Latest news with #TOA
Hamilton Spectator
2 days ago
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
‘Substantially correct': B.C. housing minister backs Port Moody's MLA after dispute with local council, again
For the second time, B.C.'s Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon has backed Port Moody-Coquitlam MLA Rick Glumac against criticisms from Port Moody council. City council recently released two letters penned by Mayor Meghan Lahti – one addressed to Kahlon and the other to Glumac – in which she criticized her MLA's remarks at a previous council meeting and requested clarification from the province. Lahti said that Glumac's statements 'created significant confusion' about the Transit-Oriented Areas (TOA) legislation and Port Moody's obligations under provincial housing reforms. 'Your messages have been widely interpreted by the community as confirmation that the TOA is not relevant to Port Moody,' Lahti wrote to Glumac. '(This has) placed the municipality in an awkward position . . . and called into question both council and staff's housing legislation implementation actions.' It is not the first time Port Moody council has bypassed their MLA to complain to provincial higher ups. In October 2023, Lahti wrote to Premier David Eby , asking the party to rein in Glumac after he suggested a critical development could sacrifice parking to secure affordable housing. Like the previous letter-writing spat , Kahlon largely backed Glumac. In a June 2 letter to Mayor Lahti, Kahlon said the MLA's presentation and response to council were 'substantially correct.' 'It is my understanding that MLA Glumac was only given five minutes by council to present on very complex topics and subsequently issued a letter to mayor and council to provide more information to build on these topics.' Port Moody council had invited Glumac to speak at their March 25 meeting, but did not allow him to utilize a prepared slideshow presentation, nor exceed the five-minute time limit imposed on public delegations. A contentious hour-long conversation followed where the MLA was prodded with questions, criticism and skepticism over provincial policy. In her letters, Lahti raised concern over Glumac's statements at the meeting, which she said omitted key legal and planning nuances. 'While the statements he made may appear accurate in isolation, he has left out several important details that do not consider the full context of the legislative requirements,' Lahti wrote to Kahlon. Four of Glumac's comments were highlighted as being problematic: City staff were forced to seek immediate clarification from the ministry following the meeting, according to Lahti, adding that Glumac's statements cast doubt on whether Port Moody needed to follow certain provincial requirements. Lahti also criticized Glumac for publicly posting his presentation slides online, and requested he remove them. She claimed the slides lacked provincial branding, contradicted clarifications Glumac made later in a follow-up letter on April 15, and questioned whether ministry staff had authorized them. She emphasized that the city's planning process had been paused in late 2023 to incorporate requirements in the new housing legislation, and the city was now under pressure to meet a year-end deadline for completing its OCP update. Several councillors praised the public release of Lahti's letters on May 27, with one councillor describing Glumac's statements as 'misinformation.' 'This council has mentioned, recently and frequently, facts are important, and when incorrect information or disinformation is shared in our community, it has the effect of eroding public trust and causing confusion among our residents,' said Coun. Kyla Knowles. 'Now that (the letters) have been released, they outline which and when misinformation was shared.' In his June 2 response, Minister Kahlon addressed each of Lahti's concerns in detail and confirmed that municipalities have the authority to impose affordable and rental housing requirements in TOAs through inclusionary zoning, but only after conducting a feasibility analysis. He clarified that TOA legislation applies to all parcels where residential use is permitted, including mixed-use commercial zones, but does not apply to lands where residential use is secondary to industrial or agricultural use. On the question of whether minimum densities should be used as a planning tool, Kahlon explained that while the TOA framework sets mandatory baselines, municipalities must still take additional steps (such as pre-zoning land) for these areas to count toward their 20-year housing capacity. Kahlon affirmed that even if a city meets its overall housing targets, TOA development applications must still be considered, and councils cannot use the OCP to avoid TOA obligations. That said, he added councils do retain full discretion over proposals that exceed TOA minimums. For his part, Glumac told the Dispatch his presentation was constrained by time but was meant to outline the balance of mandatory requirements and municipal discretion. He added he wants to work with council on housing opportunities, based: 'on a foundation of mutual respect, that puts the needs of our constituents above all else.' 'While provincial housing legislation will have effects on Port Moody, the legislation and its requirements provide both powerful tools and allow for flexibility that afford council significant control over ensuring development in the community meets our needs,' Glumac said. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Chicago Tribune
