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Leiper also pointed out that in its previous term, Ottawa city council created a new category of “residential commercial” zoning that would see very small retailers allowed in residential areas.

“It essentially was intended to normalize your local pizza joint,” said Leiper, who consulted with residents on applying this zoning to a portion of Armstrong Street, off Wellington. “We were deliberately thinking about the time that will come when the rent is too high … (for) that main street commercial frontage.”

Photo by Ashley Fraser / Postmedia

There’s also the potential to implement special tax classes for very specific types of businesses, said Leiper, such as gallery or art spaces.

“It’s not easy, and that’s not the philosophy that this council has, but over time, if we see a crisis, that might change. Right now, there’s no crisis.”

At the end of the day, said the councillor, there’s one easy way to support local businesses. “If you want your local owner-operated stores that you value to continue to operate in a community that is gentrifying, you have to shop there.”

That’s been one of the keys to the success of Ed’s Auto, a garage on the western tip of Wellington West. Owner Ed Yakabuski has been in the neighbourhood for 28 years.

“I’ve got grandfathers, their sons, their daughters and the second generation coming down to me,” he said. Even when families move out of the area, he’ll get cars driving in from Brockville, and further.

“Don’t spend what you made today, because tomorrow you might need it,” Yakabuski offered, when asked how he’s managed to maintain his small Wellington West business. “I try to be reasonable, honest and we don’t charge too much.”

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