T-Ross Brothers Construction hosts discussion on challenges small businesses face

MILTON — Small business owners today face many obstacles to their success, from rising office supply costs to the health of the economy. T-Ross Brothers Construction feels strongly about the success of local businesses in our communities. Robert DeSousa, State Director for United States Senator Pat Toomey, visited Milton today and sat down with Todd Ross, president of T-Ross Brothers Construction Inc., as well as other area business leaders, to discuss challenges that small business owners are facing.

Ross said, “It’s important for local business owners to come together and have an open dialogue about the challenges they are facing, and what steps need to be taken to overcome those issues. We can share our thoughts with State Director DeSousa in hopes that changes can be made to support local businesses owners in our region.”

The business owners talked with DeSousa about healthcare costs and changes to healthcare regulations. Business owners agree uncertainty about the future direction of healthcare prevents them from planning ahead for potential rising costs.

Another discussion today focused on securing skilled and competent workers. “Finding the right people for the job has become a major challenge for small businesses.” DeSousa said in the construction industry, finding skilled labor is becoming an increasingly large concern. He said, “Many businesses don’t have the ability to do on-the-job training or run training programs the way large employers do. That makes finding skilled workers a struggle for smaller companies.”

Wage rates, tax reform and rising interest rates were also topics that were touched on. DeSousa will be the guest speaker at a Legislative Breakfast on Friday, hosted by the Central Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce. T-Ross Brothers Construction is a major sponsor for that event, being held at the Country Cupboard in Lewisburg.