Taking action to continue supporting local businesses
Image
Suspension of the Municipal Accommodation Tax extended to Sept. 1, 2020
The City of Vaughan continues to implement new measures and programs to support local businesses from the unintended consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. At a recent Council meeting, the City further extended the suspension of the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) until Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2020.
Council originally voted on March 17 to suspend it to June 1 to support the travel and tourism industry by not requiring accommodation providers to charge the MAT at Vaughan properties. This was one of the measures in the Vaughan Business Action Plan designed to safeguard the local economy and protect businesses, consumers and all citizens.
It builds on a series of programs and services designed to provide relief to entrepreneurs and businesses and maintain the competitiveness of the local economy.
Digital Boost
The Digital Boost Vaughan Small Business Resiliency Program provides free training and mentorship to help local businesses adapt to the changing environment caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Programming will cover topics such as:
- digital marketing strategies
- launching or improving an e-commerce store
- developing new product lines or services
- developing new revenue models, such as curbside pickup or drop-shipping
- developing financial resiliency
Open for Business
The Open for Business online directory lists local businesses that are open during the current state of emergency. The voluntary listing includes both essential services and businesses that are open or providing modified operations by phone, online, takeout or delivery in compliance with provincial and municipal regulations. Vaughan businesses interested in being included in the list must apply and can do so through this online form.
#ShopVaughanLocal
On April 9, Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua announced the #ShopVaughanLocal campaign. Residents looking to do their part to support the local economy can do so by shopping remotely with local businesses and restaurants with #ShopVaughanLocal. Citizens are encouraged to do any of the following to show their support for small businesses in Vaughan:
- Order takeout or delivery from a local restaurant
- Buy gift cards for use at a later date
- Order from local businesses online
- Share your local love using #ShopVaughanLocal on social media
- Access government supports for businesses at vaughanbusiness.ca
Business licence renewals
A grace period of 90 days has also been established for business licence renewals, which defers renewal of existing business licences up to 90 days past the expiry date. New businesses are still required to be licensed. Applications may be submitted by email to bylaw@vaughan.ca, along with scanned copies of required documentation. Payments can be made by cheque and mailed to Vaughan City Hall at 2141 Major Mackenzie Dr., Vaughan, ON, L6A 1T1.
Economic and Cultural Development Support
The Economic and Cultural Development team is ready to help local businesses access support provided by the Government of Canada and stakeholder organizations. The department continues to offer advisory consultations via tele- or video-conference. Visit their new website – vaughanbusiness.ca – for more information.
To receive the City’s latest COVID-19 updates as they happen, sign up for the City Update eNewsletter at vaughan.ca/CityUpdate and follow the City’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram channels.
Those who feel unwell and believe they have symptoms related to COVID-19 should contact York Region Public Health 1-800-361-5653 or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.
-30-