BusinessJournal_120624 by Signal

VALLEY INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

Valley Industry Association Celebrates an Exceptional 2024

As the Valley Industry Association (VIA) reflects on 2024, we take pride in celebrating a year marked by growth, innovation, and impactful initiatives. Our commitment to fostering collaboration and creating opportunities for our members and the community was evident through the variety of events and accomplishments achieved this year.

Events That Brought the Community Together

In 2024, VIA hosted more than 30 events, offering diverse opportunities for professional growth, networking, and engagement:

• Luncheons – Featuring influential speakers and valuable insights into business and community trends.

• After Five Mixers – Informal yet impactful opportunities to connect and collaborate.

• Cocktails & Conversation Events – Exclusive gatherings fostering candid discussions.

• Get to Know VIA Breakfast – Welcoming new and prospective members to explore the benefits of VIA membership.

• Workforce Development Conference – A new signature event for VIA, the Workforce Development Conference addressed critical issues in workforce innovation and development.

• VIA BASH – VIA’s signature celebration, entitled this year “Color My World” highlighted our collective successes and celebrated our members.

• Connecting to Success Events – Engaging the next generation of leaders in meaningful career preparation experiences and empowering volunteers to make a difference in students’ lives.

• Candidate Forums – Providing a platform for voters to engage with candidates for California’s Congressional seats.

• CEO Forum – A gathering of top industry leaders to discuss pressing challenges and opportunities.

Milestones and Innovations

• Continued partnerships with the SCV Business Journal –Amplifying the voice of VIA and our members in the region’s leading business publication.

• New partnership with Elite Magazine – Bringing the benefits of VIA to the SCV Community.

UPCOMING EVENTS

December 12, 5:30 – 7:00p.m.

Cocktails & Conversation with Cameron Smyth Margarita’s Mexican Grill | 23320 Valencia Blvd.

Members: $25 | Non Members: $35

Friday, December 13, 11:45 – 1:30 p.m.

VIA Luncheon & 2025 Board Installation

Senator Scott Wilk Presiding

Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Room 258 Valencia, CA 91355

Members: $45 | Non Members: $55

• Launch of the New VIA and Connecting to Success Websites –Enhancing access to VIA, sharing its benefits, programs and events, and showcasing the CTS program for students.

• Strategic Partnerships – VIA partnered with the College of the Canyons (COC) on the High Road Training Partnership Initiative, reflecting our commitment to advancing workforce solutions. We teamed up with the LA County Workforce Development Board and continued our existing partnerships with like organizations as well.

• Collaboration with JCI – A key highlight of 2024 was VIA’s successful partnership with JCI Santa Clarita, culminating in the addition of a JCI representative to the VIA Board.

A Year to Remember

These achievements are a testament to the dedication of VIA’s members, partners, and leadership. As we look ahead, VIA remains steadfast in its mission to provide unparalleled resources and opportunities to businesses and the broader community.

Here’s to continuing our journey of excellence and innovation in 2025!

rbudman@signalscv.com (661) 287-5501

7 THE NEW GLOBAL LANDSCAPE

58 Lies We Tell Ourselves

BY KEN KELLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer

Omission statement.

ne of the core values of every organization should be telling the truth. Other words that might be used would be integrity or honesty. Here are some statements I have heard through the years from CEOs that might be worth a relook as 2024 ends and 2025 begins. Why? Because we need to be more truthful about how things really are inside of our companies.

1. Our clients won’t leave us because they have been doing business with us for so long.

2. We listen to every suggestion received from every employee.

3. Teamwork is valued and rewarded.

4. Only people with initiative are allowed to work here.

5. We don’t need to do performance evaluations; everyone is doing a great job!

6. Our bank never makes mistakes. Neither does our CPA or attorney!

7. Every department has a

8. No one needs to be oriented to a new job or to this company.

9. We communicate so well people are sick of it.

10. Our managers are constantly coaching.

11. No one reads the manuals (policies) or handbooks (employees) so why should we update them.

12. We never have emergencies so why waste time doing a drill.

13. We can raise prices whenever we feel like it.

14. Recognition is a regular part of what we do around here.

15. Managers comply with all laws when they interview candidates.

16. We’ll never have a case of sexual harassment around here.

17. A succession plan is in place, and everyone knows what it is.

18. No one has ever stolen anything from this company.

19. We do regular cash flow forecasting.

20. All departments are in total alignment with each other.

21. All our meetings are useful and productive.

22. Salespeople make at least five prospecting calls daily.

23. “Please”, “thank you”, and “you’re welcome” are used by everyone.

24. This company has some Big, Hairy, Audacious Goals and everyone knows what they are.

25. There really isn’t any waste in our operation.

26. Everyone has an opendoor policy.

27. Every employee has their head in the game when it comes to work.

28. Our accounting, customer service, warehouse and production people spend time in the field with sales personnel and customers.

