Whereas established, independently-owned, local businesses in communities across British Columbia are facing both prohibitive increases in rent or property tax and displacement due to new development; And whereas there is no incentive for landlords to retain established commercial and non-profit tenants that have a history of strengthening community identity: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM work with the provincial government to explore a Legacy Business Registry and Grant program similar to the San Francisco Legacy Business Registry and Preservation Fund with the intention of stabilizing rents and providing incentives that support the retention of established, independently owned local businesses that are an integral part of community identity.
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing The Community Charter recognizes municipalities as an autonomous order of government within their jurisdictionand provides them with broad corporate authority, including the authority to set their own business tax rate to address municipal revenue requirements while encouraging a vibrant business sector. This broad authority recognizes that Mayor and Council are in the strongest position to weigh the needs of their community and to make informed decisions for the benefit of their citizens, businesses, and other stakeholders. In addition, the Community Charter provides specific authority to municipalities to encourage preservation of properties and local businesses, including: revitalization tax exemptions, heritage property tax exemptions, and business improvement areas. A municipality may also structure its Official Community Plan and zoning bylaw to protect the character of certain business districts and to promote the development of a greater supply of commercial property to encourage competition and lower rents. Thus, the Province is not considering a new Legacy Business Registry and Grant program at this time.