Port Coquitlam business owners will see an emphasis on customer service and open communication at city hall if recommendations of a task force are implemented.
The chair of the Mayor's Task Force on Business Development Opportunities said he's optimistic several recommendations from a report adopted by council Monday will be put in place in the coming months. Chief among them, said Coun. Mike Forrest, is the goal to improve customer service on several fronts, including more openness and willingness to talk with businesses on key issues.
"If we can do it, then we should," he said. " I think were dealing with a culture change and I think we will be and we intend to be successful with the culture change."
Through surveys, a business forum and hearing from developers, the task force found the city had several things going for it to attract and keep business, including transportation connections. But more could be done to streamline regulations, enhance communication and recognize business contributions.
Forrest said staff will look at ways to implement the task force's recommendations, which include:
Making sure there are enough resources to process development and business licence applications in a timely manner and putting more services online.
Implementing mandatory customer service training and creating a staff working group to develop a strategy for developing a helpful attitude and culture.
Enhancing communications through various means, including an online business directory, newsletters, forums and complaint-tracking.
Ensuring taxes and fees are competitive with other cities, and increasing opportunities for businesses to "buy local."
Recognizing businesses and offering a networking opportunity with an annual event.
Creating an economic strategic plan as part of the 2014 official community plan update
For more information and to download task force's report, visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/bdo.