7 days ago
- Business
- Chicago Tribune
2025 Taste of Asia Summit in Chicago sets sail for the next wave of Asian food innovation
Last week, the 2025 Taste of Asia Food Brand Summit returned in grand style — this time, on water. Held aboard a private cruise, the summit welcomed over 200 influential founders, investors, tech providers and supply chain experts in a closed-door format designed for deep, strategic exchange. Sponsored by MenuSifu, North America's leading restaurant tech provider, this year's Chicago summit delivered a commanding lineup of panels and keynotes aimed at unlocking systematic growth for Asian food brands in the U.S. From replicating restaurant models across states to decoding the cultural and technological shifts shaping consumer palates, every session offered high-caliber insights from those driving the industry forward. Image provided by Hummingbird Marketing Key highlights included: Lee Kum Kee's executive chef Fred Wang and Essent Capital's Cosmo Hu explored how flavor innovation can support localization and scalability across demographics. Automation and AI were front and center with Botrista CEO Sean Hsu and Workstream's Andrew Wang outlining tech-enabled paths to labor efficiency and higher margins. Former Yum China executive Dongfeng Wang and UNLV professor Dr. Zhixian Li previewed their forthcoming book on global food and beverage expansion, offering a strategic framework grounded in field experience. A defining moment of the summit was the official launch of the 2025 North America Asian Food Trends white paper, jointly developed by TOA, The Restaurateur and Wefood Capital, with sponsorship from MenuSifu. Drawing on proprietary research and market case studies, the white paper identifies key growth drivers, category evolutions and actionable blueprints for replicating success in new markets. Limited-edition copies were gifted to VIP attendees onboard. Image provided by Hummingbird Marketing More than just a summit, TOA Chicago aimed to mainstream Asian cuisine across North America. With presenting sponsor MenuSifu — whose integrated POS and restaurant management platform supports over 15,000 restaurants — and its investment arm Wefood Capital, the ecosystem for Asian food innovation continues to deepen. Image provided by Hummingbird Marketing As TOA looks ahead to upcoming editions in Houston and Los Angeles, its mission remains clear: to elevate Asian food from niche to norm, empowering brands to scale boldly, sustainably and with cultural integrity.
Time of India
24-05-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
Lightning safety programme to give early & accurate warnings
1 2 Lucknow: With over 45 lives lost in the last week's unseasonal rainfall and thunderstorms, the state govt is planning to bolster district-level emergency operation centres and launch a lightning safety programme to educate the public about life-saving practices during extreme weather conditions. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed departments to ensure that timely alerts are issued ahead of severe weather activity. Public awareness campaigns focusing on educating people about precautionary measures, especially during lightning and storm events, are to be carried out at the earliest. "There have been unexpected and extreme weather events during the peak summer month of May, including unseasonal rainfall, strong winds, hailstorms and lightning strikes. Keeping this in mind, the govt is stepping up its efforts to minimise damage and safeguard lives and property across the state," said a govt spokesperson. With the full monsoon season, from June to Sept, still ahead, the govt is adopting a proactive and comprehensive strategy to reduce disaster-related casualties and damage, he added. Under the awareness campaigns, citizens are being advised to stay indoors during adverse weather, avoid open fields, tall trees, metal structures and water sources. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Nagelpilz: Dieses Gerät ist Pflicht in jedem Haushalt! Heilratgeber Weiterlesen Undo They are also being urged to download safety apps like Damini or Sachet for real-time weather updates. Emergency helpline numbers for immediate assistance are also being actively promoted. Recognising that climate-related disasters are no longer confined to the monsoon season, the govt is working to strengthen its disaster management infrastructure, like upgrading the district-level emergency operation centres and launching a lightning safety programme. In addition to early warnings and preparedness, the govt is also working to provide swift post-disaster support. "Families affected by weather-related tragedies are being provided both emotional and financial assistance without delay, ensuring that no one is left behind in times of crisis," the official said. Meanwhile, the weather department is working on setting up a lightning detection system. The State Disaster Management Authority will be installing an advanced lightning detection system across the state using Time of Arrival (TOA) technology. This system is more accurate in predicting the time and location of lightning strikes.
