We need to start looking at our problems differently.
For every $1 million in sales, independent retail stores generate $450,000 in local economic activity, compared to just $170,000 for chains, with similar numbers for restaurants. This translates into about 2.6 times as many local jobs created when spending is directed to independent businesses instead of chains.
So why don’t property taxes in Penticton reflect this? Locally rooted business deserves priority. There is also a golden opportunity for Penticton’s economy in renewables. The tech is ready. Are we?