In 2010, I began sketching corner stores in Ottawa because they seemed to be a disappearing aesthetic. I found out this was because of a bizarre City of Ottawa bylaw that prevented new corner stores from being opened, and "grandfathered" existing stores. This meant if the building was sold, the store had to remain as is, in order to maintain a commercial storefront.

In 2013, I was approached by the City to use some of my illustrations in a survey which they sent to residents asking if new neighbourhood corner stores would be welcome. Apparently the feedback has been positive, and tomorrow night the City will be holding a public consultation on neighbourhood stores. I think this is a good idea, and support not only corner stores, but a variety of small businesses within neighbourhoods. Here's to a more walkable Ottawa!

For more information: http://ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/0120-corner-stores