BURLINGTON, VT – Senator Welch convened a meeting today with small business owners from across Vermont to discuss the challenges they are facing following catastrophic flooding in state earlier this month.  Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL) participated in the meeting. 

“Small businesses drive Vermont’s economic growth and are essential to the identity of our rural communities. This flooding has deeply disrupted business and the success of Vermont’s Main Streets and business districts,” said Senator Welch. “I’m grateful to the busy small business owners and managers who joined today’s call. As I told them, I’ll bring their stories with me to Washington, and work every day to secure the federal resources Vermonters need to rebuild after these floods.” 

Small businesses impacted by flooding are encouraged to document and report damage by calling Vermont 2-1-1. Visit the Small Business Administration and the Vermont Small Business Development Center for more resources.   

Sen. Welch’s office can help Vermonters work with federal agencies after natural disasters. For more information, please call 802-863-2525. 

Listening Session Participants 

• John Seward: Mojo Café, Ludlow 
• Stacy Harshman: Sparkle Barn, Wallingford 
• Steve & Lynn Smith: Weston Village Store, Weston 
• David & Ashley Ayres: Ayres Motor, Barre 
• Johanna Thibault: Harry’s Hardware, Cabot 
• Lloyd & Nancy Hutchins: Hutchins Roofing and Sheet Metal, Barre 
• Melissa Bounty: Central Vermont Economic Development Cooperation (CVEDC) 

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