The Santa Cruz Business Council opened a dialogue last week about the local business climate, about opportunities and challenges and about whether Santa Cruz leaders encourage economic development.
The discussion is of critical importance during a time of high unemployment. The question is: can and will government leaders provide stimulus to a healthy economy.
Local businessman Eric Mendelson has doubts:
Another commenter wonders whether local government actually can do anything. He suggested this link to NPR's "This American Life" and a fascinating look at whether government is even capable of adding jobs.
The highlight: "Act Three -- Job Fairies" in which economic development officers from governments across the United States attend a meeting the International Economic Developers Council in San Diego. Correspondent Adam Davidson compares the convention to an meeting of pickpockets as they attempt to "steal" businesses from other areas. The biggest target: California, with its reputation for over-regulation, high taxes and other business-unfriendly policies.
If you don't have time for the entire show, make sure to listen to "Job Fairies."