Tom Cole
Director of Economic Development
Tom Cole joined the City of Santa Clarita as Community Development Director in December 2012, where he managed the City’s Planning, Economic Development, Community Preservation, and Redevelopment operations. In July 2022, Tom became the director of the newly formed Department of Economic Development. In this position, he manages the City’s Arts and Events, Economic Development, and Transit divisions. Tom has lived and worked in Santa Clarita for more than 30 years. Prior to joining the City of Santa Clarita, he served as Chief Operations Officer for the William S. Hart Union School District, and has held several local leadership roles, including Business Development/Project Management with Wimsatt Contracting Company; Vice President/Director of Construction at Highland Development Company; Director of Development at LNR Property; and Senior Project Manager with Newhall Land and Farming. He has also served in community organizations, including the SC Rotary Club and the YMCA Board.
Economic Development
The City of Santa Clarita Economic Development Division focuses on retaining jobs, attracting businesses and fueling the local economy through the three areas of business development, film, and tourism. The division additionally manages the Business Sponsorship Program, which provides a marketing solution to businesses through brand promotion and event exposure.
Arts & Events
The City of Santa Clarita Arts & Events Division promotes, supports, and develops arts programming, regional events, community events, arts education programs, and volunteer opportunities. The division organizes several of the community’s favorite events, such as the SENSES Block Party and Concerts in the Park, and also serves as the lead arts agency by convening advisory groups, providing arts services, and implementing a public art program. The division is additionally responsible for facility and venue reservations, as well as a robust volunteer program.
Transit
The City of Santa Clarita Transit Division provides high-quality, safe, and reliable public transportation services within, to, and from the Santa Clarita Valley, and encourages the use of public transportation to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. Whether for school, work, or recreation, using City of Santa Clarita Transit is the perfect way to ride in comfort to your destination.
