By Deb Beddoe Chairman of the Board Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce

The quality of life in Carlsbad is important to us all, whether we are business owners, employees, residents, or any combination thereof. The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce is not only aware of that importance, but has a desire and a responsibility to play a role in the initiatives that affect the quality of life in Carlsbad over the long term. We have been listening to the needs of various businesses and are aware of many issues that we need to be involved:

•The future of the McClellan-Palomar Airport;

•The modification of the city’s Proposition H which forces capital projects exceeding a cost of $1 million to go to the voters;

•The council seats that are up for re-election this fall, and the leadership of our government in general;

•The construction of the NRG power plant;

•The expansion of the Carlsbad Desalination Plant;

•The development of Ponto Beach;

•The build out of Bressi Ranch;

•Completing the projects zoned in Proposition D;

•Trenching the railroad tracks through the Village;

•Attracting new business to Carlsbad (higher education institutions, clean technology companies, and corporate headquarter relocations for example);

•Retaining Carlsbad’s largest employers (ViaSat, Callaway Golf, and Thermo Fisher for example).

The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce is taking every step to stay involved at the forefront of these issues and the Quality of Life Task Force is starting with a lot of positive elements out the gate. 

It is comprised of a good balance of small, medium, and large employers who are not afraid to speak their mind and get things done. The excellent relationship the Chamber has with the city staff and elected officials will allow us all to work together toward the common good.

The employers who are on the task force understand that the welfare of their employees is equally as important as the welfare of their business. The businesses on the task force are motivated to stay and grow in Carlsbad, and can effectively communicate how their needs align with the local economy, environment, and overall quality of life. 

As my primary focus this year is geared toward “listening to our members” I am very excited that this Quality of Life Task Force is doing just that, with a view toward the future. I look forward to sharing their accomplishments with you in the months to come.