29. We have a solid credit and collection process that we use.

30. The company has a twelvemonth rolling calendar for planning purposes.

31. Salespeople spend at least 80 percent of their time with customers and prospects.

32. I understand my financial statements as well as my CPA.

33. There are no barriers between departments in this company.

34. There is not one software program on a company computer we don’t have the license for.

35. We don’t have any deadwood at this company.

36. Our employment application conforms to all laws.

37. We’re ready for anything the competition can send us.

38. Our business is recession proof.

39. We’ve streamlined the sales reporting process so salespeople can spend more time with customers.

40. Timecards aren’t checked because everyone is honest.

41. We’ve fired all the internal terrorists.

42. Our web site is updated constantly.

43. The strategic plan is in place and updated at least once each year.

44. We keep making it easier and easier for customers to do business with us.

45. The company has a policy on accepting gifts from vendors.

46. All our marketing materials are current.

47. We have so many new products in the pipeline our salespeople won’t know which one to sell first!

48. Every telephone call is returned within 24 hours.

49. Our company could be described as lean, mean and fast.

50. We don’t have problems around here, we have opportunities.

51. Every employee has crystal clear expectations about what they are supposed to do.

52. Every employee is committed to doing quality work.

53. Employees are like family.

54. Our customers are constantly surveyed for feedback and ideas.

55. At this company, we measure the right things, and only the right things.

56. Meetings are kept to a minimum.

57. When a potential customer contacts us for information, we respond the same day.

58. Our facility is so clean our best prospect should walk into every room and be impressed. 

Driving After Dark

OBy Patrick Moody Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

ur shorter winter days mean you’re more likely to find yourself driving after dark. Whether you’re headed home from work, going out for the evening or taking a trip, be extra careful driving when the sun is down.

Here’s why:

Your range of vision at night is only about 250 feet with your headlights on—about 500 feet with the high beams.

Your peripheral vision and depth perception aren’t as good.

You can be momentarily blinded by another driver’s bright headlights.

You’re more likely to be fatigued.

Drowsy driving is a major risk factor for accidents, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says.

During evening rush hour, drivers may be more impatient—which may lead to mistakes or aggressive driving.

Drivers who are impaired by alcohol are more likely to be on the road at night.

FROM DUSK TILL DAWN

Safe habits — and the right equipment—can help you stay safe if you’re on the road after sunset. These tips from the American Optometric Association and other experts can help steer you right.

Maintain a clean machine. Keep the windshield and rear window clear of dirt and smudges. Replace your wipers if they are leaving streaks. And don›t forget to clean the headlight coverings.

Optimize lighting. High beams can double your range of vision, giving you more time to react to hazards on the road ahead. Use them anytime you›re alone on the road. But take care to switch back to your regular headlights when a car is approaching or when you›re behind another car. And remember, high beams won›t help on foggy nights—they can make visibility worse.

Protect your vision. Dim your dashboard lights to reduce glare, and use the nighttime setting on your rearview mirror to dim headlight glare from behind you. Blink often to keep your eyes from becoming too dry. If you wear glasses, keep them clean and make sure your prescription is current. If you›re having trouble seeing at night, let your eye doctor know.

Slow down. Reducing your speed allows you more time to react to something in the road. If roads aren›t well-lit, drive at a speed that lets you react to what you see in your headlights— not the road beyond.

Stay alert. Get at least seven hours of sleep per night. Try to travel during times when you›re normally awake. Pull over for a nap if you start drifting out of your lane. Avoid looking at your phone and other distractions.

Blinded by the light? High beams may help

you steer clear of road hazards, but they can dazzle other drivers. If someone’s brights are blinding you:

Ease off the gas.

Don’t look directly into the oncoming lights. Focus on the right side of the road, and use the lane markers to help you stay safely in your lane.

Move your head from side to side to increase peripheral vision.

Happy Holidays and safe travels!

The List Oldest Businesses In The SCV

AI Noise Driving National Security Strategies

Threats to global stability continue to evolve to include greater use of artificial intelligence to promote disinformation, according to experts at the Special Competitive Studies Project, a nonprofit and nonpartisan initiative with a mission of making recommendations to strengthen America’s long-term competitiveness in AI.

The need for NATO member countries to keep hostile regimes from using AI disinformation to manipulate public opinion is becoming increasingly important.

This “cognitive warfare” or information warfare, is not a new concept, but the digital revolution and use of AI allows bad actors to disseminate deepfakes and AI-augmented content at a previously unfathomable speed.

SCSP experts offer several strategies for how NATO countries can confront the threat of AI-augmented disinformation head-on. “This requires moving beyond the current reactive approach, which focuses on debunking falsehoods,”

according to SCSP.

Monitor disinformation in real-time. Investing in open-source intelligence tools and working with tech companies can help develop the expertise to identify and counter malevolent disinformation campaigns. Also, better authenticity tools are needed to identify altered or AI-generated content.

Discredit disinformation immediately. NATO must proactively promote its own interests and mission. NATO should provide its own positive narrative to get out ahead of disinformation, and highlight failures of authoritarian regimes, especially on their own digital platforms.

Initiate partnerships. Establishing and strengthening collaborative relationships with governments, private companies, and civil-society organizations can help NATO develop early warning systems and coordinate stronger and faster responses to disinformation campaigns.

