In terms of business, presently Santa Paula's business community consists
largely of small service and retail outlets. As of January of 1995, the
top eight employers in Santa Paula were (listed in no particular order):
As with all communities, Santa Paula's basic economy and its revenues "make the City wheels turn."
Property tax is the City's primary source of revenue. Sales tax revenue is the City's second major revenue source. These taxes, along with several lesser sources of income, provide the funds necessary for basic City services. These basic services are general administration, police protection, fire protection, parks maintenance, streets and transportation services, and community development.
All revenues for the basic services are budgeted and expended through the City's General Fund. The General Fund had total revenues of $5,277,737 during the last fiscal year, which ended June 30, 1995.
Santa Paula's basic economy is composed of three parts:
As to the above, as more money is brought into the City and recirculated in the City, the economy will become healthier.
Currently, Santa Paula's local economy has begun an upward trend, due in part to the completion of Phase I of a major redevelopment project. The Historic Downtown District has been revitalized and several new businesses have opened. Others have expanded to larger, updated quarters. Local housing starts have increased and sales of existing housing units are rising.
The local household purchasing power is growing. Although there remain a number of lower income households due to a large number of unskilled agricultural jobs in the area and a higher than expected percentage of retirees located in Santa Paula, the City has many valuable strengths that can assist in boosting its economy.
For instance, there is a wonderful year-round climate, and the City is located close to many recreational areas. Land prices are lower than most cities in Ventura County, and we have good accessibility to major freeways. We have a large trainable labor pool, to encourage commercial/industrial business relocations. The beautiful setting and historic elements can spark tourism and film making.
So, there you have it. A brief summary of some very interesting facts and figures.
If you would like to learn more about Santa Paula's past, visit the local library.
If you would like to learn more about the economic future of Santa Paula, stop by City Hall and take a look at Santa Paula's Economic Development Plan.
