Maple Ridge has plan to attract and retain business, investment

Maple Ridge city council has endorsed a new strategy for Investment Attraction and Business Retention and Expansion.

strategies will guide next steps in supporting local businesses, attracting new investment, and building a strong, diversified local economy.

 

City hall touts the strategy as a clear, actionable roadmap to help local businesses grow, highlight Maple Ridge’s competitive advantages, and target sectors with strong investment potential.

 

“These strategies are key to reducing the tax burden on residents and creating conditions where businesses can thrive,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy.

“After years of planning, it’s time for action. By aligning the strategies with key infrastructure initiatives like our Abernethy Way expansion and industrial lands planning at 256, Yennadon, and Albion, we’re making their implementation a reality and investing in a future that benefits everyone.”

Multiple city councils have tried to address the issue of increasing the non-residential tax base, to take the burden off residential taxpayers. The average across the Metro region is 13.5 per cent, where Maple Ridge is at approximately nine per cent.

The need for more options for shopping has been a longstanding election issue in the city.

The strategy identifies priority sectors that match Maple Ridge’s strengths and regional trends. Through analysis of local assets, industry benchmarks, and market competitiveness, the strategy pinpoints areas where the city is most likely to attract high-quality jobs and long-term investment.

 

“Investment attraction begins with understanding the municipality and region’s current capabilities, and then matching these to known and developing industry and company needs.” said Aalika Kohli, who is a senior advisor position at the city, and a former business strategist for the City of Calgary.

“Having a clear understanding of the municipality’s value proposition will allow for effectively targeted outreach to,” she said.

 

The Business Retention and Expansion Strategy outlines steps to support local businesses, including direct outreach, enhanced services, and new partnerships. Insights from engagement with local businesses and provincial and regional government partners highlighted key areas for improvement, such as workforce development, clearer communication, and simplified business interactions with the city.

 

This work will be supported by other city initiatives already in progress including:

• Customer experience improvements

• Streamlined building permit process

• Choose Maple Ridge – Support Local

• Be Downtown 

Progress updates will be shared with council and the community as the city implements strategic actions.