The purpose of the Department is: to centralize the administration of City business licenses, permits, and practices specified in subsection § 42-9 {“Business practices under oversight of the Department – Listing”} of this subtitle; to ensure compliance with City licensing requirements; to ensure City businesses are properly licensed and operating in accordance with City law; to investigate claims of unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices; and to enforce business licensing and consumer protection provisions of the City Code.