Sandy City Council reviews economic development report highlighting 793 new businesses

Sandy's economic landscape is thriving, with a record-breaking 793 new businesses opening in the past year, according to the latest city council meeting. This surge contributes to a total of over 5,400 businesses operating in Sandy, showcasing a robust local economy that ranks among the top five in Utah for taxable sales.

During the meeting, city officials highlighted key statistics, including a low unemployment rate of 3%, which is significantly below the national average. The city's economic development team emphasized the strong demand for commercial space, noting that many areas, such as Union Square, are fully occupied, indicating a healthy business environment.

The council also discussed the results of a recent business survey, revealing that over 70% of respondents had a positive experience with city services. However, concerns were raised about the licensing and permitting processes, which many businesses found cumbersome. Council members expressed a desire to streamline these processes to better support local entrepreneurs.

In addition to addressing business challenges, the council is exploring the implementation of grant and loan programs to assist businesses in navigating financial hurdles. This initiative aims to enhance Sandy's appeal as a business-friendly city and retain local enterprises that might consider relocating to neighboring areas with more favorable support systems.

As the meeting concluded, officials reiterated their commitment to fostering a vibrant economic climate in Sandy, with plans for further discussions on improving city processes and supporting local businesses in the coming months.