Today, cities and counties face enormous budgetary challenges in an altered regulatory environment. Cities and counties are facing a significant decline in revenues (property and sales tax drops, reduced transfers from the State) and staggering increases in costs (staff, pensions, healthcare costs, etc.).

In addition, the elimination of redevelopment had eliminated both the financing AND legal mechanism to generate economic development for municipalities.

But economic development is more critical than ever before. A healthy and growing local economy is crucial for every city, county and region in California to survive – and thrive.

Economic development is the engine for success in our municipalities.

Economic development generates revenues for vital services such as public safety, libraries, parks and infrastructure.

Economic development creates jobs, builds new businesses and provides opportunities for business expansion.

Economic development provides the foundation for healthier, safer and more economically sustainable communities.

To ensure their communities are healthy and thriving, cities and counties and regions must continue to invest in economic development.

It’s not a question of whether to invest in economic development – it’s a question of how BEST to invest in economic development.