News/Blog

January 23, 2025

3rd Quarter 2024 sales tax declines across the state

By Brittney Sherman

Morgan Hill’s 3rd quarter 2024 sales tax numbers were down when compared to 3rd quarter 2023, however they weren’t the only ones. Santa Clara County was down 1.3%, the Bay Area was down 1.9%, and the State was down 2.3% as compared to this same quarter the prior year.

As it relates to Morgan Hill, the Autos and Transporation and Fuel and Service categories accounted for 35% of the decline, mostly due to a decrease in gas prices and also recreation car sales which has been coming down from a post-pandemic high the last four quarters. One-time sales tax allocations in 3rd quarter 2023 offset the Business and Industry Category decrease, making it appear larger than it was, and a 3.3% decrease in the City’s portion of the Countywide use tax pool sealed the negative result.

Although the numbers look bleak, it’s important to recognize that sales tax is still showing growth when compared to pre-pandemic sales tax numbers, and this period of negativity is largely due to the plateau of extreme growth several categories experienced those first few years out of the pandemic.

Read the full HdL sales tax report HERE.

January 07, 2025

Convenience store growth trajectory projected through 2028

By Brittney Sherman

The global convenience store market is projected to grow by $930 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of 6.78% from 2024 to 2028, according to a report by Technavio. This growth is fueled by increasing demand for private-label products, which offer high-quality items like frozen foods, snacks, and beverages at lower prices. As consumers seek affordability without sacrificing quality, private-label brands are driving the rise of discount convenience stores, creating new opportunities in the market.

Convenience stores continue evolving to meet changing consumer needs, positioning themselves as essential destinations for both household staples and impulse purchases like snacks and soft drinks. While e-commerce poses challenges, the industry continues to adapt with premium private-label offerings that balance quality and price.

Read the full article by Greg Sleter HERE

December 20, 2024

2024 End-of-year eNewsletter

By Brittney Sherman

As we close out another busy year, the Economic Development team would like to wish all of our businesses a happy and prosperous holiday season. We are grateful for the community’s continued support of the Economic Blueprint workplan, engagement during the Economic Mobility and Art Symposiums, and willingness to take the time out of your busy schedule to host us for a business visit. This final newsletter of the 2024-year highlights just a few of our accomplishments. 

We look forward to the New Year and our work ahead to support the City’s long-term fiscal sustainability and increase the number of local business services and job opportunities for all Morgan Hill residents.  

Read the eNewsletter HERE.

December 17, 2024

Federal dollars support crucial flood control project

By Brittney Sherman

Valley Water received a major boost for their Llagas Creek Flood Control Project, thanks to an $80 million grant from Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The project is crucial to Morgan Hill in protecting homes, businesses, and farmland from flooding.

Construction on the final phase of the project is set to begin later this year and wrap up in March 2027. The project will involve channel widening, bridge modifications, and vegetation management. This project will not only provide much-needed flood protection but also restore the Llagas Creek ecosystem and enhance recreational trails.

Read the full article by Calvin Nuttall HERE