Small businesses ask city for help with landlords – Oregon Business

Amid rising commercial real estate costs, small businesses struggle to navigate disputes with landlords.

A group of small business owners met with Mayor Ted Wheeler earlier this month, asking for protection from landlords amid skyrocketing commercial property costs.

“It was a productive meeting,” says Khanh Le, director of the Main Street Alliance, an organization that advocates for small businesses. “We discussed some recommendations on the issues of commercial affordability and tenants rights.”

One of their wishes — a small business liaison to field complaints — will soon be granted. The Bureau of Development Services recently approved funding for the position, spokesperson Thomas Ngo said, but hasn’t yet started the hiring process.

Despite that win, small businesses continue to fight for stronger legal protections. As Portland’s affordable housing crisis continues, Ngo says, public officials are keeping their focus on residential safeguards.

Read the full article over at Oregon Business.