Input gathered from Vernon businesses on what’s needed to recover

May 14, 2020 | 1:57 PM

Vernon businesses are being contacted over the next couple of weeks, to find out how they’ve been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and what kind of support they need to reopen.

It’s part of a business recovery survey being conducted by Vision North Okanagan (VNO), a collaboration of staff from regional organizations.

“The business recovery survey allows us to hear first-hand from Vernon business owners so we can better understand their needs and inform the next step, which is a business recovery strategy,” Leigha Horsfield, general manager, Community Futures North Okanagan (CFNO), said.

VNO members will be calling businesses and asking about 20 questions over the phone.

Horsfield said it’s designed to be a casual conversation and a simple way for business owners to share their experiences and challenges moving forward through the impact of COVID-19.

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“The results from this survey will inform the business recovery strategy so we can respond quickly to the needs of local businesses,” Susan Lehman, executive director, Downtown Vernon Association said, adding the strategy is expected to be shared in June.

“The pandemic has impacted certain sectors more than others,” Kevin Poole, manager of economic development and tourism with the City of Vernon, said. “By surveying a cross section of local employers we’ll be able to obtain key information including anticipated employment impacts, the uptake of federal and provincial business support programs as well as what measures can be done at a local level to better assist in business recovery efforts.”

Vision North Okanagan is a group comprised of regional staff whose role is to support economic development. Members include Okanagan College, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, the Province of BC, CFNO, Regional District of the North Okanagan, Social Planning Council, Downtown Vernon Association and the City of Vernon.

by Pete McIntyre

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