Committee recommends rebranding to rebuild trust in nightlife and hospitality sector

The Raleigh City Council held a work session on May 13, 2025, focusing on enhancing support for local businesses, particularly in the nightlife and hospitality sectors. The meeting emphasized the need for improved educational resources and support systems to help businesses thrive, rather than merely providing licenses and permits.

One of the key discussions revolved around the existing trust gap between business operators and the government. Council members highlighted that many operators feel disconnected from government support, which hinders effective communication and collaboration. To address this issue, it was recommended that Rachel and her team consider a rebranding strategy to foster better relationships and trust with local venues and operators.

The council acknowledged that the current approach lacks sufficient preparation and engagement with businesses. There was a consensus that more proactive measures are necessary to build trust and ensure that operators are receptive to guidance and support offered by the government.

The meeting underscored the importance of bridging this trust gap to facilitate a more cooperative environment for local businesses. The council plans to further explore these recommendations and develop actionable steps to enhance business support in the coming months.