Commerce Economic Opportunity Zones (C.E.O.z)

The City of Commerce is committed to strengthening its economic competitiveness and supporting business growth. In response to increasing competition from other states offering aggressive incentives and lower operating costs, the City has developed a proactive business incentive program: Commerce Economic Opportunity Zones (C.E.O.z).

This program is designed to attract and retain high-quality businesses by offering a flexible, competitive package of financial, development, and infrastructure incentives. C.E.O.z positions the City of Commerce as a premier destination for scalable, high-impact projects led by established and financially sound enterprises.

Program Overview

C.E.O.z provides a comprehensive suite of incentives that may be customized through a development agreement, subject to City Council approval.

Incentives

Financial Incentives

• Sales Tax Rebates (Abatements & Credits): Multi-year rebates for qualifying point-of-sale operations, including manufacturing and retail.
• Low-Interest Loans: Financing support for capital improvements, operational expansion, and buildouts (subject to creditworthiness and job creation).
• Access to Lending Partners: Connections to pre-vetted local, regional, and national lenders.
• Corporate Relocation Support: Project management assistance for relocation logistics and operations.
• Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD): Tax increment financing for infrastructure projects such as water, sewer, and sustainability improvements.
• Fee Waivers & Reductions: Reduced development, permit, and impact fees based on investment level.
• Marketing Support: Promotional assistance through City communications, events, and economic development materials.

Development Incentives

• Expedited Entitlement Processing: Accelerated timelines (50%+ faster than standard review).
• Fast-Track Plan Review: Streamlined review for development and tenant improvement plans.
• Comprehensive Zoning Code Updates (In Progress): Ongoing updates to support modern business needs.
• Site Selection Assistance: Technical support in evaluating potential sites citywide.
• Pre-Application Meetings: Early coordination to identify timelines, challenges, and opportunities.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Opportunities for collaboration on development and community projects.
• Dedicated Concierge Service: A single point of contact throughout the project lifecycle.
• Pre-Vetted Design & Construction Resources: Access to qualified architectural, engineering, and contractor firms.
• Workforce Development Support: Programs and partnerships to connect businesses with skilled workers.

Infrastructure Incentives

• Fiber Optic Connectivity: Planned high-speed fiber infrastructure at City Hall and surrounding areas.
• Utility Incentives: Rebates, reimbursements, or reduced rates for City-controlled utilities.
• Utility Capacity Support: Access to water and sewer infrastructure data, with staff assistance for capacity analysis and planning.

Program Goals

The C.E.O.z program is guided by the following objectives:

• Sales Tax Generation: Strengthen the City’s fiscal stability through sustained revenue growth.
• Economic Development Alignment: Support projects consistent with the City’s long-term vision and land use goals.
• Job Creation: Expand employment opportunities for local and regional residents.
• Property Improvement: Enhance the quality, appearance, and long-term viability of commercial and industrial sites.
• Quality Employment: Attract businesses offering competitive wages, benefits, and career advancement opportunities.
• Statewide Competitiveness: Position Commerce as a top destination for business investment in California.

Program Guidelines

Funding & Incentive Structure

• Funding Source: General Fund
• Incentive Amount: Determined case-by-case through a development agreement
• Program Term: Established per project and subject to City Council approval

Eligibility

Applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• High sales tax generation potential
• Alignment with the City’s economic development vision
• Job creation
• Property or site improvement
• Provision of quality employment opportunities

All incentives are discretionary and subject to City review. Eligible proposals must demonstrate scalability, financial strength, and operational credibility. Incentives may also be contingent upon meeting defined tax and utility generation thresholds.

Resolution approving the City of Commerce’s Economic Opportunity Zones (C.E.O.z) program