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Candidates urge clearer permitting, local-business incentives and a north–south shuttle for Westminster
Summary
At the Westminster candidate forum, contenders recommended streamlining permitting, strengthening ties with the Westminster Chamber and economic development staff, prioritizing local contractors and studying a city shuttle to link North and South Westminster.
Business environment, permitting and local transit ideas featured prominently at the Westminster Chamber candidate forum as contenders discussed how to attract jobs, support local entrepreneurs and keep shoppers in the city.
Several candidates said the city should streamline planning, permitting and licensing processes. Mayoral-candidate and longtime council member David Dimas and other speakers said the city’s economic development team and the chamber are already working on training and outreach, and they urged deeper collaboration. "Working with those different partners to understand what they need to survive is very, very important," Dimas said, referring to small businesses and longtime family enterprises in the city.
Other candidates urged stronger preference for existing Westminster businesses and local contracting opportunities. Karen Calabity said she would "give an advantage to businesses within Westminster to help them thrive" rather than outsource incentives to outside firms.
A number of candidates proposed a city-run shuttle connecting South and North Westminster to help residents reach shops, recreation centers and events without driving. "A local shuttle that goes from South Westminster up to North Westminster ... would accommodate shoppers, so they don't have to use a car," Calabity said. Supporters said federal or state grants might help pay for such a service.
Candidates also recommended a simple permitting "kit" or checklist to help prospective small-business owners navigate steps to open a storefront or acquire a food-truck permit — a practical step proposed by a candidate who noted several local entrepreneurs are unfamiliar with municipal requirements.
Forum speakers credited recent successes in attracting retailers — one candidate cited Trader Joe's as a long-sought win that required sustained planning — and said renewing focus on local incentives and a predictable permitting path would help the city retain and grow a diverse business base.
No changes to city code or budget were adopted at the forum; candidates said implementation would require staff work and council approval.
