Santa Monica is stepping into the spotlight as a contender for the "Most Business-Friendly City (large cities)" category at the upcoming Eddy Awards on Nov. 5. As reported by the city's own website, this nod from the LAEDC (Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation) underscores the relentless work by local government in recent years to boost business support in the wake of the COVID pandemic. Santa Monica’s proactive approach has included a series of key reforms with the aim of enhancing economic activity and overall community prosperity.
Confirmed efforts include an overhaul of Santa Monica's zoning codes, simplifying ordinances, and revamping the permitting systems. With an intent to foster dialogue and engage directly with businesses, the city has initiated resource fairs, business listening sessions, and a fresh concierge program tailored for business owners. In a rare bid to bring baseball fans together, they even launched the region’s first Entertainment Zone on the Promenade. All these steps, while welcoming for businesses, are laying the groundwork for a service-focused local government aimed at tangible outcomes.
Touching on the city’s commitment, Economic Development Manager Jennifer Taylor explained, "We are so appreciative to LAEDC for recognizing this commitment to supporting businesses, fostering innovation, and building a thriving community for residents and visitors alike." Looking forward, Taylor also hinted that the city’s vision doesn’t stop here, with an extensive Realignment Plan approved by the City Council on Oct. 28 set to continue energizing economic growth and opportunity.
Apart from the more frontline improvements, Santa Monica plans to introduce back-end upgrades, such as a better permitting system software and an AI-based plan check program. In an unwavering journey to support their businesses, Santa Monica has decided to waive certain fees, reduce others, like for sidewalk dining, and to summarize more generally, keen on exploring the expansion of Entertainment Zone opportunities. With additional investments in infrastructure and public safety, the city envisions a new era marked by encouragement for development and innovation. For those interested, the ceremony details are at hand, all set to unfold at the Rose Bowl this Wednesday, Nov. 5.
