The focus of this action is to create a thriving local economy by maximizing the potential of local businesses. By supporting local businesses such as "Shop Long Branch" initiative, the municipality can help grow a diverse local economy, stabilize their tax base, and create a strong and vibrant business community. 

This action identifies opportunities for the municipal government to strengthen and promote local businesses and to expand the amount of goods and services purchased from locally owned businesses. 

Why is it important? 

Strong local economies re-circulate local purchasing dollars within the community; enhance the livability of communities; bring stability and diversity to the local economy, and support the retention and expansion of independent and locally owned businesses by increasing community awareness about the personal, community, and economic benefits of choosing local first. 

From the municipal government perspective, the creation of a strong local economy stabilizes and could expand municipal tax revenues while diversifying the municipal tax structure away from dependence on residential tax sources. 

Job creation is also an important benefit as small, local businesses are the largest employers in the nation.

Buying local can reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that occur when consumers travel out of town to shop. Local shopping also offers the possibility of walking to stores which has the added benefit of encouraging healthy, active lifestyles.