Building an Economy That Works for Everyone
Rex Richardson grew up in a household where a missed paycheck could mean the lights going out. That experience shaped a mayor laser-focused on creating real economic opportunity — not just for new industries, but for the longtime businesses and workers who have anchored Long Beach for generations.
Since taking office, Rex has delivered:
Over 4,100 high-paying jobs brought to Long Beach through the Grow Long Beach initiative — with major employers including Ford Motor Company, Vast, Rocket Lab, Nikon AM Synergy, and Blue Shield of California choosing Long Beach for expansion.
More than 1 million square feet of new space secured for manufacturing, technical, and professional services firms — a resurgence of advanced industry in the city.
Long Beach named the Most Business Friendly City in LA County by the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation, besting 87 other cities.
The Acceler8 by '28 initiative, targeting 8,000 new jobs by 2028 as Long Beach prepares for the Olympic Games.
Three voter-approved ballot measures expanding opportunity: the Long Beach Jobs Promise (Measure JB), which set a 90-day hiring standard for city jobs and prioritized local residents and students; Fair Share for Long Beach's Future (Measure LB), which generates $15 million in annual city revenue; and Harbor Commission Accountability (Measure HC), increasing transparency in port hiring.
$9 million invested through the Back to Business plan, and the nation's first Tariff Emergency Relief Grant Program to help local businesses navigate global trade disruption.
The Legacy Business Grant Program, certifying and supporting 60+ longstanding small businesses — giving them the resources and visibility to stay anchors in their neighborhoods alongside new investment.
A $25 million Launch Beach Strategic Growth Fund seeding 100 new local start-ups, and the Long Beach Center for Economic Inclusion opening entrepreneurship pathways for communities historically left out.
New tourism and entertainment investments — including a new waterfront amphitheater and a professional baseball team — generating lasting economic benefit for the city.
The bottom line: Long Beach is open for business — and making sure that business benefits everyone who calls this city home.