Outreach Program Aims to Attract Businesses to Tustin

In an effort to attract businesses to the city and encourage communication among existing businesses, the City Council this week approved the development of an outreach program.

“We have been fortunate in the past to attract businesses just by being here,” Mayor Leslie Anne Pontious said. “But financial situations for a lot of businesses are changing. . . . We’re limited in what we do, but by letting businesses know we care, we can make it a better climate.”

Pontious added that the city is facing two major areas of growth and potential for business, with the closure of the Tustin Marine Corps Air Station and the development of Pacific Center East, which will include light-industrial businesses, retail space, offices and a hotel. Although no plan has been decided upon for the base land, which is valued at more than $6 million, the city hopes to attract businesses or a developer.

The council Monday night also approved the formation of a business magazine, supported through advertising, which will disseminate information from the city that is of interest to the business community.

Other plans include the formation of a committee that will determine the best way to target and attract new businesses, as well as support and encourage existing businesses. The council also proposed a closer working relationship with the Chamber of Commerce.

In addition, a letter from the mayor will be sent to new businesses welcoming them to Tustin and offering them assistance.

The council also suggested honoring existing businesses and targeting top sales-tax producers to let them know the city appreciates their efforts.