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Atlantic business owners voice concerns about closings

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April 18th, 2018 by Ric Hanson

More than two-dozen people packed Atlantic City Hall Wednesday evening, to listen about plans to attract and retain businesses in the community, in light of four local businesses that have already shuttered their doors or soon will be. At least two of those business owners are retiring, one has health issues. Chamber Executive Director Bailey Smith spoke to the Council about what they are currently doing and plan on doing to reverse the trend.

First, she said, the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce provides business owners with continuing education opportunities, including partnerships with the Small Business Development Center and Iowa Works, to update owners on changing business practices, marketing strategies and staying up-to-date on labor laws. They also launched a “Shop local initiative” with 1st Whitney Bank, and the “Shop Local Passport Program,” in partnership with 15 businesses. Since its launch, almost $2-million dollars were spent at those businesses, combined.

Smith says those programs are creating positive change and educating the community. The Chamber next plans to launch a Mentorship Program. It will guide new business owners through the process by partnering them with existing business owners. Through confidential conversations, new entrepreneurs will be able to get advice and strategy on all facets of the operation of a small business.

And finally, several independent business leaders and investors are partnering together to pledge money to entrepreneurs looking to start businesses in Atlantic. The pledge will work as a loan vetted through a local bank and will help business owners buy inventory, cover building costs, etc. Interest in this program has been strong on the business leader and investor side.

Russell Joyce, with the Cass Atlantic Development Corporation (CADCO), said their Board of Directors is supportive of the City and/or some other entities, providing an incentive program for retail. Joyce said over the past few years, a number of professionals have retired, but that’s turned out to be a positive situation, because it ended up bringing in younger professionals.

Even now, he said, with people in the retail sector reaching retirement age or past retirement age, there are positives to report. New businesses have come to town, some have moved to older buildings and refurbishing them, and some are considering expanding. Recruiting new retail is the real challenge, according to Joyce. Some solutions include doing more shopping locally, and for some businesses to adjust their business models to change with the times.

Some of those in attendance said the City needs to do a better job of promoting events and drawing people to town, especially in light of the Sesquicentennial. Barb Jorgensen, owner of The Little Cobbler, said the City needs to promote events and draw more people to town. Dr. Keith Leonard, a retired veterinarian, suggested the City help waive some fees for upstart businesses.

Mayor Jones and the Council reminded the audience that the Community Promotion Committee meets to discuss the issues, and anyone is welcome to attend. The public will be notified of the next meeting date and time, which is expected to be within the next month.