Local businesses and tourism operators in the Ottawa Valley have experienced challenges as Ontario reopened this summer.
The Manager of Economic Development for the County of Renfrew, Alastair Baird, provided an update to the Development and Property Committee on Tuesday (September 14th, 2021).
Baird says due to health and safety requirements operators had to adjust dramatically and this greatly reduced cash flow when many operational and staff expenses remained high.
He adds a prime example was local whitewater rafting activity, where rafts, shuttle buses and venues operated at half loads essentially.
The Manager of Economic Development for the County of Renfrew says retail, restaurant, outfitters, attractions and accommodators reported severe staff shortages and difficulty recruiting workers in all positions.
Baird adds staffing shortages further impacted the opportunity for much needed revenue generation.
One example provided was accommodators having to keep rooms out of service, despite heavy demand, because they could not be cleaned.
The Development and Property Committee also heard local restaurants had to remain closed on days they would normally be open as they had insufficient cooking and serving staff and other seasonal operations closed early due to staffing shortages.
On a positive note, Baird commented that all operators reported strong demand for all services and products, however there is concern over the fourth wave.
He added local winter operators desperately need to have a near normal season.
