Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Boyd's downtown location closing

CASTANET:

A well-known Kelowna business is closing its downtown location, citing taxes and vandalism for the move. Boyd Autobody & Glass, located at the corner of Water Street and Leon Avenue, has posted a letter on its door indicating that it's closing. Owner, Gordie Abougoush, leases the building and is responsible for paying the property taxes. He says the taxes have more than tripled in the past three years. "Over the past three years, our property taxes went from $9,600 in 2006 to $23,000 in 2007 to $38,000 in 2008." Abougoush goes on to say that he's spending $1,000 a month to replace broken windows to his business as a result of vandalism. "I certainly feel bad because this was my personal dream to have a shop like this." Abougoush says he hopes to relocate, but doesn't offer specifics. Boyd's moved to the Kelowna downtown area seven years ago. Its three other locations, including a shop in the District of Westside, are remaining open.

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