The Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) has announced the finalists for its 2019 “Most Business-Friendly City” in LA County Award. The cities of Lancaster, Bellflower, Gardena, Norwalk, Pasadena, and Rosemead are finalists for the population 50,000 and over category, and the cities of Duarte, La Mirada, Monrovia, San Gabriel, and Santa Fe Springs are finalists in the population under 50,000 category.
A winner from each category will be announced live at the 24th Annual Eddy Awards, on Nov. 7, at JW Marriot at LA Live.
Business-friendly programs and services are a critical factor in job-creation. The finalists were selected through independent review by a panel of blue ribbon judges, based on the following criteria:
—Demonstrated priority commitment to economic development and quality jobs
—Excellence in programs and services designed to facilitate business entry, expansion, and retention
—Competitive business tax rates and fee structures
—Availability of economic incentives
—Effective communication with and about business clients
Cities with populations of 50,000 and over:
Bellflower
Historically known as a bedroom community, Bellflower is developing a reputation as the “place to be.” The city has introduced over 130 new housing units and creative developments that are renewing interest in Bellflower’s business community. Using almost every tool in the toolbox, staff have successfully worked with developers to invest in Bellflower. From two Choice Hotels to a Mixed-Use Transit Oriented Development featuring a Laemmle Theatre, the city works closely with developers and businesses to make their projects a reality. Its efforts have produced projects that are complete or well underway, such as SteelCraft, Dunkin’, ln-N-Out, and The Exchange.
Gardena
Gardena, a growing city located in the South Bay trade region of LA, offers exciting new opportunities for business relocations and new development. Gardena is centrally located and holds the keys to the freeway system. The city takes a pro-business approach to real estate development always challenging itself to solve for “yes.” Gardena’s foundation was built on the strength of its business industry and continues to thrive under the current leadership. Gardena’s excellent location, diverse and strong business community, and supportive government make it a very business-friendly city in LA County.
Lancaster
Twice before named LA County’s Most Business-Friendly City, Lancaster has long enjoyed a reputation of being supportive of smart commercial, industrial and residential development. While some municipalities see their role as a regulator, Lancaster views itself as a facilitator, always looking for ways to say yes to good ideas. The city council and staff are committed to helping businesses become successful and stay viable. Whether businesses are looking to relocate in Lancaster, expand operations in the city, or simply keep the business healthy and vibrant, Lancaster stands ready to help businesses succeed.
Norwalk
Since adoption of the Economic Development Plan in 2015, the city’s goal is to be the most business-friendly city in LA County. The city provides its residents with a Social Services Department; Child Care Services; a robust Public Safety Department; and other services not normally provided in a contract city. In order to maintain economic viability, city officials have worked collaboratively with the business community to retain businesses and employment opportunities. The city works to create strong relationships with its businesses to let them know that they have the backing of all the city’s leaders.
Pasadena
The city of Pasadena is a thriving community located at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains. Pasadena boasts a quality of life that is recognized nationally and is home to some of the most successful technology, finance, and engineering companies in the world. With a highly educated workforce that enjoys a dynamic range of amenities and support services, Pasadena offers everything businesses and their employees want in a location. With a history of successful commerce in the community, Pasadena municipal government is dedicated to the continued support of a fertile environment that encourages new business and innovation.
Rosemead
The city of Rosemead works diligently to maintain its business-friendly atmosphere. The city provides a one-day turnaround for business licenses, conducts over-the-counter plan checks; engages with the community; recognizes and awards businesses for their contribution to the city; and attracts and retains a dynamic range of businesses. The city of Rosemead exists to serve and is a very business-friendly city in LA County.
