City of Winnipeg Gives Tax Break to Bars/Restaurants/Lounges.....Why am I not Happy?

 

The Chief Public Health Officer issued some new Orders today that largely affect those businesses that serve alcohol.  These Orders are the result of many risks for exposure occurred during those hours that would be particularly popular for pub crawlers. So, there will be no alcohol served in licensed premises from 10 pm - 9 am.  They will have to close earlier.  

City Hall has reacted swiftly and is giving these establishments a 10% tax break because they will be losing business.  

I get the sentiment behind this.  They are responding to their constituents by offering them some relief to offset loss of revenue.  

I don't like it.  Frankly, it seems like a knee jerk action.  More than just pubs and bars are dealing with financial difficulties as a result of Coronavirus.  A little tone deaf that you are quick to help them.  I am friends with a server who is going to lose hours and tips. She already can't afford her medications. Despite that, she is happy with the new restrictions because she has more fears for her own safety while working after midnight.  Other people who don't run businesses could also benefit from assistance.  No, I don't have the answers and that is mostly why I didn't run for public office.  

Not to mention that the reason for the new restrictions on pubs/restaurants is largely because those same establishments, either by acts of omission or commission, placed people of Winnipeg at higher risk.  How many of these establishments were photographed for not following the rules.  Many of these businesses were fined by the City's own health inspectors for not following public health guidelines.  I have to be honest and say, for me, giving them a tax break feels like rewarding them for bad behavior. 

I also fully understand that the City sincerely wants to support local and small businesses.  Quite frankly, many of these establishments are franchises of corporate America and are part of the reason why there are so few local small businesses.  

But, I get the sentiment.  Support local.  

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