Santa Fe Springs Launches Major Initiative to Boost Business Growth and Attract New Enterprises

Santa Fe Springs Launches Ambitious Program to Bolster Economic Growth

Santa Fe Springs, California – The City of Santa Fe Springs unveiled a complete Business Growth and Attraction Program on october 16, 2025, at a prominent luncheon held at the historic Clarke Estate. This initiative aims to solidify the city’s position as a leading center for industrial and commercial innovation within the state of California.

The exclusive event brought together a diverse group of leaders-including elected officials, developers, corporate executives, and economic analysts-to address the challenges of retaining businesses in California amidst competition from states offering lower operating costs such as Texas, Arizona, and Tennessee.

A Hub of Industrial Activity

Mayor William K. Rounds and City Manager René Bobadilla highlighted Santa Fe Springs’ ample economic contributions. The City boasts over 54.7 million square feet of industrial and commercial space,representing the highest concentration in Los Angeles County. Remarkably, despite comprising only 0.2 percent of the county’s total land area,Santa Fe Springs accounts for more than six percent of it’s entire industrial footprint,a density unparalleled in Southern California.

New Incentives to Spur Investment

Mayor Rounds announced a robust package of nearly two dozen new business incentives designed to stimulate growth and opportunity. These include low-interest loan options, sales-tax rebates, financial assistance for rent and relocation, expedited permitting processes – potentially reducing approval times by as much as 50 percent – and Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) opportunities focusing on sustainability and infrastructure projects. The city intends these tools to modernize local industry, accelerate construction schedules, and reduce the overall cost of conducting business.

“These programs will expand growth and unlock opportunity,” stated Rounds. “Collaborating with our BIG 4 partners – the Cities of Commerce, Industry, and Vernon – we are jointly shaping the future of economic development in Los Angeles County. Our collective goal is to transform Santa Fe Springs into a thriving live-work-play surroundings, defined by its industrial prowess and as a premier destination for both residents and businesses.”

Regional Collaboration and Economic Power

The new initiative is being advanced in collaboration with the BIG 4 partnership, a formalized alliance between Santa Fe springs, Commerce, Industry, and Vernon, established through a recently adopted Memorandum of Understanding. this coalition offers a unified voice for the region’s most industrialized cities in Sacramento and Washington D.C.. cumulatively, the four cities occupy a mere 0.69 percent of L.A. County’s land, yet house over 24 percent of its total industrial square footage-a concentration City Manager Bobadilla described as “the heartbeat of Southern California’s economy.”

“By working together, we are pooling our collective strengths to attract new industries, create employment opportunities, and safeguard California’s competitive standing,” Bobadilla explained. “These incentives streamline procedures and present innovative public-private financing solutions,positioning us to effectively compete with other states while fostering a stronger,more resilient economic future for Southern California.”

Keynote Address and Panel Discussion

Congresswoman Linda Sánchez offered a virtual keynote address, commending the city’s leadership and commitment to regional collaboration. “California’s strength has always stemmed from its spirit of innovation, its diversity, and the collaborative efforts of its communities,” Sánchez emphasized. “When cities, businesses, and local stakeholders work in concert, we generate opportunities-better jobs, thriving industries, and more robust neighborhoods. With strong local leadership like we see in Santa Fe Springs, we can assure that growth benefits all.”

A panel discussion titled “What Businesses really Need to Succeed in California” followed, moderated by Dr. Wesley Yin, a UCLA Professor and former Chief Economist for the White House Office of Management and Budget. Panelists included Ron Frierson, Amazon’s Director of Economic Development for the Western U.S.; Leandro Tyberg, President and Co-Founder of Primestor Development; and Stephane Wandel, Executive Director of Acquisitions and Development at The Orden Company.

Panelists acknowledged California’s advantages but also its considerable challenges. “Many companies choose to operate here as of the state’s vast market and skilled workforce, but that doesn’t guarantee their long-term presence,” noted Frierson. “When leaders actively incentivize growth, it’s a significant step forward.” Wandel highlighted the escalating difficulties in retaining jobs amidst rising costs, while tyberg emphasized the need for streamlining processes and community focus to ensure the survival of small businesses.

Future Outlook and Downtown Development

State Senator Bob Archuleta,representing the 32nd District,concluded the event with praise for the coalition’s dedication to supporting small businesses. “The BIG 4-we are the heartbeat of Southern California, and the momentum is shifting,” Archuleta declared, adding, “We are actively listening to small businesses and making it easier for them to thrive.”

The City’s new incentive framework, detailed in the Santa fe Springs Business Incentives Fact Sheet, encompasses fee waivers, tax credits, and expedited permitting assistance. Additionally, officials previewed plans for a new downtown district featuring mixed-use housing, retail, office spaces, and hotels, aiming to enhance the quality of life for both residents and employees.

Mayor Rounds concluded, “Santa Fe springs is demonstrating that success doesn’t require leaving California-it simply requires selecting the appropriate city.”

Incentive Type	Description
Low-Interest Loans	Financial assistance for business expansion and development.
Sales-Tax Rebates	Partial reimbursement of sales taxes paid.
Permitting Acceleration	Reduced approval times for building and development projects.
EIFD Opportunities	financing for lasting infrastructure improvements.

