At the DVBA we are focused on supporting our members during this pandemic. We have spoken to many of you over the last few weeks and understand the challenges, concerns, and fears you are facing.
Uncertainty is one of the most troubling elements of this crisis.
We continue to advocate for more direct supports, not loans, for our businesses. We are diligently communicating that more debt alone is not sufficient. We are learning about new federal supports for businesses. One is in the form of commercial rent relief for April, May, and June. This is good news for our community and we are watching closely for details.
There are also new provincial announcements of property tax deferrals and reductions. This was another area of advocacy focus for our organization. These deferrals and reductions will help alleviate pressures for commercial landlords and tenants in the near-term.
DVBA marketing efforts are focused on informing the public about how they can support downtown businesses and on reminding the public that their favourite businesses need help now so that they can survive until recovery. We are using social media, contesting, paid TV, video, and print media to encourage our audiences to shop locally, buy gift cards, order meals, and otherwise support the business community. We are also posting positive news stories about our members who are stepping up to help in this time of crisis through our Local Legends campaign and we are sharing business announcements of new online platforms, contesting, and other updates.
We are a strong community. We are all in this together, and together we will get through this.
Jeff Bray
Executive Director
Watch a Victoria Buzz interview with Jeff Bray on the importance of supporting local businesses.