Survey: Improving the Local Economy Important to Small-Business Owners

Two-thirds of small-business owners in the region said it is “extremely” or “very” important that the local economy improve, according to a survey released Tuesday by the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Of 268 owners of San Diego County businesses with 50 or fewer employees, 34 percent called an improved local economy extremely important and 33 percent said it was very important. Only 12 percent disagreed.

The results were from one of two polls that questioned 500 small-business owners around the county. The number of respondents to each question varied.

“It’s important to hear directly from small businesses about what they need most to help them grow and thrive,” said chamber President Ruben Barrales. “Small businesses are a lifeline for our local economy and it’s our responsibility to make sure they are getting the support they need.”

When asked whether the business community needed a stronger voice in Sacramento, 30 percent said it was extremely important and another 25 percent felt it was very important. Only 19 percent disagreed.

When asked the same about influence of local government, 27 percent felt it was extremely important and 26 percent said it was very important. Again, 19 percent disagreed.

The respondents said their biggest concerns with government were taxes, permits and payroll and workman’s compensation regulations.

Other major concerns were road and other infrastructure maintenance and a reliable water supply.

-City News Service