evident as more younger families move into the area, bringing with them a variety of backgrounds and cultures. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES Business development in Black Diamond faces challenges in attracting commercial enterprises, particularly within the designated commercial sections of the MPDs. Most development has occurred along the state highway, where a few successful builders are active. The town’s reliance on property tax to fund public safety, coupled with a lack of business and occupation tax and a low sales tax rate, underscores the need to attract more businesses. However, incentives such as waived broadband fees in Ten Trails have been appealing, especially during the pandemic, when remote work became prevalent. The measures have made Black Diamond an attractive option for homebuyers seeking robust internet connectivity for remote work. As Mayor Benson highlights, economic development is a significant focus for Black Diamond. Last year, the town received a grant from the Port of Seattle, which facilitated the creation of a promotional video showcasing current businesses and emphasizing the benefits of operating in Black Diamond. Among the businesses featured were Redline Mechanical and Provident Electric. The developer, Oak Pointe Development, also had a segment, reflecting the collaborative efforts to boost the local economy. ENGAGING COMMUNITY EVENTS Community-focused events play a fundamental role in bringing people together in Black Diamond. One of the standout events is Miners Day, a one-day celebration in July that honors the town’s rich mining history. Additionally, the annual Labor Day Festival offers activities, including a Saturday night movie at the Ten Trails development and various events along Highway 169.A highlight of Labor Days is the parade on Labor Day itself, which temporarily closes a mile of the state highway, much to the delight of residents and visitors. Founded by immigrants who first came to the Cascade foothills in the 1880s to mine coal, Black Diamond is a community rich in history and cultural identity known for its small-town neighborliness and welcoming spirit. From the historic train depot turned history museum to the regionally famous Black Diamond Bakery, residents and visitors alike show an appreciation for what’s familiar as well as new adventures. Ideal for families and residents who embrace an active outdoor lifestyle, Black Diamond is surrounded by Cascade forests with two state parks nearby and Lake Sawyer, offering a variety of water sports including boating, fishing, swimming and water skiing. Two of the Cascade’s most popular winter destinations, Crystal Mountain, with its 50 ski runs, and Mount Rainier are only an hour’s drive away. Black Diamond’s many amenities embrace its history with longstanding traditions, festivals and events, such as the annual Black Diamond Miner’s Day, while adding new activities including the annual Christmas tree lighting complete with Santa hosted by Ten Trails, a 4,500 -home, masterplanned community within the city. Ten Trails also provides summer-in-the-park concerts and movie nights, sunset markets and seasonal holiday celebrations, along with many miles of hiking and biking trails open to the public. 66 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 BLACK DIAMOND, WA
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