Entrepreneurs push back as Illinois city proposes new business registry

(The Center Square) – Despite existing state registration requirements, Pontiac officials are proposing a new local business registration program aimed at improving communication and compliance, a move that has sparked concerns from some local entrepreneurs.

Greg Knowles, Pontiac’s director of building and zoning, explained the rationale during a recent city council meeting.

“It solves the problem of ‘I don’t know what’s happening downtown or I don’t know where businesses are,’” Knowles said. “If I don’t know what is downtown, I can’t tell you whether what’s downtown is compliant.”

The registration program, which would include a $10 annual fee, aims to create a database of business owners, building owners, and emergency contact information.

However, some local business owners question whether the program is necessary. Entrepreneur and real estate broker Kyle DeLong, who operates multiple businesses in the city, expressed frustration with the proposal.

“This...