Logo courtesy of the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - At the Aug. 27 meeting of the Citrus Heights City Council, staff presented an 18-month update on the city’s 2025-27 Economic Development Work Plan. 

Initially adopted in February 2025, the plan was developed based on market research, stakeholder engagement and community input. It serves as the policy framework to guide business attraction and commercial revitalization over a three-year period, as well as establishing incentives to attract sit-down dining and entertainment options.

Year One of the plan focused on establishing the regulatory, incentive and operational foundation to unlock the private reinvestment that will be the focus of Years Two and Three, along with vacancy reduction, new business openings and job growth. 

Vacancy reduction strategies are already proving effective, and staff will continue their business attraction efforts, as well as collaborating with property owners to support tenant recruitment, re-occupancy and commercial property investment.

Vice Mayor Porsche Middleton said, “Over the past 18 months, you guys have done an incredible job. … I’m deeply appreciative of all the work you guys do in the community.” 

Mayor MariJane Lopez-Taff said she’s heard from new businesses that they feel they received VIP treatment in the city, so “it’s working.” She added that she’s “so proud of Citrus Heights, of the efforts we’ve made” and this work plan has really “focused our efforts.” 

The council also considered a $30,000 grant request from the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce to be fulfilled through the city’s Economic Development Support Fund. This is an annual request from the chamber to support their economic development efforts within Citrus Heights.  

Staff said the chamber is one of the city’s strongest economic development partners, helping the city reach the business community and connecting local entrepreneurs with resources. This ongoing partnership allows the city to extend their reach, making their economic development efforts more impactful. 

Executive Director Sheri Merrick shared some chamber highlights, including the 101 new members who joined in 2025, a 17% growth over 2024 that brings the current total to over 370 members.

In 2025, the chamber held 38 ribbon cuttings for new businesses, hosted 85 events with more than 2,500 attendees, and spent $100,000 investing directly into their members.  

Councilmember Jayna Karpinski-Costa said, “What you’re asking for tonight is just a small, tiny investment for us for what we get back.” 

Mayor Lopez-Taff recused herself from the vote because she is on the chamber board. The council voted 3-0 to approve the grant request, with Councilmember Kelsey Nelson absent.  

The next meeting of the Citrus Heights City Council is scheduled for Sept. 9.