This week’s Advertiser features a number of articles about the Pearle Hospitality condo development on the south side of the Grand River in Elora.
Being new to covering Centre Wellington, this was the first real meeting I have covered regarding this file.
My first thought when I saw the renderings is that it’s going to be big and that it’s going to change the look of Elora forever. Whether that’s for the good or the bad remains to be seen.
However, I’m strongly leaning towards the good right now … just look at the Elora Mill.
Sure, the development will mean an increase in the number of people living in Elora, but that also means more commerce, more business.
Those residents will have two pedestrian bridges to cross the river in order to access shops or restaurants in downtown Elora, which will be far easier than going to the underground parking garage, taking the car and shopping and eating elsewhere. That convenience should be celebrated and promoted.
Yes, there is a new retail area proposed, but that’s just going to further encourage people to stay local to do their shopping. More shops means more variety, which means more foot traffic. At least that’s what this business columnist thinks.
There’s also the argument that resident Bob Cameron made at the meeting: people are going to be needed first to build the development and second to work at the retail shops and the new hotel. That’s a lot of jobs, a large portion of which will likely go to local people.
Development is going to happen and while we don’t always have to like it, I think it’s important to try to see the benefits that will come with the changes. Sometimes the pros might just outweigh the cons.
* * *
The Arthur Chamber of Commerce has a new president: Tom Gorecki, owner of the Arthur Foodland.
The chamber will also be holding a Community Awards Ceremony this year. It will be held on Oct. 17 and in addition to the annual Citizen of the Year award, the chamber will also be offering Corporate Citizen of the Year and Outstanding Business awards.
* * *
Elora has a new licensed neighbourhood restaurant.
The Friendly Society is located at 102-8 Mill St. W. in Elora.
The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Sunday from noon to 11pm.
For more information visit www.friendlysociety.ca or call 226-384-8452.
* * *
The Kulfi Cafe is now open in Palmerston at 212 Main Street West.
The cafe offers 24 flavors of ice cream, a selection of coffee, teas and iced coffee and sandwiches with vegetarian options including both Indian flavours and Canadian-style food.
The cafe is open Monday to Friday from 7am to 9pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 9pm.
* * *
Don’t forget to email questions/news tips to businessleader@wellingtonadvertiser.com.
