SCV Business Journal January 2022

SANTA CL A R I TA VA L L E Y

BUSINESS O F F I CI A L P U B L ICAT IO N O F TH E SCV CH AM BER OF C OM M ER CE

J O U R N AL

SCV’s Filming Industry Continues to Boom

Santa Clarita Stock Index Keller Raggio Econowatch and More!

JANUARY 2022 VOL 14 • No 1 SIGNALSCV.COM/BUSINESS

2 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

J A N UA RY 2022

J A N UA RY 2022

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L · 3

4 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

J A N UA RY 2022

C O N T E N T S NEWS & FEATURES

6 CEO Spotlight: Steve Arklin, Jr. 17

Real Estate in the Santa Clarita Valley

19

Business Profile: Castaic Film Ranch

25

Santa Clarita Stock Exchange

27

Econowatch

LIST 22

Movie Ranch and Sound Stages

FROM THE EXPERTS 8 Ken Keller: Start Letting Go 9 Paul Raggio: Time to Get After It 16

Paul Butler: Principles in Today’s Workplace

24

Jeff Prang: Homeowner’s Exemption

6 CEO SPOTLIGHT: STEVE ARKLIN, JR

SCV BUSINESS VOICES 5 Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital 7 Audiology Associates 11

SCV Economic Development Corporation

CHAMBER SPOTLIGHTS 12

New Year Message

13

Upcoming Events

14

Celebrating Businesses

15

Business Councils

17 real estate in santa clarita January 2022 | Vol. 14 | No. 1

PUBLISHER Richard Budman rbudman@signalscv.com (661) 287-5501

PRODUCTION MANAGER Doña Uhrig

A proud publication of

SINCE 1919

SignalSCV. com Santa Clarita Valley Business Journal (a Signal publication), © 2021, is published monthly by the Santa Clarita Valley Signal newspaper, Paladin Multi-Media Group, Inc., 25060 Avenue Stanford, Ste 141, Valencia, CA 91355. The SCV Business Journal is intended to provide business executives with a cross-section of industry news and information, trends and statistics that impact our growing community. Information gathered in the pages of the SCV Business Journal has been collected from what are considered reliable sources, and is believed to be accurate, but cannot be guaranteed. Articles may not be reprinted without publisher’s written permission. For reprint requests, please call (661) 259-1234.

19 castaic film ranch

5

J A N UA RY 2022

SCV BUSINESS VOICES

Vaccines are Important but Masks Still Matter PATRICK MOODY

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

V

accines provide the best protection against getting seriously ill from COVID-19, but there is more you can do to stay safe. Wearing a mask helps you protect yourself and others.

Why you should wear a mask The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads by hitching a ride on the droplets we breathe out.

Well-fitting disposable masks—or those with two or more fabric layers—catch the droplets before they can spread.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone two years or older who is not vaccinated against the coronavirus wear a mask indoors. People who are fully vaccinated can safely go without a mask outdoors or indoors in places with low COVID-19 rates.

If the areas where you live or travel have a lot of infections, play it safe by wearing a mask, washing your hands frequently and staying at least six feet away from others. Follow local guidelines. You can use the CDC’s Data Tracker, located at covid.cdc.gov/covid-datatracker/#datatracker-home, to learn if your area has a high transmission level.

Mask refresher What types of masks work best? Choose masks that have two or more layers of washable and breathable fabric. They should cover your nose and mouth completely and fit snugly.

Do not wear masks with a vent or valve that lets the virus escape. If you have facial hair, wear a mask fitter, brace or disposable mask under a cloth mask to close gaps.

Wash masks daily or as soon as they become dirty. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before you put on a mask or after you take off a dirty one. Store dirty masks in a plastic bag until you can wash them.

Stay safe Scientists still have much to learn about this virus. Will new variants be more contagious or severe? Will vaccines protect against them? It will take time to learn the answers.

In the meantime, get a COVID-19 vaccine or

booster, and remember these three words: face, hands and space. That means wear a mask, wash your hands and stay at least 6 feet away from others.

Best wishes for a healthy 2022!

Patrick Moody is the director of marketing and public relations at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. For more information about local community health programs, visit HenryMayo. com. 

6 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

J A N UA RY 2022

CEO Spotlight: Steve Arklin Rancho Deluxe

BY EMILY ALVARENGA Signal Senior Staff Writer

W

hat began as a few acres of family property in the hills of Placerita Canyon has evolved into a bustling movie ranch.

Rancho Deluxe, one of the Santa Clarita Valley’s familyrun movie ranches, was the Arklins’ family property, Steve Arklin said.

“My parents started with about 3 acres here about 34 years ago, and we just kept adding on and now we’re up to almost 300,” Arklin added, noting that the first building in the Western town was actually his father’s original office. “He trucked it in here from Sierra Highway … and then it just started growing a little bit more and more.”

Though they began collecting and creating what would become unique sets or props, the property didn’t actually become a movie ranch until Arklin got into the business, working at various other ranches in the area until his parents gave him the green light to begin doing so on the family’s property.

“At a pretty young age, I started working at another movie ranch and just doing little things, whether it be cleaning things up or helping build a set for production,” Arklin said. “I went from starting from the bottom learning things to being a site rep to a water truck driver and then next thing I was managing the property for them.”

While making his own family’s property into a mov-

PHOTO COURTESY RANCHO DELUXE

ie ranch was something they never even really considered when building the ranch — which Arklin said led to the diversity of sets they have now — they soon realized its potential, as Arklin had already learned the industry from the ground up.

“It looked like the path I was going to be on, and my parents were kind of like, ‘What do you think about doing it here?’” Arklin added. “And it grew from there into what it is now.”

It’s a business that also grew to mean a lot to Arklin, as it has now become even more personal being on his own family’s property.

“The property means a lot to me and my family,” he said.

“I got to be a part of witnessing the ranch grow over the years and be a part of building what we call sets now — back then it was just for fun … It means a lot to be able to see it from the ground up and is an accomplishment for not just myself but my entire family.”

Arklin has taken the ranch to bigger heights, creating dozens of unique sets and becoming the go-to guy for productions that come to film.

“Santa Clarita is doing a really great job to bring the business here and try and keep it here,” he added, noting that the SCV has become the “goto” place for filming. “There are multiple soundstages going up on top of the however

many we already have … They all want to be here.”

That being said, he’s working to continue expanding the ranch and keep the business going steady.

“I hope to see it say as busy as it has been this past year because the year before, it was difficult not just for us, but for everyone,” Arklin said.

“So, I’d like to see a steady pace and see it grow from there.”

Rancho Deluxe is located just off the 14 Freeway and Placerita Canyon and houses more than 200 acres of natural terrain, shoot houses, water features and additional interior and exterior sets. For more information, visit ranchodeluxe. com. 

7

J A N UA RY 2022

SCV BUSINESS VOICES

Start the New Year Right with Better Hearing DR. KEVIN BOLDER

AuD, Audiology Associates

I

t’s a New Year, which means it’s the perfect time to set new goals and make 2022 your best year yet! One significant step you can take to ensure you are starting the year happier and healthier is to make an appointment with a hearing healthcare professional to get your hearing tested.

Many people don’t realize, but hearing loss is not just a part of the natural aging process. It is a common misconception that hearing loss only occurs in elderly individuals, but it can actually happen at any point in life. In fact, children and teens are experiencing hearing loss at a higher rate than ever before.

A recent study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention shows that 19.2% of

people aged 20–29 and 27.3% of people aged 50–59 have some form of noise-induced hearing loss. This is why it’s important to go for regular hearing health appointments — just like you would get your eyes examined and teeth cleaned!

Hearing is a vital part of your overall health and well-being. With better hearing you can have better conversations, reconnect with family members, be more energized and enjoy all your favorite sounds.

While there is no cure for hearing loss, hearing aids can help. Hearing technology is constantly evolving to provide a more natural listening experience and there are a variety of hearing aids available to suit any lifestyle.

These modern devices allow you to hear better in noisy environments, such as restaurants and parties, and many of them can connect directly with your smartphone!

Start the New Year right! No matter your hearing needs, it’s important to see a professional. To schedule a hearing consultation, please call Audiology Associates at (661) 284-1900. Kevin Bolder, Au.D and John Davis, Au.D are two of the best in Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valley. Visit our website at www.

AudiologyAssociates.net.

Visit us at our NEW office located at 25425 Orchard Village Road, Ste 220, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.

We are Hearing Healthcare Excellence! 

8 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

J A N UA RY 2022

It’s Time to Start Letting Go KEN KELLER

SCVBJ Contributing Writer

H

ang on to your sanity, your world just shifted.

The dynamic that occurs when your company moves into Stage 3 (20 – 34 employees) is unlike anything you’ve been through. Up to this point in the company’s history, it’s been CEO-centric: your passion, your vision, your blood, sweat, toil and tears have successfully carried the company to this point.

