Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hercules public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in business jobs
Waterfront Business District Wayfinding Signs
Waterfront businesses are easy to miss from the freeway, so staff proposed 8-9 inexpensive directional signs pointing drivers to the Bayfront Business District. The council wants community input on naming ('Bayfront' vs 'Waterfront') and sent the concept to the economic development subcommittee, back around September.
Filling the vacant former Big Lots space in Creekside Shopping Center
The Creekside Shopping Center has had an empty anchor-sized space for about two years, and some residents are frustrated that the first tenant to emerge is a Goodwill rather than a different type of business. The commission noted the city can't dictate tenants on privately owned property but can review what's proposed under the zoning.
City workforce vacancies (AB 2561)
Hercules has just one vacancy among 64 positions and a 94% retention rate — better than most California cities.
Tiered Business Attraction Grant Program
A proposed $200,000 grant program to attract new businesses to Hercules. If adopted, it could bring new jobs, shopping options and sales tax revenue to the city.
Business attraction and Shop Hercules programs
The city's buy-one-get-one gift card program pumped about $155,000 into local salons and restaurants during the pandemic. Council voted to restart it with $25,000.