The California Business Climate: A Broader Viewpoint

California remains a global economic powerhouse, ranking as the world’s fifth-largest economy as of late 2024, with a Gross State Product of over $3.9 trillion (Bureau of Economic Analysis). However, the state has faced increasing challenges from businesses relocating to states with lower taxes and regulations.According to a recent report from the Milken Institute (November 2024), California’s business environment ranks 32nd in the nation, primarily due to high operating costs and a complex regulatory landscape.

This initiative by Santa Fe Springs reflects a growing trend among Californian cities to actively counter these challenges by implementing targeted incentive programs and fostering regional collaboration. The success of these efforts will be crucial in maintaining California’s economic leadership in the years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Santa Fe Springs’ Business Incentives

• What is the Business Growth and Attraction Program? It’s a comprehensive initiative to attract and retain businesses in Santa Fe Springs.
• What types of incentives are offered? The program includes low-interest loans, tax rebates, expedited permitting, and infrastructure financing opportunities.
• Who is eligible for these incentives? Eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific incentive.
• How can businesses apply for these incentives? Information on the application process is available on the City of Santa Fe Springs website.
• What is the BIG 4 partnership? It’s a collaboration between Santa Fe Springs, Commerce, Industry, and Vernon to promote regional economic development.
• What are Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts (EIFDs)? These districts allow for the financing of public infrastructure improvements related to sustainability projects.
• Will the permitting process actually be 50% faster? The City expects the streamlined procedures to cut approval times by up to 50% in many cases.

What are your thoughts on the City’s new economic incentives? Do you believe these measures will be effective in attracting and retaining businesses in Santa Fe Springs?

How does “Project Velocity” specifically aim to reduce the financial burden on businesses during the permitting process?

Streamlining Permitting & Reducing Regulatory Burdens

Santa Fe Springs is enacting a extensive overhaul of its business licensing and permitting processes. This initiative, dubbed “Project Velocity,” aims to substantially reduce the time and cost associated with starting and expanding businesses within the city. Key changes include:

* Online Permitting Portal: A new, user-friendly online portal will allow businesses to submit applications, track progress, and receive approvals electronically. This eliminates paper-based processes and streamlines dialog.

* Expedited Review Process: Dedicated teams will be assigned to review permits within defined timelines, prioritizing projects based on economic impact and job creation potential. The goal is to cut average permit approval times by 30% within the first year.

* Regulatory Simplification: A thorough review of existing city ordinances is underway to identify and eliminate outdated or unnecessarily complex regulations hindering business growth. This includes zoning adjustments to encourage mixed-use development and flexible business operations.

* One-Stop Business Assistance Center: A centralized resource center will provide businesses with guidance on navigating the permitting process, accessing financial incentives, and connecting with relevant city departments.

Attracting Investment: Targeted Industry Focus

The city is actively courting businesses in high-growth sectors, with a particular emphasis on advanced manufacturing, logistics, and green technology.Santa Fe Springs’ strategic location near major transportation hubs – including the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, and a robust freeway network – makes it an ideal location for these industries.

* Advanced Manufacturing Incentives: Tax credits and grants are available for companies investing in new equipment, research and development, and workforce training within the advanced manufacturing sector.

* Logistics & Distribution Hub: Leveraging its proximity to the ports, Santa Fe Springs is promoting itself as a premier logistics and distribution center. Incentives are being offered for companies establishing warehousing, fulfillment, and transportation operations.

* Green Technology & sustainability: The city is actively seeking companies developing and deploying sustainable technologies, offering streamlined permitting for green building projects and renewable energy installations. This aligns with California’s broader environmental goals and positions Santa Fe Springs as a leader in sustainability.

* Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Outreach: the city is expanding its outreach efforts to attract foreign investment, targeting key markets in Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

Infrastructure Improvements to Support Growth

Recognizing the importance of a robust infrastructure, Santa Fe Springs is investing heavily in upgrades to its transportation network, utilities, and public spaces.

* Roadway Improvements: Ongoing projects to improve traffic flow and enhance access to industrial areas,including widening key arterial roads and synchronizing traffic signals.

* Utility Upgrades: Investments in water, sewer, and electrical infrastructure to ensure reliable service for existing and future businesses. This includes exploring smart grid technologies to improve energy efficiency.

* fiber Optic Network Expansion: Expanding the city’s fiber optic network to provide high-speed internet access to businesses, supporting data-intensive operations and fostering innovation.

* Public Space Enhancements: Improvements to parks, landscaping, and public amenities to create a more attractive and livable surroundings for employees and residents.

Financial Incentives & Business Support Programs

Santa Fe Springs offers a range of financial incentives and support programs to help businesses thrive.

* Business Tax Credits: Credits are available for job creation, capital investment, and research and development activities.

* Loan Programs: Low-interest loan programs are available for small businesses and startups, providing access to capital for expansion and growth.

* Grant Opportunities: The city actively seeks and administers grant funding from state and federal sources to support local businesses.

* Workforce Development Programs: Partnerships with local community colleges and workforce development agencies to provide training and recruitment services for businesses. These programs focus on developing a skilled workforce to meet the needs of local employers.

* Enterprise zone Benefits: Businesses located within designated Enterprise Zones may be eligible for additional tax benefits and incentives.

Real-World Example: [Hypothetical – Based on typical city initiatives]

In Q3 2024, “Precision Manufacturing Inc.”, a local advanced manufacturing firm, expanded its operations in Santa Fe Springs, creating 50 new jobs.The company cited the city’s streamlined permitting process and access to workforce training programs as key factors in their decision. Thay received a business tax credit for job creation and utilized a low-interest loan