Gold- and jewellery-buying businesses have been opening in Ward 15 at a rapid rate. Although I encourage small business development, some of these have been the cause of safety concerns.
All should be able to navigate our sidewalks freely and safely. Unfortunately, unsightly advertising from some gold-buying businesses has come to fill our streets and diminishes the appearance of many of our shopping districts. Residents have reported feeling threatened from the aggressive sales and marketing tactics of this industry.
At their June meeting, City of Toronto’s licensing and standards committee approved my request for a comprehensive review of this industry. This would entail looking at the current licensing system and acts, standards in similar jurisdictions, and reviewing the industry’s best business practices.
I have met with residents, engaged business owners, initiated ongoing inspections through city bylaw officers, worked with bylaw officials to prosecute repeat offenders and collaborated with the Toronto Police Service (TPS) to establish regular patrols of problem areas.
These actions have made clear to me that there is a problem in our community. With a thorough review of this industry, bylaws can be put into place to reward reputable businesses, protect consumers and safeguard the neighbourhood.
Thank you to those who have contacted my office to report unwanted activity associated with such businesses. Please continue to contact my office, at 416-392-4027, or TPS should you notice any behaviour that threatens our enjoyment of our community.
