The Cranbrook and District Chamber of Commerce today (May 2) released its Phase II report summarizing the results of the Barriers to Business survey recently undertaken with a sample of its members.

This project is a key part of the chamber’s on-going advocacy efforts to improve the business climate in Cranbrook and area, and is a follow-up to an initial survey and report conducted by the chamber in 2012 that identified a number of concerns regarding the local business climate.

“First, I want to sincerely thank our members who agreed to be interviewed and took the time to talk about their experiences in doing business with the City of Cranbrook,” said Dave Butler, Chamber President. “Rather than focusing on individual experiences, we looked for common themes … areas where experiences were positive or negative. The survey results show us there’s lots of work to do yet to ensure we have a welcoming atmosphere for business,” said Butler.

The report includes written summaries of the responses to survey questions, along with numeric assessments of the clarity of processes, timing and costs for doing business in the community.

Butler noted that members of the Chamber Executive recently met with Mayor Wayne Stetski and senior city staff to review the results of the survey, and to discuss ways in which the city can continue to improve the experience for new and existing businesses. During that meeting, the city provided the chamber with a progress report on the changes it is making to improve the environment for business.

“We’re encouraged that the mayor and senior staff recognize the challenge, and are initiating some changes as a result of our encouragement,” said Butler. As examples, he noted changes to the way in which city departments communicate with each other, training for city staff towards an enhanced customer service philosophy, and creating greater clarity in processes, timing and costs for business-related permits.

“The chamber will keep working with the city, recognizing that change does not happen overnight,” said Butler. “We’re looking for members of the business community to let us know what they think of what the city is doing to improve the situation,” he said. “What’s missing from the city’s list? Are you seeing a difference?”

The Cranbrook and District Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business in this area, with a focus on fostering a healthy business climate in Cranbrook and District by being more relevant to more businesses, advocating to governments to improve the situation for business, and growing our local economy.

To see the Chamber of Commerce Barriers to Business report results visit www.cranbrookchamber.com

To see the City of Cranbrook progress report visit www.cranbrookchamber.com

Cranbrook and District Chamber of Commerce

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