Foster healthy skepticism. Supporting programs to promote media and digi-

tal literacy can help reduce the impact of disinformation. Educating the public to apply critical thinking skills to online information can help build societal resilience against propaganda and voter manipulation.

To achieve these goals, SCSP experts recommend the creation of a disinformation unit within NATO responsible for coordinating intelligence, spearheading counter-messaging efforts, and building strategic partnerships. “Such a unit could leverage the Five Eyes intelligence alliance (the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada), as well as the work of Europol — the European Union’s law-enforcement agency — to bolster and expand information-sharing networks,” according to SCSP.

Visit scsp.ai for more information about the importance of strengthening America’s competitiveness as AI and other emerging technologies are reshaping our national security, economy, and society. (NewsUSA) 

Leaving a Legacy: Competence and Character

BY PAUL BUTLER SCVBJ Contributing Writer

Most of us work … a lot. Accord -

ing to a recent study by Gettysburg College, the average person works approximately 90,000 hours in their lifetime. That’s a staggering amount, and one would hope to be remembered long after leaving the workforce behind.

But therein lies the challenge. While my paternal grandfather worked for just two organizations his entire career, and my father for three, the average tenure today, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is just over four years.

Perhaps that’s why I shouldn’t be surprised that no one remembers Jamie or Deborah. Both worked with clients of ours — Jamie for nearly eight years with one client, and Deborah for about 12 years with another. I’ve changed their names for the purposes of this story, but the tale is all too common.

Surely, eight to 12 years should count for something, right? However, we hadn’t

worked with Jamie’s former employer for about three years, primarily due to a downturn in activity during COVID.

During that period, Jamie chose to retire. Deborah’s story is nearly identical. When I recently checked in with the individuals who succeeded them in their roles, I was met with silence when I mentioned their names.

Why didn’t Jamie and Deborah leave a legacy? Why weren’t they remembered by those who followed them? I believe it boils down to two

crucial factors: character and competence.

Jamie was a nice guy, but he never struck me as particularly effective in his role. He always seemed to be “behind the eight ball,” as the saying goes — never staying on top of evolving trends and methods. Looking back, it’s clear: Jamie was likable, but not very competent.

Deborah, on the other hand, was highly competent but didn’t seem to be well-liked by her colleagues. She tended to gossip, and would criticize her coworkers to me, a vendor partner — conversations that often left me feeling uncomfortable.

Deborah appeared more focused on climbing the ladder than on fostering genuine relationships, regardless of who she had to step on along the way. My summary of Deborah: high competence, low character.

When I think back on coworkers and bosses from decades ago, I remember them for two main reasons. First,

they were excellent at their jobs. Second, they were genuinely good people to work with or work for. Conversely, those I barely recall — or remember negatively — were either mediocre or incompetent or had questionable character. We only get one life, so why not strive to make the best contribution we can—in all areas of life, but especially at work? If we spend an average of 43 years working (as the same study cited earlier suggests), that’s far too much time to be mediocre, inept, or lacking in character. Imagine carrying that burden home each evening in your empty lunchbox and setting it down on the kitchen table.

One of the wonderful things about being human is that tomorrow doesn’t have to be a repeat of yesterday. We have the freedom to make different choices today, to shift our perspectives and behaviors, and to achieve better outcomes — for ourselves, our coworkers, and our clients.

Hopefully, when the time comes for you to clock out for the last time, people will raise a toast in your honor. At best, your successors will remember your contributions—both for your competence and your character — long after you’ve left.

As for Jamie and Deborah, I’m not sure if I’ll cross paths with them again. I just hope they’re making different choices in their final quarter.

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

©ADOBE STOCK

The List Family-Owned Businesses

The List: Top Employers

SCV Homes Inventory Hits All-Time High

BY DAVID WALKER For the SCV Business Jourmal

The median price of homes and condaminiums that closed escrow during October posted single-digit increases while sales rose and the inventory of homes listed for sale hit the highest level in two years, the Southland Regional Association of Realtors reported in November.

The Association reported 1,817 active home listings at the end of October. That was up 28.3% from a year ago and the highest number of listings since October 2022.

Condominium active listings continued to rise, hitting 559 at the end of October, up 71.5% from October 2023.

It was the highest condo active listing tally of any month since October 2020.

“Opportunities for buyers emerge as inventories rise, resale price increases moderate, and interest rates return to historical averages,” said Bob Khalsa, the 2024 president of the 11,000-member Southland Regional Association of Realtors. “As the summer rush fades, this is

the time of year when buyers often discover a wider array of attractive options combined with lower competition.”

Realtors assisted the close of escrow for 545 single-family homes last month and 139 condominiums. The home total was up 13.8% and condos rose 15.8% from October 2023. Despite the year-toyear increases, home sales remain about half of where they were in 2020 as the Covid pandemic hit.

The San Fernando Valley homes that closed escrow last month had a median price - meaning half were higher and half lower — of $1.05 million, which was 1.9% higher than the median reported in October 2023. The condominium median price of $610,000 was up 4.3% from the prior year. Both categories saw record highs set earlier this year with the home record at $1.14 million and the condo record of $660,000 set in July.

