A new online tool aims to help new businesses hoping to open Chula Vista.
The new service, called OpenCounter, allows users to explore where different business types are permitted throughout the city, help business owners understand the specific licenses, permits, and other requirements needed for starting or bringing a business to Chula Vista.
The online resource can be accessed at www.chulavistaca.gov/businesses as it will provide staff-approved information for applicants.
“It is designed to help (business owners) understand the permit requirements, the necessary permits that a business might need to obtain as well as a tool to calculate the estimated fees that a business owner might need to pay in navigating the city’s process,” said Kevin Pointer, Chula Vista’s Senior Economic Development Specialist.
Pointer said individuals seeking business licenses or permits can still call the city for information or stop by the Development Services’ front counter.
But, Pointer said that the new online service is just an additional resource. OpenCounter is available online 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Pointer said most users have used the website to figure out where specifically they can locate their business in Chula Vista and the cost of locating their business in the city. He does not know,however, if Chula Vista has seen an increase in business because of OpenCounter.
The service officially launched last December, but Pointer said the city is just now promoting the business tool.
“The city is now making more of a consorted push to let businesses know of its availability,” he said.
Pointer said the city of San Diego also has the OpenCounter online resource.
