Chamber to Discuss Empowerment Zone

How businesses can take advantage of incentives in the Northeast Valley Empowerment Zone will be the subject of a luncheon meeting of the Pacoima Chamber of Commerce today.

The public meeting will include a presentation by David Eder, a representative of the city’s Community Development Department, chamber officials said.

Empowerment zones are part of a federal program that seeks to promote reinvestment and job creation within the nation’s poorest urban and rural communities through tax credits, low-interest financing and other incentives.

The city of Los Angeles administers five enterprise zones, including the Northeast Valley Zone in parts of Pacoima, Sun Valley and Lake View Terrace.

The Los Angeles City Council is considering a proposal by Councilman Richard Alarcon to expand the Northeast Valley Zone to include the development at the former General Motors plant and other areas.

Chamber spokesman Mario Matute said the meeting will also include a discussion of how businesses can receive reimbursements from the city for hiring residents who live in government-subsidized housing within the empowerment zone.

“Most businesses don’t have a clear understanding of how they can utilize the tax incentives that are available,” Matute said. “We’re trying to help get the word out.”

Today’s meeting will begin at noon at the Tavern on the Green restaurant at Hansen Dam golf course, 10400 Glenoaks Blvd., in Pacoima. Lunch is available for $10.