JPA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - Laserfiche WebLink

INTRODJJCTION PURPOSE This plan sets forth the basic goals and objectives, organizational framework and financing strategy for the proposed Alameda County Economic Development program, and provides a timeline to implement first-year program objectives. 8AC~CGROUND On February 20, 19go, the Alameda County Board of Supervisors approved in principle the Reoort of the Alameda County Ad Hoc Economic Develoom~nt Committee. At that time, the Board authorized the Committee and the County Administrator's Office to develop a detailed work plan to implement and finance a countywide economic development program based on the recommendations contained in the Report. To ensure that a broad range of perspectives and input would be considered in the final plan, the Board also directed staff to continue meeting with interested groups, organizations and individuals in the county. The results of these consultations are summarized below. RESULTS OF CONSULTATIONS There was a broad consensus that the Committee identified the most critical threats to the county's economic competitiveness and quality of life. There was also strong support for the Committee's recommendations for a strategic, countywide program to address these issues. At the same time, the consultations helped staff to refine specific program elements. This plan incorporates the following modifications as recommended by the Alameda County Mayors' Conference, the Alameda County City Management Association, chambers of commerce and other interested groups. Administrative Structure The overall policy and advisory framework for the Alameda County Economic Development Program will be organized as recommended by the Ad Hoc Economic Development Committee. Minor changes have been made in the specific membership of the Advisory Board and the composition of the Business and Industry Council. The roles of the Mayors, the City Managers, and the County Superintendent of Schools in this effort have also been clarified. However, functional roles and responsibilities remain as originally proposed by the Committee. Proaram Objectives Specific objectives were clarified to ensure that the program would complement and reinforce the efforts of existing organizations to address local economic concerns; (2) be restricted to activities that would clearly be enhanced by a coordinated, countywide approach~ and (3) allow adequate participation and comment by interested groups. -1-