Cityof
C
fKaw
warthaLak
kesDo
ownttown
Revit
R
alizattionC
Cobocconk‐‐Norlland
Business Owner
O
Surve
ey Data – rep
port created May 2016
M
Methodology
y
T
The Business Owner
O
survey was
w designed with the intentt to measure current
c
businesss needs in the
e downtown wh
hile
simultaneously collecting data
a about the pe
erceptions, opin
nions and future plans of bussiness ownerss.
T
The Business Owner
O
Survey was sent to 41
1 businesses in the downtow
wns of Coboco nk and Norlan
nd in October o
of 2014.
29 business ow
wners responde
ed. If a 95% confidence
c
leve
el is applied to the sample off 29 responsess originating fro
om a
population of 41
1 businesses there
t
will be a confidence intterval of +/- 9.9
97 which can b
be applied to th
he survey as a whole.
W
When reviewing
g each questio
on please be aware of the nu
umber of respo
ondents that op
pted to “skip” tthe question.
Findings
1.1 where is your business located?
-33 businesses were located in Coboconk, 8 in Norland
1.2 which street is your business located on?
-75% were in Hwy 35
1.3 How long have you operated this business?
Coboconk:
-37.5% had operated for more than 10 years
-33% for 1 to 5 years
-25% for 6 to 10 years
Norland:
-50% had operated for 1 to 5 years
-25% each for 6 to 10 years, and over 10 years
1.4 do you rent or own?
Coboconk: 68% own
Norland: 50% for each
1.5 if rent, what is the term?
Norland: 100% were one-year terms
1 Coboconk:
-33% one-year term
-33% 5 year terms
1.6 is the business involved in frontline operations?
Coboconk: 96% said yes
Norland: 75% said yes
1.7 is the business owner a resident of the community?
Norland: 100% said yes
Coboconk: 60% said yes
1.8 does the business have a formal business, marketing, or succession plan?
Coboconk:
-64% had business plans
-45.5 % had each of succession and marketing plans
Norland:
-100% had formal business plans
-33% had each of succession and marketing plans
1.9 How many employees work at this location?
Slow Season
Coboconk and Norland:
2 -50% 1 to 4 employees
-25% owner operated
-Norland had 25% 10-14 employees
-Coboconk had 17% 5-9 employees
Peak Season:
Norland:
-50% 1-4
-25% each for owner operated, and more than 14 employees
Coboconk:
-40% 1-4
-20% each for 5-9, and more than 14
-16% owner operated
1.10 how do you rate the availability of workers?
Coboconk:
50% said poor
30% said fair
Norland:
67% said fair
33% said excellent
3 1.11 is employee turnover an issue?
65 and 66% percent said no
1.12 where do employees typically park?
-71% and 75% said in a private lot
1.13 what workshops would make your business more competitive?
-social media and marketing
-staff development
1.14 if workshops were offered, when would be the best time?
Norland: 67% said after hours in the spring, fall, or winter
Coboconk: 75% said after hours in the winter
1.15 does your business operate year round?
Coboconk: 91% said yes
Norland: 75% said yes
1.16 do your operating hours vary or are they standard?
Coboconk: 57% said standard
Norland: 75% said standard
1.17 if your hours are standard, what are they?
Coboconk: open at 8am to 5pm Monday-Saturday and closed on Sunday
4 Norland: open at 8am or 11am to 5pm Monday-Friday
1.18 when is your peak season?
-June and July were the top answers
-May, August, and September were tied as second most popular answer
1.19 if your hours vary, what are they in peak season?
-11am slightly more popular as an opening time
1.20 if your hours vary, what are they in non-peak season?
-businesses may open slightly later in the day and close slightly earlier
1.21 What are your busiest months?
July and August
1.22 what are your busiest days?
Friday and Saturday
1.23 what gender are your customers?
-no distinction
1.24 what is the marital status of your customers?
-no distinction
5 1.25 what is the demographic of your customers?
-no distinction
1.26 Where does your revenue originate from?
-mostly from foot traffic
1.27 Where does your revenue originate from as far as customer location?
-downtown residents and employees did not represent a large percentage of revenue
1.28 outside of your community, where do customers come from?
-Burnt River, Kirkfield, Lindsay were popular answers
-Norland was a popular answer for Coboconk businesses
1.29 where do your customers typically park?
Coboconk:
-45% said in a private lot
-40% said on the main street
Norland:
-75% said in a private lot
-25% said on the main street
1.30 do your customers express that it is hard to find a parking spot in the downtown?
Coboconk: 53% said no
6 Norland: 75% said yes
1.31 How do you track your customers’ needs?
-informal customer interaction was the most popular answer
-customer complaints and advice was also popular
1.32 How do you market your products and services?
Coboconk:
-67% said sponsorship of local events
-56% said flyers/brochures etc
-50% said internet
Norland:
-75% said each of Internet, and Flyers/brochures etc.
-other methods were fairly evenly split
1.33 What events do you participate in and benefit from?
Coboconk:
-Fresh Water Summit, Santa Claus Parade, and Duck Derby were most popular
Norland:
-the Fair, free skating, Fresh Water Summit, Duck Derby
1.34 do you track the impact of downtown events on your business?
Coboconk: 67% said no
7 Norland: split 50% each
1.35 Do you have an idea for a downtown event?
Mentioned:
-Winter ice rink
-open air restaurant
-harvest/winter/earth day festivals
-snowmobile or winter carnival (at the park with a new rink)
-something related to historic logging industry
-concerts
-ice skating, movie nights, art show, car show, ski doo, fishing derby
-self-guided historic tours, with pamphlet outlining locations/facts, available at local businesses
1.36 where is your toughest competition?
-in other communities
-internet also mentioned in Norland
1.37 what is your impression of the downtown as a place to do seasonal business?
Coboconk:
-47% said good
-41% said fair
Norland:
-50% said good
8 -25% said excellent, as well as fair
1.38 what is your impression of the downtown as a place to do year-round business?
Coboconk:
-35% said each of fair and poor
Norland:
-50% said good
-25% said each of fair and poor
1.39 has your attitude about doing in the downtown changed over the past 24 months?
