The Montgomery County Council is considering ways to help small businesses overcome development and regulatory hurdles.

The council introduced two bills Tuesday aimed at assisting small businesses. The first helps owners through what often is viewed as a rigorous regulatory process; the second helps those negatively affected by development.

Small business is defined in various ways, generally based on size and sales, according to the county. For instance, the Small Business Revolving Loan Program considers business with gross revenue of less than $5 million annually and less than 75 employees.

Council President Roger Berliner (D-Dist. 1) of Potomac said his Small Business Navigator bill designates an employee in the executive branch who will help advise small business owners on regulations and requirements. The employee will be the primary contact for small businesses and related agencies.

As rents increase in some areas due to development, small businesses can be forced out, Berliner said. The second bill seeks to help those that struggle with development by providing grant or loan assistance from the county’s Economic Development Fund, as well as technical assistance and training to eligible small businesses.

Public hearings on the two bills are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28.