Title
Chief Administrative Office recommending the Board:
1) Approve and authorize the Chair to sign a letter of endorsement supporting Assembly Bill (AB) 2596, an act relating to economic development and requiring the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development to lead the preparation of a California Economic Development Strategic Plan; and
2) Adopt and authorize the Chair to sign Resolution 057-2018 further exemplifying the County’s support of the California Legislature and Governor’s adoption of California AB 2596.
FUNDING: N/A
Body
DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATION
Chief Administrative Office recommending the Board:
1) Approve and authorize the Chair to sign a letter of endorsement supporting Assembly Bill (AB) 2596, an act relating to economic development and requiring the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development to lead the preparation of a California Economic Development Strategic Plan; and
2) Adopt and authorize the Chair to sign Resolution 057-2018 further exemplifying the County’s support of the California Legislature and Governor’s adoption of California AB 2596.
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
California is a global leader across industries and policies, but there are serious economic challenges facing the State. California is regularly ranked as the least business friendly state, has the 7th highest income inequality among states, and almost 20% of Californians live in poverty. Implementing a statewide strategic economic development plan will create an environment where all communities in California can engage in a cohesive conversation with the State about creating an inclusive, equitable economy with growth opportunities across regions.
Supporting AB 2596 will increase California’s competitiveness and help regions across the State. AB 2596 calls for a critical third-party peer review of the State’s competitiveness and brings together a diverse advisory group of local, regional, and industry experts to work with the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development in developing a statewide plan. A statewide strategy that sets strategic goals, examines and measures existing programs, sets industry recommendations and considers economic development at the regional level is critical to success moving forward.
ALTERNATIVES
The Board could choose not to authorize the letter of support.
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
CEDAC was made aware of this recommendation, but due to the timing required to have the letter of support submitted staff was unable to discuss the recommendation with CEDAC at their regular meeting.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no cost associated with issuing a letter of support for the proposed Legislation. The proposed legislation allows the California Economic Development Strategic Plan to be funded either in whole or in part by non-state funds, including private donations.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
Provide the Chief Administrative Office-Economic Development with a copy of the adopted resolution and support letter signed by the Chair.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
Economic Development
CONTACT
Don Ashton, CAO