Brian Mayer on WNYC, and now that we've spent our first 45 minutes talking about the fate of the whole world, or so it seems,

let's talk about the fate of restaurants and other businesses in New York City

under Mayor Mom Donnie. It's no secret that many New York City small businesses are struggling.

Owners are dealing with rising costs of commercial rent, insurance, inventory, plus the

bureaucratic maze of applications, permits, licenses, inspections, fees,

the list goes on. So last week, the new mayor took a first step towards easing the burden

on New York City's small businesses as he sees them with an executive order aimed at cutting

excess fines and fees. And let's talk about that with Andrew Riggi, executive director

of the New York City Hospitality Alliance. Generally, he represents the restaurant industry,

but also businesses beyond that. Andrew, welcome back to WNYC.

Hey, Brian. Thanks for having me on. You want to just set that context for our listeners.

The New York City Hospitality Alliance represents.

Yeah, so we represent thousands of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs across the five boroughs,

from your small neighborhood cafe, your diner to four-star restaurants and everything in

between, as well as, you know, pubs and nightclubs.

So much of the not only kind of economic impact of the city, but also that, you know,

social and creative sector as well.

Can I ask you how Mayor Adams did with respect to the interests of your members, you know,

he certainly touted himself as a small business guy?

Absolutely.

Mayor Adams did a lot of good work for the city's restaurant and nightlife industry,

supporting small businesses, reducing fines.

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