Not the time to burn bridges
Dear Editor:
Next to Ironman and Peachfest, Penticton’s Saturday morning community market is the best thing that ever happened for local residents, artisans, tourism and downtown businesses.
I was a vendor at the downtown market for 10 years and was hoping to do so again this summer. The way I see it, any suggestions by disgruntled vendors to boycott future markets is kind of like shooting themselves in the foot when they are already wounded. This does not, however, mean I agree with the Downtown Penticton Association’s draconian action.
I assume that from the DPA’s point of view, this is an issue regarding the prepayment of a rental agreement, which cannot be honoured due to government restrictions beyond their control.
All I can say in their defence, is that many businesses are still on the hook for their rents even though they cannot conduct business. The one major difference here, however, is that the market vendors will not be allowed access to the space they rented. So, from the vendor’s point of view, not only have they lost potential sales, they are now out of pocket for something they will not receive.
If the DPA in unwilling, or unable, to refund 100% of the vendor fees, why not work with the affected vendors to pursue other options?
Off the top of my head, I can think of three. Do these vendors qualify for rent relief of some sort through existing programs, and can the DPA assist them in applying? Can the DPA offer these vendors the same online selling options they are providing for downtown businesses? Can the DPA offer these vendors a 50% discount for the 2021 season?
This is not a good time to be burning bridges and fighting amongst ourselves. The pandemic is a global issue, and no one can predict what the future will bring. This is a time for compassion, not anger. The prime minister has said we are all in this together, and he is right. It is time for all Canadians to be kind to one another, and work in unison for the common good. After all, isn’t that what we are doing right now by staying home?
There are so many people risking their own welfare right now, just to help others in need, and the degree of gratitude we feel is reflected in our actions towards others, not just by banging pots.
David Korinetz
Penticton