KC’s coronavirus shutdown puts East Side businesses in peril. This could be a lifeline

Today, the 18th & Vine Jazz District is nearly deserted. The music has been silenced. Businesses have shut down temporarily to comply with a citywide stay-at-home order issued to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Businesses that are considered non-essential such as Joseph “Joey Cuts” Thomas’ 180V Barber and Salon are shuttered for the foreseeable future.

The shop, which sits in the heart of the jazz district, employs eight. Thomas doesn’t know what to expect next. He’s not alone.

Businesses on Kansas City’s East Side are in financial peril, as owners seek answers and perhaps short-term assistance to help them weather this pandemic storm.

“We’re looking for clarity,” said Thomas, who said he considers personal grooming services essential.

In addition to clarity, many business owners will need help getting up and running again once the city is reopened.

Funds from the sales tax that was supposed to provide a strategic and much-needed boost to the city’s struggling East Side could help. Three years after voters approved the one-eighth-cent sales tax, $13 million of the $16.7 million earmarked for East Side projects remained unspent as of last month.

That’s a regrettable lack of results. But the money could be the key to survival for some East Side businesses as they navigate this public health crisis.

The Central City Economic Development Sales Tax Board should refocus its efforts on ensuring that core businesses in the district — which stretches from 9th Street to Gregory Boulevard and from The Paseo to Indiana Avenue — survive this unprecedented economic downturn.

What better way to stabilize a long-neglected area than to provide financial relief to entrepreneurs such as Thomas and others?

Last week, the City Council approved a budget that included a $500,000 emergency fund for small businesses citywide. The Small Business Administration and other entities are making plans to help as well.

But there is little doubt that the needs will exceed the available aid. And many businesses in impoverished East Side neighborhoods face particularly steep challenges — especially those deemed non-essential.

Barber shops, salons, massage parlors, yoga and dance studios, funeral homes and many other businesses are in a precarious position.

Duval “D.J.” Pierre, chairman of the five-member Central City board, said the group plans to address the needs of business owners and area residents and that proposals are currently under legal review.

But as the economic fallout from COVID-19 continues to worsen, the board must act with a sense of urgency. Other requests that are unrelated to the financial consequences of the city’s stay-at-home order should be put on hold for now.

No-interest loans, one-time grants, and improved access to capital for disadvantaged businesses should be considered.

“The economic stimulation could help push us over,” Thomas said.

Patrick Williams’ M&M Bakery and Delicatessen at 31st Street and Woodland Avenue is considered essential. Last week, he installed a walk-up window because eateries must limit contact with the public.

A loyal customer base has bought the family-owned establishment some time — perhaps another 30 to 45 days, Williams said. But what happens after that is uncharted territory.

“It’s scary,” he said. “People don’t have a clue how long we are going to be challenged by this epidemic.”

While Mayor Quinton Lucas made the right decision to issue a stay-at-home order, it could prove to be catastrophic for business owners in neglected parts of our city.

But the Central City tax could be a desperately needed lifeline.