The Brief
- Seattle small business owners say rising costs and thin profit margins are making it increasingly difficult to stay open.
- Mayor Katie Wilson has launched a task force focused on retaining jobs, supporting businesses and improving city permitting.
- A city-commissioned economic assessment says Seattle relies heavily on large employers while high costs particularly squeeze industries such as restaurants and childcare.
SEATTLE – Seattle small business owners say they are exhausted and running on empty as they struggle to stay afloat in an increasingly expensive city. While local entrepreneurs grapple with thin profit margins and mounting tax pressures, city leaders are attempting to offer a path forward.
Local perspective:
Sam Thompson, owner of the Seattle Biscuit Company, serves up Mississippi-style food while struggling to cover the rising costs required to keep his doors open.…