Economic Development
Strategic Plan
City Council Meeting
October 15, 2024
Kriss Casanova,
Economic Development Manager
Background
In alignment with the 2023-2027
Strategic Plan, City Council
initiated an update to the 2017
Economic Development
Implementation Plan.
Goals for the updated plan include:
• greater business retention,
• attracting local investments, and
• fostering job growth.
Economic Development Summit
• Economic Development Summit held
in October 2023 with a variety of
business owners, property owners,
and developers.
• Key Insights
• More Personal Touch/Service
• Enhanced HB experiences
• Improve Permitting Process
• Address Changing Business Needs
Focus Areas
The updated plan focuses on four key
areas to drive economic growth:
1. Business Retention, Expansion, &
Attraction
2. Tourism, Culture, & Community
3. Responsive & Effective Government
4. Communication & Collaboration
Business Retention, Expansion,
& Attraction
• Retain & Grow Existing Businesses
Provide resources to prevent business closures
and assist with expansion.
• Attract New Businesses
Showcase HB as desirable business location.
• Market Business Opportunities
Expand business recognition opportunities.
• Promote a Year-Round Economy
Implement marketing strategies to maintain year-
round business engagement.
Tourism, Culture, & Community
• Expand Tourism, Film, & Event Opportunities
Collaborate with Visit Huntington Beach to draw
visitors and showcase our unique City.
• Prepare for the LA 2028 Olympics
Position Huntington Beach as a global destination
and maximize economic opportunities.
• Enhance Arts & Cultural Experiences
Invest in assets and programs that celebrate our
City’s rich cultural identity.
• Support the Social Economy
Boost the vibrancy of social venues and improve
resident and visitor experiences.
Responsive & Effective Government
• Enhance Infrastructure
Invest in upgrades to public facilities, technology,
and event accommodations.
• Promote Business-Friendly Policies
Position the City to proactively adapt to evolving
business needs and market trends.
• Deliver Outstanding Customer Service
Ensure City employees are equipped with training
and tools for efficient service delivery.
Communication & Collaboration
• Engage with Local Stakeholders
Connect with partners to address concerns
and gather feedback.
• Strengthen Partnerships
Develop joint initiatives and create a
network to facilitate ongoing collaboration.
• Share Information & Resources
Use digital platforms to provide resources to
keep businesses informed and competitive.
2025 Action Plan
• Bolster Business Attraction, Retention &
Expansion Efforts
50+ business outreach visits, business event,
develop and distribute economic profile,
continue to engage with stakeholders and build
partnerships.
• Strengthen Communication Channels
Expand business recognition opportunities,
elevate online presence with updated info, grow
Streamline Surf City Initiative.
• Enhance the HB Experience
Launch a shop/dine local campaign, increase
cultural/sports opportunities, implement projects
that improve the resident and visitor experience.
Thank you