Local business owners in British Columbia advocate for community support

Business owners in Maple Ridge and Vernon are highlighting the challenges facing local commerce. In Maple Ridge, a business owner and member of the Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association has called for increased safety measures, including brighter street lighting and a more visible RCMP presence, to combat vandalism, break-ins, and theft.

In Vernon, city officials and representatives from various community organizations participated in the annual Business Walks initiative during Small Business Week. The program involved economic development teams, council-elect members, and organizations such as the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce walking through commercial areas to engage directly with operators. These discussions focused on employment, operational challenges, and opportunities for economic growth to help identify businesses in need of targeted support.