-most had not changed, but 39% in Coboconk and 50% in Norland said more positive
1.40 Revenues over the past three years?
Coboconk:
-44% increased
-39% remained the same
Norland:
-50% increased
-25% each of remained the same and decreased
1.41 What are your revenue expectations of next year?
-the majority expected higher revenues, and the rest said at least the same
9 1.42 what do you plan to undertake within the following three years?
Coboconk:
-41% said remain unchanged
-23.5% said expand
Norland:
-50% said renovate
1.43 what competitive advantages do you think downtown businesses offer?
-customer service was the most popular answer
1.44 What benefits your business?
-Trent Severn Waterway
-public park areas
-festivals/fairs
-local one day events
-public trails
1.45 what could improve the downtown business environment?
-repair eyesore / derelict buildings was the most popular in each community
Coboconk:
-72% said increased boat docking
10 -72% said docking amenities
-67% said increase retail options
-61% said increase hotel/accommodation options
-50% said improve streetscape
-50% said increase parking options
Norland:
-75% said improve streetscape
-75% said increase parking options
1.46 What could be done to make the downtown more physically appealing?
Coboconk:
-83% indicated improve cleanliness and signage
-78% said address/repair derelict buildings
Norland:
100% said:
-improve parking areas
-improve general appearance
-improve public park areas
-address/repair derelict buildings
1.47 Satisfaction levels as far as appearance
Generally Satisfied with
11 -trees and flowers
-litter/weed control
-vagrancy/panhandling
Generally Not Satisfied with:
-directional signage
-gateway signage
-recreational water quality
-public docks
-control of Geese population (highest rated in the POOR category)
-sidewalks/pedestrian environment
-parking lots
-conditions of public washrooms
-condition of building facades
-street furniture
1.48 Satisfaction in general
Generally satisfied with:
-public safety
-organization of special events
-customer service
MOST other categories rated only as fair to poor, indicating that improvement is needed
12 1.49 What other businesses would be beneficial to have downtown?
-Gas station/fuel (by far the most popular answer)
-clothing retail
1.50 what initiatives could benefit the downtown?
-Gas station also the most popular answer here
1.51 How do you envision the downtown emerging as a distinct destination that separates it from other downtowns?
-natural pleasant environment
-MTO/city cooperation re: development and improvement
-encourage campers and cottagers to shop here
-uniform signage, appealing storefront presentation
-improve parking and signage
-unique natural setting
-winter festival/focus
-trent-severn waterway / lake
-tear down dilapidated buildings
-attract tourists, residents, and businesses
-grow summer festivals
-use the water as a theme and market “Canada’s Fresh Water Summit”
-emphasize history via pictures/signs and information
1.52 any other comments you wish to make?
Coboconk:
13 -proper swimming area or swimming pad
-remove building ruins –looks horrible and will take away from other efforts
-continue with what has already been accomplished to unite the business community
Norland:
-improved maintenance of municipal parking lots (weeds etc.)
-improved winter snow clearing in lots and on sidewalks
-improve signage to parking lot
14 Data Appendix -Table of Contents
1. Downtown Coboconk-Norland Business Owner Survey ............................................................................................................................... 18 1.1 Where is your business located? ...................................................................................................................................................................... 18 1.2 Which street is your business located downtown? ........................................................................................................................................ 19 1.3 How long have you operated this business in downtown? ........................................................................................................................... 20 1.4 Do you rent or own the property? ..................................................................................................................................................................... 21 1.5 If “rent”, what is the term of the lease? ............................................................................................................................................................ 22 1.6 Is the business owner involved in the front-line operations? ........................................................................................................................ 23 1.7 Is the business owner a resident of the community? .................................................................................................................................... 24 1.8 Does the business have a Succession, Formal Business and/or Formal Marketing Plan(s)? ................................................................ 25 1.9 How many employees work at this location? .................................................................................................................................................. 26 1.10 How do you rate the availability of workers in this area for your business needs? ................................................................................ 27 1.11 Is employee turnover an issue for your business? ...................................................................................................................................... 28 1.12 Where do employees or the owner of this business typically park? ......................................................................................................... 29 1.13 Please indicate the workshops that would make your business more competitive. .............................................................................. 30 1.14 If workshops were offered, what would be the best time to offer these workshops? ............................................................................. 31 1.15 Does your business operate year round? ..................................................................................................................................................... 32 1.16 Which model of operating hours does your business follow? ................................................................................................................... 33 1.17 If “standard Hours”, what are the standard hours of operation for this business? ................................................................................. 34 1.18 When is your peak season?............................................................................................................................................................................ 36 1.19 If “Vary by Season”, what are the hours of operation for this business during the “peak” season? .................................................... 37 In addition to staying open on weekends, this business in Norland extends peak season hours on Friday until 8:00pm. ........................ 38 1.20 If “Vary by Season”, what are the hours of operation for this business during the “non-peak” season? ............................................ 39 15 1.21 Please rate your busiest months on a scale of 1 to 12; 1 being busiest. ................................................................................................. 41 1.22 During a typical week, please rate your busiest days on a scale of 1 to 7. ............................................................................................. 42 1.23 The majority of my customers are: ................................................................................................................................................................ 43 1.24 The majority of my customers are: ................................................................................................................................................................ 44 1.25 Please indicate the age group that best represents the majority of your customers. E.g., 25-40 ....................................................... 45 1.26 What percentage of your revenue originates from: ..................................................................................................................................... 46 1.27 What percent of your revenue comes from each of the customer bases described below? ................................................................ 47 1.28 Outside your community, please list the top five communities where your customers originate. ........................................................ 48 1.29 Where do your customers typically park? ...................................................................................................................................................... 35 1.30 Do your customers express that is it hard to find a parking space in downtown Coboconk? ............................................................... 36 1.31 How do you track your customers’ needs?................................................................................................................................................... 37 1.32 How do you market your products/services? ............................................................................................................................................... 38 1.33 Does your business participate and/or benefit in the following downtown events? ............................................................................... 39 1.34 Do you track the impact of downtown events on your business? ............................................................................................................. 40 1.35 Do you have an idea for a downtown event? ............................................................................................................................................... 41 1.36 Where is the toughest competition for your business? ............................................................................................................................... 42 1.37 What is your general impression of downtown as a place to do seasonal business? ........................................................................... 43 1.38 What is your general impression of downtown as a place to do year-round business? ........................................................................ 44 1.39 How has your attitude about doing business in downtown changed over the past 24 months? .......................................................... 45 1.40 Over the past three (3) years have your revenues at this location:? ........................................................................................................ 46 1.41 What are your expectations for next year’s total revenues compared to this year? .............................................................................. 47 1.42 Within the next three years, which of the following do you plan to undertake at this location? ........................................................... 48 1.43 What competitive advantage do you think downtown businesses offer to customers? ......................................................................... 49 1.44 How beneficial are the following to your business? .................................................................................................................................... 50 16 1.45 What do you suggest could improve the business environment in downtown? ..................................................................................... 51 1.46 What could be done to make downtown a more physically appealing area? ......................................................................................... 53 1.47 Please rate your level of satisfaction regarding the appearance of the following: ................................................................................. 54 1.48 Please rate your level of satisfaction with the following in downtown: ..................................................................................................... 56 1.49 What three additional businesses/services would benefit your business in downtown? ...................................................................... 58 1.50 What do you see as the top three initiatives that could benefit business in downtown? ....................................................................... 60 1.51 How do you envision downtown emerging as a distinct destination that separates it from other downtowns within 100kms? ...... 62 1.52 Any other comments you wish to share? ...................................................................................................................................................... 63 17 1. Downtown Coboconk-Norland Business Owner Survey
