I am writing to express my anger after reading the views of Councillor Vassilaki regarding the demand for high fees for sidewalk cafe patios. He states “$200 is made by a restauranteur out of two tables in two hours … I know that for a fact because I know how much one table of four does in an hour”
What universe is he living in? Does he not realize we are in a deep recession? He states that he was a restauranteur for 40 years. Why doesn’t he tell us which businesses and how many businesses he actually has. Who is this man?
Why is he on council fighting against the small business person who is struggling to survive in this town in these economic times? He does not have any idea of what it is like to be in business in the downtown core with the city hall fighting against every move one makes to improve and survive. He may be wealthy with many businesses, (I have no idea) but I think I can speak for many of the downtown businesses, and they are struggling, and some are going under.
Why are you on our council if you are against the downtown business people? Who are you representing? Maybe it is time for you to get a reality check. Maybe you shouldn’t be on our council. I am outraged by your attitude. My children own the Bellevue Cafe, and they work so incredibly hard to survive and are always looking at ways to improve. They spent over $5,000 for their patio, as before, council was saying how nice it would be if there were several outside patios in the downtown.
Now the council wishes to penalize people who offer outside patios and council wants to PROFIT by them. The Bellevue Cafe has invested a great amount of money to offer the citizens of Penticton a beautiful and comfortable place to go. They make fresh baked goods every day, fresh soups, desserts etc. They work so hard. They hire staff and pay wages. These are very tough times, especially for businesses in Penticton. Prices of supplies have gone up hugely. I ask you to walk downtown, walk in the mall. Get out and see how many businesses are closing. My message to city hall is to have a heart. Be thankful for the dedicated, caring, business person in your town. A town which is better for their being there. If you don’t appreciate them and support them, then quit as representatives of the people of Penticton. Please.
Patricia Kushner
Penticton
