Some Vancouver small-business owners want the provincial government to intervene in the marketplace and limit rent increases on commercial properties.
The proposed changes to the province's Commercial Tenancy Act would kick in when leases for small-business owners expire, and would be aimed at providing property rent stability for independent businesses.
The idea of rent control, however, has plenty of critics, as it flies in the face of free enterprise.
"There are reasons to regulate commercial leases," said Mary Brookes, who owns Sophie's Pet Palace on Commercial Drive. "One is to protect small businesses who employ locally, use local suppliers and create jobs, which has spinoff benefits."
Vancouver Island University geography professor Don Alexander, who has co-written papers on the concept of commercial rent control, agreed.
"Small businesses contribute an enormous amount to the local economy because the money circulates more than if it goes to a chain store," he said.
But not all small-business owners believe regulation is the answer.
Ed Des Roches, co-owner of clothing company Plum, said business owners should vigorously negotiate a suitable lease when they initially take space.u
- Glen Korstrom/BIV
From the Western Investor, August 2013
