Mayor Don Plusquellic will establish the Small Business Assistance Program to help eligible applicants located in areas where the city is performing public improvements, mainly to streets, curbs and sidewalks.  The help would come in the form of low interest loans.

"We need to do something to make the process simpler so small businesses have more success, and a comfort level," said Plusquellic. "I understand that it can be trying for businesses to feel at ease operating while the city is engaged in the construction or reconstruction of thoroughfares, for example. Even though we strive to get such projects done as quickly as possible, it can still be a challenge."

Akron has provided small business loans in various neighborhood business districts going back to 1976. This program would provide low interest loans based upon a business’ proximity to public improvement work that they feel could affect their bottom line.

Public improvement projects done by the City of Akron are done to benefit properties within the City, and a portion of the costs of those improvements are assessed against the benefited properties. The City supports industrial, commercial, distribution, and research businesses located in areas that would benefit from certain public improvements. 

"What makes this plan valuable for business owners is our financial assistance to them can allow them to proceed with their own improvements or perhaps support their business activities in some other way while construction is being done on the public improvements," said Deputy Mayor for Economic Development Bob Bowman.

Akron City Council convenes its meetings at 7 p.m.