The Government of Canada plans to reduce rents of $15.2 million for businesses affected by the July 2024 forest fires in Jasper, as well as those of the municipality.
“The Jasper wildfire has caused hundreds of millions of dollars in direct property damage and firefighting costs, and will continue to have negative economic effects on tourism revenues, which are a major economic driver for local businesses and residents,” said Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.
He said the rent relief will provide some financial relief to affected businesses and help maintain their cash flow.
This rental relief for leases and permits administered by Parks Canada in Jasper National Park could therefore reach $15.2 million in support to business owners, tenants and residents.
“We understand the challenges faced by lease and permit holders in Jasper National Park […] By continuing to work effectively together, we can ensure that our local businesses and residents have the support they need to contribute to our recovery process,” said Richard Ireland, Mayor of Jasper.
In early August, Parks Canada announced a pause in collecting rent from tenants and permit holders in Jasper, and began working to implement more formal rent relief measures.
Parks Canada administers 1,419 leases, licenses of occupation and other agreements for commercial, residential, community and utility uses within Jasper National Park.
Related News :