Staff
The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce is asking to be included in any future discussions regarding the town’s business licensing bylaw after an updated version was defeated by council at its Oct. 24 meeting.
Chamber president Jennifer Greenhalgh has said getting input from businesses will help ensure an updated document will help stimulate business expansion, as well as new business development.
“The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce represents the vast majority of business owners in and around Fort Frances,and have done so since 1905,” Greenhalgh wrote in her letter, which was included in this week’s Chamber newsletter.
“We have been the backbone of the local economy and the voice of business,” she added.
“We have assisted entrepreneurs and local economic development long before many of the more recent government-funded economic development agencies came into being.”
As the longest existing local business organization, the Chamber wants to be included in any dialogue that involves the review of the current existing business licensing bylaw from 2005 and the development of an updated one, noted Greenhalgh.
“Through member surveys and interactions with our 134-strong membership businesses, we will be able to provide the Town of Fort Frances with invaluable information,” she reasoned.
“We can help parse a document that will include components comprised of intelligent and effective regulations to develop a bylaw that will regulate local businesses and promote safety, health, and consumer protection while . . . encouraging new businesses to develop and thrive in our community,” Greenhalgh added.
