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Your dollars make a difference. Supporting local independent businesses is the best choice to insure the economic future of local communities, even though public officials often grant concessions and benefits to their absentee competition. Study after study confirms that local stores and restaurants generate more than three times the local economic activity of remote controlled national chains. The "multiplier effect" of taxes collected from such local expenditures bringing up to five times the revenue, while up to 80% of money spent in national chains leaves town in the night deposit. On a typical November shopping day, if all taxable purchases in Hillsborough County were made at locally owned independent businesses instead of national chains, it would make a $28 million dollar difference to the local economy. Locally owned independents circulate the money right here, for local goods and services from banking and health care to printing and cabinetmaking, while taxes support our schools, parks, law enforcement and more. Choice makes a richer community. A city’s character is defined by the diversity of choices that make a richer community for both residents and visitors. All over Tampa, you can grab an expresso, snack on freshly baked pizza, choose unique gifts, or discover a great book, at a locally owned independent business. Get your hair cut, have your taxes prepared, or buy a fabulous tie with businesses that know you and your community. Even state tourism campaigns acknowledge that unique locally owned independents are essential to creating and maintaining visitors' interest. Why travel to Tampa to see endless repetitions of the same national chains that line the streets of your hometown? Community based businesses care about Tampa. Locally owned independent businesses add to the character that is Tampa, contributing more than just goods and services. They offer personalized attention, bring life to historic buildings, and pay their employees - and local taxes - with the income they receive. Each time you choose to spend your dollars at a local, independent business, you are voting for the continued strength and vitality of our community. Tampa’s vibrant local independent businesses meet unique needs, create and define our community’s culture, and provide stability, accountability, and direct local investment.
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