With the addition of employee #20, a strange phenomenon occurs. I liken it to when your preteen, who use to think you walked on water, now thinks you’re dumb and dumber.

You’ve felt the subtle change — your employees are a bit harder to manage, they push back more often, their attitude hits you in the face when you least expect it — you may seem to be at odds with them on a daily basis.

Here’s some advice: Don’t look at them; look at yourself. Your company just hit a wall in how you manage it and you are the one who has to make some changes.

A couple of critical forces are hitting at the same time. In startup and ramping up (Stage 1 and Stage 2), a company is CEO-centric.

Moving into Stage 3, it becomes Enterprisecentric.

It’s too big for you to continue to “wear all the hats.” It’s time to start ”‘passing those hats” around to the incredibly talented people you have hired.

You have also just come through what I call a Wind Tunnel; a chaos zone that requires you to let go of methodologies that no longer work and adapt new ones that do.

This is a lot for any CEO to deal with.

This stage of growth has the highest incident of CEO-burnout and it’s not difficult to understand. Suddenly you have to start managing, delegating and team building like there was no tomorrow. I’ve identified the top five challenges likely staring you in the face:

OPENING A NEW BUSINESS?

Changing from ceo-centric to enterprise-centric as the number of your employees multiplies

Staff buy-in Leadership/staff gap Weak business design Unclear core values Staff is resistant to change Four out of five of these center on people issues. If I’ve heard it once, I’ve heard it a thousand times from CEOs: the lament starts with “If I just didn’t have to deal with employees.”

It’s no wonder that as a company moves into this critical stage of growth that many CEOs lose some of the enthusiasm, the passion that was their “life line” up to now. You could always call on your own “life line” to get you through those tough times.

Now you have to start relying on your people — relying is a bit soft. You have to start “trusting, believing, managing, training, teaching, coaching, rewarding, caring and

communicating” with each and every person in your company. And you have to do it every single day.

Want to know how to avoid a “staff revolt?”

One word: Communication.

Lots of it: right now. Today! Tomorrow!

Next week! Every week! And don’t stop.

I’ve counseled CEOs should meet with their direct reports once a week for at least 30 minutes. One CEO quickly did the math for their 9 reports: “You want me to spend 4 ½ hours a week talking to my employees?

Who has that kind of time?”

You’d better make time.

Ken Keller is an executive coach who works with small and midsize B2B company owners, CEOs and entrepreneurs. He facilitates formal top executive peer groups for business expansion, including revenue growth, improved internal efficiencies and greater profitability. He can be reached at Ken.Keller@ strategicadvisoryboards.com. 

THE SIGNAL CAN HELP! We will help you publish your Fictictious Business Name or D.B.A. If you have already filed with the County Clerk, we can publish immediately. We are adjudicated for LOS ANGELES COUNTY.

FOR MORE INFO, PLEASE CALL: (661)

287-5508 dba@signalscv.com

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L · 9

J A N UA RY 2022

Film Industry Alive and Well in the SCV

PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

SANTA CLARITA FILM OFFICE

T

he filmmaking industry contributes more than $30 million in estimated economic impact to Santa Clarita’s local economy on an annual basis. Santa Clarita’s filmmaking industry continues to flourish, bringing high-paying jobs to the City.

With more than 40 sound stages and over 10 movie ranches, Santa Clarita is consistently known as one of Southern California’s most popular film locations. While 2021 brought its own unique set of challenges, Santa Clarita’s film program has persevered.

Film Industry Thrived

Despite the setbacks of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Santa Clarita’s award-winning film program thrived in 2021, contributing an estimated $37.6 million in economic impact to the local community, representing a 40.8% increase when compared to 2020.

While studios had to put their productions on hold during the first days of the pan-

demic, 2021 marked a return to the Film Office’s strong year-end numbers with 574 film permits and 1,505 location film days.

Not included in the reported numbers are the film days and economic benefit from filming that takes place on certified sound stages, which does not require a film permit.

One-Stop Shop

Acting as a one-stop-shop for production staff, the City’s Film Office at City Hall makes the process of permitting easy with friendly staff, low-cost permit fees and an expedited permitting process that keeps productions on track.

Additionally, Santa Clarita features numerous programs, including the City’s Film Incentive Program, Movie Ranch Overlay Zone and a dedicated film office that makes Santa Clarita an ideal place for the movie business. The Santa Clarita Valley is also located within the entertainment industry’s advantageous “Thirty Mile Zone” and offers thousands of film-friendly lo-

cations that can double as almost anywhere in the world — ranging from a rugged western backdrop to charming small-town “anywhere.”

Over the decades, numerous movie stars of yesteryear have made their way through Santa Clarita, including William S. Hart, whose legacy is featured prominently throughout Santa Clarita’s premier arts and entertainment district in historic Old Town Newhall.

More recently, movie stars and artists including Lady Gaga, T-Pain, Billie Eilish and Justin Bieber have shot on location in Santa Clarita, in addition to various commercials and online content.

2021 Feature Films

Numerous feature films were shot in Santa Clarita in 2021, including “Space Jam: A New Legacy” and “Snake Eyes,” which were filmed at local sound stages.

Other films, including “892,” “Baby Stealer,” “The Blueprint,” “Christmas with My Ex,” “Dead Wrong,” “Dog,” “Kimi,” “My Escort Best Friend,” “Next Exit,”

“Wildflower” and more had various scenes filmed on location.

Television

Television shows accounted for more than half of the film days reported in 2021.

Locally based shows include “Cesar’s Way,” “CSI: Vegas,” “Dollface,” “Good Trouble,” “Holey Moley,” “LA Fire and Rescue,” “Mayans MC,” “Miracle Workers,” “NCIS,” “Promised Land,” “Star Trek: Picard,” “S.W.A.T.,” “Westworld,” “Wipeout” and “With Love.”

Other shows that have been filmed on location in Santa Clarita this past year include “911,” “911: Lonestar,” “American Crime Story: Impeachment,” “American Horror Story,” “Atypical,” “Blindspotting,” “The Dropout,” “Euphoria,” “Foodtastic,” “Hacks,” “Jay Leno’s Garage,” “Shameless” and “This Is Us.” The City is thankful for the productions that continue to choose to film in Santa Clarita to tell their stories.

See SCFO, page 20

10 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

J A N UA RY 2022

Santa Clarita is Film Friendly Benefitting productions, the city and the community

BY JIM WALKER

Signal Staff Writer

I

f you have lived in the SCV for any length of time, you are probably very aware of the many sound stages and movie ranches located here.

You have probably seen yellow location signs on poles many times and, most likely, driven past an outdoor shoot or two. However, unless you are in “the business,” you might be unaware of just how big television and movie production is in Santa Clarita. And some of the credit for both increasing production and the fact it operates so smoothly here should be given to your Santa Clarita Film Office.

Tabs on the SCFO website indicate: “Santa Clarita is known for its fast permit turnaround, friendly service and affordable permit fees. Scout thousands of film-friendly locations from sound stages to movie ranches, houses and more.

Find hundreds of local resources, from crew to equipment to post production facilities and more.” And those claims are backed up by the large and growing production business in and around our city.

Evan Thomason’s city job title is a modest one: Economic Development Associate. But he has a couple big jobs, overseeing both the Santa Clarita Film Office and Tourism Office.

“There are five very important reasons filming is so prevalent in Santa Clarita,” he said, “the many sound studios and movie ranches, our proximity to Los Angeles (in the union 30-mile zone), the varied look of locations (to suit anywhere in the world), the film-friendly focus of the city (which benefits the local economy), and the very cooperative environment among the sound stages, movie ranches and the community.”

Always Filming

Thomason said that “Filming has been taking place in Santa Clarita from the silent pictures, with William S. Hart and Charlie Chaplin, right up to the present day. And TV has been our bread and butter since the Golden Age of television

PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF SANTA CLARITA

in the 1950s and 1960s. Currently, there are more than 40 sound stages here and more than 10 movie ranches.”

When a show is “based” in Santa Clarita, it means indoor shoots are done on the show’s designated Santa Clarita sound stage, and outdoor shoots for it can occur anywhere around the SCV. Well more than 50 television shows and productions have been based in Santa Clarita in the past, including: 10 Things I Hate About You (ABC Family), CSI (CBS), Deadwood (HBO), JAG (CBS), Vegas (CBS), Westworld (HBO) and Wipeout (ABC).

Television shows currently based here include: Caesar’s Way (National Geographic), CSI Vegas (CBS), Dollface (Hulu), Good Trouble (Freeform), Holey Moley (ABC), LA Fire and Rescue (NBC), Mayans MC (FX), NCIS (CBS) and Star Trek: Picard (CBS).

