In rural counties, statistics were much worse as incomes were in negative territory. Nevertheless, flat incomes mean rundown facades, employee downsizings, business closures and more pressure to make ends meet. These are the very same people that may never qualify or receive a loan, let alone rebuild and reinvest. However, if the local economy were much better, retailers would benefit from a simple four-tier economic development strategy. Job creation from lowered tax rates would lead to population growth which would lead to housing growth which would lead to local retailers getting a bigger piece of the socioeconomic pie.
Retailing always follows all other factors.
More than any other, local taxes and fees are indiscriminately killing small businesses. Going into business is a very simple task for a Mom and Pop, they could be up and running in about a week. However, staying in business and remaining healthy is a major challenge. Despite this, local governments and municipal boards continually push through tax increases. And local leaders are frustrated too.