From: Jeff Chambers
To: City Council
Subject: Letter of Support 12C 10/15/2024
Date: Tuesday,October 15,2024 4:09:31 PM
Attachments: Outlook-small loao.ona
Letter of Support-Pismo Parkingpdf
External Email
Hello Attached is a letter of support for item 12C on tonight's agenda. I am trying to attend in person, but wanted to make sure that the South County Chambers of Commerce support was noted.
Thanks
Jeff
Regards,
Jeff Chambers, CEO
South County Chambers of Commerce
PO Box 672,Arroyo Grande, CA 93421
ceo&southcountychambers.com
(805) 574-1267-direct
(805)489-1488-office
southcountychambers.com
South County
Chambers f-+Cnm mercc
S AG Headquarters
P.O. Box 672,AG C-alif 93421
South County (805)489-1488
Chambers of Commerce The Launch Pad Co-Work 391 Front St.,GB Calif 93433
(805)574-1981
California Welcome Center—Pismo Beach
333 Five Cities Dr.#100,PB Calif 93449
- ,ny dusineso`-te -L—, (805)668-7354
ARROYO GRANDE•AVILA BEACH•GROVER BEACH
NIPOMO•OCEANO•PISMO BEACH
October 15, 2024
Pismo Beach City Council
760 Mattie Road
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Dear Honorable Mayor and City Council Members,
I am writing on behalf of the South County Chambers of Commerce to express our strong support for the recommendations put forth by the Parking Advisory Committee regarding the Downtown Parking Program. The Chamber believes that these recommendations will significantly benefit the business community and stimulate economic growth in the heart of Pismo Beach.
The proposed reduction of the parking in-lieu fee from $36,000 to $9,000 per space is an important step in encouraging commercial investment. Many businesses, both existing and new, struggle with the financial burden of the current in-lieu fee, and this adjustment will make downtown development more feasible. By reducing this fee, Pismo Beach will enhance opportunities for businesses to grow, contributing to the vibrancy of the downtown area and ultimately benefiting the local economy.
We also support the recommendation to allow property owners to use in-lieu fees for 100% of their parking requirements,which will free up valuable land for development.This policy change not only creates a more efficient use of space but also promotes walkability and a more pedestrian-friendly environment, key to a thriving downtown experience. Allowing storefronts to be developed in areas currently occupied by underutilized parking lots will further enhance the appeal of the downtown core, attracting more visitors and customers to local businesses.
The Chamber is particularly encouraged by the introduction of parking maximums alongside minimums. Many cities, as noted in your report, have successfully implemented similar programs to reduce the unnecessary overdevelopment of parking spaces.This forward-thinking approach aligns with our region's goals of sustainability and responsible development, encouraging multi- modal transportation options while reducing the environmental impact.
Finally, we believe that reducing'overall parking requirements and creating flexibility in the Zoning Code for existing buildings will foster business retention and expansion. As many businesses in downtown Pismo Beach have minimal or no parking options, the current parking requirements can deter prospective tenants or prevent successful businesses from expanding. By allowing changes
in use without triggering additional parking requirements, Pismo Beach will foster a more dynamic and adaptable business environment.
In conclusion, the South County Chambers of Commerce supports the Parking Advisory Committee's recommendations and urges the City Council to adopt these changes. We believe these measures will help create a more vibrant, economically sustainable, and welcoming downtown, benefiting both businesses and residents.
Thank you for your consideration of these important recommendations.
Sincerely,
Jeff Chambers
CEO, South County Chambers of Commerce