Rep. Sue Kelly visits Warwick downtown business area

The news about The Bookstore may not have prompted Kelly’s visit, but attention to local business concerns was welcomed WARWICK - U.S. Sue Kelly, a senior member of the House Small Business Committee, has often stated that she is aware of many of the challenges that small businesses face. But her message is that she needs to hear from business owners to help solve specific problems on the federal level. This past Tuesday, a week after The Bookstore owner Michael McDermott announced he would close the downtown staple at the end of the month, Kelly walked through downtown Warwick with Warwick Town Supervisor Michael Sweeton, Mayor Michael Newhard and Robert Krahulik, president of the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce They met face-to-face with small business owners and employees seeking their input on various issues affecting local small business including taxes, health insurance and regulatory fairness. “In Congress, my five-point small business agenda focuses on increasing federal efforts to help small business,” said Kelly, the Republican from Katonah who is seeking re-election this November. “This is crucial to creating more new jobs in Warwick and throughout the country. We must continue our efforts to eliminate unnecessary regulatory burdens and to provide more affordable health insurance along with more tax relief.” Prior to the tour, Kralulik had touched base with businesses to see who would be available while the congresswoman was in town. The Bookstore’s proprietor, Michael McDermott, was not among them. Still, Kelly offered these words: “It’s very discouraging to see any small business close, particularly one that has been such an important part of the village community. This is why it is so important to talk directly with small business owners on a regular basis, and then work together at all levels of government to address the various challenges or disadvantages that small businesses face.” Kelly’s objectives for small businesses include lowering health insurance costs, ending excessive and redundant Federal regulations, leveling the playing field, ending the “death tax,” and tax relief. Kelly began her tour at the office of Herb Gareiss, CEO of WVT Communications. Faced with strong competition, the company has been considering various options for its future. During the walking tour along Main Street and Railroad Avenue, she visited several shops including Village Music and Frazzleberries. Kelly also visited the Spring Street Market, where she made a purchase, and Warwick Valley Auto Body, where she toured the repair shop and paint spray booths.