Dear Editor:
After reading the recent article regarding the YYoga studio and other tenants of Lynn Valley Village, I was greatly disappointed in the situation, as a long-term resident and taxpayer of Lynn Valley and North Vancouver. I viewed the development of the centre as a positive addition to the community, a focal point for the people of the 'hood. I spoke with pride to friends and family of the space and its contribution to developing a sense of community, inclusion, and the vibe it had.
Now, to hear how tenants are being treated is inexcusable. We have just gone through the worst health crisis of the last 100 years. Businesses have had to close, open, close again, etc. Nobody could have predicted this situation. The hardships these businesses and their employees have gone and will continue to go through is still very much uncertain.
Cut these businesses some slack, be the good commercial landlord, be creative in finding a workable solution to their problems. Set an example of doing the right thing for your tenants, be a leader in finding workable solutions. Empty spaces are just that -- empty, quiet and lifeless. Vacant commercial spaces reduce foot traffic for the remaining tenants. We have all walked into a mall or down a street where there are too few business and too many vacant buildings. It is never a positive feeling. Empty spaces also don't generate revenue.
Make the centre THE place for business to thrive not just survive. We need small business in our community to survive. We need these businesses to help us all regain the sense of normality back in lives. We also need them to help drive our economy, create jobs, drive the bus of economic recovery.
The district and its elected officials are responsible to its taxpayers. However, they also have to look at the long-term view, what is best for the entire community with which we all live. If the district needs to change its budget, rework a project, delay an art piece. Whatever it takes, do it! Sit down with the tenants -- all the tenants -- and find solutions to their issues. Be big, bold and innovative.
Brad Williams
Lynn Valley
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