[1] In the early 1970s, producers of the Los Angeles–based television series Harry O, seeking new locales for the show, moved production to San Diego.
Unfortunately, the show's producers soon found their work in San Diego impeded by the slow processing of city permits and seemingly arbitrary fees levied by numerous local agencies.
The Commission created a precedent with "roundtable" meetings that brought filmmakers together with representatives of public safety and other government departments to streamline the permit process.
In the years since, the commission has facilitated production of such high-profile projects as Traffic, Almost Famous, The Lost World: Jurassic Park, Lords of Dogtown, Bring It On, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy and a short-lived revival of the 1980s hit series Hunter, all of which brought revenue and jobs to the area.
It continues to work as a nonprofit development agency for film, television, commercial and print/still photography talent in the city and county of San Diego.