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Nelson: Who’s who in business

Nelson is known for its beautiful mountain setting on the shore of Kootenay Lake, its thriving arts community and its engaging coffeeshop culture.

The picturesque city of Nelson, B.C., is built on a hill.

— Kerry Shellborn photo

Community Pulse Population9,800 Number of businesses1,110 Supporting industriesForestry, construction, tourism, value-added manufacturing, light industry, technology

Nelson, B.C., a city of 9,800 people in the southeastern part of the province, is known for its its thriving arts community, its engaging coffeeshop culture and its beautiful mountain setting on the shore of Kootenay Lake. Nelson has been included on the list of Canada’s best small towns in the book The Great Canadian Bucket List: One of a Kind Travel Experiences by Robin Esrock. The economy is supported by forestry and mining, with a generous infusion of tourist dollars. Several nearby ski resorts, hiking and biking trails right out its back door and beautiful Kootenay Lake, all offer recreational activities for every age and preference, and contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

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Nelson Chamber of Commerce

This glorious mountain city has an impressive chamber of commerce.

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City of Nelson

The City of Nelson has a comprehensive, easy-to-navigate website that provides answers to a multitude of possible questions pertaining to living and doing business there. Should you have questions about amenities and attractions for visitors, you may refer to the Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism website for extensive information.

The mayor of Nelson describes the city as "energetic, diverse, prosperous and safe." Nelson's up-to-date infrastructure, including broadband Internet, supports a thriving business community.

City Hall address: 101 - 310 Ward Street, Nelson, B.C. V1L 5S4

City Hall contact: 250-352-5511; City website - https://www.nelson.ca/

City Hall office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Pacific Time

Council meetings: 7:00 p.m., first Monday of every month (unless otherwise posted)
City Hall - 2nd Floor in Council Chambers

Current council, November 2018 to November 2022:

  • John Dooley (mayor)
  • Rik Logtenberg
  • Brittny Anderson
  • Janice Morrison
  • Keith Page
  • Jesse Woodward
  • Cal Renwick

Economic development contact:

  • Kevin Cormack, city manager
John Dooley has returned to the office of mayor in Nelson, B.C.
One-on-one with the Mayor

After four years, John Dooley has returned to the position of mayor of Nelson. This term will give him a total of 13 years in the role.

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Nelson branding and tourism

 
The attractions in and around Nelson, B.C., rival those of many cities ten times its size. Historic architecture, a vibrant, walkable downtown with sidewalk cafés, boutiques, public art and almost daily cultural activities are all within easy reach of residents and visitors. Add to that Nelson’s gorgeous setting on the West Arm of Kootenay Lake, the surrounding mountain slopes and extravaganza of recreational activities, and you have a city that offers something to appeal to everyone.

The Nelson Kootenay Lake website homepage identifies Nelson as “a place for free spirits and well-rounded squares,” where “the best things in life aren’t things,” and you’ll find “culture, adventure and other stimulants.”
 
We should go there.
Mike Balance, Dale Donaldson, Christina Champlin and Cassandra Urbshas of Mallard's Source for Sports in Nelson, B.C.
Influencing Nelson

Our research rewarded us with information about a few of Nelson’s most influential business people.

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View all Kootenay Business stories about Nelson

Do you own a business in Nelson? We'd like to hear more about you. Please contact us if you're a successful long-time business owner in the area, or if you think you would qualify as a top employer in the Kootenays.

Promoted Nelson businesses