Yakima City Council Hoping to Help Residents and Small Business

Grants and loans to small businesses in Yakima to keep them in business. That's what the city will be looking at during the May 19 meeting as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact lives and businesses in the city. The council Tuesday extended the emergency declaration until June 4. The action allows the city to receive state or federal help if it's needed. But city council members also want to help local businesses and residents. Soneya Lund says she wants city staff to look at ways the city could offer loans or grants to small businesses owners to prevent closures. The city will also look at tickets for parking enforcement since many people are parking vehicles during the pandemic. They'll look at ways to help people pay utility bills and council members want information about the expansion of home occupancy laws for in home businesses. The council agreed to look into the issues and have discussions at the may 19 meeting.