Retail attraction and vacant commercial properties
El Monte
Summary
The council and staff discussed how to fill major vacant sites like Flair Park, the old Penneys site and the Santa Anita/10 property, and whether the city should adopt a vacant property tax to pressure owners. Staff will study the tax idea and develop a business attraction marketing strategy.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 5
- Last 30 days
- 1
Last discussed Aug 11, 2026.
Impact analysis
A vacant property tax or marketing fund could bring new revenue but also carries costs and market-signal risks; no dollar figures were set.
Residents and the city budget gain if empty lots become tax-generating retail and cleaner properties.
Absentee property owners could face new taxes or enforcement costs.
Mentions & discussions (5)
Business-Friendly Cities Earn Regional Recognition - The Mid Valley News
El Monte and South El Monte have earned a place among Los Angeles County’s communities recognized for supporting local enterprise. The Business-Friendly Cities recognition names both as finalists for a prestigi...
South El Monte Opportunity Zone Bid Advances - The Mid Valley News
SOUTH EL MONTE — South El Monte Opportunity Zone plans have advanced in California’s selection process for a new generation of federal investment incentives. The potential designation could give the city anothe...
Planning Commission Meeting - Aug 11, 2026
Commissioner Quiñones raised concerns about businesses closing in El Monte and asked what the city is doing to attract and retain small businesses. Staff pointed to grant programs and incentive programs being presented at the next council meeting, though promotion is mostly limited to the website and door-to-door flyers.
City Council Meeting - Jul 8, 2026
Speakers praised the council's business recognitions and urged more support for struggling local businesses, pointing to the night market and the Local Loop's work.
City Council (Special) - May 11, 2026
The council and staff discussed how to fill major vacant sites like Flair Park, the old Penneys site and the Santa Anita/10 property, and whether the city should adopt a vacant property tax to pressure owners. Staff will study the tax idea and develop a business attraction marketing strategy.
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