What can residents do to support Economic Development? Simply put, shop and dine local!

Shop and Dine in RSM!

We’ve received several inquiries recently from concerned residents asking what the City is doing to support local businesses as well as bring new businesses to Rancho Santa Margarita. Support for local businesses is often called Economic Development. The following is a brief overview of our Economic Development program.

What is Economic Development?  Economic Development consists of policies and programs to support local businesses in the community.  It is important to support local businesses because they are a source of economic growth in the community.  Goods and services purchased in the community provide jobs for residents within the community and sales tax which supports local government.  Examples of Business Development programs in RSM include expedited permitting and business liaison services.

What does the City do to support Economic Development?  The City currently focuses on making it as easy as possible to open or expand a business within the City.  We do this by ensuring that our permit processes are clear and efficient.  The City partners with the RSM Chamber of Commerce to provide programs that support local businesses –  such as the popular Rancho Family Fest.  Additionally, City staff maintains a good working relationship with local shopping center representatives to provide information and assistance in filling shopping center vacancies.

What can residents do to support Economic Development?  Simply put, shop and dine local!  Shopping and dining at small local businesses and chain stores alike provide for local economic growth.  It also provides local sales tax, which is the largest source of operating revenue for the City.  Every time you purchase something in the City, a portion of the sales tax you pay is returned to the local government to support public safety, infrastructure, and local programs.  The food, goods, or services you pay for also supports a local business to provide jobs within the community.

For more information, contact the Development Services Department at (949) 635-1800.

City of RSM

November eNewsletter