In Carcross, Yukon, business owners are grappling with significant staffing shortages as the cost of living rises sharply. Shelley Macdonald, who has operated a jewelry boutique for 14 years, faced delays in opening her shop because she couldn't find employees, attributing this to limited housing and high living costs. Many potential workers are deterred by the lack of accommodations, with commuting from Whitehorse becoming increasingly expensive due to gas prices between $25 and $30. Stephanie Lawson, who runs a shop in the Carcross Commons, has resorted to staffing her business alone during weekdays, incurring monthly gas expenses of around $1,600. Heike Graf, a coffee shop owner, echoed these concerns and suggested the need for a housing project in Carcross to alleviate the staffing crisis. Local entrepreneurs are adapting their strategies to manage their businesses effectively while seeking innovative solutions to attract and retain employees.