It Just Makes Sense - Leslie Dheensaw
Island Savings were first introduced to the Bevan: A Living Workplace in 2019. After learning more about the eco-industrial park plans for the site, things began to move quickly.
“As a financial institution there’s not a lot of complexities to what we do,” explained Leslie Dheensaw, Senior Advisor at Island Savings. “If something looks like it makes sense on paper, then we dive in deeper. And what learned about the plans for the Bevan industrial project makes a lot of sense.”
Island Savings also recognizes that there is a growing demand for industrial properties on the Vancouver Island. “Compared to properties available in other centres on the Island, Bevan industrial project is relatively affordable.” What really drew Island Savings to this project are the many unique aspects of this development. Bevan: A Living Workplace understands the importance of Cumberland’s sensibilities, lifestyle and the important role it will play in the wellbeing of the community. The inclusion of bike paths, gathering places and aesthetically friendly building designs have a real value. Island Savings is supportive of Scott DiGuistini and Merissa Myles, co-owners of Tree Island Gourmet Yogurt, who are the founders of Acciano Development who is developing the land.
“We love what Tree Island Yogurt is doing, it’s innovation, using locally sourced materials and working with local farmers. That story really resonated with us, so for us it was like marrying the two,” said Dheensaw.
Island Savings chose to stand behind the project because they believe in the people, the innovation and the need to fulfill the demand. “When you have the opportunity to be part of something that makes this much sense, it’s easy to support a project like that.”