City Hall may designate entire city as official tourism area

City Hall is considering designating all of Toronto as an official tourism area, which would allow stores throughout the city to remain open almost every day of the year.

The Post’s Chris Wattie reports:
The city is holding a public meeting tonight to allow residents and business owners to comment on the proposal, a recommendation made by economic development officials.

If the measure is approved, it would allow retail businesses within the city’s boundaries to remain open on every statutory holiday but Christmas, between the hours of 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

“Designating the city a tourism area recognizes that Toronto is the most significant tourist destination in Canada,” the city’s economic development and tourism department said in a news release yesterday. “Permitting shopping throughout the city on statutory holidays encourages tourists to fully explore all neighbourhoods to enjoy shopping, dining and attractions.”

The department said the recommendation was based on “feedback received.” The proposal will go before the city’s economic development committee next month and to the full city council in March.

The public meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. tonight at City Hall.

nationalpost.com