Miles: “In 2004, the City of Port Orchard created an Economic Development Plan. How has that guided your efforts to support business?”
Abel: “According to the Plan, downtown living is a must for successful downtowns which in turn will benefit existing businesses and attract new ones. The City is committed to a walk-able waterfront with spaces such as the new Commons at the Library and the Etta Turner Park that encourage people to visit and work downtown.”

Miles: “What types of businesses does Port Orchard draw?”
Abel: “We tend to draw homegrown businesses — mostly service businesses and some touristy ones. We’ve evolved from a retail focus to service — ranging from surveyors and engineers to nail shops, banks and restaurants. Our longtime ‘claim to fame’ is antique shops.”

Miles: “What are the greatest needs of your residents?”
Abel: “We have a strong 30-40 year old population in Port Orchard and South Kitsap – families with children up to 20 years old. Services and products must focus on their needs and wants.. For example, tourists and visiting family create a demand for Bed & Breakfasts. We have many marinas – public and private – that need grocery and boat specific services.”

Miles: “What do you believe are the keys to being a successful business owner in Port Orchard?”
Abel: “Tourism is a big piece of our economy, so being able to weather the winter months is key when tourism is slower. Learning to draw from the traffic we get through our downtown corridor is important no matter where your business is located. Various summer events that draw large crowds, like the popular Seagull Calling Contest, present other ways to build your business.”

Miles: “Are there impediments to starting a business in Port Orchard?”
Abel: “The age of our buildings is a problem. Business owners willing to put elbow grease into their buildings are overcoming that hurdle. We anticipate Bay Street shutdowns due to the slides along Ross Point will be tempered to a day or less, thanks to significant work done last year.”

Miles: “What is the City doing to help businesses?”
Abel: “Over the next six months City Council will address changes for new building development, perhaps by allowing more density, greater heights and, in response to our Economic Development Plan, encouraging mixed-use buildings (retail and residence). We are working with the County to expand the urban growth area in South Kitsap — creating potential for annexation to the City so businesses can take advantage of things like our good police service and sewer capacity. We also work closely with the Chamber as we both believe in helping businesses be successful.”

The Mayor and City Council are setting the table for business development in Port Orchard. If you are interested in exploring business opportunities in Port Orchard, contact the Mayor’s office or Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce for further information. Later this year the City of Port Orchard and the Kitsap Business Assistance Center will be working together to present a program in Port Orchard targeting the needs of business. If you need help with your business — in Port Orchard or anywhere — please call the Kitsap Business Assistance Center (KBAC) for free counseling and a list of upcoming workshops.

(Editor’s Note: Wendy Miles, Director of Customized Training and Military Education at Olympic College, oversees the operation of the Kitsap Business Assistance Center (KBAC). For partnership opportunities, contact her at 360-475-7786.  For business counseling needs call Rand Riedrich at 360-307-4220.).