Valerie Biletsky, SRAR’s CEO, noted that 16% of California households could afford to purchase the $880,250 statewide median-priced home in the third quarter of 2024, up from 14 percent in secondquarter 2024 and up from 15% in third

quarter 2023. That was according to data reported by the California Association of Realtors.

Citing the SRAR’s Income-to-Loan guide, Biletsky said an income of $268,983 was needed to qualify for an 80% loan of $840,000 on a San Fernando Valley median-priced home of $1.05 million. With today’s lower interest rate than a year ago, the income needed to qualify was down 8.2%. The monthly PITI — principle, interest, taxes and insurance payments — would come to $6,725.

Pending escrows — an indicator of future sales — were down 9% for homes and off 17% for condominiums.

The Southland Regional Association Of Realtors was chartered by the National Association of Realtors in 1920. With nearly 11,000 members, SRAR serves as a trusted resource and partner to the real estate profession and the community at large. SRAR local market statistics are compiled from all available data share partner information accessible through CRMLS and may not represent complete activity for the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys. 

A Gateway to the Santa Clarita Valley

BY PERRY SMITH SCV Business Journal Editor

This month’s listing in our monthly column highlighting some of the Santa Clarita Valley’s most high-profile properties is a most-appropriate choice for our end-of-the-year Book of Lists edition.

That’s because this listing not only has the most prized aspect a property can have — location, location, location — and as we get ready for a new year, what’s most special about these now-vacant lots is the potential they bring.

Located in an area designated by the city of Santa Clarita as one of high interest, the property located just north of the area’s two main freeways, near the intersection of Ne-

whall Avenue and Sierra Highway, figures prominently into the area’s future.

Currently listed online with the address 0 Newhall Ave. on the major real estate sites, the details include three lots covering just under six acres that have hit the market for a cool $5 million.

Vincent Durso, the listing agent for the property at

This photo demonstrates the property’s proximity to the Newhall Pass, the Santa Clarita Valley’s only significant access point from the south. Courtesy

Realty ONE Group Success, thinks the property will move quickly due to its proximity to the freeway, which makes it an especially enticing buy for the right developer who wants a prominent location for their development. Durso said while the property just hit the market in November, he was fielding inquiries last month before he even had his

signage posted.

Previously, the property had been eyed for a large-scale multifamily housing project, but citing its primacy among city entry points, those familiar with City Hall have identified its most viable development as a blend of housing and commercial/retail opportunities.

This also jives with city officials previously stated desire to increase the balance of homes and jobs particularly on the east side of the Santa Clarita Valley, and the recent edition of the recently completed Needham Ranch Parkway development nearby another possible compliment for this property’s potential. 

T he L is T : h ome B ui L ders

Comstock Homes Robert Comstock

2301 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 1150, El Segundo 90245

comstockco.com

CBRE Bob Sulentic 24305 Town Center Drive, Valencia 91355 cbre.com

FivePoint Lynn Jochim 25124 Springfield Court, Valencia 91355

fivepoint.com

JSB Development Jim Backer 27451 Tourney Road, No. 250, Valencia 91355 jsbdev.com

KB Home Jeffrey T. Metzger 25152 Springfield Court, Suite 180, Valencia 91355 kbhome.com

Lennar Rick Beckwitt, Jon Jaffe 28723 Calle de la Paz Drive, Valencia

Richmond Homes Larry Mizel 27105, W Sage St, Valencia 91354

resourcecenter.lennar.com

richmondamerican.com/california/los-angeles-new-homes/valencia

Toll Brothers Doug Yearley 19125 Merryweather Drive Santa Clarita 91350 tollbrothers.com

Tri Pointe Homes Doug Bauer 28701 Lambent Way, Santa Clarita 91351 Tripointegroup.com

Williams Homes Lance Williams 24911 Avenue Stanford Santa Clarita 91355 williamshomes.com

The List: Largest Law Firms

Carter Law Firm, APC 27240 Turnberry Lane, Suite 200 Valencia 91355 •(323) 825-5529 www.themainstreetattorney.com

Cohen Law, PLC 28039 Smyth Drive, Suite 200 Valencia 91355 • (661) 257-2887 • www.cohenlawpc.com

Crockett & Associates 23929 Valencia Blvd., Suite 303 Valencia 91355 • (323) 487-1101 • bobcrockettlaw.com

DaCorsi Placencio 28494 Westinghouse Place, Suite 206 Valencia 91355 • (818) 884-6666 • dacorsi.net

Donahoe Young & Williams LLP 25152 Springfield Court, Suite 345 Valencia 91355 • (661) 259-9000 • www.donahoeyoung.com

Edzant Price LLP 28470 Avenue Stanford, Suite 360 Valencia 91355 • (661) 222-9929 • www.edzantprice.com

Gharibian & Oliver 25350 Magic Mountain Parkway, Suite 240 Valencia 91355 • (661) 254-4100 •www.gocallaw.com