Hundreds of productions have filmed on location in Santa Clarita over the years as well, including feature films and movies, television shows, internet/websites/new media, commercials and music videos. Some notable features include: A Star is Born, A Wrinkle in Time, Bridesmaids, Captain Marvel, Cloverfield, Django Unchained, The Flintstones,

Holes, Iron Man, Little Miss Sunshine, National Lampoon’s Vacation, The Revenant, Saving Mr. Banks, Spiderman, Ted 2 and Twilight.

Past television location shoots have included: 24 (Fox), 9-1-1 (Fox), Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (ABC), Brooklyn Nine-Nine (Fox), Castle (ABC), Criminal Minds (CBS), Fear Factor (ABC), Goliath (Amazon), It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (FX), Melrose Place (Fox), The Muppets (ABC), NCIS: Los Angeles (CBS), Rebel (BET), The Rookie (ABC), Santa Clarita Diet (Netflix) and VEEP (HBO).

“We typically get a handful of Superbowl commercials shooting here at this time of year,” Thomason said, “including a past drone shoot over College of the Canyons. We have one Superbowl commercial this year so far.”

Community Benefit

All of this large and growing production is good for Santa Clarita economically. Not only is money brought in through permits, but shoots purchase in the community, including huge amounts of lumber, local rentals, hotels and restaurant catering.

See FILM, page 23

11

J A N UA RY 2022

SCV BUSINESS VOICES

2021 Business Kept on Going HOLLY SCHROEDER

W

President & CEO of SCVEDC

hile much of 2020 was marked by companies adjusting to the health disruptions of the pandemic, by 2021 many businesses were able to flourish again.

Occupier interest has remained strong through the COVID-19 pandemic, and we continue to see tremendous interest in the Santa Clarita Valley. Development projects such as The Center at Needham Ranch (CANR), IAC Commerce Center, and Vista Canyon add much needed industrial and commercial space for employers to expand or relocate here.

Print-on-demand service Printful relocated their manufacturing team to the SCV, tripling their location size and joining a growing list of innovative distribution and manufacturing companies who now call the SCV their home. Logix began the long process of transitioning staff and equipment to their brand-new headquarters in the Valencia Commerce Center. The biggest move of 2021 was beverage manufacturer DrinkPAK, who leased two additional buildings at CANR to create a campus of almost 600,000 square feet. Their plans call for phased line expansion to achieve a state-of-the-art, 3-line beverage contract manufacturing, packaging, and fulfillment center. The project will result in hiring of ~400 employees in the next five years.

Santa Clarita companies have not been idle during the spike in production the last few years, giving credit to SCV’s moniker of “Hollywood North”. There is no doubt that SCV is a happening location for filming, and with space at soundstages at a premium, our region has added several more over the past years to accommodate the demand including the expansion of Santa Clarita Studios (SCS) and the growth of LA North Studios in Valencia Industrial Center and The Center at Needham Ranch.

These new soundstages bring the region’s total number close to 40. Hollywood has gone into overdrive with an increased number of competitive streaming services, rolling out countless new TV shows and films to hold onto subscribers. According to the Santa Clarita film office, the impact of filming last year had an overall economic impact of $30 million, while this year we grossed around $34 million. With the addition of a $330 million increase in film and tax incentives by the state, the film-friendly

Santa Clarita Valley can expect to continue growing its entertainment sector.

As we look into 2022, the CA economy should outpace the US. Locally, new construction of both commercial and residential properties has carried on throughout the last 18 months, which will continue to spur the economic activity in our region. Job restoration in the Santa Clarita Valley should occur between now and mid-2023 and will absorb most of the

vacant/available space.

The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC) is a unique private / public partnership. The SCVEDC utilizes an integrated approach to attracting, retaining and expanding a diversity of businesses in the Santa Clarita Valley, especially those in key industry clusters, by offering competitive business services and other resources. 

12 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

NEW YEAR MESSAGE

By Ivan Volschenk

As we begin a new year, we’d like to take a moment to reflect on all that has transpired over the last 12 months. While last year continued to challenge our business community, it also showcased the resiliency and strength that everyone displayed every day. We admire everyone’s commitment and determination to persevere through these challenges.

We are looking forward to 2022. While we were hoping to start the year with our usual events in-person, we have decided, out of an abundance of caution and in order to protect our businesses and workers from the possible spread of COVID, to postpone some of our events to March 2022 and keep others as virtual. We are all looking forward to being back in person and will do so at the earliest, safest time for everyone. With that, our 99th Awards and Installation has been moved to March 18, we look forward to celebrating our amazing business community and ceremoniously installing the 2022 board of directors at a more appropriate time.

We would also like to welcome our new 2022 leadership and look forward to building on the successes the last few years have brought the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce and building on new benefits and opportunities for our members. Dr. Christian Raigosa with Kaiser Permanente will serve as our 2022 Chair of the Board of Directors. A leader in the SCV business community, Dr. Raigosa has been an active public policy advocate and community volunteer for several years. Dr. Christian Raigosa is the Assistant Area Medical Director and Physician Marketing Leader for the Kaiser Permanente Panorama City Medical Center. In these roles, he partners with members of the Sales and Account Management team to provide a clinical perspective on how to drive better health outcomes for employees. And a special thank you to our 2021 Chair of the Board, John Vance, for his service through a difficult and challenging year.

As the largest membership organization in the Santa Clarita Valley, we thank all our members that have continued with us through the challenging environment and look forward to welcoming new and renewing members as we continue to move forward and grow stronger together. We look forward to continuing to provide the many resources and critical information to our members and the business community at large. We encourage everyone to take advantage of all the benefits your SCV Chamber membership gives you. If you are not a member, reach out to us to find out how we can help your business and what we do to ensure our business community is successful and continues to grow. From advocacy, education to connections.

J A N U UA RY 2022

NOMINATIONS EXTENDED FOR 2021 BUSINESS CHOICE AWARDS Nominations have been extended for the 2021 Santa Clarita Valley Business Choice Awards and will now close Friday, January 21, 2022. The honorees will be announced the first week of February 2022.

The Business Choice Awards categories are as follows: • Non-Profit of the Year: A non-profit that has demonstrated excellence in their mission and purpose.

• Rising Star: a company or young professional whose record reflects ongoing and exceptional growth in contribution to the business community and support of the Chamber.

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: A person or We are proud to partner with the City of a growing/developing business that exemSanta Clarita, who were once again nominat- plifies a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a ed for Los Angeles County Economic Devel- positive attitude. opment Corporation’s 2021 Most Business• Business of the Year: A business that Friendly City. We thank Bill Miranda for his has shown resilience or great achievements strong leadership as Mayor and look forward and is a strong supporter of the business to working with Mayor Laurene Weste on all community and Chamber. business-related matters.

Nomination forms can be requested by emailing hello@scvchamber.com or by goWhile we continue to deal with the paning to www.SCVChamber.com and downdemic and all the challenges it has brought loading the form. us, we look forward to brighter days and rising stronger, more resilient, and impactful than ever before. It takes all of us working together to achieve the greatness we know we are capable of here in the Santa Clarita Valley. We are #scvproud!

WHAT CAN THE CHAMBER DO FOR YOU IN 2022

Why wait? Join now and empower your business to thrive.

Chamber membership is a powerful tool

in expanding your network and reach in the Santa Clarita Valley. Contact us to learn how to grow your network, engage the community, and have your voice heard.

Email us at hello@scvchamber.com

2022 Chair of the Board - Dr. Christian Raigosa

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L · 13

J A N UA RY 2022

UPCOMING EVENTS

Government Affairs Council - January 11

Small Business Roundtable - January 14

Join us virtually at 10:30am on January 11 to hear about what is-

Join us virtually at 8am for our first H.E.L.P small business

sues our business community are facing. Elected officials and their staff will give updates from federal, state and local offices. This is a great opportunity to hear what advocacy the Chamber is doing for you and also to find out how you can bring the issues you care about for us to assist you with. Our massive grassroots alliance is comprised of organizations locally and throughout the country who help strengthen our advocacy efforts and ensure our advocacy efforst are successful.

roundtable. The purpose is to H.E.L.P each other as small business owners through the framework below.

• HELP - does anyone need any help that we can offer advice on as a roundtable?

• ENDORSE - does anyone want to endorse a product or service you believe is a “must have” as a small business owner? No selfpromotions.

• LESSON LEARNED - does anyone want to share a lesson

Email hello@scvchamber.com to find out how to attend or submit an issue you are facing.

they’ve recently learned that could help other small business owners?

• PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITY - do you know of any events happening that could help other small business owners?

Register at www.SCVChamber.com

14 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

J A N U UA RY 2022

CELEBRATING SCV BUSINESSES We are so proud of the resilience of our business community in the Santa Clarita Valley. Despite the pandemic and all the challenges we have faced recently, we continue to grow and celebrate our amazing community. From celebrating new businesses opening or marking special occasions and achievements, we have been proud to be part of their celebrations.

