In the heart of Sacramento County, a pivotal discussion unfolded during the recent Board of Supervisors meeting, focusing on the county's strategy to attract businesses and foster economic growth. As the meeting progressed, officials expressed a growing concern about the county's ability to compete with neighboring cities for new business investments.

One supervisor highlighted the importance of understanding what Sacramento County might be lacking in its appeal to larger businesses. "What is it that the county is deficient in that is not attracting them?" they asked, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of the incentives currently offered. The conversation quickly turned to the necessity of creating a comprehensive package of incentives that could provide clarity and certainty for potential investors.

Currently, the county's approach to business incentives is largely reactive, handled on a case-by-case basis. This method, while functional, leaves businesses uncertain about what they can expect when considering a move to Sacramento County. To address this, officials proposed developing a scoring rubric that would clearly outline the incentives available, ensuring they align with the county's priorities and economic goals.

The discussion also touched on the importance of attracting quality jobs that offer living wages and provide a positive fiscal return on investment. By looking at successful models from other regions, such as Dallas, the county could implement a system that allows developers to assess their potential incentives upfront, streamlining the process and making Sacramento County a more attractive option for businesses.

Moreover, the meeting underscored the significance of aligning incentives with regional priority industries, particularly in sectors like ag tech and food manufacturing. With a strong government sector already in place, officials believe that Sacramento County is well-positioned to capture emerging industries that can drive economic growth.

As the meeting concluded, the call for a more proactive and structured approach to business incentives resonated strongly. The supervisors recognized that while incentives are crucial, the overall appeal of the county as a business location also hinges on factors beyond financial incentives. With a renewed focus on clarity and strategic alignment, Sacramento County aims to enhance its competitiveness and foster a thriving economic environment for the future.