PROBLEM: Currently there is no clearly stated criteria for evaluating businesses looking to locate in the ward.

SOLUTION: I will create guidelines by which all business license applications will be evaluated. These criteria will include determining whether a potential business is:

1. necessary (or at least desirable) to the community;
2. good neighbors/corporate citizens;
3. offering a good or service at a competitive market rate;
4. not attractions for illegal or unsavory activity.

If a business can satisfy these criteria, in addition to any city or state obligations then it should be permitted to come into the ward.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Our ward is primarily comprised of small businesses, many of which are owned by seniors. We must create opportunities to train the next generation to be able to lead these businesses; otherwise the economic base will die with the older generation.

Many tradesmen complain of not securing contracts, however, we need to increase the number of certified, licensed and bonded workers. This would improve their chances of securing contracts. We also must partner with unions and other groups to establish skills trade training programs.

Additionally, the ward should better utilize the Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) that currently exist in and around our ward as they can offer valuable training, support and information that will enable our businesses to succeed.

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