Combatting Shoplifting to Save NYC from Economic Decline

New York City is facing a retail crisis, with 11.2% of storefronts vacant — nearly double the rate of 6% in 2019. Oswald Feliz, a Democratic City Council member representing District 15 in The Bronx and chair of the Small Business Committee, emphasizes the urgency for city and state action to address retail theft.

New Yorkers, especially first-time small-business owners, work tirelessly to establish and maintain their businesses.

These individuals dedicate long hours and sacrifice time with their families to run their shops with enthusiasm and pride. They strive not only for economic security but also to create new opportunities for their children.

It’s heartbreaking for them to witness shoplifters destroying their hard work and knowing that theft goes unpunished.

Would you feel confident starting a business in a community plagued by this issue?

Is it even possible for a business to survive under these circumstances?

There needs to be consequences and accountability for those who vandalize the efforts of small-business owners and harm local business districts.

Not just a poverty issue

These thieves are not just desperate individuals in need of food or money.

We must show compassion to those facing hardship, but we cannot tolerate those who engage in theft for personal gain.

Many small-business owners have faced financial challenges themselves and understand the struggle. However, the real threat comes from individuals who continuously steal items to resell for profit.

When I meet with business owners in areas like Fordham Road, Arthur Avenue, and East Tremont in The Bronx, the primary concern is retail theft.

Politicians who downplay the impact of decriminalizing shoplifting are in denial of the real consequences. The proliferation of “going out of business” signs damages not only business owners but also customers, neighborhoods, and the city as a whole.

Protecting hard work

We cannot allow individuals to profit from vandalizing the hard work of others.

The issue of burglaries also needs attention.

In one incident, a Bronx bodega lost over $100,000 in a break-in. The owner’s hard-earned savings vanished in an instant, impacting his family and business plans.

I introduced the Small Business Protection Act to provide grants for small businesses to enhance security measures like cameras and alarms to prevent unlawful activities.

I applaud Governor Hochul for prioritizing this issue at the state level and implementing new measures to safeguard retail businesses and workers.

The contributions of small businesses to our communities are invaluable. It’s crucial to support them now to prevent a proliferation of empty storefronts that may become a permanent blight on our city.