Night Mayor On York Street: MULVIHILL
How’s that night mayor working out?
Mathieu Grondin, Ottawa’s new nightlife commissioner, was brought onboard last year to transform the ByWard Market from boring to bustling and do so within 10 years. Grondin might want to put a little pep in his step.
Some could say the ByWard Market is undergoing a transformation and others would say the make-shift skating rink designed to bring in the crowds was a flop. Does anyone know anyone who has taken a twirl? No? Me either.
The owners of Dunn’s Famous Deli are scouting for a buyer for their building. Will Dunn’s stay or will they, too, pack up their breadboards and knives and hightail it out of town?
Recently, Saslove’s Meat Market announced its closing after 70 years of business. Oz Kafe, Pure Kitchen, the Cupcake Lounge and the Courtyard Restaurant also decided to hang up their aprons. Blue Cactus was a market staple until they, too, shuttered their doors.
Some patrons are convinced bringing in new businesses will enliven the market atmosphere while others are concerned that these businesses might be temporary and considered hail-mary passes. Only time will tell.
Meanwhile, perhaps Grondin would be so kind as to grace we taxpayers with an update about exactly what his plan is?
Donna Mulvihill is a community activist and former hospital coordinator.
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If I remember correctly the classic nightmare was on Elm Street. Maybe the Nightmare should join the planning committee responsible for helping the homeless. The businesses you mention would provide plenty of square footage to house many people in need and most of them already have lavatories.
The night mayor has had lots of time to do his investigatory rounds, identify problems and come up with an initial response. He may not have a final plan but he should be able to put out an interim report to let people know what his results are so far.
I’m sure most of the places you mention have left for sound business reasons or, as in the case of Saslove’s, for personal reasons. If they, and all those other businesses who are mulling over their own situations, were aware of what (if anything) is being planned for the Market, would it make a difference to their decisions? You can only hold on to “hope” for so long before the dollars and cents dictate what you have to do.
Residents, the Market and the rest of the hospitality and entertainment businesses in the city have waited more than long enough to see something in return for the investment in the night mayor. He needs to produce or he needs to be shown the door.