Today, the Oakville Chamber of Commerce released the results of its 2016 advocacy survey which was ran from May 27, 2016 to June 17, 2016. Rising costs are impacting local businesses and congestion continues to be an obstacle for success. The survey represents a broad sector of business including big, medium and small representing approximately 20,000 jobs and 250 businesses.
Here is a snapshot of the survey results:
1. Cost of doing business
- Rising costs are the most significant factor impacting business and industry
- 83% believe that energy costs are becoming a serious obstacle to doing business
- 78% believe that WSIB rates are becoming a serious obstacle to doing business
- 82% agree that the Cap and Trade plan should be delayed until its impact on business is fully understood
2. Transportation
64% of respondents believe that traffic congestion for getting staff to work is a significant obstacle for business. The top 3 infrastructure priorities are transportation related being:
- Local roads and bridges
- Public parking
- Transit
3. Planning and Development- Oakville issues
- Almost 70% believe that regulations are unreasonable and excessive
- 77% are supportive of a modest increase in density in the Kerr Street, Bronte and Oakville business district
- A slim majority, felt local government in Oakville is supportive and sensitive to the needs of business
Caroline Hughes, Chair of the Board, Oakville Chamber of Commerce commented “it is important for the Chamber to hear from our members as to the issues that are impacting Oakville businesses so that we can effectively advocate on their behalf. It is clear from the results that businesses continue to feel tapped and overburdened with regulation. Investment in local roads and bridges, public parking and transit were identified as the top 3 infrastructure priorities. This is timely feedback for Town Council as they deliberate on how to allocate the infrastructure money committed by senior levels of government.”