Michael Ammann, President of Solano Economic Development Corporation, will serve on the regional Bay Area Council Economic Institute's advisory board, providing information that will eventually lead to the funding of economic stimulus programs in the Bay Area.
The institute said earlier this week it is seeking input as well from area business leaders and residents. The organization will create a regional proposal that will show how the Bay Area wants to spend the money it receives. Submission deadline is April 24 and the region's final report is due to the state by June 1.
"These are critical times for Solano County and the Bay Area," Ammann said. "We are competing against other states for this funding and it is important we present a uniform plan to increase our chances for funding."
Funded projects under the stimulus plan must fall into one of seven categories: transportation, water, energy/climate, workforce training and education, business development, science and innovation or housing.
Projects also must provide short term job creation and provide long term return on investment.
Ammann said he is hopeful that Solano County private sector and governmental agencies will "...look closely at this opportunity to receive federal funding to jumpstart economic development projects that will provide job opportunities and growth."
About $30 billion will flow to the state, and then dispersed to regions. Another $20 billion of discretionary money will be sent to California, as part of the stimulus package.
About the Solano EDC
- Sandy Person, President
- Founded in 1983 and known as SEDCORP, the Solano Economic Development Corporation is a collaboration of private and public investors that provides leadership for economic development marketing of Solano County and its seven growing cities: Benicia, Dixon, Fairfield, Rio Vista, Suisun City, Vacaville and Vallejo.