Date: September 27, 1999

To: Works Committee and Toronto Transit Commission

From: Jack Layton

Re: Construction and its effects on small business

Dear colleagues,

I would like to take this opportunity to present to you some serious concerns regarding construction activities of both the TTC and the City in general as they relate to the effects on small businesses. At this point our construction of TTC tracks on Queen St E and at the intersection Broadview and Gerrard St E. In both cases the time allocated for the construction and the road closures were traumatically exceeded by the project causing very significant hardship to small businesses in our community.

Secondly the advance notices provided for the work was inadequate and there was not enough time for small business to prepare for contingency plan.

Third, in both cases, it appears the original work done had to be redone due to errors and problems. When this happens, damages should be sought by the City from the contractors and the damages should be payable to local businesses as well. Insurance programme should be put in place to protect both the City and small businesses.

The city should investigate the possibility of acquiring the power to provide compensation (such as tax relief, grant for community events or promotional banners etc.) to small businesses when businesses are required to shut down by virtual of a City construction for longer than a certain period.

Recommendations

That these issues be addressed in a joint report headed by the commissioners of Works and Emergency Services and TTC in full consultation with BIAs and board of trade.

Yours sincerely,