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News and thoughts from our staff

Filtered by Category: small business

 
Home kitchen fees waived through March

Home kitchen fees waived through March

By Brittney Sherman

In March 2023, the Micro Enterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) ordinance and permit fees were adopted by the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, authorizing home-based retail food facilities. Under this program, food is prepared, cooked and served from a private residence at a maximum of 90 meals per week. Due to recent fee relief, the MEHKO application ($435) and permit ($635) fees have been waived through March 2024.

Program History: In January 2019, AB 262 authorized individuals to operate restaurants out of their private residences. In September 2022, SB 972 approved MEHKO operators to expand their offerings by collaborating with no more than two Compact Mobile Food Operators for sidewalk vendor sales. In 2023, AB 1325 adjusted the MEKHOS annual gross income cap to $100,000 and expanded the weekly meals to no more than 90.

Learn more about the MEHKO program HERE.

 
A small business in full bloom

A small business in full bloom

By Brittney Sherman

Jerry Ayala, owner of the Flower Cottage located on First St in Downtown Morgan Hill, is preparing for one of his store’s strongest days of the year- Valentine’s Day. After owning the store for 10 years, Jerry has found long stem roses, chocolates, and teddy bears to be the top sellers.

“In 2024, consumers are projected to spend approximately $25.8 billion on Valentine’s Day purchases,” reported the National Retail Federation. Top gifts include jewelry, an “evening out,” clothes, and flowers.

Read the full Morgan Hill Times Article HERE.

 
2023 End of year eNewsletter

2023 End of year eNewsletter

By Brittney Sherman

As we close out another busy year, the Economic Development team would like to wish all of our businesses a happy and prosperous holiday season. We are grateful for the community’s support of the Downtown Street Activations, the Buy Local Holiday Shopping Passport, and engagement during our business roundtable meetings. This final newsletter of the 2023 year captures just a few of our most recent accomplishments. We look forward to the New Year and our work ahead to support the City’s long-term fiscal sustainability and increase the number of local job opportunities for all Morgan Hill residents.  

Read the full eNewsletter HERE.

 
The Breakfast Club opens new location in Morgan Hill

The Breakfast Club opens new location in Morgan Hill

By Brittney Sherman

In 2024, Morgan Hill will become one of four new locations for the quickly growing diner chain: The Breakfast Club. The restaurant will setup shop in the prior YOLKED location and will offer a creative breakfast, lunch, and brunch menu, in addition to a full bar and live music.

Read the full article in the SJ Spotlight Publication HERE.

 
Year-Round farmer's market gains City Council Approval

Year-Round farmer's market gains City Council Approval

By Brittney Sherman

Joe Raineri’s vision for a year-round farmer’s market, working farm, tasting room, restaurant and agricultural education and sustainability facility recently received unanimous approval from the Morgan Hill City Council. Construction on the project, located at the South end of Morgan Hill near Hwy 101, is expected to begin in 2025.

Read the full article in the Mercury News HERE.

 
Shop Local, Win Local!

Shop Local, Win Local!

By Brittney Sherman

Grab a Holiday Passport, make a purchase at 1 of 43 participating small businesses, and get one step closer to winning the Grand Prize! Purchases can be made in-store or online, and there is no limit to the number of completed Passport Booklets you can submit. Every completed Passport represents $320 spent in local small business stores. Where you shop matters! Keep your dollars in the #95037 this holiday season and support small business dreams.

The City of Morgan Hill Economic Development Team, Chamber of Commerce, and Downtown Association are collaborating on a Buy Local Campaign to support small businesses this holiday season. The 2023 Holiday Shopping Passport will encourage patronization of local small businesses, via in-store or online purchases, from December 1st-31st.

For more information about the program, a list of participating businesses, and a printable Passport visit the Buy Local Morgan Hill Website HERE.

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