Norfolk moving to business registration system

Adam Veri, Norfolk Ward 6 Councillor.

Luke Edwards

Grant Haven Media

A simplified, flat rate business registration system will be implemented in Norfolk County.

Norfolk councillors voted to move to the new system for bricks and mortar businesses following the presentation of a staff report on the issue at the Oct. 15 council-in-committee meeting. It will replace the existing licensing system that charges various fees based on the business.

The potential move arose last year - part of its review of fees proposed increases to the licensing system to ensure full cost recovery of the program. That led to a motion from Coun. Adam Veri to get rid of the program, arguing it provided little to no benefit to the business community.

Eventually, council voted to keep the licensing program in place at 2024 levels as staff explored the registry option.

Staff were hesitant to fully do away with any kind of business registration, saying it provides valuable information to the county and helps ensure compliance with things like zoning, as well as building and fire code. It also offers a sense of security for patrons of a given business.

“It gives consumers the confidence that they know this business has been inspected and it’s a legitimate business,” said deputy county clerk Tracey Rodrigues.

Veri, who was chair of the Oct. 15 council-in-committee meeting, questioned that rationale.

“This really doesn’t provide much, if any, service to the businesses,” he said, calling the claims of security for consumers dubious.

Coun. Chris Van Paassen did see some value, though, especially for ensuring zoning compliance. And having a fee, even if it’s a minor $25 cost, gives the program some teeth, he said.