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May 13, 2009
City offers advice to local business
By Councilmember Jeff Weninger
As the City Council is tackling the challenging task of balancing next year’s $798 million proposed budget, one area of particular concern to me is the impact on the small business community. As we all know, small businesses are taking a hard hit during this economic downturn and the margin between success and bankruptcy is often very thin.
Late last year, I pointed out the importance of shopping locally when the City launched its campaign Invest Wisely Shop Chandler. The initiative encourages residents to spend their dollars within City limits and is beneficial not only to small businesses but the sales taxes collected from local transactions also fund municipal services such as parks, roads and public safety operations. It is crucial that we continue to do our part and support these local businesses as much as possible.
The City also provides assistance in a number of areas. Staff in the Economic Development Division can guide individuals who are contemplating relocating, expanding or starting a business in Chandler. The department publishes a comprehensive Small Business Guide that is accessible on the City Web site at www.chandleraz.gov. Other links to business assistance programs and community data are also available on the Economic Development Web page.
Annually, the City and the Chandler Chamber of Commerce also co-sponsor the Chandler Small Business Development Workshop. This year a dozen speakers will cover topics ranging from purchasing to diversity and sustainability resources. Renowned consultants and business executives will also provide practical advice to help businesses through tough economic times. The workshop is free and will be held on Wednesday, May 27 in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of the Downtown public library. For further information and to register, please call 480-782-3030.
Immediately following the Small Business Workshop on May 27, the City of Chandler's Purchasing Division will present the East Valley Procurement Fair. School districts, county, state and municipal representatives will be on hand to share information about purchasing processes and bidding opportunities at each agency.
In Chandler, formal purchases (contracts $50,000 or larger) are advertised on the City Web site, in local newspapers and on Chandler Cable Channel 11. In addition, the City maintains a vendor registration list to notify registered companies of potential bid and proposal opportunities. Often times, local businesses are not aware of the services or products that the City bids out. Registering with the City guarantees automatic notification for contracts that fall under specific categories. To learn more about how to become a City vendor and to register online, visit the Web site or call the City’s Purchasing office at 480-782-2400.
The Chamber of Commerce and various City departments including the Library also offer great resources for businesses. In these challenging times it is important to be reminded of resources available, for the most part free of charge or at a minimal cost, that can propel businesses toward success. I am open for further discussion on this topic and welcome your feedback, questions and suggestions. You can reach me by calling my office at 480-782-2200. |
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