Advocacy

From Our Members

Clarifying Recent Business Community Communications
We know there has been a lot of information circulating recently from a variety of different sources. Many of you have reached out to us looking for clarity.

While we certainly don’t have all the answers, here is what we can share today:

1. KBC was not involved in organizing the recent meetings announced for December 4 and December 15, nor did we distribute any communication around those meetings. Both of these meetings were later postponed or cancelled, and we received concerns that updates did not reach everyone consistently.

KBC was not directly included on the invitations or cancellation emails, and so we’ve learned of changes only after business owners forwarded them to us. We appreciate those who have taken the time to keep us informed.

2. KBC is aware of the petition circulating within the business community. We were not involved in its creation, or distribution and are not endorsing it. We believe meaningful solutions will come from working collaboratively with local service providers, the Town, and all levels of government. This is the work we continue to pursue on your behalf. As with any petition, you are encouraged to review it and make your own decision based on your values and perspective.

3. Over the past several weeks, we have been actively working behind the scenes to support businesses and bring clarity to this situation.
We have met with Open Arms, provincial representatives (including Minister Lohr), Valley REN, AVCC, and Town leadership to ensure your concerns are being heard at every level. Our goal has been to gather accurate information, correct misinformation, and advocate for a coordinated approach that prioritizes the needs and wellbeing of our local business community. This work has been steady and ongoing, and it remains our top priority.

4. We are currently working on hosting a coordinated business meeting in January (date to be finalized) that brings all the necessary voices to the table at once. This includes the Town, Open Arms, provincial representatives, and others who can provide clear updates and respond directly to your concerns.

Our intention is to support a calm, clear, and constructive process for everyone. We are committed to doing this thoughtfully, professionally, and with adequate notice so you can plan to attend.

We will share full details as soon as the date and participants are confirmed.

We also recognize that this is the busiest and most important season of the year for many of you. Alongside this advocacy work, we remain focused on promoting and supporting your businesses during the holiday season, so you can concentrate on serving your customers and running your operations.

Thank you for your patience and for continuing to engage during a challenging time for our community. If you have questions in the meantime, please feel free to reach out. I am receiving a high volume of messages about this work, so thank you in advance for your patience if my response is delayed.

Milkweed Creative Holiday Trees Supporting
Forest Regeneration

We are a couple who are working to restore land on the North Mountain that was previously clear-cut, helping it return to the diversity of a native Wabanaki/Acadian forest. Part of this process involves thinning young trees to create space for healthy new growth. This year, we’re offering a small number of naturally grown spruce, pine, and balsam fir as holiday trees.

Each tree is pesticide-free, naturally shaped,
and part of a living forest regeneration effort.

New Members

Deacon Financial Management Group – CIBC Wood Gundy