1.1 Where is your business located?
The table below is sorted by community and details the number of businesses in the study area as well as the number of
survey responses received.
Community
Coboconk
Norland
Total
Number of businesses
(% of total businesses)
33
(80%)
8
(20%)
41
Number of responses
(% of total responses)
25
(86%)
4
(14%)
29
(71%)
18 1.2 Which street is your business located downtown?
The table below is sorted by street and details the number of businesses in the study area as well as the number of
survey responses received.
Street
Albert Street
Highway 35
Monck Road
Nipissing Street
North Water Street
South Water Street
Summeside Road
Skipped Question by
Coboconk respondents
Total
# businesses
(% of total businesses)
4
(10%)
30
(75%)
3
(7%)
1
(2%)
1
(2%)
1
(2%)
1
(2%)
41
# responses
(% of total responses)
0
(0%)
25
(88%)
0
(0%)
1
(3%)
0
(0%)
1
(3%)
1
(3%)
1
(3%)
29
(71%)
19 1.3
How long have you operated this business in downtown?
Coboconk businesses appear to be evenly distributed across the survey options. Norland presents a strong showing of
new business injections with 50% of businesses being within their first five years of operation. One Coboconk respondent
skipped this question.
20 1.4 Do you rent or own the property?
Coboconk shows a high proportion of businesses operating from premises they own. Norland is high as well. This could
be from the number of home-based businesses in the area. One Coboconk respondent skipped this question.
21 1.5 If “rent”, what is the term of the lease?
A combined view of lease terms indicates a strong popularity for one-year terms however Coboconk also has a strong
representation for businesses in possession of three-year terms. Two Coboconk respondents who lease their premise
chose to skip this question.
22 1.6 Is the business owner involved in the front-line operations?
96% of Coboconk business owners are involved in the front line operations of their business as compared to 75% of
Norland business owners. Nine Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
23 1.7 Is the business owner a resident of the community?
100% of Norland of business owners were also residents of Norland. Only 60% of Coboconk business owners resided in
the same community as their business. Nine Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
24 1.8 Does the business have a Succession, Formal Business and/or Formal Marketing Plan(s)?
When asked if business owners had the follow plans in place, 14 Coboconk respondents and one Norland respondent
chose to skip the question. The remaining 14 respondents answered as follows:
25 1.9 How many employees work at this location?
The majority of businesses in both Coboconk and Norland employ one to four people regardless of the season. Coboconk
does experience an upswing in employee need during the peak season but Norland remains consistent in employment
numbers. 1 Coboconk respondent chose to skip this question.
Slow Season
Peak Season
26 1.10 How do you rate the availability of workers in this area for your business needs?
Norland respondents were more positive in their view of available skilled labour. Coboconk appears to have significant
concerns regarding the quality of the local labour force. Five Coboconk respondents and one Norland respondent chose
to skip this question.
27 1.11 Is employee turnover an issue for your business?
Business owners in both communities had similar perspectives on employee turnover. Five Coboconk respondents and
one Norland respondent chose to skip this question
28 1.12 Where do employees or the owner of this business typically park?
Over 7% of respondents in both communities indicated that staff or the business owner typically park in a private lot that
they provide. Seven Coboconk respondents and one Norland respondent, who indicated a “private lot” provided the
number of parking spaces available. The nature of the responses made it difficult to calculate an average number of
parking spaces available. A list of the responses can be found below the graphs. One Coboconk respondent chose to
skip this question.
Coboconk Responses to “If a private lot, please indicate the number of spaces”:
Coboconk
1
2
3
4
12
15
My own driveway or back yard, 3 at most.
Norland
5
29 1.13 Please indicate the workshops that would make your business more competitive.
Five Coboconk respondents and one Norland respondent chose to skip this question
Please indicate the workshops that would make your business more competitive - Coboconk.
Answer Options
Yes
Customer Service
6
Computer Skills
5
Social Media Marketing
10
Staff Development
9
Visual Merchandising
5
Financial Management
3
Marketing
7
Evaluating Market Opportunities
7
Dealing with Competition
6
Other (please specify)
Other, please specify: Highway sign to indicate location.
No
Maybe
Responses
5
6
2
6
4
8
4
4
3
2
2
4
2
3
2
5
3
5
13
13
16
17
12
13
16
14
14
1
Please indicate the workshops that would make your business more competitive – Norland.
Answer Options
Yes
No
Maybe
Customer Service
2
0
0
Computer Skills
1
1
1
Social Media Marketing
1
0
1
Staff Development
1
1
0
Visual Merchandising
1
1
1
Financial Management
2
0
0
Marketing
2
0
0
Evaluating Market Opportunities
2
0
0
Dealing with Competition
2
0
0
Other (please specify)
Other, please specify: Highway sign to indicate location: Not Applicable.
Responses
2
3
2
2
3
2
2
2
2
1
30 1.14 If workshops were offered, what would be the best time to offer these workshops?