The Sun
23-04-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Link with UK university
INSTEAD of going abroad to study and incur higher costs of living and tuition fees, students interested in pursuing design degree education from the UK can today study at The One Academy's (TOA) campus in Bandar Sunway. The University of Hertfordshire, an established name in the UK design education scene and recognised for its outstanding work is now linked to TOA, providing 3+0 UK degree programmes in design in various fields of study. Together with TOA's advantages in practical skills and creative prowess, this educational alliance has not only been able to cultivate students who are capable of creating high-quality work, but are also proficient in the implementation of creative ideas. According to Tatsun Hoi, Founder and Principal of TOA, 'In line with our 'Masters Train Masters' philosophy, the key to our teaching is to offer international quality education based on an industry-driven syllabus and practical coaching approach. 'With the extensive industry network of these two institutions and the foundation obtained at TOA, I am confident students will benefit from any of our international degrees,' he said. Dr Stephen Partridge, University of Hertfordshire's Dean of School of Creative Arts said: 'The creative industries are a huge growth area, one of the fastest expanding sectors, and its development will enable students to thrive within it. 'In this exhilarating era of rapidly evolving technology, concepts such as the metaverse, 6G, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), extended reality (XR), cloud computing, blockchain, big data, and game design are no longer futuristic ideas but are actively shaping how we live, work and interact. 'As digital transformation accelerates across all industries, it has become essential for individuals to immerse themselves in this revolution and adapt to the ever-changing digital landscape. 'In response to these technological shifts, TOA's trio of 3+0 UK degree programmes offered in collaboration with the University of Hertfordshire equip students with the critical skills, creative mindset, and technological fluency demanded by today's global market,' he added. The BA (Hons) Digital Media Design, the BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design and the BA (Hons) Graphic Design: Advertising and Branding are 3+0 UK degree programmes being offered at The One Academy's Bandar Sunway campus. All three degree design programmes give students hands on experience and encourage innovation and experimentation. These courses offer significant cost savings, as they eliminate two-thirds of the expenses typically incurred when studying in the UK. Moreover, students have the flexibility to complete their final year in either Malaysia or the UK, presenting opportunities for those seeking an overseas education experience, while ensuring a quality education. In 2024, TOA achieved the prestigious title of World's No. 1 Creative School in the Rookies Global School Rankings – the ultimate benchmark for excellence in creative education. For more information on The One Academy, visit or call 03-7875 5510 or e-mail your enquiries to info@
Express Tribune
05-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Telcos protest exclusion from tariff relief
Listen to article Telecom companies have expressed frustration and serious concerns over being excluded from the government's recently announced electricity tariff relief, citing the long-standing denial of industrial status benefits despite being declared an industry by the government in 2004. On Thursday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a significant reduction in electricity rates — a Rs7.41 per unit decrease in the national average tariff and a Rs7.69 per unit cut for industries. The relief was lauded as a positive development; however, telecom companies say they have once again been left out. Speaking to The Express Tribune, "The telecom sector was granted industry status in 2004, yet we continue to be denied the corresponding benefits," said Kamal Ahmed, Secretary General of the Telecom Operators Association (TOA). He said the sector continues to face high operational costs due to the lack of electricity tariff reductions for its core components. According to the association, power is one of the largest cost components for telecom operators, who must keep thousands of cell towers and data centres running round the clock. "Industrial electricity tariffs would significantly ease our operational costs," Kamal Ahmed added. Wahaj Siraj, Co-founder and CEO of Nayatel, also voiced concern over the exclusion of the telecom sector from the electricity relief package. "Great move to reduce electricity rates, but the telecom industry, data centres, cloud platforms, et al, don't get this rate despite being declared an industry by the government since 2004," he said on social media. He questioned how Pakistan could aspire to become an IT powerhouse when critical digital infrastructure such as data centres is deprived of industrial electricity rates. The telecom companies lamented that despite detailed hearings at the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), telecom operators and data centres are still billed at commercial rates. "There is a disconnect between policy and implementation," Ahmed maintained. As the federal government prepares the budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, telecom companies have called for urgent tax and policy reforms to address mounting financial and regulatory challenges facing the crucial sector. The industry has urged the government to exempt telecom companies from withholding tax obligations under the Income Tax Ordinance (ITO) 2001, describing the current system as overly complex and burdensome. "Telecom operators are utility providers managing millions of transactions daily. The current tax regime increases compliance costs and stifles growth," the TOA Secretary General said. The industry is also seeking to reverse a change made under the Finance Act 2015, which converted adjustable withholding tax into a fixed minimum tax of 4% under Section 153(1)(b) of the ITO. This, they argue, disproportionately affects telecom companies, especially amid rising costs and high inflation. "Taxation should reflect actual earnings, not penalise compliant businesses with arbitrary fixed rates," Ahmed said. The association has also called on the government to end coercive tax enforcement actions such as freezing bank accounts or sealing offices. These measures, it argues, should be reserved for habitual defaulters, not compliant companies. "Tax recovery should begin only after an independent appellate tribunal reviews a case," Ahmed added. In a bid to retain skilled talent, the TOA also urged the government to introduce targeted tax relief for telecom employees. The rising tax burden on salaries, combined with inflation, has made it harder to attract professionals to the sector. The TOA is also advocating for the reduction of income tax under Section 236 - currently at 15%, up from 12.5% - and the rollback of the Federal Excise Duty (FED) rate from 19.5% to 16% under the Finance Act 2021. "Lowering these rates would not reduce government revenue, but rather support digital growth and long-term economic inclusion," Ahmed said.
