Small business help offered in Trent Lakes

In 2018 the Economic Development Committee of Trent Lakes has organized business networking sessions to assist the small business owner with tax requirements, health and safety requirements, social media, and obtaining and retaining the right employees.

Norma Fisher, chartered public accountant and Buckhorn resident, was up first with tax tips for small businesses. Fisher’s handout listed some helpful guides from the CRA regarding registering a business number, GST/HST, payroll deductions,taxable benefits and allowances and other topics. Fisher engaged the audience with examples from her accounting experience. She emphasized repeatedly that expenses must be reasonable to the business and supported by good record keeping. When one client anxiously told her that their business was to be audited, Fisher said not to worry. They have good records and can support everything. Fisher did admit that an audit does take time away from growing a business.

There was discussion about a home office and what can be written off. One of the main questions was how much of the home is used - either square footage or rooms. Norma said that CRA will often accept either one if there is a reason for it.

She explained that CRA staff aren’t small business people but employees of CRA. A business owner may need to educate CRA about their business. Fisher stated CRA likes to see paper. If you claim payments to the “kid next door” you should get a paper signed by the child. Keep a log for car expenses. Those attending provided questions illustrating their engagement with their businesses. Fisher’s answers were concise yet illustrated her understanding of the various possibilities for applying the rules.

Small Business Health and Safety Requirements is next on the schedule on March 14 at the Cavendish Community Centre. The complete list of tax tip guides can be obtained at cpa-ca@normafisher.com

Rural Women’s Summit

The Hon. Maryam Monsef, MP Peterborough-Kawartha, is holding the first annual Rural Women’s Summit on March 2 at the Buckhorn Community Centre. Organized with the help of a volunteer committee, this event is an opportunity for the public to learn more about rural women’s experiences and how we can work together to empower rural women and girls in Peterborough-Kawartha.

The Summit includes a panel discussion and participant dialogue from 2-5 p.m., a keynote presentation by the Hon. Maryam Monsef, in her role as Minister of the Status of Women, from 5-8 p.m. with music and refreshments and time for networking and conversation. Honouring International Women’ s Day on Thursday, March 8!

Let’s Play Ball!

Want to help regenerate the BCC ball diamond for children and adult leagues? Attend the spaghetti and pasta dinner with loonie and silent auction on March 9 at the Buckhorn Community Centre. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 6 pm. Advance tickets are $10 with those under 12 free. Call the BCC 705-6578833 or Janet Clarkson 705-6572225 for tickets.

Paint Nite

A fundraiser for and at the Buckhorn Community Centre will take the face of a Paint Nite on March 7. Starting at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $45 with $15 being donated to the BCC. Register and purchase your ticket on line only. https://www.paintnite.com/events/starry-moonlightat-fundraiser-event-buckhorncommunity-centre-10049670