Inglis Family Law Firm 25129 The Old Road, Suite 201 Stevenson Ranch 91381 • (661) 200-3845 • inglisfamilylawfirm.com

John Hernandez, Esq., APC 25350 Magic Mountain Parkway, Suite 300 Valencia 91355 • (661) 523-3904 www.hernandezlaw.co

Law Office of Jeffrey Armendariz 28470 Avenue Stanford, Suite 360 Valencia 91355 • (661) 288-1959 www.armendarizlawoffice.com

Law Office of John S. MacIntosh 25350 Magic Mountain Parkway, Suite 130 Valencia 91355 • (661) 255-7027

Law Office of Michael Berke 25001 The Old Road, Santa Clarita 91381 • (661) 259-1800 • www.berkeslaw.com

Law Office of Robert M. Mansour 28212 Kelly Johnson Parkway, Suite 110 Valencia 91355 • (661) 414-7100 • www.mansourlaw.com

Law Offices of Bill J. Thompson 28212 Kelly Johnson Parkway, Suite 195 Valencia 91355 • (661) 775-4979 www.billthompsonlawoffices.com

Law Offices of David A. Huffaker 28382 Constellation Road, Valencia 91355 • (661) 288-1050

Law Offices of Jonathan B. LaFrance 25060 Avenue Stanford, Santa Clarita 91355 • (661) 257 8883 • lawofficesofjonathanblafrance.com

Law Offices of Robert J. Kaiser 23550 Lyons Ave. #203 Santa Clarita 91321 • (661) 444 3446 • robertjkaiser.com

Miller Law Office, PC 25000 Avenue Stanford, Suite 172 Valencia 91355 • (661) 544-3401

NP Law Firm, APC 28494 Westinghouse Place, Suite 311 Valencia 91355 • (855) 675-2901 • www.nplaw.la

Odom Law Group, APLC 24801 Pico Canyon Blvd., Suite 300 Stevenson Ranch 91381 • (661) 367-1699 www.odomlawgroup.com

Ortega & Associates 25876 The Old Road Suite 181 Stevenson Ranch 91381 • (661) 237-0732 www.ortegaandassociates.com

Owen Patterson & Owen 23822 W. Valencia Blvd. Suite 303 Valencia 91355 • (661) 799-3899 • www.opolaw.com

Shaffery

Offices of Steffanie Stelnick

Werner Law

Law, APC

Magic Mountain Parkway, Santa Clarita Suite 250 Valencia 91355 • (661) 290-2991 www.pooleshaffery.com

Springfield Court, Suite 100 Valencia 91355 288-1000 • www.divorcedigest.com

Smyth Drive, Suite 101 Valencia 91355 818-784-8986 • www.stelnicklaw.com

Tourney Road, Suite 200 Valencia 91355 • (661) 252-9022 • www.wernerlawca.com

Cinema Drive, Suite 2907 Valencia 91355 • (661) 471-2177 • www.yeager.law

Civil Litigation, Civil Rights/Discrimination

Entertainment Law, General Practice, Intellectual Property, Business & Corporate, Probate

Business litigation

Family Law, Divorce Law

Civil Litigation, Probate, Estate Planning, Business & Corporate, Real Estate

Law, Personal Injury

Workers Compensation

Criminal Defense

Home Owners Association, Landlord/Tenant, Estate Planning

Debt Collection

Estate Planning, Probate, Personal Injury

Business & Corporate, Civil Litigation, Personal Matters

Estate Planning

Criminal Law

injury

Litigation, Non-Profit Organizations, Real Estate

Litigation, Data Security & Data Privacy, Personal Injury, Trial / Litigation, Toxic Tort, Wrongul Death

SCV By the Numbers: 2024 Employment & Workforce

TBY ONDRÉ SELTZER PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE SANTA CLARITA VALLEY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

he 2024 Santa Clarita Valley Economic Outlook highlights a resilient and dynamic labor market, fueled by growth in key industries, shifting workforce needs, and forward-thinking business strategies shaping the future of employment. The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC) continues to lead these efforts by supporting local businesses, attracting new companies to the region, driving job creation, and advancing workforce development through targeted training and talent recruitment to meet evolving industry demands. Below are the key employment insights from the report and this year’s Economic Outlook conference:

JOB GROWTH AND SECTOR EXPANSION

The Santa Clarita Valley is poised for continued job growth, with 1,341 net new jobs expected in 2024 and another 1,633 in 2025. This growth is expected to be led by the following sectors:

industries that provide long-term economic benefits.

Partnerships between the SCVEDC, educational institutions, and local businesses are enhancing training programs to address the

demand for a specialized workforce. These efforts ensure a steady talent pipeline, positioning the Santa Clarita Valley as a hub for aerospace excellence.

ACCESS THE SANTA CLARITA VALLEY'S KEY ECONOMIC INDICATORS

SCVEDC's Broker Portal provides critical economic data on everything from new and existing developments, business incentives, community and workforce activity, and so much more!

