“Ville-Émard’s Small Business Crisis: Can We Save the Heart of the Community Before It’s Too Late?”

Mar 24, 2025 | Quebec Real Estate News

A scene from Monk showing the iconic boulevard transformation with vivid city details and character interactions.

The Rising Commercial Rents in Ville-Émard: A Call for Regulation

An Alarming Trend In Montreal’s Property Market

In the bustling streets of Ville-Émard, a suburb located in the southwest sector of Montreal, an alarming trend is becoming apparent. Local merchants, the beating heart of any thriving community, are voicing concerns about rising rents on Monk Boulevard. They serve an essential role in shaping the character and spirit of the neighbourhood – yet, they are on the brink of being priced out.

Recently, several closures have been announced, stoking fear among business owners. Such pressing circumstances have driven them to plead for commercial rent regulation, a solution that could be viable to maintain the community’s diversity and vibrancy.

The Impact of Rising Rents

Rising rents in neighbourhoods like Ville-Émard have far-reaching consequences beyond merely displacing local businesses. When rents go up, it not only threatens the livelihoods of local merchants; it also affects the character of the area and the quality of life for its residents.

Take the case of Thaaraha Satkunapala and her husband. They first opened their fruit store on Monk Boulevard 28 years ago. Like many others, they fear they will soon be pushed out due to rent hikes. It is not just about losing the business they’ve poured their hearts into; it’s also about the community losing an important local resource and meeting place.

Property Developers and Construction Companies: Playing a Part in the Mix

Property developers and construction companies, like those involved in our [Quebec projects](https://yourbuildingteam.com/locations-category/quebec), are integral players in shaping the dynamics of local communities. As developers erect [steel buildings in Quebec](https://yourbuildingteam.com/locations/steel-buildings-in-quebec) and other forms of property, they are indirectly influencing the future of these communities.

While property development is integral for urban growth and progress, it is also critical to ensure the growth doesn’t compromise the welfare of local merchants and residents. Sustainable development seeks a balance between these needs, optimizing construction, and property development while preserving community character and resources.

Commercial Rent Regulation: A Solution?

Commercial rent regulation continues to draw varying opinions globally. At its core, it aims to prevent excessive rent hikes from displacing small businesses and non-profits. Some argue it offers security, enabling these businesses to plan for the future and invest in their operations.

However, others raise concerns about the unintended consequences of these regulations. Are there other ways of ensuring that growth and development do not overshadow the important role that local businesses have in shaping communities?

The Future of Ville-Émard

As we ponder these questions, it’s clear that the future of communities like Ville-Émard hangs in the balance. Will it maintain its charming local businesses, or will it transform entirely under the pressure of rising rents?

Only time will reveal the fate of Monk Boulevard’s merchants – still, there is hope. As Montrealers and as part of the global community, we have the power to shape this outcome. By supporting local businesses, endorsing sustainable development practices, and fostering a dialogue with property developers, we can strike a balance that upholds the community’s interests and accommodates economic growth.

What’s Your Take?

We encourage your valuable comments, experiences, or related questions in the comment section below. Your insights could potentially add another perspective to this pressing matter and perhaps even shape the future of communities like Ville-Émard and beyond.

*The original news source can be found [here](https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/ville-emard-commercial-rent-increases-1.7490193?cmp=rss>here).*
Please note that this article contains [a link referral](https://yourbuildingteam.com/>) to our network of construction professionals, committed to supporting both economic growth and community well-being in Quebec.

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