Back to SearchKitchener, Ontario – In response to current economic challenges, the City of Kitchener is stepping up to support local businesses and ensure the long-term prosperity of our community with the launch of a new initiative, the ‘Support Local’ campaign. The campaign, a collaborative effort between the City and local business organizations, aims to bolster the Kitchener economy and ensure that Kitchener remains a vibrant and strong community.
“We know that our local businesses are the heart of Kitchener,” said Berry Vrbanovic, Mayor of Kitchener. “By doubling down on our support local efforts, we are investing in our community’s future and prosperity. As a City, we are committed to this approach.”
On February 10th, the Mayor brought forward a motion to Kitchener Council, which was unanimously approved, to activate a City of Kitchener response that would minimize the impacts of tariffs and implement actions in support of our local economy.
As part of the City’s response, the City of Kitchener Tariff and Trade Task Force was initiated and quickly mobilized. This group is focused on assessing the full scope of these economic impacts and identifying measures to support the local economy.
To that end, Kitchener’s Tariff and Trade Task Force will present a series of actions at a special meeting of City Council on Monday, March 17th. These actions include:
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Amending Kitchener’s procurement bylaw to support Buy Canadian, Buy Local.
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Initiating conversations with distributors and contractors on Canadian Alternatives for supply.
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Prioritizing Canada First supply purchases for smaller dollar items.
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Strategic outreach with trade exposed companies and developing new resources on Import Substitution for local businesses.
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Launching of a ‘Support Local’ campaign, in partnership with local BIAs, chamber of commerce and the Kitchener Market.
“The City of Kitchener has a strong foundation in place through its procurement policies, already purchasing 98 percent of goods and services from Ontario-based businesses,” said Councillor Scott Davey, Chair of Finance and Corporate Services Committee.“ While we are protected by best practices in procurement, we are assessing contracts and closely monitoring supply chain impacts to pursue further buy-Canadian opportunities,” added Davey.
The City acknowledges that broader interpretation and policy changes related to procurement will require an all-of-government effort, as all municipalities must adhere to regulations set by other orders of the government.
The City of Kitchener will stand together, supporting Kitchener’s businesses, families, and communities as it responds to the U.S. Tariffs with resilience and strength and by supporting one another.
For more information:
Nasreen
Strategic Communications Officer
City of Kitchener
nasreen@kitchener.ca
M: 226-751-4162
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