AEROSPACE & DEFENSE: A GROWING POWERHOUSE

The aerospace and defense sector stands out as a major driver of economic stability and growth in the Santa Clarita Valley. Local companies are capitalizing on advancements in technology and automation, creating oppor tunities for highly skilled workers. The sector’s continued expansion reflects the region’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting

See SCVEDC, page 21

2024 LIST OF LOCAL EDUCATIONAL RESULTS PARTNERSHIP HONOR ROLL SCHOOLS

Educational Results Partnership (ERP), a non-profit organization that applies data science to accelerate student success, has released the 2024 Honor Roll list of California’s top performing schools, in partnership with Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce. This is the tenth year that ERP has completed the Honor Roll list, which recognizes top public schools, school districts and charter schools that have outperformed their peers in closing achievement gaps, particularly among higher-poverty and historically disadvantaged student populations.

This year the following schools in the Santa Clarita Valley made the Honor Roll:

William S. Hart Union High

Canyon High Star High School

William S. Hart High

Academy of the Canyons

Placerita Junior High

Sierra Vista Junior High

La Mesa Junior High

Newhall

Dr. J. Michael McGrath Elementary

Oak Hills Elementary

Peachland Avenue Elementary

Wiley Canyon Elementary

Old Orchard Elementary

Meadows Elementary

Valencia Valley Elementary

Stevenson Ranch Elementary

Saugus Union

Los Angeles Tesoro del Valle Elementary

West Creek Academy

Cedarcreek Elementary

Emblem Academy

Rio Vista Elementary

Rosedell Elementary

Highlands Elementary

Charles Helmers Elementary

James Foster Elementary

Mountainview Elementary

Plum Canyon Elementary

Bridgeport Elementary

Sulphur Springs Union

Golden Oak Community

Leona H. Cox Community Elementary

Chamber News

Pinetree Community Elementary

Fair Oaks Ranch Community

Castaic Union

Northlake Hills Elementary

Castaic Elementary

The full list of Honor Roll schools is now posted at edresults.org/ honor-roll.

“By working together with an engaged and innovative business community, we can create economic opportunities for the next generation of learners,” said Ivan Volschenk, President/CEO of the SCV Chamber. “The Santa Clarity Valley Chamber proudly recognizes high-performing schools that are equipping students with the essential skills needed to succeed in the workforce and in life.”

The 2024 California Honor Roll Schools list is co-presented in collaboration with chambers of commerce across the state

Pre-Order Your 2025 California Employment Posters Today!

As we approach the new year, the importance of staying compliant with labor laws cannot be overstated. We are here to help! We are excited to announce that we are offering the latest 2025 California and Federal Labor Law posters, which are required for every business.

Why You Need to Act Now

Starting January 1, 2025, all businesses must display updated Employment Notices Posters in every location and job site. Failure to do so could result in significant penalties—up to $17,000 in fines! Whether you employ one person or a large team, ensuring compliance is crucial.

Our all-in-one poster includes all 18 mandatory notices in one convenient display, making it easy for you to meet the legal requirements.

Exclusive Discounts for Chamber Members

All valued members of our Chamber of Commerce are eligible for special discounts on your order. This is a fantastic opportunity to save money while ensuring your business is compliant with the latest labor laws.

How to Order

Placing your order is simple! Just send an email to hello@scvchamber.com and we will reach out to you with details.

Posters are available in paper or laminated format, as well as in English and Spanish.

Please note that if more than **5% of your employees** use English as a second language, you are required to display a Spanish version of the poster as well.

Don’t delay! Protect your business and take advantage of the member discounts offered through your chamber membership. Order your updated Employment Notices Posters today and ensure your business remains compliant!

For any questions or further assistance, feel free to reach out. We’re here to support you!

We’re thrilled to invite you to join us in celebrating the exciting new businesses opening in our community! Each grand opening is not just a milestone for these businesses but also a chance for all of us to come together and support our local economy. From marking special occasions to recognizing remarkable achievements, we feel honored to share in your celebrations. Our grand opening and ribbon-cutting events are FREE and open to everyone to attend! It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow community members, meet the passionate individuals behind these new ventures, and explore what they have to offer.

Let’s show our support and make these celebrations unforgettable! Bring your friends and family, and let’s celebrate the growth and vibrancy of our community together. We can’t wait to see you there!

Congratulations to Massage Envy Valencia Way on your grand opening in November. Go visit them at 23957 Newhall Ranch Road, Valencia. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and support them. Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie

Celebrating SCV Businesses

Do you have a grand opening or anniversary coming up? Email us at hello@scvchamber.com for details about hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Isabell Yaralian Berberian , Assistant Field Deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger congratulates Charles and Ann Williams, owners of Massage Envy Valencia Way on their grand opening .