AVORS Medical Group 26357 McBean Parkway, Suite 255, Valencia, CA 91355-Medical Office Building www.avorsmedgroup.com Do you have a grand opening or anniversary coming up?

Email us at hello@scvchamber.com for details about hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony.

UPCOMING GRAND OPENINGS

Avercom Virtual Solutions

Code Ninjas Valencia

24820 Orchard Village, Ste A #230, Santa Clarita

25939 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Never miss important information or updates.

Scan the QR Code to the right to link to our Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and Twitter social media accounts.

Stay in the know and find out whats happening at your local Chamber and the business community!

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L · 15

J A N UA RY 2022

2022 Board of Directors

BUSINESS COUNCILS As the third largest city in Los Angeles County, the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce represents over 65,000-member workforce. We realized we can better serve our business community by having six Business Councils, allowing members to work on issues specific to their area. Our Councils provide a channel for our members to be involved in

CHAIR OF THE BOARD

solving problems, discussing issues, and implementing special projects and events for the

DR. CHRIS RAIGOSA - Kaiser Permanente

and bring a focus to the business needs of the area, and to take community leadership roles

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE HUNT BRALY - Poole, Shaffery & Koegle, LLP ANDREA CARPENTER - Logix MARISOL ESPINOZA - Southern California Gas Company Michael Grisanti - Headman Partners BECKI ROBB - Princess Cruises

benefit of the area being served. Participation offers members the opportunity to prioritize in addressing these needs. It can increase members’ business network, and provide stronger representation on area issues. Also, since area councils exist as industry-specific, participation provides an opportunity for area-specific networking with others doing business.

LATINO BUSINESS ALLIANCE Our LBA council works to promote Latinoowned business as well as relevant issues fac-

NEXTSCV NextSCV is our next generation of leaders

ing our Latino business community. In addi-

and the group aims to develop the next lead-

SANDY SANCHEZ - FivePoint

tion the LBA helps to educate businesses on

ers of the Santa Clarita Valley through per-

JOHN VANCE - Vance Wealth

how to enhance a company’s business efforts

sonal and professional development, civic

with Latino customers and other Latino-

engagement, and network building oppor-

owned businesses.

tunities that ultimately stimulate local busi-

BOARD OF DIRECTORS KAREN BRYDEN - SCV Locations STEVE COLE - SCV Water Agency JASON CRAWFORD - City of Santa Clarita ANDREA DE LA CERDA - Scorpion MATT DIERCKMAN - Colliers International TROY HOOPER - Kiwi Hospitality Partners PATRICK MOODY - Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital DR. IZU OKPARA- Omni Wound Physicians DAN REVETTO - AT&T HENRY RODRIGUEZ - State Farm Insurance

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS The Government Affairs council meets to discuss policy decisions on a local, county, state and federal level. As a member, you are encouraged to attend a meeting and have your voice heard throughout the SCV and take a stance on pertinent issues relative to the business community or your industry in particular.

NON-PROFIT The SCV has a strong philanthropic community with more than 100 locally-based non-

LINDSAY SCHLICK - SchlickArt Video & Photography

profit organizations that help our community

CHRIS SCHRAGE - LBW Insurance Financial Services

thrive. Our non-profits are a key reason why

ROCHELLE SILSBEE - Southern California Edison G. JESSE SMITH - California Institute of the Arts DR. DIANNE VAN HOOK - College of the Canyons

Santa Clarita is a great community and always looking towards a better future. The council provides business resources for our local non-profit leaders to help them connect,

nesses and support the mission of the SCV Chamber.

SMALL BUSINESS Small Businesses are at the core of our Chamber’s membership and are the backbone of our economy. The Chamber offers a variety of educational and networking programming to help your small business thrive.

The council focuses on three main objectives: Advises the SCV Chamber on small business related issues, programming and networking opportunities; Supports the Chambe’s “Retail Walks” with elected officials; and helps promote the nationwide “Small Business Saturday” program which highlights small businesses on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

If you are interested in join-

grow and learn about valuable information

ing any of our councils or

DENNIS VERNER - Burrtec

so they can successfully meet their organiza-

finding out more please email

KARINA WINKLER - Holiday Inn Express

tions mission and goals.

us at hello@scvchamber.com

16 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

J A N UA RY 2022

Time to Get After It!

Dreams

BY PAUL RAGGIO

Co-owner, One True North

N

ew Year’s resolutions are shaping up right about now.

The holidays have ended. We remain in a viral blizzard with Omicron and the Delta version of Covid.

Nonetheless, every blizzard ends, as will this one.

The rate and duration of the inflation uptick are questionable. However, the markets remain strong partially because our gross domestic product percentage remains high, wages are up, consumer demand is solid, unemployment is low and the supply chain issues are resolving.

Given these conditions, it’s time to get after where we are heading in 2022, and January is the month to break bad habits and resolve to develop good ones. Many of us vow to lose weight, exercise more, eat better foods and get more sleep. And for some of us, this has been our New Year’s resolution for decades!

So, let’s mix it up this year and resolve to do something different — first, benchmark where you are right now on the DGLPA scale. Grab a pencil and paper and score yourself in five categories:

dreams goals learning planning, and acting.

For each category, give yourself a score from 1, meaning I don’t do this at all, to 10, meaning I excel at it; then, after you score each category, multiple your five scores against one another and record the result.

For example, if you rate yourself as a 10 for each category, it would be 10 to the fifth power or 100,000. This number is the maximum score you can achieve.

Conversely, if you rate a 1 for each category, it would be 1 to the fifth power or just 1! Of course, this rating would be the lowest score you can achieve. It’s doubtful you’ll rate yourself as all 10s or all 1s, so you should have an ending score somewhere between 1 and 100,000.

Now, apply this scoring system to each of the five categories, and let’s get your total result!

Dreams If you constantly dream, both personally and professionally, have a vision board,

Plan

Goals Learn Act

Where am I?

document your dreams and share these dreams with family, friends and coworkers, score yourself a 10. If you never dream and take each day as it comes, give yourself a 1.

Goals If you form and further develop goals (both personally and professionally), write them down, create supporting objectives, tasks and milestones and make them SMARTER — Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Results-oriented, Time-framed, Encouraging and Rewarding — then give yourself a 10! If you never develop goals or write anything down, avoid objectives or milestones, score yourself a 1.

Learn If you make a point of continuous learning by attending schools, webinars, workshops, reading books, newspapers, professional journals, blogs and remaining curious about your environment and what happens therein, give yourself a 10. If you believe there is no need to learn or have curiosity or interest about your environment, score yourself a 1.

Plan If you make long- and short-term plans, write the plans out, factor risk and eliminate bias, and develop alternative strategies in case your original plan doesn’t pan out, score yourself a 10. However, if you do no planning, live day by day and life as handed to you, give yourself a 1.

Act Finally, do you loathe procrastination, act on what you resolve to do and see it through to completion even if the conditions become challenging, and you’re knocked down and abandoned by your teammates? Then, give yourself a 10. Conversely, if you are a perennial procrastinator, never start, or give up on what you resolved to do, even when your teammates encourage you, score yourself a 1.

There you have it — the baseline for your 2022 self-improvement plan!

What should you resolve this year? How about improving in any categories you scored low in and sustaining the categories you scored high in.

If you aren’t dreaming enough, make a vision board and populate it with pictures of perceived achievements.

If you aren’t establishing SMARTER goals in your personal life or business, now’s the time to start.

If you lack curiosity about your environment, carve out the time to attend workshops, read books, study professional journals.

If you live day by day without planning for tomorrow, next year or where you’ll be a decade from now, start developing a roadmap to your future.

And if you are a procrastinator, can never conjure up the will to get started, or give up when the going gets tough, resolve to stick with it through completion.

Dream large, set big, hairy, audacious goals, thirst for knowledge, chart your course, act, act, act, act, act! Out with the old resolutions and in with the new. Take one step at a time, get your mindset right and believe 2022 will be your year of success.

Each quarter reassess where you are on the DGPLA scale, then resolve to do the hard work and self-improve. his is how you lead, think, plan, and act. Now, let’s get after it!

Retired Col. Paul A. Raggio is co-owner, with his sister Lisa, of One True North INC Leadership and Business Coaching Solutions. Paul and Lisa mentor and coach business owners on leadership and management principles in achieving and sustaining their business growth and profitability goals. For more information, visit onetruenorthcoach. com. 

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L · 17

J A N UA RY 2022

Real Estate in the Santa Clarita Valley

Sales and inventory fall near year’s end • Prices just below record highs

BY JIM WALKER

Signal Staff Writer

T

he sales numbers provided by the Southland Regional Association of Realtors show a total of 236 single-family homes and 97 condominiums closed escrow during November, while the supply of properties listed for sale continued to dwindle. While the condo totals rose 11.5%, the home sales total was down 7.8% from a year ago.

