Council asks new business commission to shape economic strategy, leaves consultant option to commission
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Summary
Council reviewed three broad economic strategies (maximize existing revenue, grow high‑wage employment, or strengthen visitor‑serving small businesses), directed staff to onboard the new business commission and to return with the commission’s recommendations; the council left the decision about hiring an outside consultant to a later milestone when the commission reports back.
City staff and a regional economic partner presented options for an economic development strategy for Encinitas — three broad approaches were framed as priorities councils can choose among: maximize existing revenue streams (sales tax, TOT), pursue higher‑wage employment and targeted industry clusters, or support visitor‑serving small business and tourism. The presentation included a preliminary 'leakage' analysis (topics such as auto sales, home goods and retail categories where resident demand currently goes to other jurisdictions).
Council members emphasized preserving downtown character while still identifying pragmatic steps to retain more local spending. Several council members urged a resident‑ and business‑led approach: stand up the newly formed business commission, have staff provide background materials and data, and let the commission propose whether and when to retain a consultant. “Who are we? Play to your strengths,” one councilmember told staff, urging a focus on local identity and small businesses as the city’s competitive advantage.
Staff outlined an aggressive onboarding timeline to provide the commission a data package, economic development 101 training, and a draft work plan. The council generally supported that sequencing but left the timing and scope of any consultant engagement to the commission; if the commission requests consultant support the council asked staff to bring a targeted consultant proposal and budget options back for consideration. The council also asked staff to coordinate with local partners (MiraCosta Community College, Chamber of Commerce) and to design public outreach.
