Somerset Street business owners want a break from the city

A Somerset Street business owner has started a petition to ask the city of Ottawa for a tax break due to lengthy construction on the street.

Mario de Marinis, who runs Somerset Travel, says his business has suffered since the city began a construction project on the street.

"I would say we've probably gone down about 70 percent."

More than 24 other businesses have signed his petition.

"They were already in a precarious financial situation before," said de Marinis of the businesses. "After this, I think they're going to go over the precipice."

"Some of the businesses…they simply will not hold on until spring."

Despite their complaints, City Councillor Diane Deans says the city cannot give businesses a tax break,

Deans has suggested that the businesses meet to discuss a delayed payment in next year's taxes.

With a report from CTV Ottawa's Norman Fetterley

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  Construction along Somerset Street has prompted business owners to ask the city for a tax break. Wednesday, October 19, 2011.