A small business retention program, targeted tax reductions and a small business council are part George Affleck’s plan to offer some reprieve to a small business sector that in some cases is reporting astronomical year-over-year tax bills.
The NPA councillor issued a new release Tuesday calling on his council colleagues to support what he characterizes as a “systematic and comprehensive review” of how small businesses absorb the city’s overall tax burden.
The details of Affleck’s news release will be presented as a formal motion to city council on Tuesday, Jan. 16. Affleck runs a small business called Curve Communications that employs seven people.
“The small business community is the backbone of our local Vancouver economy,” Affleck said. “And clearly, given what we’re seeing on the streets and reading about in the media, the city’s actions to date have not been fully effective in achieving council’s small business policy objectives. My motion is intended to change that.”
Affleck wants a review of all city programs and policies so they’re better suited to support and retain small business. A proposed Small Business Retention Program could offer targeted property tax reductions to commercial property owners, while establishing a Small Business Policy Council would have a mandate specifically centred on that sector.
Affleck’s news release comes within a week of homeowners and businesses receiving their annual property assessment notices. Though increased assessments don’t necessarily translate into higher taxes, 3 Vets, Sellution, Chocolate Mousse and the Kitsilano location of Plum have all gone under in the last three months alone. Store owners at each business have attributed increased rents and property taxes as contributing factors.
“As a small business person, I’m keenly aware of the many challenges and pressures facing small businesses; locally and globally,” Affleck said. “And as a city councillor, I know there are things we can do locally as a city council to create economic conditions that are more optimal and effective for small businesses to succeed and thrive in our city.”
Affleck’s motion will ask staff to report back within 90 days with policy recommendations.
