Parksville is the second most resilient city in the province, according to BC Business magazine’s revised list.
The 2021 list was a little different this year usual, many deciding factors came from the impact of COVID-19 on population, job security and income. Instead of its usual focus on cities and work, the magazine broadened its ranking approach to include smaller communities and overall economic health.
The issue noted an aging population was increasing the number of seniors relocating to communities such as Parksville, Sidney and Sechelt. Parksville topped the list of top residential real estate sales and most new homes being built, according to BC Assessment.
“Our residents and businesses are to be commended for how well they have adapted to the pandemic restrictions, doing what must be done under the circumstances. We continue to see more housing inventory become available in the city which is a positive trend as people move into the region,” said Mayor Ed Mayne.
The city looks forward to being able to provide services such as daycare spaces, programming for youth and families and possibly the proposed aquatic and recreation centre, according to Mayne.
Vancouver Island was ranked by the magazine as the most resilient region in B.C. and six island communities made the top 10 — including Langford at the top. Parksville moved up from its rank of 15 last year.
The list usually focuses on demographics, workforce composition, real estate and employment trends as well as risk factors, resiliency factors and early signs of recovery. This year the rankings were based on 12 economic indicators, such as five year population growth, housing, unemployment, share of population 65 and older and workforce composition, according to BC Business.
