Economic Development

By Sharifa Wilson

Economic Development efforts must move ahead.The developments projects must benefit both the community and the region.

For the Ravenswood 101 Retail Center,we must secure additional tenants and ensure implementation of our local employment policy. By providing training and employment opportunities local residents will be able to benefit from this development.The completion of this project includes the development of 400 single family detached homes both at and below market rate and affordable apartment units.This center is expected to generate $1 million dollars in sales tax revenue. These revenues will allow the city to improve and increase city services.

The University Circle Project has the potential to generate $3.5 million, which would double our general fund budget. These funds will enable our city to provide additional funds for public safety and improve streets. The planned hotel will generate over 500 jobs for local residents, and additional revenues for the city from room tax.

The Ravenswood Industrial Park has Federal Brownsfield Designation. This creates a partnership between the City of East Palo Alto and the Federal Government, in an effort to create jobs and revenues for the community.This partnership can result in resources to assist in the development of the industrial park into an area which can generate the greatest number of local jobs.

As the Vice Mayor, and Chair of the Redevelopment Agency, I have had an instrumental role in shaping the development policies for the city. I will continue to work on those efforts which benefit local residents and their children.