Community and Economic Development
Our Community and Economic Development Department is committed to fostering inclusive growth, enhancing quality of life, and promoting sustainable prosperity within our community. Through strategic planning, collaborative partnerships, and innovative initiatives, we strive to empower individuals, businesses, and organizations to thrive and contribute to a vibrant and resilient local economy. By addressing the diverse needs of our community and leveraging our resources effectively, we aim to create a thriving environment where every member has the opportunity to succeed, prosper, and enjoy a high quality of life.
The department includes the following divisions:
Our department strives to enhance quality of life while investing in the community to stimulate economic growth.
Soledad Featured in Select Central Coast Newsletter
Our very own Tencia Vargas, the Economic Development and Housing Program Coordinator was featured in Select Central Coast‘s Newsletter where she talked about the different new economic opportunities like the Hotel Incentive Program and Business Recruitment Package available to new and current businesses in Soledad.
Our department’s building is located next to Cesar Chavez Park and next to the city’s clock tower in the roundabout.
Staff Directory
| name | title | phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kao Nou Yang | Community & Economic Development Director | 831-223-5179 | |
| Henry Aguilar | Community Engagement Coordinator | 831-223-5251 | |
| Tencia Vargas | Economic Development Housing Program Coordinator | 831-223-5016 | |
| Andrea Navarrete | Administrative Assistant | 831-223-5178 | |
| Ariana Mora-Jacobo | Associate Planner | 831-223-5020 | |
| Beatriz Trujillo | Housing Analyst | 831-223-5056 |
Community & Economic Development Director Kao Nou Yang
With nearly 12 years of experience in local government’s Community & Economic Development, Yang brings a wealth of expertise in planning, economic development, and housing. Her background includes serving as the former Community & Economic Development Director for the City of Avenal, a small rural community in Kings County – Central Valley. Holding a bachelor’s degree in political science and American History from California State University Stanislaus, Ms. Yang has dedicated her career to public service, assisting not only her community but also neighboring jurisdictions.
During her tenure in Avenal, Yang achieved significant economic growth, attracting the city’s first franchise, facilitating the permitting and construction of over 200 new homes and multi-family residences. Collaborating with city departments and state/federal agencies, she secured over $10 million in grants for housing and public facilities/infrastructure.
“I aspire to achieve something transformative for the City of Soledad,” added Yang. “My aim is to take on a larger challenge in economic and community development, fostering growth while preserving the community’s cultural heritage. Soledad has a rich history, and it is crucial for the city to embrace that history for sustainable growth. I hope to infuse a small-town feel with a modern twist.”
Yang’s primary goal is to enhance Front Street, focusing on modernization to create a more pedestrian and family-friendly environment. She aims to bring cultural diversity to Soledad, positioning it as an economic hub along the 101 for travelers.
