California’s budget problems dominate today’s political arena.   Without question, the biggest systemic problem draining the budget is one that most politicians are afraid to even approach.  Of course it’s the pension system.  No one seems willing to call out the patent iniquity in the public versus private workforce.  Jerry Brown on Friday did his part to quell the opposition to true pension reform by removing someone who championed for reform.

The budget released today completely eliminates all of California’s 42 Enterprise Zones.  It also takes away all prior credit carryover.  However, many see this is a starting point for negotiations.  

Assemblyman Dan Logue, R-Linda, who opposes eliminating enterprise zones, said the state needs to do more to create jobs, not less.“The governor has to realize that to create wealth and revenue, you have to give businesses a reason to develop in an area,” said Logue.

He added in the last decade, the majority of new jobs created in California came in areas where there were enterprise zones.  But because the initial budget proposal from the governor often undergoes several revisions before it’s passed and signed, Logue said, Brown may be including the cuts as a negotiating tactic.

Read the full article here.

Texas is “open for business” and using its Enterprise Zone to lure California businesses looking to relocate.  Is Jerry Brown listening?

With shovel ready sites situated in an enterprise zone the Levelland Economic Development Corporation sees the new Levelland Industrial Rail Park as the key to developing a diversified local economy.  By paring this new rail infrastructure with the local skilled workforce and integrating ourselves into the wind energy logistic supply chain, Levelland can take advantage of the expanding renewable energy industry exploding throughout the region.  Levelland also offers opportunities to California businesses considering relocation or expansion by helping reduce the normal stress related with such capital intensive projects.  Our exceptional economic environment, warm weather, famous hospitality and affordable cost of living make Levelland an ideal choice for businesses looking to make a move. Texas Governor Rick Perry says, “Texas Wide Open for Business” and Levelland is a great place to enter the Lone Star State. 

Read it here.