“Condos are in demand simply because they’re less expensive than most singlefamily homes,” said Nicole Stinson, the 2021 chair of the Santa Clarita Valley Division Council of SRAR. “Yet home and condo sales are hindered by a simple fact — there simply are not enough properties listed for sale.”

With continuing low interest rates, buyers were hunting even as the holidays approached. However, a 26.7% drop in the available supply limited their options. SRAR reported 217 properties on its MLS system at the end of November, which represented only a 0.7-month supply at the then-current pace of sales.

The supply had showed signs of improving for three months this summer, posting positive numbers, only to lose ground in October and November. The 217 listings figure is closer to the record low of 193 reported in December 2020 than to the record high of 2,630 reported in September 2006.

The median price of homes that changed owners in November was $795,000, up 14.9% from a year ago, while

the condominium median of $505,000 was up 16.1% from November 2020.

“Both prices were slightly below their record highs — $830,000 and $520,000, respectively,” said Tim Johnson, the association’s chief executive officer, “and both appeared to have leveled off in recent months, perhaps running into buyer resistance.”

Pending escrows, which are a measure of future sales activity, dropped by 14.4%, with 310 open escrows reported at the end of November.

“It’s typical to see sales and listings decline in the waning months of each year,” Johnson said, “Though this year appears to be a steeper slowdown than usual and follows a strong recovery from the decline triggered by the economic shutdown due to the pandemic.”

A Closer Look

November’s 236 closed escrows of single-family homes in the Santa Clarita Valley was the third consecutive month since June 2020 that the monthly total was lower than the prior year. Every month since August 2020 to

August 2021 closings were higher than the prior year as the market recovered from the record low of 111 closings brought on by the shutdown of the economy due to Coronavirus.

The median price — meaning half of the month’s closed escrows were higher priced and half lower priced — fell below the $800,000 benchmark for the first time after five consecutive months above $800,000, though each month since June’s record median of $830,000 has been lower, suggesting that prices may have plateaued.

“Each hike in prices, regardless of price range, reduces the pool of buyers who can qualify for a home loan,” Stinson said. “Homes and condos continue to sell, many with multiple offers, and demand remains strong, yet there are fewer buyers willing or able to compete and fewer buyers willing to present offers above the original list price.”

Condominium closed escrows last month jumped ahead of year-ago totals for the second month. Since June 2020, as the nation and state

wrestled with the economic shutdown due to the pandemic, condo sales generally came in higher than the prior year, after tanking in May 2020 with a mere 55 closed escrows.

The condo median price of $505,000 was up 16.1% from a year ago, continuing a trend of double-digit year-to-year hikes seen throughout 2021.

The inventory of homes and condominiums listed for sale in Santa Clarita tracked along seasonal patterns, with two exceptions. First, July and August saw listings exceed the total from the prior year. Second, listings again hover near the record low of 193 active listings recorded in December 2020.

SRAR’s Income-to-Loan Guide calculates the minimum income needed to qualify for a loan on the purchase of a median-price local home.

Last month in the Santa Clarita Valley the minimum income needed was $130,556, which was 4.5% higher than a year ago. The total cost of principal, interest, taxes and insurance (PITI) of $3,264 See REAL ESTATE, page 22

18 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

J A N UA RY 2022

Principles in Today’s Workplace PAUL BUTLER

SCVBJ Contributing Writer

W

e have a long and very narrow garage and I’ve found, that to park our little car in this long and very narrow garage I have to stay focused on the refrigerator door. Why? Well, we have a refrigerator in the garage and its door is perfectly positioned to give a clear line of sight to park without bumping or scratching. The door is the constant—it keeps me focused while I maneuver.

This set me thinking about how we need to focus on unchanging principles at work even amidst times of constant change and radical turmoil within many workplaces. What previously was “wrong” to most is now deemed to be “right” by many. What we may have thought would never be legalized, is now so. What we thought were inappropriate topics to discuss at work, are now celebrated and applauded.

As Charles Dickens said in his novel, A Tale of Two Cities, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.”

Depending on your worldview, this may be the best of times for you, while some of your customers and colleagues may consider these days to be the worst of times. What you may think is “progressive,” may be considered “regressive” to others who don’t see the world as you see it.

How can we, metaphorically speaking, stay focused on the refrigerator door to avoid bumping or scratching the car? How can we still lead, serve and collaborate with others whose worldview we may not agree with?

I’d suggest the answer lies in the P-word: Principles.

See, principles are timeless—they’re not temporal. Principles are objective—they’re not subjective. Principles are not interested in our opinion. Principles are external to us—they exist with, or without our permission. Principles are universal—they apply to all people, all of the time. Principles just are.

Principles, such as the Golden Rule, are to to treat others in a way you yourself would like to be treated. If you constantly apply this principle to the way you think, and align your behaviors, (say and do) with this principle you will get good results with people, even if your worldviews are worlds apart.

Principles such as when in times of conflict

On Your Principles

“

See, principles are timeless … objective…

Principles are not interested in our opinion … (they) are external to us. …Principles are universal. … Principles just are.”

to remember to not just look out for your own interests, but also the interests of others will help you get things done even if there are many nonwork-related issues you may differ with others on.

If you have the noble, honorable responsibility of leading others remember to turn the organizational pyramid upside-down by doing what most leaders don’t — see yourself as a servant to others.

The principle of servant leadership is the most enamored style of stewardship. It engenders the hearts and minds of followers, regardless of a person’s political perspective or the style of spectacles a person wears to see social issues— all of which do spill into today’s workplace.

There is indeed nothing new under the sun, but we are living and therefore working, in unprecedented times. People are more empow-

ered than ever to bring their whole self to today’s workplace. Pandora’s Box cannot be closed and so I’d import that the best way to navigate through choppy and ever-changing seas is to stay focused on the compass.

North is still north.

I’m going to keep my eyes firmly fixed on the refrigerator door to avoid bumping or scratching my car. See, it’s the consistency of what is right that can guide many of us, not only in our garages but also in our places of work.

See, principles endure — they can guide us and keep us on the right path, even when societal norms shift.

Paul Butler is a Santa Clarita resident and a client partner with Newleaf Training and Development of Valencia. For questions or comments, email Butler at paul.butler@newleaftd.com. 

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L · 19

J A N UA RY 2022

Business Profile: Castaic Film Ranch New vehicle centric shooting site will save production time and money

BY JIM WALKER

Signal Staff Writer

L

ongtime residents of the Santa Clarita Valley, action vehicle stunt coordinator Mike Ryan, his wife Maureen, and son Kris, are developing an impressive site for vehicle-related filming that is conveniently located near Castaic.

Most important, the Castaic Film Ranch is right at the 30th mile of the studio zone, which will save union productions huge amounts of money and time compared to locations farther out from “Hollywood.”

This vehicle centric site, as Ryan describes it, is in the Tapia Canyon area, just more than a mile southeast of the Parker Road Exit (176A) from Interstate 5 north. It is designed for movie, television and print action shoots of vehicles of all types, including small aircraft.

Ryan is a stunt driver and action vehicle coordinator with more than 40 years of experience in the film, racing and entertainment industries, who is now pursuing his career-long dream of a safe and close-in place to film action and train the next generation of stunt performers. “All of us pro drivers have fantasized about having a mile of freeway as the perfect retirement,” he said.

Though he was always interested in vehicles, Ryan’s career, and resulting film ranch dream, required some evolution.

“I thought I was going to be an architect,” he said. “My first stunt driving job was in 1977 in ‘Joyride to Nowhere,’ and the title fits my life story,” he quipped.

Castaic Film Ranch features a 960-foot long by 72-foot wide ‘runway’ that will offer six 12-foot-wide lanes of straight-level roadway. PHOTO BY JIM WALKER / THE SIGNAL

Anything but a joyride to nowhere, Ryan’s career has included racing a 2,400-horsepower hand-built freightliner semi-tractor in the Pikes Peak hill climb. “I did it 20 times over a 21-year period,” he said.

“I also held a 2014 Guinness World Record for a semi-trailer jump crossover (youtu.be/ Z2IkfPQB_DA).”

Ryan also owned a motion picture vehicle company for 36 years and continues to stunt drive, stunt coordinate and second-unit direct. All of this vast experience gives him insights into the varied needs of vehicle shoots and the best ways to meet them without wasting money.

The evolving Castaic Film Ranch is a perfect example of that — removed from traffic congestion, with an unobstructed 360-degree background, and featuring banked turns and “racetracks” that are only as large as a quick shot requires.

“Can you think of a car commercial where you saw more than three seconds of action?

They just cut and go back to ‘one,’” he said.

“We have a 960-foot long by

72-foot wide ‘runway’ that will offer six 12-foot-wide lanes of straight-level roadway on top of an east-west trending mesa, with near 360 degree unobstructed views, all controlled by one main gate, with no need for costly traffic control,” Ryan said.

