Orillia Mayor Steve Clarke stresses that small, independent businesses are "the lifeblood" of the city and its economy.
He acknowledges the challenges that COVID-19 present and said municipal leaders understand the frustration local business owners are facing on top of the uncertainty about when those deemed non-essential might open again.
The city's recently established economic and recovery task force is working diligently behind the scenes to develop a strategy to support local businesses, Clarke said.
Click on the video above to hear his message.
For more on the city's efforts, visit the page devoted to the pandemic here.
