The future of the dog bylaw and how to deal with sandwich boards on Baker Street were hot topics addressed at last week’s Nelson Business Association meeting.
The meeting allowed for business owners to hear the bylaws as they stand now and then offered an opportunity for them to share there concerns and possible solutions.
There was frustration from many business owners around the enforcement of the sandwich board bylaw.
Owner of Grasshopper Juice, Brent Raby, said his sign, which was up during the summer, was removed and then he’d have to spend time looking for where they’d been moved to.
“I’m not sure if there is a sandwich board vigilante at work,” said Raby.
Some business owners like Joyce Jackson emphasized that the sandwich boards are an important part of marketing for the businesses.
“Personally I like the sandwich boards,” she said. “They add a lot of a character.”
There was confusion around insurance and enforcement of the bylaw.
A possible solution suggested was that sign posts be erected on street corners offering directions to businesses off Baker Street.
Businesses on Baker Street would be allowed to keep one sandwich board directly in front of their business.
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Business owners at last week’s meeting were unanimous in their opinion that the dog bylaw should be revised.
Many have said they feel as though the dog bylaw is deterring tourists who travel with their dogs.
Manager of the Hume Hotel Ryan Martin said the dog friendly rooms in both the Hume and the Best Western are in high demand, but visitors are faced with a dilemma because they can’t leave the dogs in the rooms during the day.
“It’s archaic and it’s got to change,” said Martin. “It’s terrible.”
Joyce Jackson, Former owner of Lonnie’s Lingerie, agreed.
“Everyone on earth knows how I feel,” said Jackson. “My passion aside, a recent survey says the fastest growing trend in tourism is travelling with your pets.”
With the support of most of those in the room, Jackson said, “I’m aware that we do have some city councillors at the meeting. If you can commit to allowing us a trial period, than we can commit to being part of the solution.”
Business owners said they would help to educate tourists about the bylaw potentially having dog bags and treats they could hand out to owners.
The opinions and solutions shared about sandwich boards and the dog bylaw will be presented to Nelson City Council.