2026-2030 Economic Development Strategic Plan

• High infrastructure costs passed on to developers • Difficulty retaining local talent and young professionals leaving for better opportunities • Limited business incentives compared to other states • Difficulty retaining small businesses due to lack of resources and support • Seasonal economy posing challenges for industry diversification • Burdensome state taxes and regulations impacting business attraction and retention • High dependency on retail developments for infrastructure improvements

• Resistance to new developments within some communities • Increasing traffic congestion and potential gridlock • Limited public transportation options in some regions

Opportunities • Growth in healthcare, manufacturing, renewable energy, aerospace, and clean technology • Potential for foreign direct investment and onshoring • Business attraction from higher-cost regions like LA/OC counties • Retaining local talent and reducing economic leakage • Investments in broadband infrastructure for technology-driven industries • Expansion of regional transportation and transit-oriented development • Adaptive reuse of obsolete land-uses to maximize development potential • Growth in sports tourism, youth sports venues, and equestrian facilities • Expansion of outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and water-based tourism • Collaboration for recreation-driven industries • Strengthening partnerships with regional agencies and educational institutions • Establishing a strong county identity focused on industrial innovation and skilled workforce • Leveraging population growth to enhance economic vitality. • State initiated CEQA reforms. Threats • High development costs, fees, and entitlements delaying projects • Difficulty securing funding for infrastructure improvements • Increased shortages in healthcare professionals, engineers, and skilled workers • Economic leakage as talent and businesses move to neighboring regions • Limited business incentives compared to other states • Complex regulatory environment, including CEQA and permitting delays • High development costs due to state and local regulations • Outdated zoning policies restricting business flexibility • Competition from neighboring regions like Arizona and larger metropolitan areas • Wildfire risks and increasing insurance costs • Resistance to change and new development within communities • Expanding higher education infrastructure and trade schools • Developing nursing programs and healthcare workforce training • Targeting remote work and technology jobs

20