City cuts through red tape and gets short listed for Golden Scissors

PENTICTON – The Canadian Federation for Independent Business has recognized the City of Penticton for its initiatives to reduce red tape for businesses locating in the city.

The city is on the CFIB’s short list of Golden Scissors Awards nominees for its actions in reducing small business red tape.

The introduction of a 30-day conditional business licence by Economic Development Officer Colleen Pennington and the city’s former Director of Development Services Anthony Haddad has allowed business owners to launch their ventures as soon as possible. If the business is within an appropriate zone the streamlined services allow entrepreneurs the opportunity to submit their inspections and paperwork within 30 days.

Since the changes were made, small business owners are reporting faster implementation of their business plans.

Pennington and Haddad were nominated by the CFIB for their streamlining work.

Penticton’s Development Services also facilitated small business by a conducting a major revision of its sign bylaw. Sign permit applications have been reduced by 60 per cent since the city cut red tape requirements formerly surrounding promotional signage. Business owners can now place more signage without permits, which allows business to more quickly and effectively promote their enterprise.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business dedicates one week in January each year to raise public awareness surrounding regulations, red tape and its impact on small business. The organization challenges governments nation wide to take action.

The winner of the Golden Scissors Award will be announced on Friday, January 23.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Steve Arstad at sarstad@infonews.ca or call 250-488-3065. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.