Revitalize Local Businesses and Neighborhoods
Thriving commercial corridors support local communities across Chicago and Cook County. Prior to the pandemic, however, many corridors struggled. As Chicago emerges from the pandemic and local communities confront a new economic landscape, a strong coalition of stakeholders is needed to advocate for policies and initiatives which will revitalize, empower and connect commercial corridors and neighborhoods.
- Advocacy Initiatives:
- Reduce Commercial Vacancies: We are advocating for an ordinance that will reduce commercial vacancies in struggling Cook County commercial corridors. One line and the ordinance
- Encourage Local Investment: We are researching and formulating policies that will encourage local investment in local businesses and neighborhoods
- Reduce Red Tape: We are formulating policies to reduce red tape which impacts small businesses in struggling commercial corridors
Check out the full Neighborhood Revitalization Coalition (NRC) website here.
Business Interruption Grant Program
IL – Many small and local businesses were devastated by the pandemic but only 20% of applicants received Illinois Business Interruption Grants. Watch coverage of SBAC President Elliot Richardson testifying before the Illinois Senate Commerce Commission about the need for an improved and more inclusive process in the future. Please translate this page to…
Summarization of EEOC Vaccine Guidelines
December 16th – The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has addressed the most common employer questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. As of now, there are currently no state or federal laws that prohibit employers from requiring vaccinations as a condition of employment, however, employees can refuse to get the vaccine if they have certain medical…
Rebuilding Lives and Businesses
Hard-working Americans had no idea what was coming in February of 2020. It seemed unfathomable that many small businesses would face the possibility of permanently closing or their employees would be without jobs in the spring. With the resurgence of Covid-19 cases, the situation for both small businesses and their employees has become even…