Nampa Mayor Kling declares June 6 as Support Local Gyms Day for small businesses

During the June 2, 2025, regular council meeting of the City Council of Nampa, Idaho, significant discussions centered around local business support and a contentious liquor license application that has raised concerns among city officials and residents alike.

The meeting commenced with a proclamation from Mayor Debbie Kling, declaring June 6, 2025, as "Support Local Gyms Day" in Nampa. This initiative, backed by U.S. Senator Jim Risch, aims to celebrate and encourage support for the small businesses that form the backbone of Idaho's economy. The proclamation highlighted the importance of small businesses, which employ two-thirds of Idaho's workforce and contribute significantly to the state's economic landscape.

However, the meeting took a more serious turn during the public forum when Sylvia Barrios and her husband, Jorge Perez, expressed their frustrations regarding repeated denials of their liquor license application. The couple has invested approximately $350,000 into renovating a property in Caldwell, Idaho, with the intention of opening a nightclub. They claimed that they were misinformed about the licensing process and felt that their application was unfairly rejected due to the presence of a nearby church, which they argued was operating without proper permits.

Barrios and Perez articulated their distress over the financial burden they have incurred while waiting for the city to resolve their licensing issues. They emphasized that they had followed all necessary procedures and had received prior approvals, only to face unexpected obstacles. Their testimony raised questions about the clarity and consistency of the city’s zoning and licensing regulations, particularly regarding the interpretation of new laws that have been implemented.

City officials, including council members, acknowledged the complexity of the situation and expressed empathy for the couple's plight. Some council members indicated that there may have been a lapse in communication regarding the legalities of their application, and they urged the couple to remain in contact with city staff for further clarification and support.

The discussions highlighted the broader implications of local governance on small businesses, particularly for minority entrepreneurs who may face additional challenges. The council's response to Barrios and Perez's concerns will be crucial in determining the future of their business and the overall climate for small business development in Nampa.

As the meeting concluded, the council members committed to reviewing the situation and promised to provide further guidance to Barrios and Perez. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar applications are handled in the future, emphasizing the need for clear communication and support for local businesses navigating the regulatory landscape.