Vernon contractor named president of local Home Builder’s Association

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association Central Okanagan (CHBA) has a new president who is from Vernon.

Darren Witt, a third generation general contractor and architectural technologist and president of Bercum Builders, brings 35 years of construction experience in commercial, residential, contract administration and safety in the industry to the association.

The CHBA Central Okanagan is the voice of Canada’s residential construction industry, representing the industry at all levels.

The association notes that Witt’s appointment comes at a challenging time for the Okanagan housing market as shortages of construction materials, lack of local trade talent, upcoming changes to building codes, rapidly growing population and more are contributing to the housing affordability issue that is impacting many residents.

“The way we built homes five years ago will be vastly different than the way we’ll build in the next five years, and I believe our builders are up for the challenge.” said Witt in a release.

“Our challenge will be to provide our clients with innovative new construction techniques and materials to provide affordable housing models.”

Witt went on to say government relations and advocacy are top priorities moving forward.

“Our region is growing, and climate change is redefining the way we build homes. Our goal is to collaborate with city staff and educate elected officials about the effects these issues have on our industry, and housing affordability overall.”

In addition to Witt being named President of CHBA-CO, a new board was announced on Monday.

Krista Paine was named Vice President; Tyler Krenz was named Treasurer; and Past President Cassidy deVeer remains on the board. Also appointed were Mark Dielson, Sherry Paiement, Sandy Morris, Ranvir Nahal, Jacob Kuiken, Michael Chatham, Kendra Dunn, Andrea Eichberger and Chuck Cullen.

The CBHA-CO noted that residential construction is one of the largest economic drivers in the Central Okanagan, employing over 12,500 people and contributing roughly $1.5-billion the the region’s economy annually.