As a former Small Business Owner, Julie was thrilled to take on the role of Chair of the Council’s Small Business Committee. In her time as a business owner and as the City’s former Commissioner of Consumer Affairs, she has amassed unique experience that provides a strong understanding of the landscape small businesses face. In her time as Small Business Chair, Julie has delivered major victories for the small business community:

• Passed monumental legislation creating a one-stop shop for small businesses to navigate city agencies. This legislation will streamline small business interactions with the City’s vast bureaucracy and provide significant relief to small business owners.

• Held a hearing to create an Office of Small Business Digitalization to provide digital support for businesses across the City. 

• Spearheaded effort to increase funding to support Business Improvement Districts across the City with a special focus on smaller BIDs in underserved communities.

• Passed legislation to expand the City’s Summer Youth Employment Program by facilitating more private-sector partnerships and securing employment opportunities within many city agencies.

• Introduced legislation to create a pilot program for security cameras and plexiglass for small businesses in high-theft areas.

Julie looks forward to continuing her advocacy for the small businesses of our city in her role as Small Business Chair.