The co-owner of Obladee Wine Bar in downtown Halifax, Christian Rankin, has expressed frustration over the nearly two-year presence of scaffolding surrounding his business. He has called on the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) to intervene and resolve the building’s crumbling exterior, as it is impacting the future of his business. Rankin emphasized that the scaffolding’s presence has prevented the bar from installing a patio, which is crucial during the summer season. He is concerned that without outdoor seating, his business may struggle to survive.
The scaffolding was initially erected in July 2023 after the municipality deemed the building’s facade a public safety hazard. Despite this, no repairs have been made over the past two years, and the scaffolding remains in place. The building’s owner is currently undergoing insolvency proceedings, leading Rankin to believe that HRM has the authority to step in, complete the necessary work, and place a lien on the building. He has been informed that the repairs could be completed within four weeks by a team of four workers, yet the situation has dragged on for 21 months.
Natasha Chestnut from the Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia emphasized the impact that any loss of business can have on restaurants, especially considering the challenges they have faced since 2020. Restaurants operate on slim profit margins, and any additional costs can further strain their financial situation. Obladee has received online support after Rankin spoke out about the issue on social media. If the situation does not change, Rankin fears that his business will continue to experience losses and go another year without outdoor seating during peak tourism season.
Rankin emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that action from HRM is needed immediately to address the ongoing challenges faced by Obladee Wine Bar. Despite efforts to reach out to the property owner, Annapolis Management, and the municipality, responses were not received by the deadline. The lack of progress on resolving the building’s exterior issues is not only impacting the business financially but also hindering its ability to provide a comfortable outdoor dining experience for patrons.
The presence of scaffolding for an extended period not only affects the aesthetic appeal of the business but also impacts its ability to generate revenue during the crucial summer months. Rankin’s plea for assistance from HRM underscores the importance of timely action in resolving such issues to support local businesses and prevent further financial losses. The community’s response to Obladee’s situation highlights the solidarity and support that small businesses can receive during challenging times, emphasizing the significance of addressing these issues promptly to ensure their continued success. A collaborative effort between stakeholders is essential in finding a solution that benefits not only Obladee Wine Bar but also the broader community and local economy.
