February 2024

TAKE A LEAP FORWARD

Leap years in the western calendar were first introduced over 2000 years ago by Roman general Julius Caesar. The Julian calendar which was named after him, had only one rule: any year evenly divisible by four would be a leap year.


In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII removed those three artificial Julian days and corrected this problem by instituting the Gregorian Calendar. This is the calendar that coined the term "leap year", moved leap day to February 29, and is still used by most of the world to this day.

The extra day is a corrective measure that synchronizes the calendar with the Earth's almost year-long orbit around the sun. Without a Leap Day, a few hours would cumulatively disappear each year, eventually throwing off our calendar and seasons.

COUNTY NEWS

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACTION PLAN PRESENTATION

TO GO TO THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MARCH 12, 2024


In 2023, the Nevada County Board of Supervisors approved funding for a consultant and directed staff to create a two-year Action Plan for economic growth and resilience. This will be an early “playbook” to inform and guide the actions of the County, its newly formed economic development office, in step with its business, community, and economic development partners. 


It is a response to changes and hardships experienced by local employers, by the opportunity of attracting unprecedented federal infrastructure and program investments with a regional gameplan in hand, and an understanding that the County has a responsibility to play a part in addressing underlying structural and systemic barriers that undermine Nevada County’s top-rated quality of life.  


Not merely an internal planning process, however, the aim of this new effort was to reach out and listen closely to the needs and concerns of local employers, the leaders of over a dozen business, trade, and community groups, and the managers of cities and towns to better understand the forces and challenges shaping the local economy, and to determine where joint action could yield tangible results. 


Consulting firm Integrated Communications Strategies, a strategic firm with unique experience in inclusive economic development engagement and planning, will present the report with recommendations to the Board at their meeting on Tuesday, March 12, for their direction.


The plan is designed as a playbook that must be inclusive, not only by the work of the county and its departments, but also by our jurisdictions, economic partners, chambers, and involved organizations.


 The Goals of the Action Plan Include:

 

  • Increased economic activity.
  • Increased tax revenue.
  • Improved business retention and expansion. 
  • Improved County competitiveness and win rate for federal and state investments and grants.
  • Improved branding and awareness inside and outside the County about Nevada County assets and advantages.
  • Stepped up communication and knowledge-sharing between the County and local businesses.
  • More support for entrepreneurs and local small businesses.
  • Increased alignment between the County and economic development stakeholders on a shared set of measurable priorities.


This plan will offer an opportunity for Nevada County staff and its partners to build upon existing strengths, listen for signals about our local economy, and position ourselves to capture market opportunities that have great promise today and in the years to come.

THINGS TO KNOW!

SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE FANTASTIC EVENTS!


Earth Day in Nevada City, April 21.


Nevada County Economic Resource Council's Tour of Nevada County, May 9.


Nevada County Farm Bureau Agricultural Tour, May 15.


Nevada County Economic Resource Council's Economic Summit, September 19


THE BUSINESS OF ART

A PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SYMPOSIUM FOR ARTISTS & CULTURAL WORKERS





The intersection of art and business is often a challenging terrain to navigate, but the Nevada County Arts Council is offering a beacon of guidance with its third annual symposium, "The Business of Art." This event promises a wealth of insights and resources for artists and cultural workers alike.


At the core of this symposium are workshops and sessions designed to equip attendees with practical skills and knowledge essential for thriving in the art industry. From marketing and media strategies to business planning and tax advice tailored for artists, participants will have the opportunity to engage with experts selected from across California. Moreover, the symposium offers specialized sessions on community building, legal guidance, and partnerships crucial for sustaining a successful creative practice.


One of the highlights of the event is the lineup of distinguished keynote speakers. Dr. Tasha Golden, a leading authority on arts, health, and trauma-informed practice, will share her insights into the intersection of arts and well-being. Joining her is Sean Fenton, Executive Director of Theatre Bay Area, bringing his decades of experience in the Bay Area theater community to the forefront.


The symposium also features panel discussions on pressing issues such as the future of public art, grant resources, and leveraging online platforms for art sales. Additionally, attendees will be able to network and engage in peer-to-peer discussions, making it an invaluable experience for emerging, mid-career, and established professionals.


Recognizing the importance of accessibility, the Nevada County Arts Council offers scholarships and free entry for students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder participation. As a State-Local Partner with the California Arts Council, the council aims to foster cultural development and support the vibrant creative community in Nevada County.


With its diverse offerings and commitment to inclusivity, "The Business of Art" symposium promises to be a transformative experience for all attendees. Whether you're seeking to enhance your professional skills, connect with industry experts, or simply draw inspiration from fellow creatives, this event is not to be missed.


Registration is open, and attendees are encouraged to secure their spots early to seize this unparalleled opportunity for growth and empowerment in the world of art and business.

Saturday, March 2, 8:00 am - 5:30 pm

Sierra College Nevada County Campus

250 Sierra College Drive, Grass Valley, CA

Organized by the Nevada County Arts Council

Admission: $40/$30 (members)/Scholarships available/free for students

(530)-718-0727


Click here for more information.

