SBAB Blog.

The AGM of the Small Business Association of Banff was held on Wednesday, 22nd. Our AGM was well attended with three new Board members appointed. Director and Secretary Kees Van der lee has stepped down after his long term as a founding Director. Kees was thanked for his significant contributions to the SBAB. The 2009 membership remains healthy and continued positive growth is anticipated. We were also pleased that the guests included the Mayor, John Stutz. Town Manager, Robert Earl. Julie Canning, Stu Back and Anne Frick from Banff Lake Louise Tourism, Vicki Smith from the Banff Lake Louise Hotel Motel Association The text of the Chairman’s report to the AGM can be viewed online by clicking here.

There were a number of announcements. Of a time sensitive nature it was advised that:
• The Bike Fest has been approved, in a bigger and better form. If you have any comments regarding the route in town, please attend the Open House that Banff Lake Louise Tourism are holding on the on the 29th April between 2 and 4 pm, Cascade Plaza, 3rd Floor.
• The Town is considering making parking spots available on Bow Avenue. 40 spots on Bow Avenue were made available on a temporary basis during Banff Refreshing, the Town is considering making these spots permanent. If you have views or concerns upon this you should advise the Town immediately as the decision making process is underway.

The junction at Lynx and Wolf is undergoing construction works, this will involve some delays and diversion. The work is scheduled to be complete by July 1st.

The first quarter retail survey results have been revealed. The results are interesting but only available to members taking part. If you want to see how you are doing compared to the average you should take part. You can register with Anne Frick at anne@banfflakelouise.com. The figures go to an independent 3rd party and so your store or restaurant information remains confidential as only percentage of change information is shared.

Finally it was announced that the Town is helping to provide general indicators of economic activity in Banff. They are erecting semi permanent traffic counters to measure vehicular visitation. In addition they weigh the commercial waste that the town produces each day, the figures this year not suprisingly are down on last. The figures are available upon request (a new page will be added here in the future with ongoing available information).

The Board welcomes three new Directors, Dean Bailey, Lorraine Eckstrand and Jean Roberts. As ever contact details for the SBAB and Directors can be found at http://businessinbanff.org/about/.

Members are reminded that they can add their business to the Members links, for free, and can now add special offers they may have.

Visit http://businessinbanff.org/small-business-links/members-specials/ to see the current offers.