The small community of Tofino on Vancouver Island is looking to ban all future franchise retail establishments from moving into town.
City officials are looking at a draft bylaw that would ban large-format retail chains and fast-food outlets in an effort to protect the character of the small British Columbia.
"'We are very unique where you can come to this place and you don't have a Starbucks, Tim Hortons or a McDonalds,' [Councilor Stephen Ashton] said.
However, Ashton admitted that already existing franchises in the municipality could not be banned.
'I think that we have to be proactive,' he said.
Bob Long, chief administrative officer, said the bylaws will have to be enforceable and council will have to assess the risks involved."
FULL STORY: Tofino set to ban Starbucks, Tim Hortons and McDonalds
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