May 28, 2010  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

The Owen Sound & District Chamber of Commerce on behalf of its 550 members recently completed an on-line survey to measure the enjoyment of living, working, playing and doing business in Owen Sound. The key question asked was whether or not this city is a good place to operate a business and invited those participating to provide their comments. The overwhelming response by the more than 120 replies was that Owen Sound is, in fact, a great place to live, work and play; however, the results would indicate a number of unhappy business operators/owners.

Over 95% of respondents found Owen Sound as a good place to live while 91% found it a good place to play. Approx. 90% of those responding found our city a good place to work.  But the opinion of more than 25% of business owners/managers was ‘NO” when asked whether or not Owen Sound was a good place to operate a business. Further review indicated that over 33% of business owners who responded stated that Owen Sound was not receptive or friendly to business. 

Bert Loopstra, Manager and Bob Switzer, Chair of the Advocacy Committee of the Chamber stated they were surprised not only by the high number of replies to the survey but by the candor and comments provided by members. The results of the business related question is concerning due to the number of respondents who were not happy with the business environment offered in Owen Sound. When questioned about the results of the survey, Mr. Loopstra and Mr. Switzer indicated that we can expect the Owen Sound & District Chamber of Commerce to;

1.  Focus our attention on the positions of all candidates in this fall’s civic election.

2.  Work with the elected council on the challenges of managing the city's finances as it attempts to foster and encourage business opportunities and growth, especially with young entrepreneurs.

3.  Continue to be a conduit between Chamber members and government at all levels.

A sample of comments provided by Chamber members from the survey include;

"... my perspective is that while Owen Sound may lack a certain youthful energy, it makes up for that with easy access to parks and recreational activities, low cost of living, increasing number of festivals, arts events and community mindedness...."

"Slightly behind the times with respect to innovation, forward thinking and opportunity.  But the positives far outweigh these negatives. ... "

"Owen Sound has a lot of potential but we need to strive towards our future. Be proactive with issues instead of reacting to them."

Full results and comments are posted online at HERE.



For further information contact Bert Loopstra, Manager @ 519-376-6261