If workshops were offered to the public, winter after business hours appears to be the most popular time for both
communities. Norland also garnered equal interest in spring after business hours and fall after business hours. Additional
comments are noted below the graphs. Five Coboconk respondents and one Norland respondent chose to skip the
question.
Additional Coboconk comments:
Additional Norland comments:
1. I am flexible for times.
1. Not applicable.
31 1.15 Does your business operate year round?
99% of the businesses operate year round in Coboconk, compared to 75% in Norland. Two Coboconk respondents chose
to skip this question.
Additional Coboconk comments:
1. Closed Monday and Tuesdays in the clow
season
2. April - November
32 1.16 Which model of operating hours does your business follow?
More businesses operate standard hours in Norland than Cobonk. Two Coboconk respondents chose to skip this
question.
33 1.17 If “standard Hours”, what are the standard hours of operation for this business?
The majority of Coboconk respondents indicated they open for standard hours starting at 8:00am Monday – Saturday and
are closed on Sunday.
12 respondents chose to answer this question in some variation but not to completion as shown in the totals line. There is
the possibility that the three missing responses for Sunday were because the businesses are closed that day. One
Coboconk respondent chose to skip this question.
OPEN - Standard Hours - Coboconk
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
0
0
0
0
0
Closed
1
1
1
1
1
7:00 AM
7:30 AM
2
2
2
2
2
4
4
4
4
4
8:00 AM
1
1
1
1
1
8:30 AM
4
4
3
3
4
9:00 AM
Total
12
12
11
11
12
Saturday
2
1
1
4
0
2
Sunday
5
10
9
1
0
1
0
2
Norland respondents Monday – Friday at either 8:00am or 11:00am. The difference in start times is most likely related to
sector. E.g. Desitnation service compared to Convenience service.
OPEN - Standard Hours – Norland
Monday Tuesday
Wednesday
0
0
0
Closed
1
1
1
8:00 AM
0
0
1
9:00 AM
1
1
1
11:00 AM
Total
2
2
3
Thursday
0
1
1
1
Friday
0
1
1
1
3
3
Saturday Sunday
1
1
0
0
1
0
1
1
3
2
34 The majority of those respondents operating standard hours indicated they close Monday thru Friday between 5:00pm
and 6:00pm. There is a possibility that the 5:00am close time was intended to be 5:00pm in which case the more notable
concentration of closing times would be 5:00pm. Saturday closing times appear to be variable over the course of the day.
Closed Standard Hours - Coboconk
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
0
0
0
0
Closed
1
1
1
1
5:00 AM
0
0
0
0
1:00 PM
0
0
0
0
2:00 PM
0
0
0
0
4:00 PM
4:30 PM
2
2
2
2
4
4
3
3
5:00 PM
3
3
3
3
6:00 PM
2
2
2
2
9:00 PM
0
0
0
0
9:30 PM
0
0
0
0
10:00 PM
Total
12
12
11
11
Friday
0
1
0
0
0
2
4
3
1
0
1
12
Saturday Sunday
2
5
0
0
2
0
2
0
0
1
0
0
1
1
1
0
2
1
0
1
0
0
10
9
5:00pm also seems to be a popular closing time for Norland businesses. Note: There is a discrepancy of fewer
businesses listing an open time than those indicating closing times.
Closed Standard Hours - Norland
Monday Tuesday Wednesday
1
1
0
Closed
0
0
0
3:00 PM
5:00 PM
1
1
2
1
1
1
9:00 PM
Total
3
3
3
Thursday
0
0
2
1
Friday
0
1
1
1
Saturday
1
0
1
1
Sunday
2
0
0
1
3
3
3
3
35 1.18 When is your peak season?
Ten Coboconk respondents indicated they operated on hours that varied by season. When asked about their “peak”
season all shared a response. Only one Norland respondent was noted as operating on varying hours by season.
Coboconk
1.May to July
2. May to September
3. May to October
4.May to October
5. May to October
6. June to September
7. May long weekend till labour day
8. May to October
9. May to October
When is your Peak Season ?
12
11
10
11
10
10
10
8
6
6
4
10. March to September
2
Norland
1. May to October
1
0
0
Jan
Feb
1
0
0
Nov
Dec
0
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
36 1.19 If “Vary by Season”, what are the hours of operation for this business during the “peak” season?
Seven of the ten Coboconk respondents who selected their hours varied by season chose to answer this question.
Although the open times are fairly evenly disbursed between 5:00am and 11:00am there is a subtle majority who indicated
an open time of 11:00 am Monday thru Sunday during the peak season.
The notable change from the businesses operating on standard hours is the number of businesses that operate on
Sunday.
The one Norland respondent that operates on varying hours by season opens most days at 9:00am, opting for
Wednesdays off and working the weekend.
OPEN - Varying Hours by Season (Peak)- Coboconk
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
0
0
0
0
Closed
1
1
1
1
5:00 AM
1
1
1
1
6:00 AM
1
1
1
1
7:30 AM
1
1
1
1
8:30 AM
9:00 AM
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
11:00 AM
Total
7
7
7
7
Friday
0
1
1
1
1
1
2
7
Saturday Sunday
0
0
1
1
1
1
1
0
1
1
1
2
2
2
7
7
OPEN - Varying Hours by Season (Peak)- Norland
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Closed
1
1
0
1
1
1
1
9:00 AM
Total
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
37 Much like open times in Coboconk, there is a notable disbursement of closing times between 6:00pm and 11:00pm. This
may represent the difference between retail and service versus food/entertainment businesses in the Coboconk study
area.
Closed - Hours Varied by Season (Peak) - Coboconk
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
0
0
0
0
0
Closed
0
0
0
0
1
2:00 AM
0
0
0
0
0
5:00 PM
2
2
2
2
1
6:00 PM
0
0
0
0
1
7:00 PM
1
1
1
1
1
8:00 PM
1
1
1
1
1
9:00 PM
3
3
3
3
1
10:00 PM
0
0
0
0
1
11:30 PM
Total
7
7
7
7
7
Saturday
0
1
0
2
0
1
1
1
1
Sunday
0
0
1
1
0
1
1
3
0
7
7
In addition to staying open on weekends, this business in Norland extends peak season hours on Friday until
8:00pm.
