As much as some may accuse the Amherst and Area Chamber of Commerce of being too political when it comes to its criticism of the province’s lack of support for Cumberland County, you have to give the organization credit for looking for ways to support its membership.
The chamber has been very vocal lately in its opinions toward the provincial government and while there are no doubt some who believe some of what the chamber is doing is politically motivated, the fact remains the organization as a whole has a responsibility to represent its membership and the community.
To that effect, the chamber is looking for ways to maintain the competitiveness of local stores after July 1, when the province raises the HST by two per cent as part of its plan to bring provincial deficit under control.
It would be easy for the chamber leadership to continue hammering away at the government for its lack of responsiveness on gas prices and refusing to take seriously the concerns raised about the HST, but it plans to work with its members to come up with some promotions that would encourage people to shop at home while at the same time enticing those New Brunswick shoppers who may not like the hustle and bustle, not the mention the traffic, of Moncton to come here to make their purchases.
It also raises a very important point that people need to be aware of. Each year, local business owners - many of whom are chamber members - pour thousands of dollars into various community organizations through sponsorships and donations of products and money. The least people could do is think about that level of commitment when it comes to those everyday purchases and those big ticket items.
Not only do these businesses support community projects, they also employ local residents and pay taxes for many of the services we take for granted. It’s something that can’t be forgotten when it comes to driving up the highway to Moncton to save a few dollars.
