By Thor Kamban Biberman

As published in The Daily Transcript, July 7, 2004

Vista's economic base is made up of a variety of manufacturing and industrial companies. From 1995 to 2002, Vista's employment grew 21 percent, increasing its tax base and property value despite the current economic downturn.

Vista's proximity to major freeways, its business park and business-friendly environment contribute to the city's success. Another factor driving this favorable business environment is The Vista Economic Development Association, an organization comprised of business and city leaders.

It's a close-knit business community, according to Sandra Moffitt, president of Logo Expressions located in the Vista Business Park.

"It's really nice to have the presence here to know our neighbors," Moffitt said. "I don't know any other city that really caters to its business park."

Moffitt's company has expanded by 40 percent in the past year and recently upgraded its facilities from 1,200 square feet of office space to 4,000 square feet.

It took a little while to find a place that would suit her company's physical and economic needs, but Moffitt definitely wanted to stay in the Vista Business Park. Moffitt has also had good experience finding quality people in Vista.

"We love the local colleges," she said. "We get a lot of students from college that intern here. If we like them, they usually end up with a full-time job; that's been key to our success."

Vacancy rates in the Vista Business Park hit all time highs late in 2000, but have been slowly decreasing ever since, with the current vacancy rate holding around 8 percent.

"This is a very balanced, healthy market," said Adam Molnar, senior associate of Coldwell Banker Commercial North County and president of the Vista Economic Development Association.

According to Molnar, lower interest rates have helped Vista maintain its healthy business environment.

"With interest rates at historic lows," he said. "We've seen a lot of money go from securities to real estate, so I think the combination of those two things have helped the local real estate market."

Trammel Crow is building 279,950 square feet in the three buildings and a number of other multitenant projects are currently being planned.

"Trammel Crow's development will mark "a pretty sizable development for the Vista market," Molnar said.

Vista is also in the process of redeveloping its downtown. While the project experienced some delays due to problems with financing, everything appears to be running smoothly now according to Robin Putnam, Vista's community development director.

"The city wants to attract small retailers and restaurants to its downtown in order to provide residents a place to shop, eat and hang out in Vista itself," Putnam said.