Halton Hills mayor calling on Premier to issue immediate financial support to businesses
Published January 7, 2022 at 11:13 am
Halton Hills Mayor Rick Bonnette is calling on Premier Doug Ford to issue immediate financial support to local businesses that have been affected by the new COVID-19 restrictions in Ontario.
This week, the Provincial government announced several new restrictions such as reduced capacities and shutdowns that have raised concerns, particularly amongst local businesses.
As a result, Mayor Bonnette has issued correspondence to the Premier following various communications to his office from business owners that have been impacted by the latest round of closures.
“In Halton Hills, we have over 100 restaurants and other businesses that fall under the categories impacted by the recent closure decision,” said Bonnette in the letter.
“Premier, in your January 3 announcement you stated there will be financial relief for these businesses but applications for funding will not open up until later this month. Please understand that these business owners need financial help now from the upper levels of government.”
The Mayor also noted that the businesses he has spoken to all share the same frustration and worry.
“These last-minute decisions about closures have business owners extremely frustrated and concerned about the continued viability of their livelihood,” said Bonnette.
“While I recognize the Province has noted that financial relief is forthcoming, I feel that financial supports should be available in tandem with closures – and not subject to delay.”
The letter also urged the Premier to expedite the date for opening up funding applications for the businesses that have been impacted by the closures.