I am a small business owner, and I support raising Baltimore City's minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2020 ("Baltimore City Council divided over $15 minimum wage," July 17). I have spent most of my life in financial hardship even though I've worked more than full time. Putting in that kind of time while working for someone else always felt unbalanced. Now that I own my own business, I pay my workers at least $15 per hour. I could legally pay them less, but I don't because my business is doing well and it's the right thing to do.
I also understand the struggle many businesses have with managing their profits and losses. This bill strikes the right balance between increasing wages and economic activity with what it takes for businesses to succeed.
As the cost of living continues to go up, so should wages. If I can pay a higher wage at my neighborhood hair salon, larger businesses can do it too.
Lisa Hawks, Baltimore
The writer is the owner of Chop Shop on Harford Road.