Local Businesses Share Pride and Concern During Business Walk

Rancho Cordova businesses saw their second annual Business Walk this past Thursday, October 22nd. Like the rest of the region and most of the country, the economy was the topic on many business owners’ minds.

The Business Walk is a way for the community and local businesses to build relationships and strengthen the economy. Business owners were eager to share their thoughts when teams of two and three people visited a sampling of the 180 businesses that participated in the Business Walk to hear their concerns. Owners and employees were asked how they liked doing business in Rancho Cordova, how the city could help them in their business endeavours and what they liked about running their specific business, among other things. As the teams gathered the data, patterns of similar concerns showed.

Some business owners were concerned with the city’s strict policy of signage. Several business owners said they had been told to remove banners or accessories from the front of their business. An employee from a tire shop said that if the economy was already hurting and they couldn’t advertise with accessories, then how could they sell or even make up for the loss? Businesses said the city could help them improve business by regulating sign usage less strictly.

While many business owners feel safe in their location, several said they could use more police patrol. A gas station owner said that he even offers local police freebies like coffee, water or snacks but even that doesn’t draw them into the area more.

Many of the businesses visited liked serving the diverse backgrounds that make up Rancho Cordova. They are hopeful that the economy will turn around soon, helping them to stay in the area.

Business Walk teams were made up from the City of Rancho Cordova, Sacramento Metro Chamber, Rancho Cordova Chamber of Commerce and other local businesses. A report of the data collected will be made available by the Sacramento Metro Chamber.