Before we say goodbye--some might say good riddance--to 2017, I want to acknowledge the good that happened in Petaluma over the past 12 months.
Many existing Petaluma companies expanded their operations here last year. In addition, there were a number of companies from outside the city that set up new production facilities or satellite offices here. This growth is fueling our economic engine, creating jobs, and supporting other local businesses through the purchase of services, finished goods, or raw materials.
Petaluma's hospitality industry continued to be strong in 2017, thanks to the efforts of the Visitor Program, the Downtown Association, and many individual businesses. New restaurants and shops popped up all around town, expanding our culinary and retail options. Our beautifully remodeled historic downtown hotel became a hub for locals and visitors alike, and construction on two new hotels made significant progress. And, the Petaluma Gap became an officially recognized grape appellation, culminating years of hard work by local vintners and winery owners.
Finally, I want to celebrate the many acts of kindness performed in Petaluma, not just in the aftermath of the October fires, but all year round. We decorated holiday trees, built homes and miracle sports fields, went bowling and played bocce ball, threw parties, and in many other ways gave from our pocketbooks and from our hearts.
All of you helped to make this happen--thank you. I look forward to working with you in 2018.
Ingrid Alverde
Economic Development Manager
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