Photo credit: Joie de Vivre Photographie

T he L is T F inancia L a dvisors

Shuper Wealth Management

Tourney Road, Ste 201-L, Valencia 91355 • 818-252-1830 bit.ly/3u3G6IQ

Avenue Stanford, Ste 100, Valencia 91355 • 661-255-9555

Hood Way, Stevenson Ranch 91381 • 213-447-7588 www.shuperwm.com

Constellation Road, No. 398 Santa Clarita 91355 • 661-799 0230 connect.thrivent.com/meyer-klein-group

Tax Group

Avenue Stanford, Ste 120, Valencia 91355 • 661-295-9800 vvalenciataxgroup.com

The List: Movie Studios and Sound Stages

Diamond V Ranch

(661) 510-6873

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

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

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

Golden Oak Ranch Steve Sligh 19802 Placerita Canyon Rd. Newhall 91321 (661) 259-8717

LA North Studios John Prabhu, Anthony Syracuse 25045 Ave Tibbitts Valencia 91355 (661) 568-6410

Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio Candy Veluzat 24715 Oak Creek Ave. Newhall 91321 (661) 259-9669

Polsa Rosa Ranch Margie Vodraska 5726 Soledad Canyon Rd. Acton 93510 (805) 368-9029

Rancho Deluxe Steve Arklin, Jr. 16030 Placerita Canyon Rd. Santa Clarita 91387 (661) 733-5739

Rustic Oaks Ranch Mike Stuart 23708 La Salle Canyon Rd. Santa Clarita 91321 (661) 510-0712

Sable Ranch/Rancho Maria Derek Hunt 25933 Sand Canyon Rd. Canyon Country 91387 (661) 252-9751

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

T he L is T : M edica L o ffices

Facey Medical Group — Canyon Country

Facey Medical Group — Copper Hill

Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital

14550 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country, 91387 • (661) 250-5200 www.providence.org/locations/facey/facey-medical-group Adult Primary Care, Pediatrics, Radiology, Laboratory, Behavioral Health, Vision Services, Rheumatology

27924 Seco Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, 91350 • (661) 513-2100 www.providence.org/locations/facey/facey-medical-group

23845 McBean Parkway, Valencia, 91355 • (661) 200-2000 • www.henrymayo.com

Providence Holy Cross Health Center 26357 McBean Parkway, Santa Clarita, 91355 • (661) 288-5900 • www.providence.org

Samuel Dixon Canyon Country Health Center 27225 Camp Plenty Road, Suite 4, Canyon Country, 91351 • (661) 424-1220 • www.sdfhc.org

Samuel Dixon Newhall Health Center 23772 Newhall Avenue, Newhall, 91321 • (661) 291-1777 • www.sdfhc.org

Samuel Dixon Valencia Behavioral Health 25115 Avenue Stanford, #A103, Valencia, 91355 • (661) 468-7405 • www.sdfhc.org

Kaiser Permanente Santa Clarita Medical Offices 1 27107 Tourney Road, Santa Clarita, 91355 • (833) 574-2273 • healthy.kaiserpermanente.org

Kaiser Permanente Santa Clarita Medical Offices 2 26877 Tourney Road, Santa Clarita, 91355 • (833) 574-2273 • healthy.kaiserpermanente.org

UCLA Health Santa Clarita Primary & Specialty Care 25775 McBean Parkway, Suites 115A, 202 & 215, Valencia, 91355 • (661) 753-5464 • www.uclahealth.org

UCLA Health Tourney Road Primary & Specialty Care 27235 Tourney Road, Suite 2500, Valencia, 91355 • (661) 253-5851 • www.uclahealth.org

Primary Care, Pediatrics, Radiology, Laboratory

Cancer Care, Heart and Vascular Care, Breast Health Services

Providence Holy Cross Imaging Center, Urgent Care Center, Cancer Physician Office, Providence Rehabilitation Services

Diabetes Prevention Program, Cancer Detection and Prevention, Women's Health, Chronic Disease Management

Mental/Behavioral Health Counseling

Allergy, Dermatology, Obstetrics/Gynecology (Ob-Gyn), Physical Therapy

Endocrinology, Infectious Disease, Opthalmology, Nephrology

Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine

Pediatric Neurosurgery, Cancer Treatment, Cardiac Imaging, Head and Neck Surgery

Economic DEvElopmEnt corporation

26455 Rockwell Canyon Road | UCEN 263 | Santa Clarita, CA 91355 | (661) 288-4400 | www.scvedc.org

Econo Watch

Continued from page 13

Despite positive growth, the labor market faces challenges, including a slight increase in unemployment in 2024. This rise is partly due to a growing labor force outpacing job creation and sectorspecific slowdowns. Construction, manufacturing, and aerospace are grappling with a skilled labor

shortage, highlighting the need for continued investment in workforce development programs. SCVEDC is actively addressing workforce challenges, including skill gaps and concerns about job satisfaction, which require longterm workforce pipeline strategies for employers. Through initiatives like the High Road Training Partnership (HRTP) program, SCVEDC in partnership with College of the Canyons is providing employers with actionable roadmaps to develop critical skills and prepare for future demands. Recognizing the transformative impact of AI and robotics on skill requirements and workplace dynamics, SCVEDC is fostering dialogue and resources to help businesses adapt while maintaining employee engagement focusing on targeted outreach and partnerships with public workforce programs to ensure a robust talent pipeline. Initiatives to upskill workers are already underway, helping meet current demands while preparing for future opportunities in key industries. Workforce retention remains a top priority, with efforts focused on addressing wage pressures and ensuring competitive compensation.

