Learning for Others - Part III

Here’s the final article on what other communities are doing for economic development. As you read through them think of how they be applied to your community.

City of Cotati

Cotati is focused on attracting and retaining new businesses and they do that in a number of ways. They have a new website that lists available commercial properties. They also have a site that gives businesses an opportunity to advertise free of charge.

They formed a task force, in partnership with the city council, to ensure it is easy for firms to locate in their community by educating them about zoning, permits, fees and licences. The task force launched an Economic Development Survey for citizens and businesses to identify specific business types that residents want to attract to Cotati.

City of Sebastopol

The city’s Community Development Agency emphasizes business retention and assistance for existing firms, while also finding ways to expedite city processes for new and existing businesses. A Business Outreach Committee was created with the goal of tripling funding to the city’s Facade Improvement Program, developing a new city Web portal, implementing a downtown directional signage program and providing matching funds for consolidated advertising campaigns.

This fall, Sebastopol is hosting an Economic Summit and will be providing grants and loans to non-profit organizations for technology improvements. This program could evolve into a similar loan program for local business.