Closed - Hours Varied by Season (Peak)- Norland
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Closed
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
4:00 PM
1
1
0
1
0
1
0
5:00 PM
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
8:00 PM
Total
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
38 1.20 If “Vary by Season”, what are the hours of operation for this business during the “non-peak”
season?
Seven Coboconk respondents selected their hours varied by season and all respondents also chose to answer this
question. Similar to peak season there is a even distribution of open times, the exceptions being some businesses open
an hour later than peak season and the change where some businesses are “closed” some days rather than operating
seven days a week. .
Open - Hours Varied by Season (Non-Peak Season) - Coboconk
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
2
2
0
0
0
0
1
Closed
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
6:00 AM
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
7:00 AM
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
7:30 AM
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
8:30 AM
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
9:00 AM
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
10:00 AM
0
0
1
1
2
2
0
11:00 AM
0
0
1
1
0
0
2
12:00 PM
7
7
7
7
7
7
7
Total
Open -
Hours Varied by Season (Non-Peak)- Norland
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday Sunday
Closed
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
4:00 PM
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
5:00 PM
8:00 PM
1
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
Total
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
39 Seven Coboconk respondents chose to share their closing times in some variation but not to completion as shown in the
totals line
Following the trend of opening a bit later during the non-peak season, some businesses also chose to close a bit earlier,
shortening the business day.
Closed - Hours Varied by Season (Non-Peak) – Coboconk
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
1
0
0
0
0
Closed
1
1
1
1
1
1
4:00 PM
1
1
1
1
1
1
5:30 PM
2
2
2
1
2
2
6:00 PM
0
0
0
1
0
0
8:00 PM
0
0
1
1
0
0
9:00 PM
1
1
2
2
2
1
10:00 PM
0
0
0
0
0
1
11:00 PM
0
0
0
0
1
1
11:30 PM
6
6
7
7
7
7
Total
Sunday
1
2
0
1
2
0
1
0
0
7
5:00pm continues to be the closing time in the non-peak season, including the Friday earlier reported to be a later closing
time. Note: There is a discrepancy of an open time on Thursday but not a closing time.
Closed - Hours Varied by Season (Non-Peak)- Norland
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Closed
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
5:00 PM
1
1
0
0
1
1
10
1
1
1
0
1
1
1
Total
40 1.21 Please rate your busiest months on a scale of 1 to 12; 1 being busiest.
Please rate your busiest months from 1 to 12 (1=busiest, 12=slowest). - Coboconk
Month
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
N/A
Responses
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
0
1
0
0
3
6
12
13
2
1
0
1
1
0
0
0
4
2
3
1
2
1
0
1
0
0
1
1
0
6
1
1
5
3
3
1
0
0
0
2
4
1
0
1
4
2
1
0
0
0
1
1
3
0
1
0
3
1
1
1
0
1
0
4
0
0
0
1
0
5
0
1
1
0
0
5
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
0
1
1
2
1
2
0
0
0
0
2
5
2
1
0
3
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
2
3
1
3
3
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
4
2
2
1
1
1
1
0
1
2
2
1
7
6
4
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
16
14
16
16
17
17
18
18
18
18
16
16
Please rate your busiest months from 1 to 12 (1=busiest, 12=slowest) - Norland.
Month
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
N/A
Responses
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
0
0
1
1
1
0
1
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
2
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
1
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
2
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
3
4
41 18 of the 25 Coboconk respondents shared their answers in some variation but not to completion. All respondents for
Norland offered ratings.
Two additional comments shared by Coboconk respondents for this question:
1. July and August are usually pretty equal. June and September are close as are May and October.
2. This will vary for a number of factors.
1.22 During a typical week, please rate your busiest days on a scale of 1 to 7.
18 out of the 25 Coboconk respondents rated the days of the week on a scale of 1 to 7 (1 being busiest). This question
was completed in some variation but not to completion.
Not applicable appears to be the most popular response for Sunday which would be supported by the number of
businesses who operate standard hours and indicated they are closed on Sunday. Outside of the “N/A” responses
Saturday appears to be the busiest day.
During a typical week, please rate your busiest days from 1 to 7 (1=busiest, 7= slowest) - Coboconk.
Day
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Additional Comments:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
N/A
Responses
3
5
2
1
3
8
11
1
2
2
3
1
7
2
2
3
2
3
4
1
1
2
0
1
2
4
0
0
1
3
0
3
1
0
0
0
2
7
3
2
1
0
1
3
4
2
2
0
1
7
0
0
1
1
0
3
17
18
18
18
18
17
18
1. This depends on the time of year as well. I did for peak season. Off season the weekends are very slow, even
considering cutting back on the hours for the weekends.
2. This varies.
42 Once again, not applicable appears to be the most popular response for Sunday which would be supported by the number
of businesses who operate standard hours and indicated they are closed on Sunday. Outside of the “N/A” responses
Saturday appears to be the busiest day.
During a typical week, please rate your busiest days from 1 to 7 (1=busiest, 7= slowest) - Norland.
Day
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
N/A
Responses
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
0
1
0
0
0
1
1
1
0
0
1
0
1
0
1
0
0
1
3
0
0
0
1
2
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
1
1
1
0
0
1
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
1.23 The majority of my customers are:
Over 80% of responses in Coboconk and Norland indicated that there isn’t a noticeable distinction between the gender of
their customers. Four Cobconk respondents chose to skip this question.
43 1.24 The majority of my customers are:
As with gender, marital status also has no bearing on customer demographics in both Coboconk and Norland. Four
Cobconk respondents chose to skip this question.
44 1.25 Please indicate the age group that best represents the majority of your customers. E.g., 25-40
19 of the 25 Coboconk respondents chose to share their answers. The table below lists the various responses and the
frequency of each response.
