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Business Improvement Assessment
Business Improvement Assessments are spent exclusively on promoting and improving the downtown area. Assessments are collected by the City of Santa Cruz and forwarded directly to the Downtown Association of Santa Cruz.
How are they calculated?
Business Improvement Assessments are based on the following formula:
(Business Area X Rate [.55] X Type X Zone) + $100.00 = Annual Assessment
Annual Assessment / 2 = Semi-Annual Assessment
Example: (1,000 Sq Ft) x .55 x 100% (Type 1) x 60% (Zone 2) + $100.00 = $430.00 / 2 = $215.00 Semi-Annual Assessment
| BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT RATES: | |
|---|---|
| TYPE 1 - 100% | Retail, Food, Lodging |
| TYPE 2 – 75% | Financial, Bars |
| TYPE 3 – 60% |
Wholesale Trade, Services, Professions, Auto Dealers |
| Type 4 – 40% | Non-Profit, Theaters (capped at 10,000 SF) |
| ZONE 1 - 100% | |
| ZONE 2 - 60% | |
|
Note: Please refer to the Business Improvement Info Sheet to determine your Zone. |
|
Who pays Business Improvement Assessments?
Businesses operating in the Downtown Parking and Business Improvement District on January 1 and July 1 are billed for the semi-annual Business Improvement Assessment. A penalty is charged for all bills not paid by January 31 and July 31.
Who can I call if have more questions?
If you have any questions about the Downtown Association, your billing or how the assessment fees are calculated you can learn more at downtownsantacruz.com or contact the Downtown Association Executive Director Jorian Wilkins at jorian@downtownsantacruz.com or call (831) 332-7422.
For assistance making payment on your bill, call the City Finance Department at (831) 420-5070 or email revenue@cityofsantacruz.com. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.