Mayors of the BMA meet to discuss the unique needs to border communities during changing economic conditions.
Canada’s Border Mayors Alliance has released a report highlighting the need for economic diversity, tourism, and community collaboration in border towns.
The BMA formed after the U.S. imposed tariffs on most U.S. goods to Canada this year. Those tariffs rose to 35 per cent as of Aug. 1.
Osoyoos’ Mayor Sue McKortoff is a member. She was not available for comment this week due to a scheduled vacation.
“The introduction of these tariffs threatens to disrupt vital supply chains impacting cities and communities across the country, and therefore demands a Canada-first approach,” said Brenda Locke, Surrey mayor, in the report.
In a Tuesday press release, the BMA said the report, “Border Communities Under Shifting Trade Relationships,” details the “complexities and sensitivities of cross-border relationships”
According to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, proximity to the U.S. market drives $3.6 billion in daily cross-border business.
To combat over reliance on U.S. trade, the BMA said it will be diversifying by working with both provincial and federal governments on interprovincial and intra-North American trade policies.
Additionally, BMA recommends growing new industries, developing an east-to-west trade relationship, and modernizing transportation networks
A focus on bringing more tourism to Canadian border communities is another strategy BMA is hoping to encourage. As such, increasing welcoming messaging to U.S. tourists will be a priority for border towns.
Border communities could benefit by enhances cross-sector collaboration, BMA said.
Additional BMA findings include:
* Policy Changes: Government policies on trade and tariffs significantly influence local economies.
* Cross-Border Relations: Diplomatic relations with the U.S. impact trade dynamics and economic opportunities.
* Tourism Trends: Fluctuations in travel patterns and tourism demand affect local business viability.
* Community Collaboration: The effectiveness of inter-
* municipal/inter-provincial collaboration drives strategic planning and resource sharing.
* Seeking the Inclusion of U.S. mayors: Seeking expansion with U.S. mayors to align with the Alliance could support ongoing advocacy efforts with a united front.
“This report captures the unique and critical experiences of border mayors in Canada during this historic shift in our economies, underscoring the vital need for all levels of government to understand and address the specific challenges and opportunities that define life along the world’s longest international border,” said Drew Dilkens, Windsor mayor.
“Creation of the Border Mayors Alliance has allowed us to unite in advocacy, ensuring our voices are amplified to Ottawa and the White House to help safeguard our economies and communities in the face of uncertainty that threatens our investments, growth, and sustainability.”
