Councilmember, City of San Diego – Sixth District
Studies of San Diego’s brewing industry have shown that there has been a 40% increase in the number of local craft beer-related jobs dating back to 2011. Additionally, local breweries reported a whopping $781.5 million in total beer sales in 2013. Statistics like these bolster the legitimacy and importance of San Diego’s brewing industry. Those numbers—and numerous high-quality local beers—have the full attention of City Councilman Chris Cate, who aims to work with the many brewers in his district (which covers the communities of Miramar, Kearny Mesa. Mira Mesa and Sorrento Valley) to help bring even more attention to their companies and help rise the proverbial tide. We caught up with him—over beer, of course—and asked about his inspiration and early efforts on his initiatives.
How did you become aware of the impact of brewing companies to San Diego’s economy, particularly in District 6?
I am a lifelong San Diegan and I’ve witnessed firsthand the craft beer industry thrive and small local craft breweries become nationally-known brands. There is a movement and desire both in and out of San Diego for our craft beer and I feel fortunate to represent a district that produces a majority of the beer. San Diego is the epicenter of the craft brewing industry and my goal is to brand District 6 as the go-to destination for craft beer.
Please explain the genesis of your plan to assist local breweries and help raise their visibility and prominence.
From Day One of my campaign, this has been a priority. I am an advocate for small business, job creation and economic development, and this is a serious industry that creates jobs and generates revenue for the City via sales and business tax. In addition to promoting entrepreneurship, there is a significant market for craft beer tourism. As a City leader, I feel I can provide a pathway to bring breweries together and highlight the great beer they make. We have a lot of breweries that are operating close to each other and an increase of visitors to the area will benefit everyone. My vision is to make these clusters a craft beer destination for beer lovers across the country.
Where are you in this process currently?
I am in the process of meeting with every one of the nearly 30 breweries in my district. I have met with over half and have received great feedback regarding our ideas. They all have different challenges and priorities depending on size, years of operation and the type of beer they brew, but they understand what is good for the industry as a whole is good for them. The one consistent thing I hear is that they are doing what they love to do and want to continue to do business here is San Diego.
What do you see as an ideal future for local breweries and how can the City help get those businesses there?
More and more entrepreneurs and enthusiasts are finding reasons to relocate and call San Diego home. As we continue to develop the craft beer sector of San Diego’s innovation economy, the City must continue to advance comprehensive economic development policies to attract, retain and expand these manufacturers. I believe there is an opportunity for the City to create strategic partnerships with industry leaders and local universities to educate and equip the next generation of craft brewers. San Diego is an extraordinary, growing market. There is only room to grow and I see a bright future for this industry.
What can San Diegans do to help breweries?
San Diegans are doing a great job supporting this industry already. It is great when you go to Petco Park or the San Diego County Fair and see craft beer being served and enjoyed. I would encourage San Diegans to visit some of the smaller breweries that do not get the attention of the larger breweries like Stone and AleSmith. Visiting the actual breweries is a way to try some of the experimental and off-the-shelf creations that you cannot get at the market. I also encourage folks to enjoy beer responsibly and in moderation.
What are some favorite beers from your district and where in your district do you like to enjoy them?
I’m always learning about different types of beer and what I enjoy, but if I had to choose a couple of “go-to” beers, they would probably be AleSmith’s X extra pale ale or Societe’s The Publican hoppy ale. A great spot where you’ll more than likely find me meeting with folks is Common Theory Public House on Convoy Street in Kearny Mesa. They showcase great beers and have delicious food.