Neighbourhood shops are key to vibrancy
Calgary used to have a network of corner stores in every community. They contributed to a sense of community care and ensured our essentials were just a short walk away. Improved transit and pedestrian measures are just one part of creating a walkable city. Our neighbourhoods lose something when most small shops are eaten up by big box stores.
Calgarians should be able to get their needs met at the neighbourhood level. Here's how we get there. 👇
Open small businesses, everywhere
GOALS:
- Make corner stores, small-scale storefronts, and home-based businesses a common sight throughout Ward 7 neighbourhoodsÂ
- Reduce the barrier to entry for small businesses
HOW WE GET THERE:
- Amend zoning bylaws to allow small-scale storefronts, in-home businesses, corner stores, and cafes in neighbourhoodsÂ
- Leverage city partnerships to build commercial spaces into new public housing developmentsÂ
- Urge Alberta Municipalities to pass a resolution calling on the province to implement commercial rent control
- Expand city guides and supports for Calgarians wanting to convert part of their home into a small business
- Develop educational resources targeted at supporting new corner store owners
- Reduce business licensing redundancy and clarify rules and enforcementÂ