Jul. 16—During their regularly scheduled meeting held on Thursday, July 11, London's new Business Development Board members addressed a need to establish and define the purpose of the board.
The committee discussed and settled on a few of their goals with Mayor Randall Weddle and London-Laurel County Chamber of Commerce CEO Deanna Elder-Herrmann present.
Paula Thompson, executive director of London-Laurel County Economic Development, also attended the meeting via video call.
The meeting was chaired by Jason Handy.
Board Member Phil Smith began the primary discussion by expressing his opinion that the committee has a valuable and viable opportunity of aiding the community, but they needed to first identify how they plan to do so, and with more urgency than they have previously had.
Smith discussed the importance of guiding new business owners through the process of running a business, pointing them in the direction of those who can assist with their specific needs before they lose faith due to struggles with time and cost. In doing this, the city is likely to have more successful long-term businesses that survive their first year.
Speaking from the perspective of a landlord, Julia McKnight explained that she often encounters questions concerning ribbon-cuttings and advertising as well. McKnight additionally shared that smoke shops and beauty salons are typically the businesses that London citizens start up. Boutiques in the area are doing especially well.
Also discussed was the assistance of seasoned business owners, in addition to the new ones. The committee would like to help those who are already business owners to maintain steady traction and aid with expansions.