The city and business: a partnership?

InMaricopa.com runs, on a regular basis, opinion pieces submitted by community members. The following article is the opinion of the author, and does not necessarily reflect the views of InMaricopa.com.

The October 6th Council Meeting brought protest from citizens facing hardship due to increasing utility rates. Whether it’s local business, families or seniors on a fixed income, we’re all stretching our dollar. One business owner stated her business paid $50,000 in taxes to the City last year. Is it unreasonable she expect something in return? It’s completely logical that local business expect the City to protect their interests. I can’t speak for the existing council, but I see no harm in sending a unified message to utility companies that rate increases are bringing significant challenges to residents and business, and could hinder or bring the City’s efforts at economic development to a halt.

The City needs to maintain a strong partnership with the business community, as they’re the heart of our local economic engine, pumping away, and keeping us moving by providing the goods and services our community needs. Small businesses create employment opportunities and generate revenue, but there’s more to a business than just the sign; it’s about the people who own and operate them.

To many, the small business represents a dream, and the opportunity to be one’s own boss. Much goes into owning and operating a business, and, in many cases, owners invest their entire fortune. So, when a business fails, it affects the local economy, but it can have a devastating effect on the owner’s ability to provide for their family, and their employees are out of a job. I support the business owner and believe local government should make it their business to assist their success at every opportunity.

With the City in the process of revising code, it must ensure the code is practical and has real-life application. Code should promote the success of business, without being full of meaningless stipulations. I’ve made it a point to remain actively involved in the revision process for the City’s Sign and Graffiti codes, spent hours in meetings addressing the concerns of stakeholders and have no issue with being asked to sponsor sensible changes to code that’ll result in a smaller burden on business.

What does it cost local government to open a business? The City bears no cost, doesn’t pay for a single square foot of floor space, but will be more than happy to receive funds for the license, permits and any generated tax revenue. For the immediate future, it’s local business that’ll keep Maricopa financially afloat, and not the new housing market. Thus far, in my campaign for council, over ninety percent of funds expended have been spent locally. So, support the local economy and “Buy Maricopa” when you shop. And remember, the business owner has a vested interest in our community, as they might be your neighbor.

Alan Marchione

Alan Marchione is a candidate for Maricopa City Council, former U.S. Marine and Vice-President of the Villages at Rancho El Dorado HOA.

Submitted photo

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