According to Dr. Mark

Schniepp’s forecast, the SCV economy is expected to strengthen in 2025, driven by lower interest rates, a rebound in global trade and port activity, stabilized government policies, and increased housing and commercial development. This moderation, combined with stable wage growth, will contribute to a more balanced labor market. Meanwhile, SCV’s diverse employment landscape—including professional services, healthcare, leisure, and advanced manufacturing—positions the region for continued economic resilience. The aerospace and defense sector, bolstered by national investments in advanced technology, will play a pivotal role in this growth.

Infrastructure projects, such as the Santa Clarita Commerce Center, and residential developments will generate jobs in construction, logistics, and retail. Additionally, leisure and hospitality continue to expand, with major attractions like Magic Mountain operating at full capacity.

For a deeper dive into demographics, real estate trends, and quality of life metrics, download the full 2024 Economic Outlook Book and explore the insights driving the Santa Clarita Valley forward. 

Holiday Season Spotlights Property Tax Savings’ Programs

BY JEFF PRANG Los Angeles County Assessor

As we move forward into this holiday season, I wanted to remind your readers of the property tax savings’ programs that my office has available for qualified recipients. I know this is not exactly an exciting topic and I have shared these with you before in earlier columns but saving money is always a good thing and I believe it’s worth repeating.

rating must be issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Ratings from personal physicians are not accepted. Although there is no time limit on filing, only up to eight years is retroactively refundable and it starts from the effective date of the disability rating. To receive the full savings, it must be filed by Feb. 15.

fer your property tax base when you sell your home and buy a new one. This also allows qualified homeowners to buy a home anywhere in the state, it allows the transfer of the property tax base up to three times, and it allows you to transfer the tax base to a home of any value.

In fact, last year my office provided taxpayers with more than $800 million in savings through various exemptions and exclusions.

Let’s start with the easiest to access: the Homeowners’ Exemption (HOX) is available to anyone who owns their home and who occupies it as their principal residence as of Jan. 1. It reduces your assessed value by $7,000, which will save you about $70 of your property tax bill every year.

To say this is an easy way to save money is an understatement, but nearly one in three homeowners in Los Angeles County do not take advantage of this tax savings program, leaving about $30 million, give or take, unclaimed each year. Across the County, an additional 435,000 families can be saving on their tax bills. What about property tax savings for disabled veterans? The Disable Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption is for disabled veterans blind in both eyes; with the loss of the use of two or more limbs; or when totally disabled as a result of injury or disease incurred while in active military service. Unmarried surviving spouses of certain deceased veterans may also qualify. The Low-Income Disabled Veterans’ Exemption provides additional savings if a disabled veteran (meeting above requirements) also meets low-income requirements.

To be eligible for the exemption, a veteran must have been injured during their military service. As such, the disability

There are two levels of this exemption: the basic exemption and the low-income exemption. The basic exemption, also known as the $100,000 exemption, is available to all qualifying claimants. The exemption amount is compounded annually by an inflation factor. For 2024, the basic exemption amount is $169,769, which results in about $1,700 off their property tax bill.

The low-income exemption, also referred to as the $150,000 exemption, is available to qualifying claimants whose annual household income does not exceed a specified income limit. The amounts for both the low-income exemption and the annual income limit are compounded annually by an inflation factor. For 2024, the low-income exemption amount is $254,656 and the annual household income limit is $76,235. That translates to about $2,500 off their property tax bill.

There’s also disaster relief available through filing the Misfortune or Calamity application. Property that is damaged by a disaster, such as fire, flood or earthquake, or other calamity, which may include civil unrest, may qualify for a temporary reduction in taxable value. Physical damage to the property must be valued at least $10,000.

Then there’s the Decline-in-Value (also known as DIV or Prop 8), which allows for a temporary reduction in a property’s assessed value. This occurs when the current market value of a property is less than the assessed base-year value as of January 1. A DIV review may be requested through the Assessor’s Office and can be made online.

If you are a homeowner who is over 55, severely disabled or the victim of a natural disaster, you may be eligible to trans-

Although laws do change and are altered from year to year, there’s also ways to save when protecting the environment. The initial purchaser of a building with an active solar energy system may qualify for an exclusion from assessment on that portion of the value attributable to the system. When adding a solar energy system to your current home, the new system is automatically excluded from assessment.

In June 2018, Proposition 72 was approved by California voters to exclude rainwater capture systems from assessments. Thanks to this measure, the initial purchaser of a property with a rainwater capture system may be eligible for an exclusion of the rainwater capture system assessment. When adding a rainwater capture system to your current home, the new system will be automatically excluded from your property’s assessment.

For more information about these programs and the actual dollar savings available for each one, please go to our new and improved website at assessor. lacounty.gov.

As we close out 2024, I want to wish everyone a happy holiday season as well as a safe and prosperous new year.

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 1,400 employees and provides the foundation for a property tax system that generates more than $20 billion annually. 

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