Three cities in the greater Valley were among 10 named on Thursday by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corp. as finalists for its award given to the most business-friendly cities. Glendale, Palmdale and Santa Clarita joined Bellflower and Lakewood as finalists for the over-65,000 population category. Artesia, El Segundo, Glendora, Pico Rivera and Vernon were finalists in the under-65,000 population category. The LAEDC started its most business-friendly city awards in 2006 as a way to get cities to compete to be more welcoming to businesses. Two winners, one in each category, will be named at an LAEDC ceremony on Nov. 13. The finalists were selected based on several criteria, including competitive business taxes and fees, economic incentives, and programs to retain, attract and expand businesses.
