Sacramento’s candidates for the position of Mayor were presented with a list of “things to do” in an effort to enhance the city’s business environment. This list was compiled by an ad-hoc group of business leaders from the region. Included in this are details of how the city should reform its finances, culture and procedures.

However, it was recognized by this group of business leaders that Sacramento has got a good reputation for already providing a positive business environment. The quality of life there is good and there have already been some economic improvements. However, the statement concluded that: “Sacramento falls short on leveraging these and other assets to make our city a desirable place to conduct business.”

Three of the goals of the document are: a) the appointment of private business leaders to a council of economic advisors; b) move over to a budget cycle of two years; c) engage in the use of “external contracts to implement cost savings and improve public services.” As well, increasing tourism and deal with homelessness are major items that have to be addressed.

Sacramento Metro Chamber, in conjunction with the Downtown Sacramento Partnership and Region Business (the new advocacy group) drafted the six page document.