When politics hurt Main Street in Fountain Hills
OPINION — Fountain Hills has a strong sense of community and a proud local identity. It’s also politically engaged and increasingly, politically divided. There’s a trend emerging, to where political tensions are beginning to harm our small businesses.
Small businesses are not just part of the economy, they are the economy. Shops, restaurants and service providers are owned and operated by our neighbors. They sponsor local events, employ residents and contribute to the tax base that supports our shared infrastructure. Unlike large corporations, small businesses don’t have the luxury of turning away revenue. They must accept opportunities wherever they arise simply to keep their doors open. That includes hosting events of all kinds — yes, even political ones.
When a person or group enters, it represents income that helps cover payroll, rent and essentials, declining such opportunities isn’t a principled stand; it’s a financial risk they cannot afford. Yet, some businesses in Fountain Hills are being judged and boycotted based on who rents their space or crosses their threshold. I’ve seen and heard it firsthand.
Political labels may feel harmless in the moment, but their impact is anything but. Businesses rely on the entire community — not half. If a business loses even a portion of its customer base, the consequences can be severe.
This is bigger than politics. Most of our local establishments are family owned. Behind every storefront is a family trying to make a living, support their children and contribute to the community.
We can disagree politically while still supporting one another economically. Supporting local businesses should not come with a political litmus test.
Please keep politics out of our purchasing decisions. Let’s judge businesses by the quality of their service, their contributions to the community, and the relationships they build.
Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
