Cyr Appointed to Senate Task Force on Strengthening State Local Retail

BOSTON – Cape and Islands State Senator Julian Cyr has been appointed to the Senate Task Force on Strengthening Massachusetts Local Retail.

The task force was established to work with the Senate to identify ways to help local retailers become more competitive.

Cyr is one of five state Senators appointed by Senate President Stan Rosenberg to the task force.

Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr appointed Plymouth & Barnstable State Senator Vinny DeMacedo.

“Growing up in my family business, I have a deep appreciation for the unique challenges and opportunities facing small businesses in the Commonwealth,” said Senator Cyr. “Local retail shop owners are struggling to maintain a decent share of the market, while competing with the pervasiveness of online shopping. Communities like Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket experience the added difficulty of navigating seasonal fluctuations. I am grateful to have a seat at the table in these bipartisan discussions.”

The Task Force will address a number of key factors, including challenges faced by local retailers in competing against online sellers, closures of local retailers and the impact that has onlocal economies and property tax bases, initiatives by local retailers to increase their market share, and how state and local governments can encourage purchases from local retailers.

One member will also represent the Retailers Association of Massachusetts.

Outside experts with expertise in business and economics may also be consulted to assist the Task Force in facilitating its work.

The Task Force will report back to the Senate President and Senate Minority Leader by June 1, 2018.