Planning Commission hears economic development updates, business rebates and small-business grants

City planning staff briefed the Planning Commission on recent economic-development initiatives delivered to City Council, including a business security rebate (up to $1,000 for cameras, lighting and alarms), Chamber of Commerce membership scholarships (total $2,500 pool), and the Paramount Boost Club marketing grant program (total $95,000, up to $5,000 per business). Associate Planner Ivan Reyes described outreach and program uptake: more than 11 businesses awarded security rebates and nine grant awardees to date, with additional awards in process.

Staff also described a planned local rewards app to incentivize shopping in Paramount and a small-business video program that pairs content creators with local businesses. Eligibility for some programs was described as limited to businesses with 25 or fewer employees and $250,000 or less in gross receipts. Commissioners asked logistical questions about participating businesses, mapping, and storefront security; staff said landscaping and lighting were part of several conditions in recent approvals.

The update was informational; no formal commission action was taken on the programs during the meeting.