Westminster City Council accepts $250K Jobs First grant for Little Saigon revitalization

The Westminster City Council made a significant move during their August 13 meeting by accepting a $250,000 grant from the State of California's Jobs First initiative. This funding, administered by Charitable Ventures on behalf of the Orange County Business Council, aims to enhance economic vitality in the Little Saigon area of Westminster.

The grant acceptance is a direct result of the "Little Saigon Blueprint for Investment," a study commissioned by the city council in 2020. This study focused on community engagement and identified strategies to boost tourism and economic growth while honoring the cultural significance of the area. The council approved the study in 2021, which outlined nine implementable strategies to improve Little Saigon, with four of these strategies directly linked to the new grant.

Key initiatives funded by the grant include appointing an outreach leader, developing branding and marketing tactics for the district, piloting a soap and water program for local businesses, and enhancing street furniture and landscaping along Bolsa Avenue. These efforts are part of a broader goal to create high-paying jobs and build a sustainable economy in the region, particularly in sectors like tourism, healthcare, construction, and education.

The successful grant application, titled "Westminster's Little Saigon Blueprint for Economic Vitality and Quality of Place," aligns with the state’s objectives to foster equitable economic growth. The council's decision to accept this grant marks a pivotal step towards revitalizing the Little Saigon area and supporting its local businesses.