By Pete McIntyre

Council halts commercial vehicle license

Jan 28, 2020 | 2:31 PM

The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is applauding a decision by Vernon council which chamber members have pushed for.

Council has voted to end the commercial vehicle license program.

The chamber says previously a business had to acquire a city business license and if they had advertising on their vehicle, they had to purchase a commercial vehicle license.

“We appreciate council’s willingness to listen to the chamber and the concerns from business and to act quickly and decisively,” said Dione Chambers, Chamber general manager. “Thank you also to our members who raised the issue and the chamber’s advocacy committee.”

Coun. Kari Gares pushed to have the commercial vehicle license scrapped which she says other communities have done.

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“Granted, we see the benefits for some, but I don’t believe there are benefits for all. And so if we’re looking at reducing red tape or making it easier for businesses – because that’s ultimately what it’s coming down to – it’s an extra cost. And some might say $60 isn’t really a big cost, but to some businesses, $60 can be a big cost,” Gares told council.

Councillor Scott Anderson agreed on the need to cut red tape.

“This is low-hanging fruit. This is a money grab. It’s a small money grab, but it’s a major annoyance on the other end, so why are we doing it? Especially since it’s no longer required because other cities are getting rid of it, why in the world would we want to tell our businesses that ‘Oh sorry, you’re going to have to pony up for no reason at all just because you drive a vehicle [with a logo on it],'” said Anderson.

Mayor Victor Cumming clarified with staff that the licencing was designed to allow large commercial trucks to park in alleys, and in parking metered areas, without paying additional cost.

“They can pull in and unload, and with a 20-minute loading allowance, so basically for $60, you’re buying this ability to park out front or back and deliver goods. Is that correct?”

Manager of protective services, Geoff Gaucher, agreed with the mayor’s statement.

by Pete McIntyre

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