What Mamdani is doing with city-run stores is illegal and irresponsible, small business owner says

July 31, 2026 - 08:30

The head of a local multicultural business coalition is sharply criticizing the mayor's push for a city-operated grocery store, calling the effort both illegal and dangerous for the community's economic health. Frank Garcia, chairman of the Multicultural Business Coalition, said his group has been shut out of the conversation entirely.

Garcia appeared on "The Bottom Line" to discuss the controversy. He stated that the mayor's office declined repeated requests for a meeting to address concerns about the project. According to Garcia, the administration has moved forward without proper legal review or public input, which he argues violates city procurement rules and oversteps the mayor's authority.

"The way this is being handled is not just a policy disagreement. It is a legal problem," Garcia said. "You cannot use public funds to compete directly against private taxpaying businesses, especially when the process bypasses the normal checks and balances."

Garcia also warned that the store would undercut independent grocers who already struggle with thin margins. He said many of those businesses are owned by immigrants and minority families who have invested their life savings into serving neighborhoods the city now claims to help.

The chairman said his coalition is exploring legal options and plans to raise the issue at the next city council meeting. He urged residents to contact their representatives and demand transparency before any lease is signed or inventory is purchased.