Owner Justin Bryner of Clockwork Games stands in front of his tabletop game store.

MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - It’s not that simple to blame lack of business, if any, on the June 15 Hotel Marysville Fire and its surrounding traffic issues. There are many other variables that are cause for concern for Marysville business owners, such as the rising price of commercial insurance and PG&E rates which have nearly doubled and even tripled, according to one business owner.

The recent heat waves have produced a steady 90 to 104 degree weather pattern, and many owners on D Street close shops at 3 p.m. to save on electricity bills. Additionally, inflation, taxes, groceries, gas, rents, clothing, prescriptions, medical insurance and property taxes have all increased steadily, adding to the consistent decline in profits compared to a year ago. 

“July and August are the worst months. There’s back-to-school, vacations, heat, and high grocery costs.” Said Sue Doven of Sissy’s Attic. 

Some good news: According to Donovan, Mid-July’s Peach Festival pulled in 25,000 people and increased her business by 62%, which proves that these community events help to drive business and increase foot traffic. 

Many owners have invested entire savings into these mom-and-pop independent businesses, and failure is not an option.

“I’m not a quitter. I really want D Street to work,” says Verna Henry, owner of The Antique Mall in Marysville. Henry offers some of the most unique antiques in the area; and she sells silver online to supplement her income. 

Around the corner on 4th Street, Elvy’s Thrift Shop Owner Loren Corona, used the Hotel Marysville traffic diversion to her advantage. While drivers were sitting in traffic, they couldn’t help but notice the many propped-up balloons and loud music to capture their attention and lure them into the store. Corona is active on social media utilizing both Facebook and Instagram, which brings in new clients. 

Another tech savvy owner is Justin Bryner of Clockwork Games, which opened on Aug. 1. Bryner runs a niche Harry Potter meets steampunk styled tabletop game store. Uniquely positioned, he also uses social media to draw in business and sell merchandise. Weekends are busy, and he’s open late.

A few doors down Silva’s Collectibles toys & comics’ owners, John and Angelina Silva, have a ‘boutiqued’ business of comic books, videos, collectibles, and toys. Silva’s Collectibles has a built customer base and service a very distinct clientele. 

“Since the fire, our business really hasn’t changed,” Angelina Silva said. 

Owners John and Angelina Silva showcase their toys.

Chris Marin, owner and professional barber of The Lighthouse Barber Parlour said, “I’ve seen problems with traffic and there’s lots of accidents.”

Marin moved in one month ago and has seen and heard people getting angry over diverted roadways. He had a good book of business before opening and has kept his clients. He also has parking spots in front of his business, which is located on 4th Street. 

On Aug. 25, Caltrans District 3 public information officer Megan Reese gave an update on the existing downtown road conditions.

“Caltrans still has diverted traffic and cannot proceed until the City’s engineer gives the okay to clear,” Reese said. 

On the south side of town, business owners Zach and Taylor Zapata of Wood Butcher on C Str. took over a month ago and are building upon an existing book of business. They do lots on social media and find that traffic is not a problem since it has been diverted directly in front of their store. Obviously, this is visual marketing in their favor. 

“We have home grown meats: beef, pork, lamb, chicken and offer a place to shop locally,” Zapata said.  

Although there have been roadblocks to success for these downtown businesses, they are finding workarounds and creative solutions. Following the City’s emergency declaration, low-interest loans are being offered to those affected by the Hotel Marysville Fire through the US Small Business Administration. 

Brynda Stranix of Yuba-Sutter Economic Development Corporation has met with business owners to provide additional information on disaster assistance in the form of these low interest federal disaster loans. 

The City of Marysville via Charles Smith, Sutter County PIO, administered the latest Hotel Marysville update.

“On Aug. 15 the City issued a notice of non-compliance requiring immediate measures to prevent asbestos contamination from entering the storm drain system. The notice allows 10 days for compliance before considering further actions, including potential demolition. The owners have yet to comply,” Smith sadd. 

Hotel Marysville still standing and poses a safety hazard.