service, the venue hosts an average of 500 (www.tourismpg.com) events each year with over 150,000 individual attendees. Those looking 9.4.6 DOWNTOWN PRINCE GEORGE for something out of the ordinary will find many other venue options in Prince George. CN Centre’s Ice Lounge, the Bentley Centre at the Downtown Prince George is a hub for a variety of professional service University of Northern British Columbia, and the brand new Northern organizations including banks, law firms, insurance companies, Lights Estates Winery are just a few examples of unique spaces. engineering firms, accounting services and more. The downtown core is also home to several locally owned boutiques, restaurants and pubs. With more than 1,100 hotel rooms right in the downtown core along with Locals who live downtown enjoy the ease of walking to work and the an additional 15,000 square feet of meeting space there is something for convenience of public transportation. everyone. An additional 800 hotel and motel rooms are just within city limits. The city’s many expert event planners and service providers are Featuring several development incentives and some of the lowest always available to ensure successful execution that is sure to leave a development cost charges in the city, the downtown core is an ideal lasting impression. location for both commercial and residential development. To connect with the Downtown Business Improvement Association, please visit their website. (www.downtownpg.com)

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9.5 HEALTH & SAFETY 9.5.1 NORTHERN HEALTH 9.5.2 RCMP POLICE SERVICES The head office for Northern Health (NH), which is responsible for the The Royal Canadian Mounted Police are contracted to be the municipal delivery of healthcare across northern BC, is located in Prince George. police force and serve the community of Prince George and the Regional Within NH, there are 25 acute care facilities, 14 long-term-care facilities, and District of Fraser-Fort George. During the spring of 2014, a new $38.9M many public health units and offices providing specialized services. Prince RCMP Detachment facility opened in downtown Prince George, and the George is also home to the region’s largest and only teaching hospital, the North District Main RCMP Detachment is located at 5th and Ospika. University Hospital of Northern British Columbia (UHNBC). NH’s operating budget for the 2013/2014 fiscal year was $737.5M. More than 7,000 people 9.5.3 FIRE PROTECTION AND AMBULANCE SERVICES work for NH, holding approximately 4,000 full-time equivalent positions. The Prince George Fire Department has four fire halls strategically (www.northernhealth.ca) located throughout the city to provide optimum coverage for the The BC Cancer Agency Centre for the North and its supporting facility, community. The Fire Department has formed and trained special The Kordyban Lodge, became operational in November 2012 and March rescue teams to handle highly technical and large-scale rescues and 2013 respectively, representing an estimated $100M+ investment in emergencies. healthcare infrastructure in Prince George. This new facility brings The BC Ambulance Service (BCAS) Northern Region Administrative cancer services closer to home for residents living across northern BC, Office is located in Prince George and serves 34 ambulance stations so that patients and their families do not have to travel as far to access across the Northern region. BCAS flight centres support the AIRVAC specialized cancer care. The Kordyban Lodge offers a comfortable and and Critical Care Transport Program, which provides necessary welcoming “home away from home” for out-of-town patients receiving transportation linkages between hospitals and referral centres across care at the BC Cancer Agency Centre for the North, and their the province. caregivers.

Page 18 www.investprincegeorge.ca 71,363 CITY 83,823 CENSUS AGGLOMERATION 74% 91,277 REGIONAL DISTRICT 47,000 320,221 ANNUAL SERVICE AREA YOUNG POPULATION (Under 55) EMPLOYMENT

PRINCE GEORGE 6.4% PRINCE GEORGE 65.6%

BC 6.2% BC 59.5%

CANADA 6.9% CANADA 61.3% 6.4% 65.6% 2016 COMMUNITY PROFILE UNEMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT $98,060 RATE (2015) RATE (2015) MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME

9.6 EDUCATION Fort Nelson 9.6.1 UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIARAIL HOURS 9.6.3 SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 57 The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) was82 rankedFROM CHICAGO School District No. 57, covering the boundaries of the Regional DistrictWHERE Fort St. John RAIL HOURS FROM #1 among small universities in Canada for 2015. UNBC is 17a leaderPRINCE in RUPERTof Fraser-Fort George, currently enrols more than 12,500 studentsWE FLY research and has received more than $190M in research awards since and employs more than 2,000 teachers and support staff. The District HOURS CLOSER TO its establishment. UNBC is internationally recognized and, along with ASIA THANconsists OTHER of thirty one elementary schools, eight secondary schools, Smithers WEST COAST PORTS Harvard, was ranked #1 for sustainability projects in North12-40 America in and one centre for learning. The Board of Education and seniorTerrace - Kitimat PRINCE 2010 for the campus bioenergy plant and its ability to connect teaching TRUCKadministration HOURS are accountable to the families and communities they ACCESS TO NORTH GEORGE and research. 12-26 AMERICANserve MARKETS and manage an annual budget of just over $145M (2015/2016). UNBC offers more than 60 academic programs leading to certificates, (www.sd57.bc.ca) CONNECTED TO DOMESTIC 470,849 diplomas, and degrees, including Masters and PhDs. Included& INTERNATIONAL in MARKETS9.6.4 SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 93 the university’s diverse program offerings is the Northern Medical YEARLY YXS The Conseil Scolaire Francophone (CSF) is the only school authority in Kamloops program, a partnership with the University of British Columbia (UBC). Vancouver In the 2013/2014 academic year, there were more than 4,000 students British Columbia to offer thePASSENGERS complete Francophone Education Program. Victoria Kelowna The francophone program in Prince George enrolls 99 students from enrolled at the university. (www.unbc.ca) Puerto Vallarta, Mexico kindergarten to grade 12; kindergarten to grade 7 students attend l’école 9.6.2 COLLEGE OF NEW CALEDONIA Franco-Nord and grades 8 to 12 are completed at Duchess Park. (www. The College of New Caledonia (CNC) is committed to providing csf.bc.ca) educational opportunities designed to meet the unique needs of the residents of central and northern BC. More than 5,000 students are enrolled at the college each year, including international programs. The College offers more than 50 programs at six campuses including health UNBC sciences, trades, university studies and career access. CNC recently Over 4k STUDENTS built a new $19.7M Technical Education Centre to provide a range of trades training opportunities to its students. CNC offers one of the CNC lowest tuition rates in BC and has provided education to over 100,000 Over 5k STUDENTS students since its inception in 1969. (www.cnc.bc.ca) Image courtesy of PG Listings Image courtesy

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Disclaimer: The data provided in this document has been collected from a variety of sources and is deemed to be accurate and up-to-date at the time of publication. Please report errors or omissions to City of Prince George - Economic Development. City of Prince George - Economic Development does not accept responsibility or liability for information and those using the material should verify it with other sources to ensure that it is correct and current.