Officials offer promising update on Pleasanton’s economic development – Pleasanton Weekly

Economic Development Initiatives in Pleasanton: A Sustainable Approach for 2026

Overview of Economic Challenges and Future Outlook

In 2025, Pleasanton faced significant economic challenges, including the departure of major retailers such as JCPenney and the closure of key downtown businesses like Starbucks. Despite these setbacks, city officials project a positive economic outlook for 2026, driven by strategic initiatives aimed at revitalizing the local economy.

Key Economic Development Strategies Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Pleasanton’s approach to economic growth integrates several Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth (SDG 8), fostering innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9), and building sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11).

1. Streamlining Permitting Processes
   • The city is simplifying permitting for retail and commercial businesses to reduce delays and encourage investment.
   • Recent zoning code updates have modernized design review processes, cutting approval times by at least half.
   • These efforts support SDG 9 by fostering innovation and sustainable industrialization.
2. Organizational Restructuring for Economic Development
   • Creation of the Community and Economic Development Department consolidates permitting, planning, and economic development functions.
   • This reorganization enhances coordination and resource allocation, improving service delivery to businesses and residents.
   • Supports SDG 11 by promoting sustainable urban development and effective governance.
3. Business Attraction and Retention Initiatives
   • Enhanced branding and marketing through digital and print media to attract new businesses.
   • Development of a “microsite” to provide accessible information for business startups.
   • Partnerships with local organizations such as the Pleasanton Downtown Association and Chamber of Commerce to support business growth.
   • These initiatives contribute to SDG 8 by promoting sustained, inclusive economic growth and decent work for all.
4. Development of the “Pleasanton Playbook”
   • A user-friendly guide designed to clarify the city’s development review process for new businesses.
   • Aims to expedite business openings, enhancing economic vitality and community prosperity.
   • Aligns with SDG 8 and SDG 11 by supporting sustainable economic development and resilient infrastructure.

Progress and Achievements in 2025

• Approval of zoning code changes to attract innovation-based businesses, facilitating economic diversification.
• Reduction of the city’s appeal period from over 15 days to 10 days to accelerate project approvals.
• Implementation of a streamlined design review process for smaller residential and commercial projects.
• Increased visibility and resources for economic development through departmental restructuring.

Future Plans and Sustainable Development Focus for 2026

Pleasanton’s 2026 agenda includes:

• Hiring an economic development manager to lead ongoing initiatives.
• Continuing partnerships with regional organizations and businesses to enhance economic opportunities.
• Exploring further reductions in permitting timelines for retail and commercial enterprises.
• Advancing tourism and hospitality sectors in preparation for major Bay Area events such as the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup, supporting SDG 8 and SDG 11.

Statements from City Leadership

Mayor Jack Balch emphasized the city’s potential and commitment to fostering economic opportunity through streamlined processes and innovation, reinforcing SDG 8 and SDG 9 objectives.

Deputy Director Melinda Denis highlighted the benefits of departmental reorganization and ongoing efforts to attract new businesses, aligning with SDG 11’s goal of sustainable urban development.

City Manager Gerry Beaudin affirmed the city’s dedication to making Pleasanton more accessible and responsive to business needs, ensuring measurable improvements in economic vitality.

Council Member Craig Eicher expressed enthusiasm for initiatives that support both business success and community prosperity, reflecting the interconnected nature of SDGs.

Conclusion

Pleasanton’s comprehensive economic development strategy for 2026 demonstrates a strong commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by promoting inclusive economic growth, fostering innovation, and building sustainable communities. Through streamlined processes, strategic partnerships, and targeted initiatives, the city aims to create a vibrant and resilient economy that benefits residents, businesses, and investors alike.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • The article focuses on improving the local economy, attracting and retaining businesses, streamlining permitting processes, and supporting economic development initiatives in Pleasanton.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
   • Efforts to modernize zoning codes, support innovation-based businesses, and improve infrastructure for economic activities are highlighted.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The city’s strategic planning and efforts to improve business environments contribute to making Pleasanton a more sustainable and vibrant community.

2. Specific Targets Under the Identified SDGs

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Target 8.2: Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading, and innovation.
   • Target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
   • Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure to support economic development and human well-being.
   • Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade technological capabilities, and encourage innovation.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.3: Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated, and sustainable human settlement planning and management.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Economic Performance Indicators
   • Number of new businesses attracted and retained in Pleasanton.
   • Vacancy rates of storefronts and commercial spaces (e.g., Main Street and Stoneridge Mall vacancies).
   • Employment rates and job creation statistics related to new and existing businesses.
2. Process Efficiency Indicators
   • Reduction in permitting process timelines (e.g., cutting design review process by half, reducing appeal period from 15 to 10 days).
   • Implementation and usage of the “Pleasanton Playbook” as a guide for businesses to navigate development review processes.
3. Innovation and Infrastructure Indicators
   • Number of innovation-based businesses relocating or expanding in Pleasanton following zoning code updates.
   • Level of coordination and integration among city departments (e.g., creation of Community and Economic Development Department).
4. Community and Sustainability Indicators
   • Engagement with regional organizations and partnerships to support economic development.
   • Progress in strategic plans such as the 2024-28 Economic Development Strategic Plan and “ONE Pleasanton” five-year plan.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: pleasantonweekly.com