New business activity slowed down in Cherokee County last month, but saw a rise from November a year ago.

Local government offices issued 109 new business licenses last month, down from 176 in October but an increase from 71 in November 2008.

So far this year, 1,856 new business licenses have been granted throughout the county. The pace is a little off from last year, when 1,888 new licenses were issued through November.

"I have to believe the economy is the No. 1 problem," Said Doug Key of Key's Jewelry, a member of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce's board of directors, adding some people may not think that now is a good time to start a business.

Pam Carnes, president of the chamber, said some entrepreneurs who wanted to open before the holidays probably received their license sooner while others are waiting until 2010.

"They may want to hold on until after the hectic holiday," she said.

The county business license office issued 55 new business licenses last month, down from 104 in October but up from 48 in November last year. So far this year, the county office has approved 1,180 new licenses, down from 1,289 at this time in 2008.

The city of Woodstock granted 31 new licenses last month, up from 29 in October and 11 in November last year. So far this year, 336 new licenses have been issued, up from 312 at this time last year.

Donna Durick, who started Razzle Dazzle Parties in the city last month, said Woodstock still has plenty of room to grow.

She said it was a good time to open her business, which holds parties for children, since parents want to do something special for their kids despite the economy.

"I think Woodstock will grow. It is a quaint area, and people like that," she said.

Canton issued 13 new business licenses last month, down from 16 in October and up from seven in November last year. So far this year, the city has granted 209 licenses, up from 155 at this time last year.

Holly Springs approved 10 new licenses in November, down from 24 in October, but an increase from three in November last year. The city has issued 103 new licenses so far this year, up from 93 issued at this time in 2008.

Ball Ground did not grant any new licenses in November. It issued three in October and two in November last year. This year so far, 26 new business licenses have been approved in the city, down from 39 at this time last year.

Neither Waleska nor Nelson issued a new license last month. Waleska has issued two licenses so far this year, while Nelson has not issued any.