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Q2 Impact Report 2025 image

Q2 Impact Report 2025
Jul 3 2025
Posted In: News,
Member Perspective: Wells Fargo Commercial Banking Mid-Year Outlook, Leveling Up and Maximizing Outcomes image

Member Perspective: Wells Fargo Commercial Banking Mid-Year Outlook, Leveling Up and Maximizing Outcomes
Jul 2 2025
Posted In: Membership,
Why investing in relationships and growth are key strategies amid economic uncertainty
Bay Area Council Hosts 2025 California Stewardship Network Spring Exchange image

Bay Area Council Hosts 2025 California Stewardship Network Spring Exchange
Jul 2 2025
Posted In: News,
Council-Sponsored Homelessness Bills Advancing image

Council-Sponsored Homelessness Bills Advancing
Jul 2 2025
Posted In: Homelessness,
Three bills the Bay Area Council is co-sponsoring to address homelessness are continuing to advance in the legislature. Th...
Victory for Housing in Cupertino! image

Victory for Housing in Cupertino!
Jul 2 2025
Posted In: Housing,
We’re thrilled to share that the Cupertino City Council unanimously approved SummerHill Homes’ 59-unit townhome projec...
Council Convenes Oakland Stakeholders to Discuss Crime, Safety and Economy image

Council Convenes Oakland Stakeholders to Discuss Crime, Safety and Economy
Jul 2 2025
Posted In: Public Safety,
Council Scores Generational Housing Reform Victory! image

Council Scores Generational Housing Reform Victory!
Jul 2 2025
Posted In: Housing,
Landmark Bay Area Council Housing Reform Legislation Wins Approval image

Landmark Bay Area Council Housing Reform Legislation Wins Approval
Jun 30 2025
Posted In: Housing, Press Releases,
Legislation co-sponsored by the Bay Area Council that promises to be among the most consequential and transformative in ge...

Progress on BAC-Sponsored Homeless Legislation
Jun 25 2025
Posted In: Homelessness,
Major Bay Area Council-sponsored legislation to overhaul how California addresses its homelessness crisis took big steps f...
Council Joins Wildfire Solutions Coalition, Stays on Top of Delta Water Plan image

Council Joins Wildfire Solutions Coalition, Stays on Top of Delta Water Plan
Jun 25 2025
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
California’s wildfire and forestry management workforce needs to double from its current 65k workers if the state is goi...
Council Leads Strategic Delegation to Chart Clean Energy Future for AI Revolution image

Council Leads Strategic Delegation to Chart Clean Energy Future for AI Revolution
Jun 25 2025
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council is planning an upcoming Business Delegation to Chicago, taking place Septemb...
Council Helps Secure Critical $750 Million Win for Bay Area Public Transit image

Council Helps Secure Critical $750 Million Win for Bay Area Public Transit
Jun 25 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council scored a crucial win for public transit yesterday (June 24) as Governor Gavin Newsom and the State Le...
Mexico-Bay Area Business Leaders Explore Cross-Border Investment Opportunities image

Mexico-Bay Area Business Leaders Explore Cross-Border Investment Opportunities
Jun 18 2025
Posted In: International Business,
Climate Task Force Explores Emissions Reduction Strategies at State-of-the-Art Bayer Facility image

Climate Task Force Explores Emissions Reduction Strategies at State-of-the-Art Bayer Facility
Jun 18 2025
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
BART Energizes New Civic Center Substation image

BART Energizes New Civic Center Substation
Jun 18 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
New RAND Report Reaffirms Council’s Continuing Fight Against Soaring Housing Costs in California image

New RAND Report Reaffirms Council’s Continuing Fight Against Soaring Housing Costs in California
Jun 18 2025
Posted In: Housing,
A new RAND r...
Study: Mass Deportations Would Cost California Economy $275 Billion, Decimate Critical Industries image

