During a recent government meeting, Councilor Stavenport highlighted the city's commitment to supporting small businesses, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in local economic growth. The council expressed gratitude for recent articles promoting small businesses, aligning with the theme of the year being dedicated to their support.

The discussion also touched on the national initiative known as Small Business Saturday, which began in 2010 to encourage consumers to shop at local businesses. Stavenport noted that nearly 55% of small businesses in Oregon contribute significantly to employment, a statistic that likely holds true for Milwaukee as well.

In a bid to further bolster local commerce, the city announced a new initiative called \"Sip Shop Support,\" set to launch on November 30th. This program aims to encourage residents to engage with and support small businesses in the area, fostering a sense of community and economic resilience. The council's enthusiasm for this initiative reflects a broader commitment to enhancing the local business landscape and encouraging community participation.