County Looks to Develop Economic Strategy

Amidst increasing economic growth, San Mateo County is looking to help guide cities on their current paths. Consultants are assessing the current business climate and looking for ways to work with Redwood City and the other 19 cities.

Last week, county consultant Leslie Parks stopped by the Redwood City Chamber of Commerce to conduct a study session of what were the county’s strengths and areas for improvement. If residents and other stakeholders are interested in participating, they may contact Leslie Parks at 408-264-1601 or parksopendoors@gmail.com.

Parks asked the Chamber’s Economic Development Committee the following questions. The responses are also listed below:

1.   What are the regions economic strengths?

Location (destination, not just a stop), proximity to work-class universities, venture capitalism, innovation, proximity to airports, talent/culture, job balance and growth, weather

2.   What are its weaknesses?

Transportation, housing availability and cost, cost of living, over-regulatory business culture, K-12 education

3.   What are its opportunities?

Regional vision/collaboration, public/private relationships

4.   Is the quality of the workforce an issue for businesses/organizations?

Emphasis on testing in schools not job skills, hard to find right employer

County businesses are more likely to churn employees and keep them within the region rather than attract from outside the area, according to Parks. The county has a Workforce Developer Program that all residents can utilize.

Members of the Chamber added that while the county can encourage economic development, it should only set the table and “invite the people to dinner,” not directly create it.

The county’s emphasis is on social services, not business, said Councilmember John Seybert.

Follow us on Twitter | Like us on Facebook | | Blog for us