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Crisis Assistance asks council for a rent break

Nearly 40 per cent of thrift store revenue is paid to the Town of Princeton
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Princeton’s Crisis Assistance Society is looking for some some help.

The society petitioned council Monday night for a reduction in its rent, and council has asked to see a copy of the group’s financial statements.

In a letter to council society president Jack McNeil said the Crisis Assistance Thrift Shop on Vermillion Avenue makes a “modest income” through the sale of donated goods.

That storefront is rented from the municipality.

“I am writing to request a reduction in rent so that moving forward we can utilize what profits we do receive from the store to its greatest potential. This will enable us to continue to help as many people in our community as we can.

CAO Cheryl Martens reported to council that there is no existing lease agreement on file between the municipality and Crisis Assistance, although records show the group’s tenancy began in 2007.

Initially the rent was $452.25, but that amount has fluctuated over the years and the society now pays $448.25.

Information provided by the society in 2017 to the Canada Revenue Agency indicates the society pays nearly 40 per cent of its thrift store revenue to the Town of Princeton.

It reported yearly revenue of $32,026, with $13,707 coming from thrift store sales.

Expenses for the same time were $44,234.

Princeton Crisis Assistance is a not-for-profit group that provides emergency funds and supplies for people in need, and operates the town’s annual Christmas hamper campaign.

Councillor Doug Pateman declared a conflict of interest related to the request.



Andrea DeMeer

About the Author: Andrea DeMeer

Andrea is the publisher of the Similkameen Spotlight.
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