$hop $mart, $hop Local, $hop Pinole. There are small but significant signs that our economy is rebounding, ever so slowly. President Obama used the State of the Union address on January 25 as an opportunity to shine the spotlight on what Americans care about most — jobs.
Businesses create most of the jobs in our market economy. Young start-up firms (less than five years old) account for nearly 100 percent of net job growth in the USA. Creating jobs nationally is difficult, even with the federal government playing a catalytic role. The challenges faced locally are more daunting. As we are all aware, the state may dissolve Redevelopment Agencies and place the onus for job growth and creation squarely on the private sector. It is a call for local action, cooperation and innovation.
The sales tax generated by local retail sales is divided amongst several entities. For every $100 you spend, the city and county where the sale occurs receives $1 of sales tax revenue. Sales tax revenue is the critical component of the city’s general fund. Sales tax revenues provide important city services such as public safety, general repairs, recreation and parks.
The message is clear. If you want to retain as many public services as possible and continue to enjoy the quality of life you have known over the last 20-plus years you must support local businesses and the local economy by spending your dollars in your community. The rewards are obvious.
Ivette Ricco is the President of the .