News/Blog

February 06, 2023

The "Show Up Act" receives House support

By Brittney Sherman

In 2020, the rate of federal employees working from home jumped 34 percent resulting in underutilized federal office space particularly in California, Florida, Washington, D.C., and Texas. Legislation putting an end to the pandemic work-from-home option for federal agency employees was passed by the House on February 1. If made into law, federal agencies will have 30-days to return to pre-pandemic telework guidelines which offered little if any remote work options. Once pre-pandemic policies are reinstated, federal agencies are required to submit a report detailing the cost of underutilized office space and the number of employees who relocated out of the country to telework. The hope is that the return of federal employees to the office will support surrounding businesses and increase sales tax revenues, however the “Show Up Act” faces a room full of critics as it enters the Senate.

January 30, 2023

Lusamerica Seafood Company reels in rare fish

By Brittney Sherman

Fishermen from Morgan Hill based seafood company Lusamerica, reeled in a rare orange colored petrale sole on January 24. The species is usually a dark brown color, however in very rare instances they can become brightly colored due to a pigment anomaly called Xanthochromism. The company is seeing this catch as a positive omen for the 2023 fishing season.

Read the full article in the Morgan Hill Times HERE.

Lusamerica is a family-owned, woman-owned, and minority-owned business. The company was established in 1975, setting up its headquarters at 16480 Railroad Ave. in Morgan Hill. Today, the company is one of the largest seafood wholesalers in California and the western United States specializing in quality product and sustainable options.

January 27, 2023

$25.9 billion predicted for V-day shopping spree

By Brittney Sherman

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), consumers are predicted to spend $25.9 billion on Valentine’s Day gifts this year, a $2 billion spending increase from 2022 holiday sales. An annual survey of buying intentions found that 52% of respondents were planning to spend an average of $192.80 on gifts, not just for their immediate family and partners, but for all the special relationships in their lives including pets, classmates, co-workers, and more. Top spenders this year will be found in the 34-44 age group and top gifts will include candy, flowers, jewelry, gift cards, a night out, and unique experiences. 2023 Valentine’s Day sales receipts are projected to result in one of the highest spending years for the holiday in history!

Have questions? Contact City of Morgan Hill Economic Development Director Matt Mahood at Matt.Mahood@morganhill.ca.gov