Press Releases

Gonzales, Calif. – The City of Gonzales was honored by the Monterey County Business Council as the first recipient of the government category award at the 2017 Annual Economic Vitality Awards Gala on Friday, May 5, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency Monterey.  The annual gala event honors organizations that have contributed to the economic vitality, growth and preservation of our community.

"It was an honor to be recognized for our economic vitality, and also our commitment to the environment and our youth.  We are dedicated to bringing the resources necessary to provide services that enhance the quality of life for residents in our community, while continuing to preserve and retain our small town charm," says City Manager Rene Mendez.

Gonzales was honored at the event for its forward thinking and innovative approach to economic development.  Since 2014 the City of Gonzales has become one of the fastest growing tax bases in Monterey County.  From 2014-2015 the Gonzales tax base grew by 16.65 percent, twice the rate of the next closest municipality in the county.  In 2015-2016 it grew 19 percent and in 2016-2017 20 percent.

Our approach to economic development is a can-do attitude and determination in bringing initiatives to a successful and relatively quick resolution.  We are trying to grow responsibly and at the same time not overburden our businesses with regulation," says Deputy City Manager/Community Development Director Thomas Truszkowski.

The Monterey County Business Council, founded in 1995, is a non-profit organization comprised of professionals from business, government, and education working together on countywide issues.  Key areas of focus include workforce development, economic development and advocacy.

Distinguished companies honored at the event for their contributions to the community include: Advanced Manufacturing: Sierra Instruments; Agriculture: Mann Packing; Creative & Technology: Carmel Magazine; Defense: Advanced Onion; Health & Wellness: Natividad Medical Center; Hospitality: Hyatt Regency Monterey; Rookie: Altai Brands and Sustainable Building & Design: Avila Construction.

For more information about the City of Gonzales visit www.growgonzales.com.  For more information about the Monterey County Business Council visit www.mcbc.biz.