Changes to B.C. anti-vandalism grants good news say small businesses [Video]

Some B.C. small businesses are giving a thumbs up to a revamped anti-vandalism program, as the minister responsible admits the government didn’t get it right on the first try.

“It’s good news,” said Abdallah El Chami, owner of Vancouver’s Superbaba restaurant. “It’s nice to hear we will end up getting some help from the government.”

El Chami’s was among several businesses whose grant applications through the Securing Small Business Rebate Program were denied.

Superbaba was looking for help to cover the estimated $1,400 cost to replace a smashed window and door.

“Someone had just came off the bus, they were very upset, and they just flung whatever was in their hand right at the window,” he said.

The application was rejected because the company did not file an insurance claim.

The provincial government first announced the $10.5 million program, which offers small businesses up to $2,000 to repair vandalism damage and up to $1,000 for prevention measures …