Local leads gathered at The Main Place in the City of Hornell
From Steuben County,
Steuben County Legislators hosted a Small Business Roundtable Session at The Main Place in the City of Hornell, bringing together local business owners, managers, county leadership, municipal officials, government representatives, and regional economic development partners for an in-depth discussion on strengthening and expanding small businesses across Steuben County.
The Roundtable served as an open forum designed to encourage direct communication between the business community and government leaders, allowing participants to share real-world experiences, identify ongoing challenges, and collaborate on practical strategies aimed at improving business sustainability, workforce development, and long-term economic growth throughout the county and surrounding communities.
A wide range of key issues impacting local businesses were discussed, including:
- Labor shortages and workforce availability, particularly challenges in recruiting and retaining employees
- Power supply reliability and NYSEG-related concerns, including costs and infrastructure limitations
- Infrastructure needs, zoning regulations, and building codes affecting business development and expansion
- Wage pressures, including the impact of minimum wage increases on small business operations
- Business retention and expansion, with a focus on economic resiliency in rural communities
- Government funding opportunities and access to state and federal resources
- Aggressive marketing strategies to promote local businesses and attract outside investment
- Housing availability, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for employees to live where they work in order to keep dollars circulating within the local economy
- Public transportation challenges, including limited routes and a shortage of CDL drivers needed to support expanded service
- Tourism development as a critical driver of economic activity and community revitalization
- Access to capital, including discussion on how local and regional banks support small businesses through loans, financing options, and financial guidance
Participants emphasized the importance of collaboration, long-term planning, and coordinated efforts between the public and private sectors to address these issues and create a more competitive and supportive environment for businesses in Steuben County.
Steuben County officials noted that feedback gathered during the Roundtable will help inform future economic development initiatives, policy considerations, and partnerships aimed at supporting local employers and strengthening the regional economy.
Business owners, managers, and community partners are encouraged to remain engaged and participate in future Roundtable sessions. Information on upcoming county roundtable meetings will be posted on the Steuben County website.