Study: Mass Deportations Would Cost California Economy $275 Billion, Decimate Critical Industries
Jun 17 2025
Posted In: Economy, Press Releases,
Construction, Agriculture and Occupational Service Industries Would be Hit Particularly Hard while State, Local and Fe...
San Jose City Council Approves Mayor Mahan’s Budget with Strong Support image

San Jose City Council Approves Mayor Mahan’s Budget with Strong Support
Jun 12 2025
Posted In: News,
On Tuesday (June 10), the San Jose City Council voted 9-2 to approve Mayor Matt Mahan’s budget message, advancing a comp...
Oakland Budget Advances Shared Public Safety Priorities image

Oakland Budget Advances Shared Public Safety Priorities
Jun 12 2025
Posted In: News,
In a move that surprised many, Oakland City Council adopted its FY 2025-2027 budget yesterday, June 11th, weeks ahead of t...
Glimmer of Progress in Easing U.S.-China Trade Tensions? image

Glimmer of Progress in Easing U.S.-China Trade Tensions?
Jun 11 2025
Posted In: Global Business and Investment, International Business,
The Bay Area Council has long advocated for deepening and expanding our economic relationship with China, one of Californi...
Council Helps Win Approval for Textbook-Perfect Housing Development in Cupertino image

Council Helps Win Approval for Textbook-Perfect Housing Development in Cupertino
Jun 11 2025
Posted In: Housing,
Autonomous Truck Regulations Roll Forward at Key DMV Hearing image

Autonomous Truck Regulations Roll Forward at Key DMV Hearing
Jun 11 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
The path to launching self-driving trucks in California took an important step forward yesterday (June 10) when the Depart...
Legislature Backs Key Council Budget Priorities image

Legislature Backs Key Council Budget Priorities
Jun 11 2025
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council’s work advocating for key policy priorities in the state budget is delivering results as the Legisl...
Joint Statement from Kristina Lawson, Chair of the Bay Area Council, and Jed York, Chair of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group image

Joint Statement from Kristina Lawson, Chair of the Bay Area Council, and Jed York, Chair of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group
Jun 9 2025
Posted In: Press Releases,
After thoughtful consideration, the Bay Area Council and the Silicon Valley Leadership Group have jointly decided to concl...
New Economic and Policy Report Finds Oakland Can Reverse Downward Budget Spiral by Expanding Public Safety Investments image

New Economic and Policy Report Finds Oakland Can Reverse Downward Budget Spiral by Expanding Public Safety Investments
Jun 3 2025
Posted In: Press Releases, Public Safety,
Bay Area Council Economic Institute outlines urgent reforms to restore fiscal stability, reignite business investment,...
Gov. Newsom Headlines Compelling 2025 Bay Area-Silicon Valley Summit image

Gov. Newsom Headlines Compelling 2025 Bay Area-Silicon Valley Summit
May 29 2025
Posted In: Events,
A packed house of more than 325 top Bay Area business leaders gathered on May 27 for the 2025 Bay Area-Silicon Valley S...
Bay Watch: Mapping the Region’s Fortune 1000 Companies image

Bay Watch: Mapping the Region’s Fortune 1000 Companies
Apr 16 2025
Posted In: Economy,
Hospitality and Downtown Recovery Legislation Gets Council Support image

Hospitality and Downtown Recovery Legislation Gets Council Support
Apr 16 2025
Posted In: Economy,
As part of the Bay Area Council’s focus on downtown recovery, we are excited to support AB 342 by Assemblymember Matt Ha...
North Bay Columnist Slams Delays on Richmond Bridge Traffic Fix image

North Bay Columnist Slams Delays on Richmond Bridge Traffic Fix
Apr 16 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
BART Safety Measures Council Advocated for Showing Results image

BART Safety Measures Council Advocated for Showing Results
Apr 16 2025
Posted In: Public Safety,
New Study Highlights Importance of Council’s Permitting Reform Efforts to Fast-Track Housing image

