WHEREAS the United States government is proposing to impose tariffs on Canadian imports, including a 25% tariff on all Canadian goods entering the US, except for energy resources, which face a 10% tariff; and
WHEREAS these tariffs may negatively impact Canadian businesses, industries, and workers, particularly those engaged in manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, and other export-driven sectors, leading to job losses and economic instability in communities such as Courtenay; and
WHEREAS supporting Canadian-made goods and services sustains local businesses, protects Canadian jobs, and strengthens the national economy in response to trade restrictions; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Courtenay encourage residents, businesses, and municipal departments to prioritize the purchase of Canadian-made goods and services whenever feasible; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Courtenay prioritize Canadian-made goods and services in current and upcoming municipal procurement and contracts, provided they meet financial and operational requirements; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City engage with local business organizations, including the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Area to promote initiatives supporting Canadian businesses and local employment; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that staff report back to Council on the impacts of the above actions;
AND FURTHER THAT this resolution be shared with other Comox Valley local governments and K’omoks First Nation for consideration.