Chair for the Morden and District Chamber of Commerce, Michelle Sawatzky, believes the province is heading in the right direction in supporting local businesses.

According to Sawatzky some highlights from the 2019 Budget include:

The province getting its fiscal house in order;

A reduction in the PST;

Municipalities receiving enhanced support for roads and bridges;

And the Small Business Venture Capital Tax Credit extended for three more years.

These are reasonable steps in improving the stability of Manitoba says Sawatzky, and does mean changes for local businesses.

"The reduction of one percent PST, that makes an impact on all of us. Hopefully, with consumers having a little bit more money in their pocket, they can go straight to the local merchants, shop local, and we can see that economic engine grow from there."

Sawatzky says the MDCC echoes the Manitoba Chamber, asking the provincial government to implement a full review on taxes, to make Manitoba more competitive.

According to a survey of Manitoba Chamber members, 70 percent agree the province is heading in the right direction, but Sawatzky says there are things businesses are looking to see.

"Key issues businesses want to see addressed are the reduction of government regulations and red tape, the elimination of business taxes and payroll tax, and lower taxes for all consumers."

She adds they are encouraging the government to watch economic growth closely, as they make decisions that affect all Manitobans.