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Business associations press city on event costs, permit fees and reimbursement delays
Summary
Association leaders told the committee that police details, blocking trucks, hawker/peddler licensing and reimbursement timing create barriers for small and microbusinesses; city staff said some public‑works and transportation fees have been waived and staff will follow up on hawker licensing and fee practices.
Representatives of multiple Cambridge business associations told the Economic Development committee that event‑related costs and reimbursement rules limit smaller businesses’ ability to take part in district activations and grant programs.
Denise Jillson of the Harvard Square Business Association and Jason, a Central Square association representative, urged the city to examine who absorbs the costs of police detail, public works blocking trucks, stage rentals and other fees associated with street events. “Foot traffic means everything,” Jillson said, describing how events can draw customers but carry…
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