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12 City of San Leandro | Economic Development Initiatives and Work Plan | December 2013 <br /> <br />Initiative #2: Marketing and Business Attraction <br />With an improving economy and the excitement being generated by major developments such <br />as the Shoreline project, the Kaiser Medical Center, and Downtown Transit-Oriented <br />Development projects, San Leandro has a great story to tell and a strong opportunity to recruit <br />new businesses. In order to capitalize on these opportunities, it is essential to get the story out <br />in general, and reach out to specific desired companies and retailers. In 2013, the City Council <br />approved a one-year Business License Tax Holiday which will waive the first year of the Business <br />License Tax for businesses that are new to San Leandro. This progr am will reduce costs for <br />businesses that either locate or start operations in the City and send a clear signal that San <br />Leandro is eager to welcome new businesses. <br />Ongoing Activities <br />Retail Recruitment – Business Development <br />staff works with property owners and <br />developers to find desirable tenants for new <br />and vacant retail spaces. Often, this entails <br />direct communication with retailers to help <br />them understand the opportunities available in <br />San Leandro. A survey of residents, completed <br />in 2008, has provided input on the types of businesses residents would like to bring to <br />Downtown San Leandro. Staff regularly takes representatives of retail businesses on tours of <br />the city to show them available properties. <br />Accomplishments To-Date: <br /> For the past several years, Business Development staff has had a table at the ICSC <br />Northern California Idea Exchange. <br /> As a result of direct staff outreach, several desired retailers, including Peet’s Coffee and <br />Tea, the Habit Burger and Chipotle, have indicated a desire to locate in Downtown San <br />Leandro. <br /> BevMo!, long identified as a desired retailer by the community, recently opened at <br />Fashion Faire Place in 2013. <br /> <br />Facilitate Transactions Between Real Estate Professionals, Property Owners, and <br />Businesses – When opportunities present themselves to assist a new or expanding business, <br />Business Development staff stands ready to assist real estate brokers, property owners, and