FINAL CHANCE TO RESPOND TO THE HOUSING SURVEY.

LET YOUR OPINION BE KNOWN!

SIERRA COLLEGE FREE BOOTCAMP


Together with the Nevada County Contractors' Association, Sierra College is teaching a Construction Bootcamp. This is a tuition-free program providing training and mentorship for individuals seeking a well-paying and rewarding career in construction. Gain the skills to succeed and build a brighter future for yourself and your community.

NEW BUSINESS

INTRODUCING THE SHIRE STUDIO:

WHERE FITNESS MEETS THE COMMUNITY!

The Shire Studio is more than just a fitness studio; it's a vibrant hub where individuals come together to pursue their wellness goals and build meaningful connections.


Nestled in the heart of the Truckee community, The Shire Studio offers a diverse range of classes, Bootcamp, Yoga, Barre, Pilates, Dance, Restorative Yoga, Youth Tumbling & Performance Training, Private's, tailored to accommodate every age, fitness level and aspiration. 


Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, The Shire Studio provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels supported and encouraged to thrive.


But The Shire Studio is not just about physical fitness; it's about fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. Through their innovative group classes, team challenges, and community events, members forge lasting friendships while achieving their fitness goals.










Hours 6:0am - 8:00pm Monday-Sunday 


10095 Dorchester Dr. Unit G Truckee


(510) 502-5617

info@shirestudio.org



Click here for more information.

TAX SAVINGS DEADLINE FROM

2023 WINTER STORMS NEARING

Due to the excess damage in Nevada County as a result of the large winter storms in February and March 2023, a large number of properties qualified for a temporary reduction in assessed value by the Assessor’s Office. As a result, these qualified applicants received over five and a half million dollars of value removed from their assessment. However, there are still owners who may qualify for this temporary relief from last year's storms, and the application is due no later than Monday, April 2024.

 

Under Section 170 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code, property damaged by misfortune or calamity may qualify for a reduction in assessed value, which can result in the lowering of property taxes. To qualify for the reduction, the damage from the calamity must exceed $10,000 in market value and an application must be filled out in the Assessor's Office within one year of when the calamity occurred to potentially receive the reduction.

 

Upon receiving a proper application, the assessor shall appraise the property immediately before and after the damage or destruction. If the sum of the full cash values of the property before the damage exceeds the sum of the values after the damage by ten thousand dollars ($10,000) or more, the assessor shall also separately determine the percentage reductions due to the damage.


The assessor shall reduce the values appearing on the assessment roll by the percentages of damage or destruction computed pursuant to this subdivision, and the taxes due on the property shall be adjusted as provided. When the damaged property is rebuilt in a like or similar manner, in a timely manner (normally within the next five years), the property will be restored to its prior assessed value for property tax purposes. Typically, claims are processed within 30 to 90 days after receiving all necessary information. Once the analysis is complete, the Assessor's Office will notify you of their decision.

 

If you believe that your property is still eligible for the reassessment from last winter's storms, please submit the Calamity Reassessment Claim Form to provide the Assessor's Office with the information needed to determine if an adjustment to your assessed value is justified. Please attach any photos, cost estimates, or other documents that may indicate the level of the damage to your property, as this will help when reviewing your claim. The form is also available on the Assessor's website below. If you have questions about the form or process, please contact their office at (530) 265-1232 or send an email to assessor@nevadacountyca.gov.


Click here to go to the website.

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

CDFA FARM TO SCHOOL GRANT




The California Department of Food and Agriculture Office of Farm to Fork (CDFA- F2F) is accepting applications for the 2023- 24 CA Farm to School Incubator Grant Program until 5pm PDT on April 4, 2024.


The program will award competitive grants to support projects that cultivate equity, nurture students, build climate resilience, and create scalable and sustainable change.

 

To support a systems approach to advancing farm to school throughout the state, the program offers four funding tracks:


• Track 1: The California Farm to School TK-12 Procurement and Education Grant

• Track 2: The California Farm to School Technical Assistance (TA) Grant

• Track 3: The California Farm to Early Care and Education (ECE) Grant

• Track 4: The California Farm to School Producer Grant

 

Visit the California Farm to School Incubator Grant Program webpage at the link below to view the formal request for applications, access the online portal through which applications must be submitted, and register for informational webinars. 


Click here for more information.

THE MAX AND VICTORIA DREYFUS FOUNDATION


The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation awards grants to organizations for which a small amount of money might make a large difference. The Foundation welcomes requests for support from community-based, non-profit organizations based in

the United States. 

Applications submitted between now and May 10th.

will be considered for the Fall 2024 Award Round.


The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation will consider grants for IRS-qualified non-profit organizations located in the United States. The Foundation aims to support organizations and programs for which a relatively small amount of funding might make a large difference. The Foundation will consider requests to support museums, cultural and performing arts programs; schools and hospitals; educational, skills-training and other programs for youth, seniors, and persons with disabilities; environmental and wildlife protection activities; and other community-based organizations and programs. Awards typically range from $1,000 to $20,000.


