The Seaside City Council adopted a resolution Sept. 4 awarding a contract to Retail Strategies for retail and commercial advisory services to support city redevelopment and commercial recruitment.

Economic Development Director Jose Bizour said the firm will act as a community broker and an extension of city staff to attract target brands, restaurants, grocers and entertainment uses. The scope includes a market-area analysis, a 30-brand target list and marketing materials for up to three sites. Bizour said the timing aligns with large-scale development in the city, including the Campus Town and Main Gate projects that will activate approximately 175 acres.

Bizour said two proposals were received and Retail Strategies was selected; the recommended agreement is a three-year arrangement at $150,050 per year, with $50,000 included in the fiscal 2026 budget. Councilmembers asked whether the firm would engage with small, local businesses; Bizour and staff said the contract covers the whole city and that staff will work with mom-and-pop businesses, downtown property owners and developers.

Council approved the contract by unanimous voice vote; staff said Retail Strategies will coordinate with city staff and developers to create site-specific strategies and attend trade shows to market Seaside as a retail location.