Business Improvement Areas of BC (BIABC), a coalition representing over 70 business districts across British Columbia, has released a startling new poll. The survey unveils the profound impact of street disorder and public safety issues on retailers and other businesses throughout the province.
The poll, conducted this summer, gathered responses from more than 500 small and medium-sized business owners across British Columbia. It aimed to gauge their perspectives on various issues, with a particular focus on public safety concerns and their effects on business viability.
The results paint a grim picture of the challenges faced by BC’s retailers and business community. A staggering 97% of businesses reported increased operational costs over the past five years. For 53% of respondents, these increases exceeded 20%, driven by factors such as rising insurance premiums and heightened security expenses.
Since 2023, businesses have witnessed a sharp uptick in various forms of street disorder. The poll reveals that 58% of respondents experienced increased violence and aggression, while 56% reported a surge in theft and shoplifting incidents. Graffiti also saw a significant rise, with 63% of businesses noting an increase, and 53% reported more frequent cases of broken windows.
The mental toll on business owners and employees is equally concerning. An overwhelming 82% of respondents admitted to experiencing increased fear, anxiety, and stress due to rising street disorder. This includes issues related to theft, violence, mental health crises, drug-related activities, vandalism, and homelessness.
In response to escalating property crime, 61% of business owners have been forced to invest in additional safety measures within the past two years. These include installing cameras, upgrading alarm systems, erecting gates, improving lighting, and reinforcing locks.
Perhaps most alarmingly, 39% of respondents expressed doubt about their ability to remain viable or continue operating successfully beyond two years if current conditions persist. This figure rises to 52% when the timeframe is extended to four years.
Jeff Bray, BIABC President and CEO of the Downtown Victoria Business Association, emphasized the severity of the situation. “Business owners have made it very clear that they and their staff are enduring circumstances that are placing a significant financial and emotional toll on them,” Bray stated. He added that many find the situation unbearable and expect decisive action from the next government.
As British Columbia prepares for upcoming elections, BIABC says it plans to appeal to candidates and political parties. They aim to garner support for a sector that is not only integral to provincial and local economies but also vital to the vibrancy of neighbourhoods and communities.
Jess Ketchum, Co-Founder of Save Our Streets (SOS), a coalition member of BIABC, emphasized the broader implications of these issues. “Of course, when businesses have to close their doors, employees lose their jobs, which further impacts families around the province,” Ketchum noted. He called for a coordinated approach to address street disorder and mental health crises, stressing the need for new ideas and proven effective practices.
In response to these challenges, Save Our Streets will host the Communities Driving Change Forum in Vancouver on January 23, 2025. The event will bring together experts and community leaders to explore solutions to issues related to mental health, addictions, and crime. Topics will include judicial reform, policing reform, addiction treatment, mental health care continuity, and housing.
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