Small businesses make our community an enjoyable place to live. I watched my Dad grow his family business with hard work and determination when I was a kid. Business corridors like Bryn Mawr, Clark, and Argyle are major attractions and we need a leader who will work proactively to ensure that those corridors are thriving. All too often, politicians cater to the interests of large companies and national chains, passing tax breaks and bending rules so that they can consolidate their control on the city’s business environment. As 48th Ward Alderman, I vow to put small, family businesses first.
1. Streamline licensing for small business owners
Un refrán común de los propietarios de pequeñas empresas en Chicago es que los estándares de licencias y permisos de la ciudad crean barreras de entrada onerosas. Como concejal, apoyaré los esfuerzos para aumentar la dotación de personal en las agencias de inspección para reducir la duración de los tiempos de espera.
Designate a small business liaison in the aldermanic office to work on licensing and permitting issues and help local business owners apply for state and federal funds.
2. Multar a los propietarios comerciales que intencionalmente mantienen los escaparates desocupados
Large real estate investment companies sometimes benefit from keeping their properties vacant as part of a tax avoidance strategy. Establishing fines for large commercial real estate companies that are not actively searching for new tenants can disincentive the practice.
3. Priorizar la asistencia para pequeñas empresas locales
COVID-19 y la modernización de CTA han dificultado que las empresas locales prosperen. Trabajaré con las Cámaras de Comercio para llenar las tiendas vacantes con pequeñas empresas y lucharé por más asistencia de la ciudad para reducir el costo de iniciar negocios.
