NEWS RELEASE 
March 29, 2021 

KELOWNA CHAMBER CALLS ON PROVINCE TO ESTABLISH CLEAR REGIONAL BENCHMARKS TO DRIVE FUTURE DECISION MAKING 

KELOWNA -   The Kelowna Chamber says it’s time to rally behind the many businesses, particularly those pubs and restaurants that are going to be significantly hard hit as a result of the latest health orders from the province.  

“We understand that swift action is needed to curb the dangerous trend upwards, but government needs to find a way to provide more time for businesses to prepare for such sweeping orders which in this case come into effect with less than 12 hours notice,” said Dan Rogers, Executive Director of the Kelowna Chamber. 

“We anticipate the community will rally behind those local businesses taking the brunt of the closure order – by taking advantage of the takeout or patio options – but the reality is that for most of the province, it is borderline patio season.” 

The Kelowna Chamber continues to call on the Province to establish clearly articulated criteria in each region of the Province that would guide whether restrictions are put in place (or lifted).  In doing so, businesses would be able to monitor that data and adjust their plans accordingly if case numbers start to rise.  In the absence of clear criteria in decision making, greater advance notice should be provided.  Giving additional lead time would lessen the blow by allowing business to better plan staffing and inventory rather than sending shock waves resulting from what seems to be last minute decision making. 

The Chamber also believes the City of Kelowna should consider expediting approvals for patios and greater use of outdoor space, as well as extending the street closure period for patio expansion season. 

For more information: 

Dan Rogers, Executive Director, Kelowna Chamber of Commerce 

dan@kelownachamber.org   250-469-7356