SR 06:064B - Laserfiche WebLink

Embark on re-structuring the Zoning Ordinance focusing on creating contemporary use classifications and making conditionally allowed uses permitted uses subject to performance standards. . Cultivate strong communication between existing businesses and City staff, including formalizing outreach efforts by economic development staff to periodically visit new and existing businesses. Survey existing businesses about their business needs and conduct "exit interviews" of businesses leaving Pleasanton to identify and address issues leading to businesses leaving Pleasanton. . Support local economic development organizations to strengthen connections between local businesses operating in related fields or business clusters, including national laboratories. Other targeted firms should include large employers as well as entrepreneurs, rapidly growing businesses and merchants that make Pleasanton a unique place. This work should be coordinated with economic development organizations and aim to pro-actively provide business support and assistance. A proven method of accomplishing this strategy is to create a Business Team of selected staff people from relevant City departments to act as designated points of contact for the business community. A senior City staff person with direct access to the City Manager's office should lead the Business Team and regularly report the Business Team's activities to City Council. The Business Team would work to expedite the interactions of the business community in obtaining City services and working within City processes. The Business Team should meet on a regular and ongoing basis to discuss projects of significance to the business community that are moving through City processes and to continue to refine City services. The Business Team should be promoted to the business community and contact information for the team leader and team members should be well publicized. The Business Team should establish and adhere to standards regarding prompt and conscientious responses to inquiries from the business community. . Work with downtown property owners and commercial developers to strengthen downtown Pleasanton as a cultural/historic, restaurant, hotel, and business service destination. Support opportunities for expansion of specialty retail offerings. . Continue to work with the Hacienda Owners Association and the owners of Stoneridge to encourage sustainable, mixed use. contemporary development. . With input from the City's economic development staff and the development community, continue to refine the City's development review and permitting processes to be customer-friendly and facilitate high quality development. Evaluate the City's permitting, review, and approval process to allow for the timely P1easanton Economic Development Strategic Plan DRAFT - January 2006 16