The challenge is not just what’s proposed, but how feasible and well-resourced these plans are, and whether candidates truly understand the daily realities independent business owners face.
Some of the proposed ideas are ridiculous and unrealistic, in my opinion. What are some actual policies a mayor (or city council for that matter) could take to help independent businesses in NYC?
Establish protections or negotiation frameworks to prevent predatory rent hikes and sudden evictions of small businesses, particularly in high-demand areas. These protections could include long-term lease incentives for landlords. Create zoning regulations that limit chain store saturation in certain neighborhoods to give local shops a fighting chance to survive. Fund neighborhood-specific campaigns that promote local shops, markets, and services to New Yorkers and tourists alike, such as "Shop Local NYC" initiatives.
The challenge is not just what’s proposed, but how feasible and well-resourced these plans are, and whether candidates truly understand the daily realities independent business owners face.
Some of the proposed ideas are ridiculous and unrealistic, in my opinion. What are some actual policies a mayor (or city council for that matter) could take to help independent businesses in NYC?
Establish protections or negotiation frameworks to prevent predatory rent hikes and sudden evictions of small businesses, particularly in high-demand areas. These protections could include long-term lease incentives for landlords. Create zoning regulations that limit chain store saturation in certain neighborhoods to give local shops a fighting chance to survive. Fund neighborhood-specific campaigns that promote local shops, markets, and services to New Yorkers and tourists alike, such as "Shop Local NYC" initiatives.