The state and local government restrictions on businesses have proven to be moving targets. Regardless of how we feel about them, they are here, and for the most part, people are complying.
The latest restrictions, eliminating on-site restaurant dining, limiting retail and other services, could not have come at a worse time for the local economy, as restaurants and retailers depend on the revenue from holiday sales to remain profitable.
Currently, retailers are open to 20% capacity, and most restaurants are open for ‘to go’ orders only.
Showing their ongoing community spirit Folsom residents and the business community have come together to help support local businesses at this dificult time.
The Folsom Chamber of Commerce has lead the way, working with the local business community, Folsom City Council and County Health Officials to keep help keep Folsom businesses open, while keeping business owners, employees and the public safe.
In addition, they have had produced several PR campaigns and videos, including, ‘Folsom, Stronger Together’, and We Support Folsom , encouraging residents to shop and dine locally.
The Chamber Gift Card Program makes it easy for you to shop from the comfort of your own home, while supporting local businesses.
The Folsom Historic District Merchants have installed the Christmas Light Promenade, featuring over 100,000 twinkling lights. The 700 Block of Sutter is closed to Friday afternoon through Mondays at 7am to allow visitors the opportunity to stroll and enjoy, while the remaining blocks remain open to make it easy to pick ‘to go’ orders from restaurants and to visit the district retailers.
Commercial Real Estate agent Kimberly Morphis, my colleague at EXP Realty, created ‘95630 Bingo’ where participants who made donations to Twin Lakes Food Bank were given bingo cards with boxes representing local businesses, checking them off as they visited, for the chance to win prizes.
The story was covered on local news, made it to MSN.com and was so succesful in bringing exposure and increased revenue to Folsom businesses that Kimberly is going to make it an annual event.
Paula Harvey of Finance of America approached me with the idea of creating a Facebook page where businesses could promote their businesses and specials, and the ‘Promoting Folsom Businesses‘ page was born. There you can find specials such as the Back Bistro’s Christmas Eve Dinner to Go.
With results and restrictions changing often, we don’t know when we’ll get back to normal, or what normal will look like.
With the help of business and community leaders, and Folsom residents, businesses may have a shot at surviving, and maybe even turning a profit.
MyFolsom is owned and edited by Steve Heard, Realtor with EXP Realty of California Inc., DRE#01368503 – You can reach Steve at 916 718 9577 or www.theheardgroup.com