Response - Coboconk
Frequency
Customers are all ages, from families with
small children to elderly (80+)
15-65
18-80
20-60
25-60
25-70
25-80
30-50
30-65
30-75
30-80
40-60
40-65
40-75
45-65
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Response – Norland Frequency
18-75
1
25-55
25-60
1
1
45 1.26 What percentage of your revenue originates from:
When asked what percentage of “business” came from Foot Traffic in their brick and mortar presence, internet/telephone
sales or other, the following responses were shared. Nine Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
Coboconk
“Other”, please specify:
16
1.Word of mouth
14
12
10
2. Other Customers
8
8
6
1
4
4
2
0
75%-100%
1
1
3
50%-75%
3
3
1
2
2
1
2
Foot Traffic
Internet/Telephone Sales
Other
25%-50%
10%-25%
3. Referral 90%
4. Website, word of mouth
5. Referrals from locals and past customers
6. Word of mouth
7. Word of mouth.
Norland
3.5
3
75%-100%
2.5
50%-75%
2
1.5
3
25%-50%
1
10%-25%
1
0.5
1
0
Foot Traffic
Internet/Telephone Sales
0
Other
46 1.27 What percent of your revenue comes from each of the customer bases described below?
When asked what percentage of revenue came from the various customer bases eight Coboconk respondents skipped
this question.
Coboconk
18
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
6
1
2
2
3
3
1
1
1
2
2
1
2
3
2
Downtown
Employees
Downtown
Residents
Within a 10
minute drive
8
2
7
3
3
3
3
1
2
1
4
Under 10%
10%-24%
25%-49%
50%-75%
75%+
N/A
1
Within a 10-30 More than a 30
minute drive
minute drive
Norland
4.5
4
3.5
3
2.5
2
1.5
1
0.5
0
1
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
Downtown
Employees
Downtown
Residents
Within a 10
minute drive
2
2
Under 10%
10%-24%
25%-49%
50%-75%
75%+
N/A
Within a 10-30 More than a 30
minute drive
minute drive
47 1.28 Outside your community, please list the top five communities where your customers originate.
The top five communities question received a variety of answers. All communities are listed below with the number of
times they were listed. Six Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question. Please note that all 19 Coboconk
respondents did not offer five community names each. There was an opportunity for 95 community entries however only
89 were shared.
Coboconk
?
Four Mile Lake
Barrie- Simcoe
Beaverton
Bexley
Bobcaygeon
Brampton
Burnt River
Cameron
Europe
Fenelon Falls
Hamilton
Head Lake
Kawartha Lakes
Kinmount
Kirkfield
Lindsay
London
Minden
Minors Bay
Mississauga
Newmarket
Norland
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
7
1
1
5
1
1
1
5
11
7
1
4
1
3
1
13
Oshawa
Ottawa region
Peterborough
Port Perry
Richmond Hill
Rosedale
Scarborough
Toronto (GTA)
USA
Waterloo
Norland
Barrie
Brampton
Collingwood
Fenelon Falls
GTA
Haliburton
Lindsay
Minden
Ottawa
Toronto
Whitby
2
1
1
1
1
3
1
5
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
2
2
1
2
1
48 1.29 Where do your customers typically park?
Most respondents in each community indicated their customers park “In a private lot”. Five Coboconk respondents chose
to skip this question.
If “In a private parking lot” please specify the number of
space:
1. 50
2. 12
If “In a private parking lot” please specify the number of
space:
1. 15
2. 5
35 1.30 Do your customers express that is it hard to find a parking space in downtown Coboconk?
17 of the 25 Coboconk opted to answer this question. Six also chose to share additional comments.
Additional Comments:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Everyday/all day
Quite often
Monthly
Every weekend in the summer
Not applicable
Every day all day
Additional Comments:
1. All the time, also use side of Highway 35 (paved).
2. Very often, this is a major concern.
36 1.31 How do you track your customers’ needs?
All methods of tracking were employed to some degree, however, most respondents track their customers’ needs via
“informal customer dialogue”. Six Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question
Other, please specify:
1. Formal customer dialogue
37 1.32 How do you market your products/services?
Respondents to this question appear to employ a diversity of marketing approaches. Seven Cobconk respondents chose
to skip this question.
Other:
1. Word of mouth
2. Need suggestions
3. Direct referral
4. Billboards
5. Sign on property
Other:
1. Word of mouth
38 1.33 Does your business participate and/or benefit in the following downtown events?
Participation is strong in both communities. Seven Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
Coboconk
Other, please specify:
1. Strongman competition, summer
Gospel service at Foodland.
25
20
15
Participate
15
10
5
0
6
1
Fresh
Water
Summit
10
5
4
2
8
Santa
Claus
Parade
2
4
2
3
7
8
Benefit
N/A
1
Summer
Duck Derby Summer
Sessions at
Music
The Pattie
Series
House
1
0
Other
Other, please specify:
1. Fresh Water Summit, Duck Derby
Norland
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
3
1
1
2
1
Participate
Benefit
N/A
1
1
1
1
Norland Fair
Free Skating at The
Riverside Inn
Other
39 1.34 Do you track the impact of downtown events on your business?
Note: Seven Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
If “yes”, how:
1. Just through conversation with
clients.
2. Not really
3. By asking customers what they do
while here and making suggestions
about things happening in town.
4. Based on sales comparison to
typical day without event.
5. I always ask potential clients how
they found us.
6. Customer count (transactions).
If “yes”, how:
1. Informal questions to customers.
40 1.35 Do you have an idea for a downtown event?
There were eight comments, from Coboconk business owners, regarding “Ideas for a downtown event”:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Ice rink in winter (outdoor)
open air restaurant
Harvest Festival, Winter Festival, Earth Day events
Winter season Snowmobilefest or winter carnival type with various events...at the park with the new rink hopefully
Something related to the historic logging industry of the town.
concerts
I will think about some ideas
ice skating in the winter, movie nights in the park, art show, car show, ski doo event, fishing derby
There was one response, from Norland business owners, regarding “Ideas for a downtown event”:
1
Self guided historic tours of selected sites outlined in a pamphlet made available at local businesses.
41 1.36 Where is the toughest competition for your business?
Both communities view other communities as their toughest competion. Eight Coboconk respondents chose to skip this
question.
Other comments shared:
1. Other salons running out of their homes and
charging half the price.
42 1.37 What is your general impression of downtown as a place to do seasonal business?
Overall, the responses were positive with only 6% in Coboconk indicating “poor” as a response. Eight Coboconk
respondents chose to skip this question.
43 1.38 What is your general impression of downtown as a place to do year-round business?
