The city of Stockton has introduced a novel initiative aimed at supporting small businesses grappling with the financial burden of window repairs following vandalism and break-ins. Labeled the "Broken Window Grant Program," the initiative will allocate $250,000 from the general fund to provide financial relief to affected businesses that have had to address broken windows on or after May 2.
Under the program, grants will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, offering a maximum reimbursement of $800 per window and up to $2,000 per business location.
One of the first businesses to take advantage of the grant is Martinizing, located near West March Lane and North Pershing Avenue. The establishment, which provides dry cleaning services, recently experienced a burglary on October 18, during which a suspect was captured on surveillance video breaking through the front glass door. Manager Manish Jamnadas, while appreciative of the assistance, expressed his hope that the city would address the root causes of such incidents, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive approach to community safety.
The Downtown Stockton Alliance also operates a similar window repair reimbursement program, which commenced in January. To date, the organization has reimbursed businesses for 37 window repairs.
City Councilor Brando Villapudua, representing District 5, shared his thoughts on the program, stating, "The grant for broken windows for Stockton businesses is a small contribution to the business owner’s efforts to recover from costly damages. It is most definitely a start in the right direction!" He emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses, especially in a post-COVID environment, and called for collaboration with law enforcement and the district attorney's office to enhance the overall safety and prosperity of the community.
Business owners seeking additional information about the new window repair grants can contact the Economic Development Department at 209-937-8539 or send an email to economic.development@stocktonca.gov. The Broken Window Grant Program is expected to provide vital assistance to small businesses as they navigate the challenges of maintaining their operations while enhancing community safety efforts in Stockton.
