Growth and new business liven the village

This year was a great year for the Carlsbad village area. In addition to substantial growth, the village saw high customer satisfaction ratings and an influx of new businesses. The village experienced an increase of 15.6 percent in property tax value, an 8 percent increase in sales tax revenue and 7.6 percent increase in private investment between 2005 and 2006. These performance measures indicate that the village area continues to grow substantially from a financial health and private investment standpoint. The village also saw a peak in interest from existing businesses looking to expand and successful businesses operating in other areas. New businesses include a bookstore that sells both new and used books, Beach City Smoothies and a Japanese-fusion deli. Also, the area has experienced more interest from small and large developers who are pursuing property acquisitions and development projects within the village. Between 2005 and 2006, 15 major redevelopment permits were in process, far exceeding any previous year. The retail analysis report conducted by the Community Land Use and Economics Group (CLUE) provided additional insight into the success of the village. Based on the CLUE Group surveys, people generally feel optimistic about the future of the village and have a positive impression about the area’s physical characteristics and the customer service provided by the businesses located therein. Most people surveyed had widespread confidence in the major institutions working to strengthen the village. There was praise for the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, Carlsbad Village Business Association (CVBA) and the City of Carlsbad’s redevelopment office. There are improvements needed in various areas to enhance the customer experience, which will be the focus of the business development plan and marketing strategy currently being prepared by the CLUE Group for the Carlsbad Redevelopment Agency. The village area is working hard to meet the economic challenges of a competitive environment which is often governed by a Darwinian survival of the fittest. The chamber, CVBA and the redevelopment office, together with property and business owners in the village are working to give residents and visitors more reasons to visit the area. The business development plan and marketing strategy will assist the village to further develop and maintain its niche in the market.