Merchants report tariff impacts in committee survey; chamber to consider public outreach

Town staff told the Tourism and Economic Development Advisory Committee they surveyed downtown merchants about the impact of tariffs and received 22 responses, and that respondents reported price pressures and operational adjustments. Committee members said they would share the survey results with merchants and consider public education to explain price changes to shoppers.
The staff member who reported the survey said respondents were “from people who are affected and are feeling the pinch,” and that merchants are seeking ways to minimize customer price increases while remaining financially viable. The committee discussed making results public and using them as the basis for consumer-education materials so shoppers understand why prices may be rising.
No formal policy or relief program was proposed at the meeting. Committee members said the chamber and the committee will review the survey and consider next steps, including potential public outreach and communications strategies to support merchants and inform consumers about tariff-related cost pressures.