In the heart of Wilmington, NC, Bean There Café stands not just as a business but as a beacon of community, a place where locals gather to unwind, share stories, and build friendships. Yet, there is an urgent issue threatening this small business’s ability to serve its community: the denial of rightful use of its own backyard land, which they have painstakingly cleaned up, restored, and paid for. Over 50% of their seating has been taken away.

Small businesses like Bean There Café are the backbone of our community, offering a sense of character and supporting local economies. However, they face undue challenges, especially when it seems like bigger entities and wealthy residents receive preferential treatment. As a community, it’s crucial to ensure that all businesses have a fair chance to thrive, without unjust hindrances imposed upon them by local authorities.

Bean There Café's owners have invested time, money, and hard work into transforming their backyard into a beautiful, usable space. They took an underutilized area, invested their resources to restore it for the benefit of their patrons and the wider community, and believed that this effort would be recognized and supported by the city. Instead, they've been met with obstacles that deny them access to use this space they have cultivated.

The city of Wilmington should support small businesses who are actively improving the community and reflect on how their policies can better serve all businesses, not just those with substantial resources. It's imperative that local authorities acknowledge the investments these smaller businesses make towards urban beautification and community support, and grant them the support—and land use—they rightfully deserve.

Sign this petition to urge the City of Wilmington to grant Bean There Café the rightful use of their well-maintained backyard land. Stand with Bean There Café in championing fairness and justice for small businesses throughout Wilmington.