Click here for information and the application.

T.S. & D.D. GLIDE FOUNDATION


Grants will be made in support of the following service purposes in priority order:

 

  1. animal protection organizations such as the Humane Society, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and rescue organizations
  2. other land and wildlife conservancy groups.  
  3. organizations committed to agricultural purposes. 
  4. the preservation of land in its natural state, including wetlands.  
  5. opera, symphony, art, and other similar civic organizations. 


 Application for 2024 is due Thursday, August 15, 2024.                      


Application accessible beginning May 15th. 

California-based organizations will take priority over out-of-state organizations.

Monies were granted in December.


2024 GRANT APPLICATION MUST BE SUBMITTED ONLINE!


The Thornton S. Glide, Jr. and Katrina D. Glide Foundation

Mailing Address: PO Box 1710, Davis, CA 95617-1710

Office Physical Address: 28120 Pierce Ranch Road, Davis, CA 95616

Office: (530) 753-3803

glidefoundation@sprynet.com


Click here for more information.

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Don't miss the tremendous array of trainings

being offered over the next month.

The following trainings are courtesy of the Small Business Development Center at: (530) 582-5022.


HIRING AND TRAINING STAFF FOR EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY



Why is it that some restaurants have such great staff and teams?


Let’s explore how great teams are built, sustained and grown. And how to get and keep great teammates as well!


March 4: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm


Click here for class details.

BRICK AND MORTAR

RETAILING BASICS


This is a new webinar develop by Steve Roth based on his extensive experience creating, managing and growing retailing companies. This webinar will focus on brick-and-mortar retailing with some discussion of online sales as an auxiliary to the core retailing business.


Topics covered will include inventory management, promotions, store location, the importance of an inventory management system and the need for top line growth.


March 5: 10:30 am - 12:00 pm



Click here for class details.

INTRODUCTION TO

SALES MANAGEMENT



This webinar will focus on building and managing a sales and marketing organization mission critical to driving top line revenue growth.


The webinar will review different types of organizations, which are most appropriate for different types of businesses, how to structure and reward salespeople and how to maintain your revenue growth in good times and bad.


March 12: 10:30 am - 12:00 pm


Click here for class details.

MIS FOR SMALL BUSINESS


Learn how to use financial reports to run your business, manage cash, and develop a successful management philosophy focusing on your business’s key elements.


March 26: 10:30 am - 12:00 pm


Click here for class details.

The following training is offered by SCORE

GOOGLE MY BUSINESS - HOW TO GET YOUR BUSINESS ON GOOGLE SEARCH AND MAPS


Ensure your business appears on Google Search and Maps and boost your online visibility by leveraging Google My Business, now known as Google Business Profile.


In this webinar, their expert presenter will show you how to build and manage your Google Business Profile, ensuring visibility and accuracy across Google Search and Google Maps. Take advantage of this opportunity to maximize your online presence and attract customers in your local community and beyond.


Here's what you'll learn:

  • Understanding the basics of Google Business Profile
  • Step-by-step guidance on creating and verifying your business profile
  • How to build a profile without a brick-and-mortar
  • How to optimize your business information
  • How to manage your business profile to stay relevant

Live attendees will receive free business resources and a link to this webinar recording.


Click here for class details.

TOURISM

DISCOVER ADVENTURE AND TRANQUILITY: EXPERIENCE DONNER SUMMIT, CALIFORNIA'S MOUNTAIN HAVEN


Nestled amid the breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains, Donner Summit, California, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities. Catering to both residents and visitors, this mountainous region boasts an array of businesses and services tailored to outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation.


For avid adventurers, Donner Summit provides access to a plethora of recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, ski slopes, and rock-climbing spots. Outdoor gear shops and rental facilities cater to those in need of equipment or guidance. During the warmer months, camping grounds and picnic areas offer serene settings for families and friends to gather and enjoy the scenic surroundings.


For those craving culinary delights, Donner Summit hosts a variety of dining options, ranging from cozy cafes serving artisanal coffees and pastries to upscale restaurants offering gourmet cuisine with stunning mountain views. Local markets provide fresh produce and supplies for picnics or campfire cookouts.


Additionally, the community supports essential services such as grocery stores, gas stations, and medical facilities, ensuring the well-being and convenience of residents and visitors alike. Art galleries, boutiques, and souvenir shops add a touch of local charm, showcasing the talents of artisans and offering unique keepsakes.


In Donner Summit, amidst the rugged wilderness, one discovers a harmonious blend of nature and modern amenities, inviting all to experience the wonders of mountain living.


Visit the Donner Summit Association website here.

Visit the gonevadacounty.com website for more information.


Photo courtesy of Dick Simpson

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Contact the Economic Development office at (530) 470-2795 for business assistance and a friendly connection to available resources.