Dissatisfaction with the downtown increases when considering a 12-month period. Eight Coboconk respondents chose to
skip this question.
44 1.39 How has your attitude about doing business in downtown changed over the past 24 months?
The majority of business owners in both communities have not changed their attitude about doing business in the
downtown over the past 24 months, however, 17% have developed a negative attitude in the past 2 years. Seven
Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
45 1.40 Over the past three (3) years have your revenues at this location:?
Despite increasing negative attitudes and a dissatisfaction with the year-round business environment, the majority of
businesses in both communities indicated an increase in revenues over the past three year. Seven Coboconk
respondents chose to skip this question.
46 1.41 What are your expectations for next year’s total revenues compared to this year?
The majority of respondents indicated they anticipate their revenues to remain steady or increase over the next year. 11%
of Coboconk respondents expect a decrease in revenues. Seven Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
47 1.42 Within the next three years, which of the following do you plan to undertake at this location?
While many Coboconk respondents do not anticipate changes in their place of business approximately 75% of Norland
respondents will be renovating or relocating within the next three years. Eight Coboconk respondents chose to skip this
question.
48 1.43 What competitive advantage do you think downtown businesses offer to customers?
Customers were asked to select one of six options regarding competitive advantage, the majority of respondents indicated
“Customer Service. Seven Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
Additional Coboconk comments:
1. All but quality
2. Brand names and competitive pricing as well.
49 1.44 How beneficial are the following to your business?
Nine Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
How beneficial are the following to your business in Coboconk?
Answer Options
Very
Beneficial
Somewhat
Beneficial
No
Benefit
Local one day events
5
5
4
Festivals/Fairs
4
7
3
Sporting events
3
3
3
Cultural facilities
3
4
4
Tour companies
3
1
5
Public park areas
2
9
4
Public trails
3
4
3
Trent Severn Waterway
9
6
0
Other
2
0
0
Other, please specify: Other service businesses such as restaurants.
Perhaps if
they were
improved
0
0
2
0
1
1
2
0
0
N/A
Responses
0
1
2
3
3
0
2
0
0
14
15
13
14
13
16
14
15
2
How beneficial are the following to your business in Norland?
Answer Options
Local one day events
Festivals/Fairs
Sporting events
Cultural facilities
Tour companies
Public park areas
Public trails
Trent Severn Waterway
Other
Very
Beneficial
Somewhat
Beneficial
No
Benefit
1
2
2
2
1
2
2
2
0
1
0
1
1
2
1
1
1
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Perhaps if
they were
improved
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
N/A
Responses
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
0
50 1.45 What do you suggest could improve the business environment in downtown?
All items were selected as a viable improvement, however, repair eyesore buildings received significant support in both
communities. Seven Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
Coboconk
Norland
51 Other Coboconk Comments, please specify:
1. Gas station
Other Norland Comments, please specify:
2. Expand on what we have – parks bocce court and
chess tables. Have game pieces available for
signout at the library, dog walk facilities, historic
place markers to designate areas that are of
historical significance.
3. Public washrooms, program to rid the park/beach of
geese
.
52 1.46 What could be done to make downtown a more physically appealing area?
When provided a list of remedial actions to improve the physical appearance of downtown 18 of the 25 Coboconk
respondents and all four Norland respondents selected the following
Coboconk
Norland
53 1.47 Please rate your level of satisfaction regarding the appearance of the following:
When asked to rate their level of satisfaction regarding the appearance of a number of downtown features Eight Coboconk
respondents chose to skip this question.
Please rate your level of satisfaction with the appearance of the following in downtown Coboconk
Answer Options
Directional signage
Gateway signage
Trees and flowers
Litter/weed control
Street furniture
Recreational Water Quality
Public Docks
Public Swimming Access
Control of Geese Population
Vagrancy/panhandling
Vandalism
Sidewalks/Pedestrian environment
Parking lots
Conditions of public washroom
Condition of building facades
Other
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
N/A
Responses
1
1
5
0
0
0
1
0
1
2
0
1
1
1
0
0
3
6
11
13
8
4
6
3
1
2
5
3
5
1
2
0
8
5
1
2
7
4
5
5
3
1
5
8
4
2
7
1
3
3
0
2
1
7
4
8
10
0
2
3
6
6
5
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
9
2
0
0
5
0
0
16
16
17
17
16
15
16
16
15
14
14
15
16
15
14
1
54 Please rate your level of satisfaction with the appearance of the following in downtown Norland
Answer Options
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
N/A
1
1
2
0
0
Directional signage
1
1
0
0
2
Gateway signage
2
2
0
0
0
Trees and flowers
1
1
1
1
0
Litter/weed control
1
0
0
3
0
Street furniture
1
0
2
0
1
Recreational Water Appearance
1
0
2
0
1
Public Docks
1
2
0
0
1
Geese Population
3
0
0
1
0
Vagrancy/panhandling
2
1
0
0
1
Vandalism
1
0
1
1
1
Sidewalks/Pedestrian environment
1
0
0
3
0
Parking lots
1
0
1
1
1
Conditions of public washroom
1
0
0
2
1
Condition of building facades
1
1
0
2
0
Public access swimming
0
0
0
0
1
Other
Other, please specify: Better signage to show directions to parking, park, swimming, picnic areas.
Responses
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
1
55 1.48 Please rate your level of satisfaction with the following in downtown:
60 business own Eight Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
Please rate your level of satisfaction with the following in downtown Coboconk
Answer Options
Excellent
Visual identity of the area
1
Accessibility for people with disabilities
0
Public Safety (eg. lighting, police presence)
2
Public Transit
0
Availability of public washrooms
0
Information centres
0
Number of commercial vacancies
0
Appropriate mix of businesses
0
Appropriate range of quality/price for products/services
0
Organization of special events
2
Customer service
2
Advertising campaigns
0
Organization of special events
3
Other
1
Other, please specify: Implementation of the Chamber of Commerce.
