Declare Small Business Summer

Assembly Resolution No. 688 BY: M. of A. Thiele MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim Summer 2017, as Small Business Summer in the State of New York WHEREAS, The dedication and entrepreneurial spirit of New York's small businesses are vital to the prosperity and vibrancy of every community across this great State; and WHEREAS, Tourism is a vital and growing component of the New York State economy; and WHEREAS, The tourism sector is the fourth largest employer in New York State on the basis of direct and indirect employment, with an estimated eight percent, or one in twelve, of all New Yorkers working in this sector, responsible for nearly $21 billion in direct wages in 2016, a 25% increase from 2011; and WHEREAS, Spending by visitors to New York State in 2016 generated an estimated $64.8 billion in direct spending, nearly three percent higher than in 2015, and almost $11 billion more than in 2011; and WHEREAS, New York State tourism generated $8.2 billion in State and local taxes in 2016; and WHEREAS, According to the United States Department of Commerce, over

400,000 enterprises qualify as a small business in New York State, comprising 97 percent of the State's established businesses, including a growing number of minority- and women-owned businesses, as well as first-time entrepreneurs, who are an invaluable part of communities all across the State; and WHEREAS, Small businesses play a critical role in New York State's tourism industry, supporting tourism activities with the products and services they provide - from a delicious meal during a night on the town to a play on Broadway, from hot dogs at the beach to souvenirs and local crafts in a small mountain town, from fresh farmer's market produce to music and art at a local festival; and WHEREAS, The innovation, diversity, competitive strength, job creation, and quality of life that small businesses bring to our economy, particularly to the tourism sector, are vital elements of the long-term economic health and the unique appeal of local communities; and WHEREAS, Each community's character is shaped in part by its small businesses, as local shops and stores are woven into the fabric of the community, creating fond memories for residents and visitors alike and spreading New York products and culture far and wide; and WHEREAS, As summer approaches and people begin to plan for vacations, long weekends, and day-trips to New York State's numerous vacation and tourism destinations - parks, beaches, mountains, historical and cultural sites, and urban and rural settings - the role that New York's small businesses play in supporting tourism and attracting visitors from all around the world must be recognized and appreciated; and WHEREAS, Summertime is an opportunity to recognize the contributions made by small businesses - creating jobs, paying taxes, and producing goods and services - for the people of New York State and for their local communities; and WHEREAS, New Yorkers and visitors alike are encouraged to support and patronize small businesses throughout the State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim Summer 2017, as Small Business Summer in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York, and to the County Executive of each county in New York State.