Ventura businesses may pool resources

Many investors are hitting the brakes as they navigate a rocky economy. But veteran developer Vic Georgeno says now is exactly the time to invest in downtown Ventura, and he’s hoping that his fellow commercial property owners agree. This week, proponents will hold a series of town hall meetings aimed at getting Ventura to join a growing list of communities launching business improvement districts. Commercial property owners in such districts typically agree to tax themselves to pay for better security, maintenance, marketing and advertising to attract more customers and sometimes special events. “I absolutely, completely support it,” said Georgeno, who developed the Century Theatre complex on Main Street in the mid-1990s and owns nearly the entire city block it sits on. “Ventura is a diamond. It’s got a great downtown now. But for it to take the next step, the district is essential.” For the full story visit www.venturacountystar.com/news/2008/aug/11/ventura-businesses-may-pool-resources/