Letter: Local governments must bolster small businesses
Our local independent merchants are struggling: The situation is untenable and we risk losing them.
Local governments must
bolster small businesses
I’m the CEO of a startup that, among other things, is driving awareness of the importance, benefits and joys of shopping locally in Oakland and beyond.
In this journey, I’ve found myself transforming from a small-business entrepreneur into an activist entrepreneur. Through my work, I have become painfully aware that our local independent merchants are struggling. Their challenges are almost insurmountable. The situation is untenable. We risk losing them.
Yet we know that acting locally has many positive effects. It leads to sustainable economic growth. It’s better for the environment and strengthens community. And it enriches all of our lives. It makes our communities more enjoyable to live in.
We need to support our small businesses. It’s time to demand that our local governments develop a vision that prioritizes them. We must insist that they create policies that protect them. Other cities are doing it. It’s essential for our future.
Sarah Stefaniuk
Oakland
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