Posted inBusiness & Technology

This week in Santa Cruz County business: Darco’s closing after 53 years, Hook Outlet opens on Westside, farewell to county’s digital wallet program

A longtime Santa Cruz stationery and printing store will shutter at week’s end, Jessica M. Pasko reports in her weekly look at local business. She’s also got word on The Hook Outlet opening its doors at Mission and Laurel and a variety of news, notes and numbers.

Posted inBusiness & Technology

How rising costs and red tape squeeze small businesses out of downtown Santa Cruz

A mix of rising rents, construction hurdles and slow city permitting is prompting some small businesses to reconsider opening in downtown Santa Cruz. Business owners say they want to be part of downtown’s future but feel the financial and bureaucratic barriers are stacked too high — especially for those trying to open in aging buildings. While the city is rolling out reforms, including a new permitting system and faster approvals, some worry it’s not happening fast enough to keep the heart of downtown vibrant and local.

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