The Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce is calling to the provincial government for more help for businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The chamber put together three main points for the province to consider including intervening to reduce overhead costs, more economic stimulus and introducing further labour incentives.

Darla Lindberg, CEO with the chamber says to reduce overhead costs they would like to see a reduction or elimination of provincial or municipal fees. Including sales tax, property tax, crown utility fees, WCB costs, and others. Lindberg says that commercial rent is another concern that needs to be addressed and the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce has been working on a commercial rent support program proposal for the province. That proposal is expected to be ready soon and the Saskatoon Chamber looks forward to seeing what kind of assistance will come for local businesses.

For economic stimulus Lindberg says the chamber wants to see provincial and municipal commitments for infrastructure projects continue. She explains continuing this work will see money continue to flow in the city and provide jobs in our community.

Lindberg says it’s great to see some movement on the federal level for labour incentives, but hopes to identify any gaps that may exist for businesses and employees. She says the federal government is listening to chambers across the country and the chamber applauds the work on programs and the response so far. However, chamber members are asking questions regarding the process of federal programs and a focus should be made to make the programs simplified, cutting through some of the red-tape, while still making sense. Lindberg explained there are challenges that the federal government needs to recognize by being creative and flexible during these times.