Downtown businesses in Taos are getting together to reestablish the Taos Merchants Group. The group will aim to foster "collaboration, advocacy and communication among business owners in the historic downtown district," according to an announcement by Yvonne Swartz of Artemisia, a women's clothing shop located on Bent Street.
Business owners have faced a variety of challenges in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, including ongoing road construction through the historic district and a low-snow 2024-25 winter season. With changes in town administration coming with this year's local election, Swartz notes local businesses recognize an "urgent need for a unified voice to engage with the Town of Taos and shape policies that affect the commercial community."
Downtown business owners and representatives met at an inaugural meeting, Feb. 26 to plan to revive the group, with discussions of a renewed mission in the context of the groups' substantial history.
From 1979 to 2012, Taos Merchants Group addressed small business concerns and opened dialogue with town officials. The revived group aims to build upon that legacy to ensure local businesses have a seat at the table regarding economic development, infrastructure and tourism strategies.
The group decided to unify Taos merchants, strength collaboration and networking among business owners, creating a tighter downtown business community. The group wants to have a voice with the Town of Taos to ensure policies and projects support local businesses and keep merchants informed about crucial issues — such as road construction updates, town grants, marketing strategies and plans to relaunch paid parking in the downtown.
All business owners, employee and landlords in the historic district and beyond are invited to participate, according to the group's announcement.
For more information about upcoming meetings and how to get involved, contact Yvonne Swartz at yvonne@artemisiataos.com.
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