Columbus, Ohio – On March 1st, 2014, a group of statewide leaders met to discuss the voice of sustainable business in Ohio. Organizers and entrepreneurs alike invested time in this important initiative to build momentum around a lasting sustainable business coalition in Ohio. Led by a steering committee with members like Brian Kaiser, of the Ohio Environmental Council in Columbus, and Christine Hughes, of the Village Bakery in Athens, the group discussion included topics from legislative priorities to the development plan of the organization.
During the legislative update portion of the meeting, over an hour was devoted to OH SB 58. This discussion was led by Brian Kaiser who warned of the many perils associated with this attack on energy efficiency in the state of Ohio. Those business owners present reaffirmed the belief of OSBC and its members that portfolio standards supporting energy efficiency are good for small business. These standards level the playing field for energy-using corporations and small business operators trying to maximize efficiency to enhance both their profit and their communities. This discussion further reiterated the importance of keeping Ohio a leader in the clean energy economy.
Another high point of the day included a lengthy discussion centered on frustration with tax avoidance from some large businesses. Our small business owners pay their fair share of taxes in the state of Ohio. They proudly display their names on their doors, the materials they produce, and in the collateral they distribute to support their operations. They are not happy that some larger businesses that they compete with in the marketplace are not expected to do the same.
Many business owners were expressed frustration with the current system. They agreed that they are happy to pay their taxes and contribute to the services they purchase for society. They find it frustrating that some corporations shirk this civic responsibility and are able to use those funds to continue growing their business operations. They want to be able to fund practices that support the mission of their businesses and the betterment of their communities. They want a fair playing field and they deserve to have one. OSBC supports these admirable goals and wants to continue this conversation about tax fairness in Ohio and nationwide.
The meeting closed on a high note as business leaders promised to take this important message back to their communities. OSBC will continue to meet in this capacity statewide.
For more information on this and other OSBC Events, contact us.
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