Big demand detected for business group

Campaigning for Waikato District Council showed Sheryl Earles how badly Tokoroa businesses want some form of business association.

And a survey completed by the unsuccessful candidate proved her theory true.

Earles canvassed 77 businesses in the central business district to find out if and what the need was for an organisation that would work on their behalf.

Only eight said they did not want a business association formed.

She said the task now is getting enough people on board to kick start it.

Earles approached the South Waikato District Council for help setting it up but received little assistance.

‘‘I wanted them to realise the businesses need something.’’

She said, as usual, the biggest road block is funding.

Council chief executive Craig Hobbs said the council definitely sees value in a business association in Tokoroa.

‘‘In years gone by we had TANGS that was funded by council through a targeted business rate and ward rate; and council has and still does fund Pride in Putaruru on a similar basis.’’

But he said while the council believes Tokoroa is certainly lacking in that area, they can’t ask for too much.

‘‘We are conscious of the proactive work being done on behalf of the CBD business owners by the Safer Community Council with the security camera project. We understand SCC are looking for funding from business owners too.’’

He said the council is aware of a number of groups/business owners who are talking about setting up another TANGS- like organisation.

‘‘In addition, this kind of business association/promotion is likely something that the new SWIF DRIVE Trust would be involved with or perhaps even facilitate. At the end of the day any organisation that is established [and funded] would need to be supported by business owners, perform effectively and be sustainable.’’