Dear Business and Community Leaders,
A year ago, we declared a global pandemic. No one knew what to do. In an effort to keep us safe the health officials recommended physical distancing and the government shut down the economy with access to essential service.
Over the course of the year many lessons were learned and changes made depending on a high level of collaboration, key measures of the spread and primary care capacity. Last year we asked for more evidenced based decision making. And we got it!
The COVID-19 Framework lets us know what to expect so we can plan. In Ottawa, we have been dangerously close to transitioning to the red zone for weeks. It was no secret. The only thing that would change that trajectory is our collective behaviour. It is proven.
There is much to be optimistic about in the coming months; the vaccine roll out, the summer season and the continued collaboration among business and community leaders. But we have to get from HERE to THERE. This is an URGENT CALL TO ACTION. Please lead by example, share with your employees and your networks.
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Job #1 - Be Covid-Wise. Wear a mask, stay home when sick, maintain distance and wash hands frequently.
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Job #2 - Support local. Restaurants, retail, small business are at the front line of this war. Actively look for ways to spend with them and promote them.
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Job #3 - Be resilient. Maintain your health. Ask for help. Care for others. Stay positive. Be solution focused.
THEN WHAT?
Last week, we partnered with OCOBIA and RGA to ask the provincial government to revise the parameters of the COVID-19 framework to provide more equity and provide more notice of the change in status. We were happy to learn that the caps for restaurants were changed to percentage of capacity. We followed up with a letter from several Ontario Chamber to ask for further changes that would be more targeted and aligned with the evolving situation. This is called the Responsible Business Protocol. We will continue to look for ways to keep the economy going while keeping our communities safe. It is not or the other. Public health & safety = economic prosperity = mental well being.
Congratulations to the City of Ottawa for launching the Small Business Support Package today. We look forward to working with them and our economic partners on supporting business.
Thank you to everyone who completed the Ottawa Board of Trade survey for strategic planning. The plan will be stronger for your input. We are moving nicely toward our goal of releasing the final version at the end of April with the guidance and leadership of our consultants at The Stratford Group. If there is one thing we have learned this last year is that evidence based decision making is critical. That is why we are excited about the 2021 Welch Ottawa Business Growth Survey. We have used this data extensively in policy and program recommendations. This year's results will be critical moving forward. Please take 10 minutes to complete it. And share it widely with your networks.
Finally, save the date for the upcoming CITY BUILDING SUMMIT: OTTAWA NEXT. We have gathered experts, business and community leaders for a robust conversation about the vision and priorities that will create a thriving community in the Nation's Capital. We want you there! Make connections, contribute your insights and be part of the conversations that will create the future of our city.
Be well. Stay safe. Buy local.
Yours truly,
Sueling
Sueling Ching | President & CEO | Ottawa Board of Trade
