Today the HCD issued this press release regarding implementation of new policies, including a moratorium on new zones.  The stated aim of the new policy memorandum is to make the EZ more accountable, efficient and consistent with the Governor’s May budget revise, i.e. a push by the unions to undercut the EZ program from within.  The legal analysis is beginning on the HCD’s claim that the law allows for “up to” 42 zones which if read in the correct light, means phasing out the program.   Read the memo here.

Sarting toda, the new HCD voucher fees are in effect.  Every application to the state will now cost $15 instead of $10.  Here is the HCD’s Voucher Fee Increase Memo.

This morning, CAEZ president Craig Johnson announced that on July 21 & 22, members of the “CAEZ Board of Directors will have the opportunity to meet in Sacramento with members of the Housing and Community Development management team and representatives from the Franchise Tax Board, who will be assuming the position formerly held by our good friend Jeanne Harriman.” Frank Luera recently left his post as head of the HCD and Harriman recently left her post at the FTB. The new government liaisons for the Enterprise Zone program are eagerly anticipated.

As he put in the subject line of his email “Them Changes” are happening at HCD. Frank Luera, head of California’s Economic Development Section in charge of the Enterprise Zone program recently announced that he is retiring from the HCD. Few individuals have been more involved or more instrumental in the Enterprise Zone program. Frank worked tirelessly to advance the Enterprise Zone program. I even recall getting email responses from him late and night and on weekends. How many government officials can you say that about!

Frank did not let on regarding what his future holds, but left his options open. His last day with HCD will this Friday, June 19. At C&I, we want to thank Frank for all of his insight and hard work and wish him well wherever he may end up.