The City's economic development activities are a part of the Community Development Department. The division works closely with other departments to meet the development and business assistance needs of the City's clients. It provides a central point of contact for various City programs and activities that assist new and existing businesses. For information please email or call us at (253) 589-2489.

Strategic Planning Framework

The City approaches its economic development activities from a strategic planning framework, working with its volunteer Redevelopment Advisory Board and Planning Advisory Board and other stakeholders to understand our present and future economic development needs and to design and implement programs that meet those needs. The City's economic philosophy is specified in the City of Lakewood's Comprehensive Plan and the Redevelopment Plan. Both documents provide direction, ideals, and goals in relation to economic growth and development. The City Council is responsible for the overall economic policies.

Action Plan and Strategies

The strategies implemented under the City's Economic Development and Redevelopment program include:

• Business Attraction and Economic Diversification
• Business Retention and Expansion
• Business Assistance and Development
• Military Growth

Tourism Assistance

Hotel/Motel Tax Fund - The City of Lakewood receives funds from the room tax imposed upon hotels and motels located within the City. A portion of these monies is used to fund eligible tourism-related programs and activities in the City.