Hart Winter Market opts to shut down to avoid fines

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However, those involved in organizing the event insist they had Northern Health’s approval to hold the event.

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“Northern Health came in about the (Nov.) 12th, because the market started the 14th. I’d say the 12th or 13th, I’m not too sure. He was really impressed with the setup,” explained Sigurdson. “He said ‘you guys gotta go’, He said there really isn’t anything wrong with it, it’s all individually separated, and have a good weekend.”

On November 19th, Dr Henry announced all community-based events are suspended including those with less than 50 people.

While the situation involving the Winter Market appears to be a lack of communication and understanding regarding last week’s new restrictions, a local businessman feels these new guidelines are having a negative impact on small businesses and entrepreneurs while box stores aren’t being held to a similar standard.

“I don’t see the difference other than ownership structure,” says Peter Wise, founder of The Market Place on 2nd Avenue in Prince George. “It really doesn’t make sense to me. It almost seems like there is a targetted emphasis on small business, which isn’t being held to the same way as large business is being held to. There seems to be clearly a different standard. It’s so obvious to everyone, blatantly obvious.”

While Wise says he and his team at The Market Place have gone ‘above and beyond’ to ensure they’re following each mandate put in place, he says education would be beneficial.

“Let’s help them understand so they can operate and not just being closed down,” says Wise.

On Friday, Adam Davey, Director of Community Services and Public Safety with the city, said education would be their priority, stating, “bylaw’s role right now is education and information. When we do respond, that’s what we’re looking for is to try to educate folks to make sure we can comply that way.”

The matter regarding the Winter Market will be discussed at tonight’s regular city council meeting. As a result, anyone from the City’s bylaw office was not made available for an interview.