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Council approves steps to speed storefront openings and funds downtown activation
Summary
Council approved staff recommendations to streamline permits for desired commercial uses, extend certain commercial use permits through 2030, set a vacant‑storefront registry fee, and appropriate $50,000 for downtown activation events.
The Santa Cruz City Council approved a package of economic development measures on Tuesday aimed at activating vacant storefronts and accelerating business openings.
Economic Development Manager Rebecca Unit presented a multi‑part approach staff developed following council direction. Key elements include: (1) ordinance language to extend the validity of commercial use permits issued between Jan. 1, 2019 and Dec. 31, 2026 through Jan. 1, 2030 so eligible businesses can reopen under an administrative zoning clearance rather than reapplying for a new use permit;…
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