Businesses invited to share feedback on local impacts of shelter services
Northumberland County is launching a new monthly online survey to gather feedback from businesses located within 500 meters of the 310 Division Street, Cobourg shelter. The Business Pulse Survey aims to better understand the impact of shelter services on the business sector and assess measures to support both community well-being and local economic vitality.
Key Details
· First Survey Period: May 5–11, 2025 (reflecting on experiences from April).
· Reporting: Survey results will be reported monthly to the County’s Social Services Standing Committee.
The May report will be shared at the June 4, 2025, meeting. Meeting agendas and reports are posted to //Northumberland.ca/Council four business days before the meeting date.
· Future Surveys: Monthly, during the first week of each month. Businesses operating within 500 meters of 310 Division Street are encouraged to sign up with an email address to receive monthly survey reminders.
Why Participate?
County Council and staff are committed to supporting the local business community while addressing homelessness compassionately and effectively. Your ongoing feedback will inform Council decision-making – identifying trends, guiding adjustments, improving outcomes, and strengthening neighbourhood well-being.
How to access the survey
The first survey will be available starting May 5 at Northumberland.ca/310BusinessSurvey. The survey will be live for a period of one week. Future surveys will be available the first week of each month (eg: the second survey will take place June 2-8, 2025).
How businesses are being notified
Over the next month, notices will be circulated through:
· An advisory to local media
· eNewsletter distribution
· Communication through partner organizations
· Targeted social media to businesses within the survey area
· A targeted direct mail postcard to businesses within the survey area
Business owners and operators are strongly encouraged to participate.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