“There is a single lane road racing type course winding around the perimeter that includes a small NASCAR style high-banked turn, several elevation changes and is designed to take advantage of morning and evening ‘magic hour’ light.”

He explained that the Castaic Film Ranch will soon offer a freshly paved and completely private roadway for automotive print photography, automotive magazine type car testing, TV commercials, action-based TV shows and feature films.

Additionally, stunt and performance driver training will be taught there by veteran stunt coordinators and stunt and race drivers on filming off-days.

“The west end of the summit includes a large helipad for filmmaking and for pri-

vate studio exec transportation and black car service to the Santa Clarita area studios, Ryan said.

“Additionally, there are about two miles of old ‘oil field’ dirt roads winding over approximately 300 acres of mountainous terrain, with several oak tree groves, arroyos, possible water crossings and areas to build sets.”

Ryan’s film ranch dream is getting some help as it evolves. “Ron Druschen of Pacific West Home Solutions, and Jason Vroom of Alliance Land Planning and Engineering are managing project development and much thanks are due to Bob Lewis and Jeff Preach of the Castaic Town Council, LA County 5th Supervisorial District Field Deputy Stephanie English, and previous Santa Clarita Councilmember Bob Kellar for their guidance and support,” he said.

“We look forward to creating future jobs in Castaic, bolstering the town’s long use as a film area, with the lake, main street and Templin Highway, and as a buffer between the prison land and the general public,” he added.

“With the help of LA County Regional Planning staff, we hope to be paved and operational within the next 12 to 18 months, and in the interim, we are open as an affordable rural-appearing location and have completed several projects over the last two years.”

For more information visit CastaicFilmRanch.com. Mike Ryan can be reached at mike@ castaicfilmranch.com. Location manager and site rep Jeff Stevenson can be reached at jstevenson@greenconvergence. com. 

20 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

SCFO

Continued from page 9

Through a collaborative permitting process, strong relationships with production staff and location managers, the City’s Film Office has struck a unique balance, meeting the needs of film and television productions in addition to those of Santa Clarita residents.

To learn more about Santa Clarita’s award-winning film program, visit FilmSantaClarita.com or contact the Film Office at (661) 284-1425.

On the website, you will find a full list of productions that have been filmed locally, in addition to valuable resources for productions and the community. For an insider’s look into filming in Santa Clarita, follow the City of Santa Clarita Film Office on Instagram @FilmSantaClarita.

With the ongoing pandemic, the safety of production staff continues to be a top priority. Visit FilmSantaClarita.com to be directed to a full list of current health protocols from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. 

Let us transform your Risk and Benets programs today with a custom and proactive approach.

Shed the old concept of insurance agent.

Today’s business owners need analysts, advisors and advocates. That’s what you’ll nd at LBW. Business Insurance Employee Benets Retirement Services

Call Today!

661.702.6000 28055 Smyth Dr., Valencia CA 91355 www.LBWinsurance.com CA Insurance License #0785905

J A N UA RY 2022

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L · 21

J A N UA RY 2022

A Few New California Employment Laws

E

very year, the California legislature and the governor provide a flurry of new laws and amendments imposing additional obligations on California employers.

Below is an overview of just a few of the new requirements employers should be aware of: AB 1003 – Amends Section 487(m) of the California Penal Code to make it a crime of “grand theft” to intentionally, and unlawfully, take employee wages, including gratuities, in an amount greater than $950 for any one employee, or $2,350 “in the aggregate.” To be clear, the need to be compliant with

California Labor Code has just been taken up a notch.

AB 702 – Amends the California Labor Code requiring employers of warehouse distribution centers who employ over 100 at a single location, or more than 1,000 employees at multiple locations, to provide each nonexempt employee a written description of any quota requirements place on that employee. In other words, if an employee is expected to meet a certain goal each day, the notice to the employee must specific categories include goals/ tasks expected of the employee, time for those tasks, and anticipated employment actions for failure to meet those

goals. Such a notice must be given to all affected employees at the time of hire or for current employees, upon implementation of the law on January 1, 2022.

SB 657 – Adds Section 1207 to the Labor Code and authorizes employers to distribute those same documents via email which are also required to be physically posted at the job site.

SB 646 – Saving the more frustrating for last, this new law provides for an exception to PAGA only for janitorial employees who are working pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement. In other words, if the janitorial workers unionize, the busi-

ness is presumably free from the constraints and financial burden imposed by the innumerable lawsuits brought subject to the PAGA. It would seem that this “get out of jail card” thrown to unionized employees is the unfortunate impact of union lobbying to get favorable treatment in our state’s legislature.

The new laws listed above are but a few of the flurry of bills passed into law this year.

To make sure you’re on the right side of the law, make sure you consult with the employer lawyers here at Poole Shaffery & Koegle, LLP. For more information, visit www. pooleshaffery.com. 

— UNDER DEVELOPMENT — A “Vehicle Centric” Location For More Information: Contact Mike Ryan

Mike@CastaicFilmRanch.com

(818) 404-8230 CastaicFilmRanch.com

22 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

The List: M ovie S tudios

J A N UA RY 2022

and

S ound S tages

name

contact

contact information

website

ACRES/ # OF STAGES

Blue Cloud Movie Ranch

Frank Gardner

20019 Blue Cloud Rd. Santa Clarita 91350 (661) 510-6873

bluecloud.com

250 acres *Movie Ranch Overlay Zone Property

Castaic Film Ranch

Mike Ryan

info@castaicfilmranch.com • (661) 952-7707

castaicfilmranch.com

97 acres

Diamond V Ranch

Marcel Veluzat

28100 Haskell Canyon Rd Santa Clarita 91322 (661) 212-8047

veluzat.com

50 acres *Movie Ranch Overlay Zone Property

Firebird Film Locale

Michelle Goertz

9744 Soledad Canyon Road Agua Dulce 91390 (661) 268-1500

facebook.com/ FirebirdFilmLocale

3 acres

Golden Oak Ranch

Steve Sligh

19802 Placerita Canyon Rd. Newhall 91321 (661) 259-8717

goldenoakranch.com

890 acres, 12 proposed stages for a total of 240,000 sq ft

LA North Studios

John Pradhu

25045 Ave Tibbitts Valencia 91355 (661) 568-6410

lanorthstudios.com

3 stages for a total of 73,000 sq ft

Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio

Candy Veluzat

24715 Oak Creek Ave. Newhall 91321 (661) 259-9669

melodyranchstudio.com

22 acres, 3 stages for a total 41,200 sq ft Placerita Canyon Special Standards District, Overlay Zone Property. No city film permit required;L.A. County Fire approval/permit required

Polsa Rosa Ranch

Margie Vodraska

5726 Soledad Canyon Rd. Acton 93510 (805) 368-9029

polsarosaranch.com

750 acres

Rancho Deluxe

Steve Arklin, Jr.

16030 Placerita Canyon Rd. Santa Clarita 91387 (661) 733-5739

aranchodeluxe.com

200 acres *Movie Ranch Overlay Zone Property

Rustic Oaks Ranch

Mike Stuart

23708 La Salle Canyon Rd. Santa Clarita 91321 (661) 510-0712

rusticoaksranch.com

42 acres

Sable Ranch/Rancho Maria

Derek Hunt

25933 Sand Canyon Rd. Canyon Country 91387 (661) 252-9751

ranchomariasable.com

400 acres *Movie Ranch Overlay Zone Properties

Santa Clarita Studios

Mike DeLorenzo

25135 Anza Dr. Santa Clarita 91355 (661) 294-2000

sc-studios.com

27 stages with more than 500,000 sq ft

SOS Filmworks/Agua Dulce Movie Ranch, Inc.

William Fix

34855 Petersen Rd. Agua Dulce 91390 (661) 251-2365

sosfilmworks.com

348 acres

Valencia Studios

Candice Bieber

26030 Avenue Hall Santa Clarita 91355 (513) 702-5110

valenciastudios.com

6 stages for a total of 73,500 sq ft

REAL ESTATE

SCV — Total Active Inventory — combined residental

Continued from page 17

was based on an 80% loan of $636,000 with an interest rate of 3.07%, the national average rate for November as reported by Freddie Mac. The Income-to-Loan Guide found the minimum income needed to qualify for a loan on the purchase of a medianprice local condominium in Santa Clarita was $96,181.

That minimum income was 19.3% higher than a year ago.

The PITI of $2,405 was based on an 80% loan of $404,000 with an interest rate of 3.07%.

“It’s a great time to be a seller. Buyers have a more difficult challenge,” Johnson said.

“There will always be somebody willing to buy, even with California’s sky-high housing

700 600 500 337

400 300 200

200

196

323

262

243

242

221

348

284 217

100 0 Jan

Feb

Mar

April

May

June

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

 2021

200

196

221

242

243

262

337

348

323

284

217

 2020

308

308

358

410

426

331

314

301

323

344

296

193

 2019

550

559

559

600

630

656

606

541

519

467

377

293

prices. Yet prices cannot keep rising forever, posting double-digit increases. There’s only one time-tested way of easing upward pressure on

prices — build more homes.”

