Good Morning All,
I have two things for you this morning as follows:
1. Push on Big Box Stores
Last week a working group made up of myself and some of my BIA colleagues worked with Councillor Brad Bradford and TABIA Executive Director John Kiru to craft a letter to Premier Ford urging him to alter the rules currently set for Big Box stores. The letter is attached to this email. We have posted it today on our BIA social media platforms and I would ask that each of you do the same if possible. We are also circulating the letter to our media contacts. The more public pressure we can apply the better our chances are of making a change.
2. Increased police presence on the Danforth
Over the past few weeks we've seen an increase in break-ins or attempted break-ins throughout the area. Given the current lock-down there aren't many people out at night so it's become more attractive for some people to cause trouble. Councillor Fletcher has reached out to Superintendent Reuben Stroble for assistance in dealing with this issue. Superintendent Stroble has issued the following:
"As the province goes into its second state of emergency and complete lockdown, 55 Division has developed a crime prevention and enforcement plan to address Commercial Break and Enters in three major hot spots within the Division, Danforth Ave., Queen St. and Gerrard St. We will increase the number of patrols in the area and have uniform and plainclothes officers dedicated to these areas. As you may recall from the last State of Emergency back in April 2020, our Project was very successful with the arrest of several individuals. "
He has asked that you take extra precautions when locking up your businesses and not keep cash on site. Also attached are two tip files from the police - please take a moment to review.
Earlier last year we provided you with the NO CASH ON PREMISES decals that the police had created. If you didn't receive one or need a new one please email me and I will drop one off to you.Thanks,
Susan