Southern Inyo County Designated a California Opportunity Zone

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 3, 2026

Southern Inyo County Designated a California Opportunity Zone 

The Inyo County Board of Supervisors is proud to announce that the Governor’s Office has formally designated  Southern Inyo County a California Opportunity Zone 2.0 (OZ 2.0), a status that will take effect on January 1,  2027. The designation comes with tax incentives for investors, opening the door for economic growth in  Southern Inyo communities.

This achievement comes after a highly competitive statewide process in which California evaluated 2,479  eligible census tracts but could nominate only up to 620 for OZ 2.0 designation. Inyo County submitted a  comprehensive, data-driven application supported by letters from local businesses, economic development  organizations, and the Inyo County Board of Supervisors – collectively demonstrating the strong community  commitment behind the nomination. The County is pleased to announce that this collaborative advocacy was  successful.

As a rural Opportunity Zone, Southern Inyo County qualifies for extra federal tax incentives under OZ 2.0 framework. Investors who keep their money in a qualifying project for at least five years can avoid taxes on  30% of the capital gains they invested, which is three times the standard tax benefit. In addition, developers  only need to invest 50% of a property’s value in improvements, instead of 100%, making it easier and more  affordable to finance and complete development projects. Together, these incentives position Southern Inyo  to attract new investment, support local business growth, expand infrastructure and housing options, and  create meaningful long-term economic and job opportunities for residents.

“Southern Inyo County’s new Opportunity Zone 2.0 designation creates new opportunities for business  owners, entrepreneurs, and investors,” said Fifth District Supervisor Will Wadelton. “Because rural  Opportunity Zones receive enhanced tax benefits, Southern Inyo is now a more attractive place to start a  business, expand an existing one, or invest in new projects. These incentives will attract private investment,  encourage partnerships, and support long-term economic growth throughout the region.”