Note: The following figures and analysis are based on the Southland Regional Association of Relators November

Dec

2021 Sales Press Release for the Santa Clarita Valley. The December 2021 data, as well as the 2021 annual data, will be available in mid-January. 

J A N UA RY 2022

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L · 23

Rancho Deluxe Studios Spans More Than 300 Acres

L

ocated in the city of Santa Clarita, California, Rancho Deluxe is an approved production facility set within the 30-mile studio zone of Hollywood, in the naturally scenic Placerita Canyon area of Santa Clarita.

Our sprawling movie ranch spans over 300 acres of natural terrain, with plenty of space for multiple on-site productions and base camps.

In addition to the natural landscape, our property is home to multiple shoot houses, water features, and a variety of interior and exterior sets including our Western Town, Log Cabin camp, and Mediterranean Villa. Some of our newest settings include a Military Base, and Palace Saloon.

With more than 20 years of entertainment industry experience, our management staff understands the unique needs of film production and can assist with every aspect of accommodating film crews complete all types of filmed projects — from television series, feature films and and acquiring local resources needed to

FILM

“We can pretty much provide any production needs right here in the SCV,” Thomason said. “Our locations can look like anywhere USA. With our older homes and newer neighborhoods, this can be anything from urban to suburban.” Our hills can double for Afghanistan, and Vasquez Rocks has been used for everything from westerns to the planet Vulcan, he noted.

Continued from page 10

Thomason said the increasing frequency of filming here over the last eight years has brought in an average estimated economic impact to the community of $30 million per year. Film permits have averaged more than 500 per year, which translates to more than 1,300 film days per year. “You can have multiple locations on one permit,” he added.

He noted that filming has been strong in the city through the pandemic, aside from an early shutdown in March of 2020. “We were one of the first communities to return to large scale network episodic TV with S.W.A.T. in August of 2020,” he said. Since then, it’s pulled up gradually.”

In 2021, there were 574 permits issued, which is the second-best year, ever.

This translated into 1,505 film days and $37,682,500 in estimated economic impact to the community.

We Have Your Location

Some of the major shooting locations in the city include our local hotels, the

shorts, music videos, photo shoots, reality shows and commercials. 

Working for You

Westfield Valencia Town Center, Old Town Newhall and College of the Canyons. Thomason said COC is a popular location for productions, because it has a great look and the school is very filmfriendly. Film shoots provide a significant source of income that benefits the school.

Tasked by the city council, the Santa Clarita Film Office is dedicated to attracting and facilitating production, while ensuring it all works seamlessly, with the least disruption and greatest benefit to the local community.

“Permitting is a one-stop-shop,” Thomason said. This includes smooth application, review, location facilitation, traffic control and coordination with Los Angeles County Fire Department and Sheriff’s Department.

“We are doing our best to attract production here and make sure everyone gets what they need,” he added.

For more information visit FilmSanta Clarita.com. 

24 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

J A N UA RY 2022

Tax Exemption Program for Homeowners Could Save You and Descendants Money

BY JEFF PRANG

Los Angeles County Assessor

T

his month I want to take a moment of your time to visit about a property tax savings program my office offers that’s just waiting to reduce your budget.

Moreover, I am going to be advocating for an increase in this tax-savings program.

I’m speaking about the Homeowners’ Exemption that has been available since 1974 that automatically reduces your tax burden by $7,000, if the home is your primary residence as of Jan. 1. That translates to an actual reduction of $70 to a homeowners’ tax bill. It’s not much and in dire need of an increase.

Let’s say hypothetically, the assessed value savings was to increase modestly to $20,000. That translates to an actual savings of $200.

Since the whole point of the Homeowners’ Exemption is to encourage home ownership in the state, it should at the very least keep up with the rising costs of homes.

In 1972 the median home price in California was about $34,500, where now home prices come in about $790,000 statewide, according to the latest figures from the California Association of Realtors.

For now, to get the existing savings, all the homeowner has to do is fill out the application at assessor.lacounty.gov and they are good to go. The deadline is Feb. 15 to get the entire savings but if you miss the deadline, please file anyway and you will get it prorated this year and the full amount the following years.

Homeowners need only apply once in order to receive these savings each year.

The savings continue until a change (such as a sale) is recorded.

However, nearly one in three homeowners in Los Angeles County do not take advantage of this tax savings’ pro-

The Homeowners’ Exemption (HOX) reduces your property taxes by deducting up to $7,000 from your assessed value before applying the tax rate.

BOE-266 (P1) REV. 13 (05-2 0) ASSR-515 (REV. 11-21

CLAIM FOR

)

HOMEOWNER

S’ PROPER

TY TAX EXE If eligible, sign MPTION and file this form before the 30th with the Asse ssor day following whichever come the date of notic on or before February 15 or on s first. e of suppleme ntal assessme SEE INSTRUC nt, TIONS BEFO RE COMPLET ING

ine l d Dea b 15 Fe

NAME AND MAILING ADDR (Make necess ESS ary corrections to the printed name

and mailing

PROPE

RTY

HOMEOTAX SAVINGS WNERS JEFF PR ANG, AS ’ EXEM SESSOR

PTION (H

address)

OX)

IF YOU OW ELIGIBLE N OR OCCUPY YO FOR PR OPERTY UR HOME AS YOUR PR TAX SAVI INCI The Ho NGS OF meo APPROX PAL PLACE OF assessed wners’ Exem IMATEL ption (H value be Y $70 AN RESIDENCE, YO OX) redu fore ap NUALLY U MAY BE ces your plying th . prop e ta

Eligibili

x rate.

ty Chec

Print your socia

l security num

klist

You ow

ber and nam

u

SSN:

-

SSN:

-

erty is yo ur princ ipal resid You are ence not alrea on dy

-

anothe NAME: This claim may r proper receiving this ex be used to STATEMENT ty in Ca A new own file for the Hom S er must file lifornia emption eowners’ Exem a claim even information ption for the if the property and instructio Assessment ns before answ is Roll and the ering the ques already receiving the Supplementa 1. When did hom tions eow l Assessment you acquire listed below. ners’ exemption Roll. this property? . Please care fully read the • 2. Date you You may occupied this (month/day/yea r) only cla property as your principal im principa 3. Do you own residence (see l residen one HOX for yo another prop instructions): ce ur erty that is, If YES, plea or was, your • You m se provide the principal plac (month/day/yea ust prov r) address belo e of residence in ide your w, and the date numbe California?

Address: you MOVED r YES on the appl Social Securit OUT, if no long NO er your princ Street address y ica tio • Claim ipal place of n residence: Only the own for a City ers or their a proper HOX may be re spouses who her legal repr Zip Code occu esen ty’s tax quired wish to file sepa tative may sign this claim py the above-described to trans base month/day/year property (incl rate claims; . (If the prop fer • It remain uding a purc however, only erty If you are buy haser under one exemption comprises more than s in effec ing this prop contract of sale one will be allow t withou you must atta erty under ) or his or• ed per dwelling dwelling unit, other co-o an unrecord ch a copy to t annual HOX may wner occupant unit.) ed contract this claim. filing s may of sale and also ap the Assesso pl as y to sessmen r does not have t if the pr a supplemen a copy of the tal contract, the exem I certify (or decl ior owne ption are) under pena CERTIFICATIO r did no including any lty of perjury N t claim under the laws accompanyin • New g statements of the State SIGNATURE property OF OWNER-OCC or documen of California UPANT ow ts, that is re ne true, the t ceive an foregoing and rs will au correct, and complete to all information applica to m the SIGNATURE at here best ically tion form on, of my knowledg OF OCCUPANT’ S SPOUSE e and belief. • Upon via mail OR CO-OW t NER-OCCUP term DATE ANT

Require

ments &

Guidelin

es

up to $7

,000 fro

m your

Once yo u have an appr not need oved cla to file it im on file must no on a ye , you arly basis tif . Howeve do due to th y us if the prop erty is no r, e followi ng reas longer eli you ons: gible • You so ld the pr op erty • You no longer liv e in your • You re pr nt out th operty e proper • You m ty oved ‘p ermanen care fac tly’ to an ility. extended • Prop erty is a second ary hom If this is e th Homeo e case, please wners’ file a Ca Ex nc em our office ellat ption fo . rm EXM- ion of 76 with Failure to do so may resu lt in pena lties.

ination, th the As a new claim form sessor to regain eli must be gibility

filed wi

EMAIL ADDR

ESS

DATE

IF YOU DO

ducting

Notify U s

The prop

-

NAME:

u

s by de

n the pr operty

e here

Print co-owne r’s or spouse’s this property social security is also his/h er principal resid number and name whe n ence

erty taxe

NOT OCCUPY DAYTIME TELEP THIS PARCEL HONE NUMB ER AS YOUR PRIN If you occu ( ) py this parc CIPAL RES el at a later IDENCE, PLE date, contact ASE DISCARD the Assesso THIS DOCUME THIS FORM. r at that time NT IS NOT .

