City Council Staff Report Page 1 of 2 May 12, 2026
Staff Report
Agenda Item No. 5.2
DATE: May 12, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Joan Malloy, City Manager
SUBJECT: Receive the Annual Economic Development Update
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides the City Council with an update on economic development activities, market conditions that impact city revenues, and noteworthy accomplishments over the last year. Staff recommends that the City Council receive the Economic Development Update report and ask any clarifying questions.
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT
This agenda item aligns with Goal C: Economic, Community Development, and Public Safety. Institute forward-thinking business, land-use development, housing, social services, and public safety strategies that promote community growth and innovation.
BACKGROUND
Staff prepared an Economic Development update (Attachment 1) to provide an overview of the various sectors and highlight key accomplishments over the last year. The update is broken down by the following topics: Industrial Sector, Retail Sector, Small Business Support, Strategic Initiatives, Outreach, Marketing, and Promotions.
This update is being provided in anticipation of a City Council Study Session on the draft Economic Development Strategic Plan, scheduled for late May/early June, and the final adoption of the Strategic Plan in late June.
DISCUSSION
The attached report provides the City Council with an overview of economic development activities, market conditions, and key accomplishments that support business retention, attraction, and revenue generation in Union City. Guided by the City’s Strategic Plan and Economic Development Strategic Plan, staff continued to advance initiatives that strengthen the local economy, support existing businesses, encourage investment, and promote Union City as a competitive location for business growth.
Agenda Item No. 5.2
City Council Staff Report Page 2 of 2 May 12, 2026 5
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The City experienced continued strength in the industrial sector, including business expansions, major lease renewals, property acquisitions, and advanced manufacturing investments. The City maintained one of the lowest industrial vacancy rates in the I-80/I880 corridor, reflecting sustained demand for industrial space and the community’s strategic location within the regional economy. Staff worked closely with property owners, brokers, utilities, regional partners, and State agencies to facilitate investment and support business operations.
The retail sector also remained active, with new tenant openings, shopping center reinvestments, and continued performance at Union Landing, one of the City’s primary sales tax generators. Staff supported commercial revitalization efforts, coordinated business openings and community events, and assisted with projects intended to enhance public safety, customer experience, and long-term economic vitality.
In addition, the City continued its commitment to small business support through educational workshops, emergency preparedness training, business outreach, and partnerships with local organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce, as well as outside agencies/organizations. Staff also advanced broader strategic initiatives, including preparing the updated Economic Development Strategic Plan, participating in regional economic development organizations, promoting Union City through publications and conferences, and developing workforce development partnerships with local schools and manufacturers.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact on the General Fund from receiving this report.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council receive the Economic Development Update report and ask any clarifying questions.
Prepared by: Gloria Ortega, Economic Development Manager Submitted by: Carmela Campbell, Economic and Community Development Director Attachment:
1. Attachment 1 - Economic Development Update