Businesses expressed cautious optimism in the South Shore Lake Tahoe economy during a sampling conducted Nov. 4, in conjunction with various local organizations and jurisdictions

More than 130 businesses were visited by 41 participants during the South Shore Business Walk. The event was produced by the Sacramento Metro Chamber, El Dorado County Office of Economic Development, City of South Lake Tahoe and TahoeChamber.org,

“Overall, businesspeople reported business was holding strong, and the community is committed to capitalizing on future growth opportunities,” said Eugene Palazzo, Director of Redevelopment and Housing, city of South Lake Tahoe.

Three questions were asked: How’s business, what do you like about doing business on the South Shore, and what can be done to make business even better.

“Of course, what businesspeople like about being in South Lake Tahoe is the lifestyle,” said “B” Gorman, president and CEO of TahoeChamber.org. While a number of businesses commented on how much of their business was derived outside of the Basin and visitors, all commented on the sense of community and the benefits of being a part of this small community. There was a recognition and appreciation for the clients they serve on a daily basis as an advantage to having a business on the South Shore.”

To improve economic conditions, the business walk survey respondents stated that more new families are needed to move to the area, fewer restrictions on signage and fewer permits are all desirable, Gorman said. “Business people also addressed the need for improved promotion of the South Shore and transportation options for visitors and residents to move around the area.”

Survey results will be compiled in a report that will be available at metrochamber.org/businesswalks. The results will be reviewed by City and Tahochamber.org staff for follow-up here in the local community. For more information on business walks, contact Kennedy Cullen, business walk coordinator at 916-319-4277. For more information on local business resources please contact the City Economic Development department at 530-542-6000 or Tahoechamber.org at 775-588-1728.
 

Hal Silliman is communications director for the Sacramento Metro Chamber