SUB

JECT TO PUB

LIC INSPEC

gram, leaving $30 million unclaimed each year. Across the County, an additional 435,000 families can be saving on their tax bills.

The Homeowners’ Exemption is even more important now than ever before because of Proposition 19.

Prop. 19 changes the rules that apply to transfers between parents and children and grandparents to grandchildren. It mandates that any property not being used as the primary residence will not be eligible for the transfer of the existing lower tax rate.

Furthermore, the parent/owner of the home that is going to be left to the children should have the Homeowners’ Exemption at the time of the transfer. The child receiving the home does have one year from the date of transfer to acquire the Homeowners’ Exemption.

If the home does not have the Homeowners’ Exemption, the children will not receive the tax benefit, and they could get stuck with a huge property

TION

assessor .lacoun

ty.gov | exem

pt@asse

ssor.la

county .gov | (21

3) 974-34

15

tax increase.

I encourage the state legislature to study the matter and increase the Homeowners’ Exemption, even modestly. At the very least, it needs to have a clause that guarantees it keeps pace with inflation.

Our website will be continuously updated to provide general information on Proposition 19 that may assist taxpayers.

For more information on Prop. 19 or other tax savings programs, visit assessor.lacounty.gov or call (213) 974-3211.

Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang has been in office since 2014. Upon taking office, Prang implemented sweeping reforms to ensure that the strictest ethical guidelines rooted in fairness, accuracy and integrity would be adhered to in his office, which is the largest office of its kind in the nation with 1,300 employees and provides the foundation for a property tax system that generates $17 billion annually. 

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L · 25

J A N UA RY 2022

Santa Clarita Stock Average Below you will find a list of local Santa Clarita-based or prominent Santa Clarita companies used for our averages. Each month we will take the average of all these stocks and show that number. Tracking that number from month to month will give you a window of how our local company’s stocks are performing.

Last month the index was 6,778.46 and the average price per share was $225.95.

This month the index is 6,948.19 up 169.73 or 2.3% with the average share price being $231.61.

Company

industry

ticker

DEC. 6

jan. 3

Amazon

Retail

NASDAQ: AMZN

3389.79

3408.18

Bank of Southern California

Banking

OTC: BCAL

15.20

14.98

Bioventus

Biomedical

Nasdaq: BVS

12.37

14.68

Boston Scientific

Biomedical

NYSE: BSX

39.46

42.96

California Resources Corp.

Energy

NYSE: CRC

40.55

43.54

Carnival Corp.

Entertainment/leisure

NYSE: CCL

17.20

21.40

CBRE

Commercial real estate

NYSE: CBRE

98.54

108.32

Costco

Retail

NASDAQ: COST

528.93

567.20

Disney

Entertainment media

NYSE: DIS

146.22

156.69

Five Point Holdings

Home developer

NYSE: FPH

5.84

6.65

IQVIA holdings

Laboratory services

NYSE: IQV

261.68

273.65

ITT inc.

Aerospace/manufacturing

NYSE: ITT

95.76

102.10

KB Homes

Home developer

NYSE: KBH

42.21

43.03

Otsuka Pharmaceutical

Pharmaceutical

OTCMKTS: OTSKY

17.97

18.19

Quest Diagnostics

Laboratory services

NYSE: DGX

157.06

163.60

Six Flags

Entertainment/leisure

NYSE: SIX

36.66

43.79

Sodexo

Home/food services

OTCMKTS: SDXAY

16.96

17.50

Sonova Holdings

Biomedical equipment

OTCMKTS: SONVY

72.90

78.26

Tri Pointe Homes

Home developer

NYSE: TPH

25.99

26.94

Walmart

Retail

NYSE: WMT

137.51

144.58

Woodward

Aerospace/Manufacturing

NASDAQ: WWD

106.51

110.21

Auto Nation

Auto Dealers

AN

124.04

113.45

Boeing

Aerospace

BA

198.49

208.65

Comcast

Communications

CMCSA

51.78

50.75

Home Depot

Retail

HD

407.81

408.22

Kohl's

Retail

KSS

48.45

49.85

Lennar

Home Builder

LEN

112.32

110.40

Lowes

Retail

LOW

248.64

255.79

McDonalds

Restaurants

MCD

249.33

268.04

Textron

Industrial

TXT

72.25

76.39

26 · S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L

J A N UA RY 2022

S A N TA C L A R I TA VA L L E Y B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L · 27

J A N UA RY 2022

Economic Development Corporation The Outlook for 2022 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road | UCEN 263 | Santa Clarita, CA 91355 | (661) 288-4400 | www.scvedc.org

BY HOLLY SCHROEDER

President and CEO of the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corp.

E

ach year, SCVEDC produces an Economic Outlook report. The general outlook for 2022, as described by Dr. Mark Schniepp of California Economic Forecast, follows.

According to Dr. Schniepp, the recession is now long over, and the economy is in full recovery.

An unrestricted economy has resulted in a surge of growth, led by consumer spending, job and income creation, leisure travel and tourism, and strengthening demand for public gatherings such as concerts, conferences, and sporting events.

With the clear abatement of the pandemic, a sustainable rebound in the economy is underway, though a return to the normal we knew in 2019 will be delayed until later in 2022.

A clear end to the pandemic is not here yet. We are now in a quasi-pandemic environment where most restrictions on business have been lifted but mask wearing, and capacity limitations are

recommended.

With the lifting of meaningful restrictions, travel has exploded. Visitors are largely inundating all regions of California. The demand for amusement parks is prolific as Californians desperately seek a return to normal fun activity.

The outlook calls for continued improvement for the California economy, and especially in areas that attract tourists. A continuation of spending and the restoration of jobs in California is forecast for the remainder of 2021 and throughout 2022. This assumes new variants of COVID-19 are not in the cards or do nothing to interrupt California businesses or consumers.

The most telling economic indicator with extraordinary predictability about the recovery of the local economy from the pandemic-induced recession is employment. This is because employment was so visually and meaningfully impacted by the interventions put in place to retard the spread of COVID-19.

The forecast calls for rapid progress in the restoration of jobs in all sectors of the state and local economies through

the remainder of 2021 and continuing through 2023.

The restoration of jobs has already been vigorous beginning in the spring/ summer of 2021. This pace will continue throughout 2022 with the forecast calling for a surge of job creation next year and into 2023.

A complete recovery of jobs lost in the 2020 recession occurs in 2023. The local economy lags the state economy principally because it was impacted more sharply than the state, due to higher local concentrations of employment in the amusement sector, and the transportation sector.

The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC) is a unique private/public partnership representing the united effort of regional industry and government leaders. The SCVEDC utilizes an integrated approach to attracting, retaining and expanding a diversity of businesses in the Santa Clarita Valley, especially those in key industry clusters, by offering competitive business services and other resources. 

Econo Watch Santa Clarita Valley Q3 2021 Q2 2021 Commercial Vacancy Rates Office Space 18.12% 16.71% Industrial Space 2.3% 4.90% Total Marked Sq. Ft. Vacancy Percentage: Office Space - as a % of Vacancy 9.99% Industrial Space - as a % of Vacancy 90.01%

Building Permits

Nov ’21 39.07 17.62 5.39 14.4 36.57 105.8

2,799,950 25,240,876 28,040,826

9.97% 90.03%

New Commercial/Industrial Building Permits Commercial Tenent Improvements/Alterations

Local Company Stock Prices California Resources Corp (CRC) Carnival Corp. (CCL) FivePoint (FPH) Mission Valley Bank (MVLY) Six Flags * (SIX) Woodward (WWD)

Q3 2021 Sq Ft

Nov ’21 14 61

Oct ’21 46.13 22.16 7.36 14.8 41.13 112.95

N/A N/A

Oct ’21 Nov ’20 0 20

% Change -15.30% -20.49% -26.77% -2.70% -11.09% -6.33%

9 33

Unemployment Rates

Nov ’21

Oct ’21 % Change

Santa Clarita

5.9%

6.8%

Palmdale

10.5% 11.3% -7.08%

Lancaster

10.9% 11.5% -5.22%

Glendale

7.0% 7.9% -11.39%

Los Angeles County

7.1%

State

6.9% 7.3% -5.48%

7.8%

-13.24%

-8.97%

Nov ’21 839

Oct ’21 869

Nov ’20 747,300

514

514

463,700

SCV Home Sales

2,732

2,496

256

SCV Condo Sales

1,041

977

87

Housing Stats

SCV Average Home Price SCV Average Condo Price

SCV Avg. # of Days on Market (SF) 190 23 24 SCV Single Family Home Inventory

183

220

188