Atwater workshop spotlights business recruitment, permitting changes and parks to boost tax base

A parallel thread of the strategic planning workshop focused on economic development, permitting and quality‑of‑life improvements that speakers said are needed to broaden the city’s tax base.

Several residents urged the city to recruit manufacturing and larger employers rather than rely solely on residential development, arguing commercial and industrial uses bring outside dollars and higher point‑of‑sale tax revenue. Speakers cited stalled development sites, the need to complete the Atwater expressway (AM) and constraints created by a county property‑tax sharing agreement that currently sends 5% of sales tax to the county.

Staff noted ongoing efforts: an updated cost allocation and user‑fee study, an updated development impact fee program, and planned permitting updates (including a conditional use permit expiration window). Council and residents also discussed streamlining permitting, working with brokers, and using internships or partnerships with local colleges to support communications and outreach work.

On parks and youth programs, several speakers urged reopening the BMX track and improving maintenance of parks and Outwater Boulevard to attract visitors and support tourism and lodging — steps they argued would indirectly support the city’s fiscal goals. Staff said early conversations are underway and community partnerships (youth center, Love Atwater‑style programs, county probation cleanups) were options to explore.

Staff will incorporate these economic development and quality‑of‑life suggestions into the draft strategic plan for council review in June or July, and will return with details on permitting changes and any recommended policy revisions.