Good
Fair
Poor
N/A
Responses
5
4
7
0
1
5
1
5
6
10
11
5
10
0
7
10
5
2
1
8
8
5
7
3
1
7
1
1
2
1
2
7
12
2
5
5
2
0
1
2
0
0
0
1
0
7
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
15
16
16
16
15
15
14
15
15
15
15
14
14
2
56 Please rate your level of satisfaction with the following in downtown Norland.
Answer Options
Visual identity of the area
Accessibility for people with disabilities
Public Safety (eg. lighting, police presence)
Public Transit
Availability of public washrooms
Information centres
Number of commercial vacancies
Appropriate mix of businesses
Appropriate range of quality/price for products/services
Organization of special events
Customer service
Advertising campaigns
Organization of special events
Other
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
N/A
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
2
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
4
0
2
0
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
2
2
1
0
2
1
0
1
1
0
1
2
2
3
2
0
1
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
2
1
1
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
1
Response
Count
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
1
57 1.49 What three additional businesses/services would benefit your business in downtown?
The top three additional businesses/services received a variety of answers. All suggestions are listed below with the
number of times they were listed, if duplicated. Please note that all 13 Coboconk respondents did not offer three
additional businesses/services each. There was an opportunity for 39 potential entries however only 36 were shared. 15
Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
Coboconk
Frequency
Norland
Frequency
Arena
Better parking enforcement on main street especially in
the summer
Better snow removal on main street
1
Antiques
1
Banking
1
Clean up derelict buildings and lots
1
Clothing Retail
4
Credit union
1
Deli/sandwich shop/bakery
Fuel
Gas station
Gift Store
Marine Gas Station
Motel
Organic Food
Outdoor Tripping/Outfitting/Tour Company for fishing,
boating, hiking, biking, etc
Public skating rink
Public waterfront access
Recreation
Restaurant
Retail
1
2
9
2
1
2
1
1
1
Fruit/Vegetable Market
1
Gift Shop
1
mainline bank machine-not generic 1
manufacturing
1
Retail - Specialty Shops
1
Laundromat
Sidewalks
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
58 Service Ontario
Specialty Retail
Tim Hortons
1
1
1
59 1.50 What do you see as the top three initiatives that could benefit business in downtown?
When asked what top three initiatives would benefit the downtown as a whole ten Coboconk business owners shared the
following 27 out of a potential 30 opportunities. All suggestions are listed below with the number of times they were listed,
if duplicated. 15 Coboconk respondents chose to skip this question.
Coboconk
Frequency
Allowing development without high price
1
Better marketing for being Canada's Fresh
Water Summit
Build a rink in the park...outdoor
Norland
Frequency
More sidewalks
1
Maintain grass cutting in front of
firehall and derelict buildings
1
lowering or eliminating business
startup fees and development fees
1
1
1
More parking along Hwy 35 and snow
1
removal
Clean up derelict buildings and lots
1
Create a Connecting link program
1
Demolition of dilapidated buildings and
rebuilding with new businesses or parks
1
Docking
1
Encourage more businesses
1
Fill vacant buildings
Gas station
Geese reduction to improve our waterfront
1
3
1
Waterpark/splashpad
1
municipal police and sign nazis
interfering with customer traffic and
advertising
1
Repair sidewalks
1
Tear Down or improve derelict
buildings
1
parking
1
60 Historical tour
Ice skating rink
Marketing our identity as a destination
More festivals or longer festivals
Other winter activities
Partnerships to build and market
experiential tourism packages
Remove junky horrible eyesore buildings
Remove MTO from Highway 35 inside
Coboconk
Remove/demo empty building
Removing eyesore building and improving
streetscape
Signage at Hwy 35 & 48 corner to entice
traffic into town instead of just heading
north
Store front visibility for Chamber of
Commerce
Upgrade facade of town to a "cottage" style
town
Winter Festival to bring business in low
season
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
61 1.51 How do you envision downtown emerging as a distinct destination that separates it from other
downtowns within 100kms?
Eight Coboconk business owners shared the following suggestions on how they envision downtown emerging as a distinct
destination from other downtowns within a 100km radius. 17 Coboconk respondents and three Norland respondents
chose to skip this question.
Coboconk Responses
I don't see any positive changes happening if the MTO and "City" don't allow the changes that have tried eg. Ryans
natural pleasant environment
Create better atmosphere to encourage campers (provincial park) and cottagers to buy goods and services here. More
uniform signage and appealing storefront presentation. Improve parking and signage to make access easier. We have a
unique natural setting that should be promoted and further development to encourage usage.
Coboconk enjoys a major advantage - it is part of the Trent Severn Waterway, on one of the most popular/clean lakes,
and it has an interesting history to tell. If we were able to tear down the dilapidated buildings and use those spaces
strategically, give the local store owners some help to improve their facades, and improve way finding signage,
Coboconk would be seen as an attractive town with lots of personality, drawing tourists, residents, and businesses to the
area.
needs to have a winter festival with a focus...as well as enhance the look of the town and grow the summer festivals.......
Use the water as a theme. Market our uniqueness as "Canada's Fresh Water Summit". Take the fresh water theme
further so that it includes environmental aspect as well as geographical.
By allowing the 4 corners of 48 & 35 to be developed outside the regulations of the MTO.
Like Port Carling
62 Norland Response
an emphasis on historic events that have occurred through pictoral signs at the location of the event, building or park.
This is a simple method to make a memorable stop in a trip. Then let local businesses make it fun, entertaining and
tasty. Not alot of extra work, no staffing costs and no facilities to maintain.
1.52 Any other comments you wish to share?
Three Coboconk business owners opted to share the following additional comments
Coboconk
A proper swimming area or swimming pad would help tremendously
1
We must remove the horrible building ruins we have in town or everything else we are trying to do here is a waste
of effort...the town looks like Buffalo or Detroit because of these places not a nice looking cottage town. It has to
be priority #1. It will shadow all other good work being done !!!
2
The work that has been accomplished in the past few years to unite the business community in an effort to make it
a better place to live and visit is to be applauded. May it continue to grow and improve.
3
Norland
The municipal parking lot has had weeds growing to the extent that I took my little clippers to cut back the large
bush growing in the pedestrian entrance/exit gate. in winter, the parking lot cleaner, the sidewalk cleaner and the
road plow operator need to exchange memos, because the mountains of snow that one or the other pile in the
paths of the parking lot make it inaccessible to all but the arctic mountain goat and desperate business owner
(me). Signage to the same parking lot is so obscure that a valiant promotional campaign to my customers has
resulted in limited use by the few who can find the entrance.
1
63