An Upstate New York business group is ready to make the case for more help for small businesses who are suffering from the pandemic’s economic impacts. Unshackle Upstate this month named a new executive director. Justin Wilcox says federal relief programs are helping many businesses … but New York State is not providing enough help to businesses.
“New York State really failed to understand the seriousness of this crisis for so many employers. That’s why I think it’s really important that policy makers try to really listen to the small business owners,” said Wilcox.
For example, he’s opposed to allowing minimum wage to go up with the New Year, an increase that was approved two years ago. He also believes the state might redirect economic development funds that in the past went to a few chosen businesses.
“The best investments we can make are often, or government can make, are often infrastructure, right? Especially at a time when borrowing is so cheap," said Wilcox. "So, I think roads and bridges could certainly be improved. Broadband access could certainly be improved. So it would be a great time to invest in that, and do it wisely.”
Wilcox says the economic outlook for upstate New York businesses has been teetering for years, and the pandemic has only exasperated these struggles. He comes to the position as head of the lobbying group a former business owner and former legislative aide in both the state senate and assembly.
“I think it allows me to bring a balanced approach," said Wilcox. "I think it also gives me the perspective of a business owners and of the policy makers, right? Because I’ve been in a room with policy makers as we crafted legislation, and I’ve been a small business owner.”
He’s hoping his experience in Albany will help him advocate for the upstate businesses that have been impacted.
