December 2020
Volume X Episode 6
Welcome to the Business Scene Newsletter -- providing bimonthly updates to Camarillo business owners, managers, and others interested in economic development in Camarillo.

In this edition we:

  • Promote COVID relief tax credits and new resources for businesses
  • Talk about new rules for outdoor business areas
  • Unveil our Outdoor Dining GIS map
  • Share an interview with Matt Mansi from The Mark in Old Town
  • Share Camarillo's State of the City video
  • Provide a list of educational opportunities in and around Camarillo
  • Provide details on free coronavirus testing in Camarillo
Business Recovery Resources

A $1,000 tax credit for each new employee hired by small businesses (up to $100,000 per business).

A refundable tax credit against certain employment taxes equal to 50 percent of the qualified wages an eligible employer pays to employees after March 12, 2020, and before January 1, 2021.

A loan program to support California’s small businesses that employed 50 or less full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) and had gross revenues of less than $2.5 million or below in 2019. 

On Nov. 30th the Governor announced that he will direct the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration to do the following:

  • Provide an automatic three-month extension for taxpayers filing less than $1 million in sales tax on the return and extend the availability existing interest and penalty free payment agreements to companies .
  • Broaden opportunities for more businesses to enter into interest-free payment arrangements.
  • Expand interest-free payment options for larger businesses particularly affected by significant restrictions on operations based on COVID-19 transmissions.

The Governor also announced the creation of a $500 million COVID Relief Grant administered by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate for small businesses that have been impacted by COVID and the health and safety restrictions. No links have been provided yet, but the press release mentions to keep an eye on the following site.
Outdoor Business Operations
If you own a Camarillo business that could benefit from expanding its operations into outdoor areas, please apply for the City's No-Fee Temporary Outdoor Business Zone Clearance.

Additionally, the City will reimburse the cost of barricades to protect your customers from automobiles. Please visit this link for the application and instructions. Our staff is more than happy to assist you.
To help businesses fight the cold, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has provided new guidance for temporary structures and the use of side panels. For more information, please read the New Guidance on the Use of Temporary Structures for Outdoor Business Operations here.

Please remember that under no circumstances, will the Fire Department allow for the use of propane heaters under tents and canopies. If you are a guest, please dress warm to reduce this stress on businesses.
Outdoor Dining Map
To better assist Camarillo businesses, residents and visitors during required outdoor business operations, we have created an outdoor dining map to show you which restaurants have outdoor dining options.
Click here or on the image to view which restaurants in Camarillo have outdoor dining. Please support our local restaurants and remember to shop local and shop safe this holiday season.
City of Camarillo Videos
The Mark - Old Town
A new dining opportunity is coming to Camarillo! During this CityScene Interview, we spoke with Matt Mansi from Aldersgate Investments. Matt and his team are building The Mark, Old Town's upcoming food court. This location will feature Topa Topa Brewing Co., Freda's Pizza & Woodfired Kitchen, Rori's Artisanal Creamery and Café Ficelle. Watch Matt’s interview to learn more.
Camarillo's State of the City
There's no question that we are living through history right now. Given all the restrictions that COVID-19 has placed on us, we decided earlier this year to produce a video to inform the entire community on the City’s activities this year. The video showcases City employees who highlight their progress toward meeting the FY 2020/21 Council Goals & Objectives. 
Local Opportunities and Webinars
If you know someone who would benefit from a scholarship, now is the time to apply. Visit this page for a full list of scholarships and eligibility requirements.

If your business has experienced economic injury due to the impact of COVID-19, you do not have walk alone. Connect with a business advisor today at no-cost. Please call 805.409.9159 (ENGLISH) 805.309.5874 (SPANISH) to schedule an appointment.



Enroll in WEV’s QuickBooks coaching program before December 31, 2020 to receive 15 hours of one-on-one QuickBooks coaching.  (*Price will be going up on January 1, 2021)
Free COVID Testing in Camarillo
CAMARILLO POP-UP TESTING
A mobile testing unit will be at Constitution Park, adjacent to Camarillo City Hall, on:

December 3
December 17
December 31

Open to the public from:
11:00 AM – 3:30 PM 

No cost. No appt necessary.
Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season. As always, feel free to reach out to me directly with any questions.

Best wishes,

Georg Winkler, Economic Development Coordinator
City of Camarillo | 601 Carmen Drive, Camarillo, CA 93010
Las Personas son la Ciudad - The People are the City


Beginning Monday, November 30th, City Hall will be open to the public by appointment only, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We encourage all community members to utilize services that are available online, by email and over the phone. For information about virtual services or how to schedule an appointment, please see www.cityofcamarillo.org/covid19.

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Please stay updated with local COVID-19 updates.