There was a time when some people accused Oliver council of not being open for business. Either the zoning regulations were too overbearing or the rules were just plain unfriendly to entrepreneurs and developers. But times have changed, and council can’t afford to erect too many barriers in this lean economy.
Today’s council appears to welcome any type of enquiry as long as it brings business, jobs and new taxes to its coffers. Case in point – a medical marijuana production facility.
Before anyone freaks out, these facilities are not fly-by-night ventures run by sleazy individuals in dark overcoats. They are government-approved (and licensed) operations that produce marijuana in a secure and controlled environment. No on-site sales or vehicles coming and going at all hours of the night, no police raids and no odours.
Why would council turn its back on this type of enterprise? It will bring jobs and other spin-off effects just like the correctional centre. But you have to admit that a prison and a marijuana facility in the same community is a little odd and may prompt a few jokes.
Seriously, though, Oliver needs as much economic development as it can get, and council is trying to facilitate that by bringing forth tax exemptions, parking relaxations, temporary use permits, and a hotel feasibility study.
Hopefully this will attract more business to town and give developers an incentive to set up shop here.
However, it would be nice to see the Town establish an economic development association that actually works, with a clear mandate and set of goals. Sadly, the Town hasn’t had much luck keeping an economic development function alive for very long. Perhaps the Oliver Business Association (OBA) could take more of the reins if it received additional support in the way of members and funding. This association should actually be a line item in the Town’s budget every year to push economic development projects and support existing businesses.
Why not volunteer your time or expertise in the association to enhance Oliver’s business community and the downtown core. Have a downtown sidewalk sale, a business appreciation day or a promotion to let consumers know what’s available in this little Town. Have a contest with a cool prize for the best business promotion idea.
Spring is coming and the tourists will soon be here. Let’s capitalize on it.
