The Kennedale Alliance of Business Owners (KABO) has raised concerns over the city's perceived lack of support for small businesses, citing bureaucratic red tape and excessive regulations as major deterrents for entrepreneurs. Joe Palmer, KABO's Executive Director, emphasizes the importance of the upcoming elections as a pivotal moment for citizens to question council candidates on their commitment to creating a business-friendly environment in Kennedale.
A recent incident involving a tire shop's struggle to obtain a certificate of occupancy (CO) underscores the challenges small businesses face. The shop, intending to operate within an existing automotive repair facility, faced months of delays and costly demands from the city before finally receiving a temporary CO five months after application, with the final CO granted a year later. Property owner Ron Sturgeon criticized the city's approach, arguing that the excessive requirements seemed designed to prevent the business from opening rather than facilitating its operation.
Sturgeon and Palmer advocate for a shift in the city's governance philosophy, from controlling commerce to supporting residents and the business community. Palmer suggests implementing a system to track and follow up on business inquiries to foster a more welcoming environment. KABO encourages local business owners to share their experiences and join the alliance to strengthen the voice of the business community. For more information, visit www.kennedalebusinessowners.com.
