Small businesses are a large part of what makes Woodstock authentic and vibrant. Our community needs to stand behind them, especially now that the holiday season is over. Restaurants, personal services and retailers need our continued support. While big box stores and massive online retailers offer convenience and competitive pricing, small businesses impact our local economy and character in irreplaceable ways.
The obvious way to support a Woodstock small business is to buy their products and services, but you also can share their social media posts or buy a gift card. Consider reaching out with an encouraging note or phone call. Many small business decision makers are facing tough choices right now, so be kind and patient when possible. Hint: it’s always possible.
The city of Woodstock has created a relief package to help businesses in 2021. The city collects business license fees based on gross revenues. Business license fees will be waived in 2021 for small businesses with gross revenues of $1 million and under. The $30 administrative fee also will be waived.
An exception to this threshold will be made to include Woodstock’s seven hotels, because of the major impact these businesses have on tourism and economic development, and due to the significant impact they experienced as a result of the pandemic. The annual regulatory fee of $250 for hotels also will be waived.
Woodstock restaurants have been impacted heavily. Direct assistance will be provided through a $750 renewal discount to the 63 on-premises-consumption alcohol licensees. Many also will receive assistance on their business license renewal. Additionally, the city will make permanent the temporary retail package license offered during the pandemic, and will extend it at no cost to the restaurants.
Movements to save America’s small businesses are gaining momentum in the current crisis. Small Unites is a national movement founded by Capital One, supporting small businesses with access to funds and resources to move forward and keep doors open.
Independent We Stand is a movement of independently owned businesses, sponsored by tool company Stihl, aimed at “rebuilding America one Main Street at a time” by providing locally owned businesses and their customers with tools and resources to understand the positive impacts of buying from independently owned businesses.
If you’re a small business owner and need help to overcome the challenges of the pandemic, the Small Business Administration offers information on multiple funding options at sba.gov. Reach out for help from programs and the people around you. You matter to us.
By Stacy Brown, contributing writer, and marketing and communications manager for the City of Woodstock. 770-592-6056. sbrown@woodstockga.gov
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