I’ve been a subscriber of The Columbian since moving here in 1998. I read the letters to the editor daily and have always felt those submitting were a little off balance (if you know what I mean). Well, here I am writing one so I guess I’ve gone over the edge.
I’m writing regarding the stories being published about Northwest Packing Co., a division of Vancouver-based The Neil Jones Food Co., wanting to renegotiate its lease at the Port of Vancouver. An April 9 story reported “Northwest Packing, port face off: Tenant wants lease subsidy to continue.” They currently lease 15 acres for approximately $150,000 a year and want that amount reduced to $100,000.
For those of you who aren’t familiar with commercial rates for businesses, here’s a little eye-opener. I own a small business on the corner of 192nd Avenue and Mill Plain in eastern Vancouver. I lease 1,500 square feet of retail space for a little less than $60,000 a year. Granted my view isn’t of the Columbia River but a nifty parking lot. I’m a little envious of getting 15 acres for about twice the rate I’m paying for 1,500 square feet. Then it hit me. These guys are a lot smarter than I am. I’m going to go to my landlord and ask for a 30 percent decrease in my rent. I’m fairly certain the conversation will be a short one.
Ken Mork
Vancouver