The regional economy is experiencing a "boom" and we have to be positioned to take advantage of it. Here are some of my plans:
- Strengthen and expand the role of EDAB.
- Work closely with the Port of Oakland to develop their full maritime potental and push for the appropriate levels of development on port properties to create destination points for retail, entertainment, tourism and housing.
- Create opportunities for small business development in all neighborhoods. Work with banks and financial institutions to assist with business start up loans and small business training programs.
- Eradicate the stereotype that the East Bay suffers from the stereotype of having an ill-prepared workforce. The county must invest more resources into job training and literacy programs.
- Connect county job training programs directly to employers.
- Work to bring high-tech industry into the county. The county is on the edge of the Silicon Valley but has not fully capitalized bringing this industry in on a larger scale.
- Take full advantage of the cultural and ethnic diversity of our communities to attract Pacific Rim and African trade and commerce. Use the natural alliances in our communities to promote trade. The county must aggressively sponsore trade missions and local export/import fairs. I will use my personal contacts in several Asian countries to do so. Utilize these activities to include diverse communities in the business opportunities. Their participation and success will create a snowball effect and create even more opportunities.
- Improve the perception that the East Bay is a great place to do business by effective marketing of our amentities such as transportation, port, and diverse markets.
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