Santa Clarita has been named a finalist for the Most Business-Friendly City in Los Angeles County by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corp.
Winners will be announced on Nov 10. at the annual Eddy Awards dinner.
Santa Clarita was named a finalists for being community-minded and business-driven.
“The city of Santa Clarita is honored to once again be recognized as a top choice to do business in Los Angeles County,” said Bob Kellar, Santa Clarita Mayor. “Our one stop permit center, policies for no business license fees, our Recycling Market Development Zone, our Use Tax Rebate Program and Business Incubator all contribute to a thriving economic climate for business.”
A strong network of city departments, business associations, community organizations, and governmental agencies working seamlessly to make the city a business-friendly haven, was cited as a reason for the nomination.
The unified approach cuts through red tape, streamlines permits, and ultimately provides more efficiency for local businesses, the LAEDC stated in a press release Thursday.
“Santa Clarita is consistently known as one of the state’s most business friendly cities,” said Holly Schroeder, president and CEO of the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation. “Leaders in Santa Clarita recognize the importance of a strong and diverse economy to protect and enhance SCV’s quality of life. As our partners in economic development, SCVEDC is proud to see Santa Clarita nominated once again.”
Last year, cities of El Segundo and Palmdale were named the 2015 winners.
Finalists are selected through independent review by a panel of blue ribbon judges, based on the following criteria: demonstrated priority commitment to economic development; excellence in programs and services designed to facilitate business entry, expansion, and retention; competitive business tax rates and fee structures; availability of economic incentives; and effective communication with and about business clients.
Santa Clarita, Compton, Downey, Lakewood and Long Beach were named finalists for cities with populations of 68,000 and over.