New Study Highlights Importance of Council’s Permitting Reform Efforts to Fast-Track Housing
Apr 16 2025
Posted In: Housing,
A new study about the difficulty of building new housing in California highlights the importance of work the Bay Area Coun...
Transportation Streamlining Bill Advances image

Transportation Streamlining Bill Advances
Apr 9 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
Council-Sponsored Homelessness Legislation Unveiled image

Council-Sponsored Homelessness Legislation Unveiled
Apr 9 2025
Posted In: Homelessness,
Bay Area Council Supports Visionary Plan for Bringing Shipbuilding Industry Back to Northern California image

Bay Area Council Supports Visionary Plan for Bringing Shipbuilding Industry Back to Northern California
Apr 9 2025
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
Plan by California Forever to locate massive shipbuilding, maritime industry hub in Solano County aligns with bipartis...
Sowing the Seeds for Mass Timber Industry in California image

Sowing the Seeds for Mass Timber Industry in California
Apr 2 2025
Posted In: Housing,
Momentum Grows for Relaunching Bay Area Shipbuilding Industry image

Momentum Grows for Relaunching Bay Area Shipbuilding Industry
Apr 2 2025
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Bringing the Axe Down on Costly, Wasteful Permitting Regulations that Hamper New Housing image

Bringing the Axe Down on Costly, Wasteful Permitting Regulations that Hamper New Housing
Apr 2 2025
Posted In: Housing,
California can build the housing we need to grow our economy, bring down sky-high prices for working families and address ...

Impact Quarterly Q1, 2025
Apr 1 2025
Posted In: News,
Bay Area Council Supports More Shipbuilding in the U.S., Opposes New Fees on Chinese Vessels image

Bay Area Council Supports More Shipbuilding in the U.S., Opposes New Fees on Chinese Vessels
Mar 27 2025
Posted In: Global Business and Investment, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council, a business-supported economic leadership organization composed of more than 350 major employers in t...
Executive Committee Gathers at Visa’s Stunning Mission Rock Office image

Executive Committee Gathers at Visa’s Stunning Mission Rock Office
Mar 26 2025
Posted In: Newsroom,
Big Win for San José Transit – Airport Connector Project Moves Forward image

Big Win for San José Transit – Airport Connector Project Moves Forward
Mar 26 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
A bold
The Future of the Waterfront with Supervisor Danny Sauter image

The Future of the Waterfront with Supervisor Danny Sauter
Mar 26 2025
Posted In: Waterfront,
Council Joins State Leaders to Announce Path to Save – and Reform – Bay Area Public Transit image

Council Joins State Leaders to Announce Path to Save – and Reform – Bay Area Public Transit
Mar 26 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
Council’s Efforts to Relaunch Bay Area Shipbuilding, Maritime Industry Get Big Boosts image

Council’s Efforts to Relaunch Bay Area Shipbuilding, Maritime Industry Get Big Boosts
Mar 26 2025
Posted In: Newsroom, Uncategorized,
The Bay Area was once a global shipbuilding and maritime industry powerhouse, churning out more than 1,400 ships at 30 shi...
Tracking Bay Area Transit Recovery: Explore the Latest Data image

Tracking Bay Area Transit Recovery: Explore the Latest Data
Mar 19 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
The COVID-19 pandemic and the widespread shift to remote work caused a dramatic decline in transit ridership across the Ba...
Return to Office Policies Trend Toward More In-Person Work image

Return to Office Policies Trend Toward More In-Person Work
Mar 19 2025
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council, in partnership with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, conducted the 
BART Reports Drop in Fare Evasion with Installation of New Secure Fare Gates image

BART Reports Drop in Fare Evasion with Installation of New Secure Fare Gates
Mar 19 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
With the continuing installation of new secure fare gates, BART is reporting a decline in fare evasion. In a quarterly sur...
Newsom-Appointed Group Releases Draft Report on AI image

Newsom-Appointed Group Releases Draft Report on AI
Mar 19 2025
Posted In: Artificial Intelligence,
There’s much at stake for the Bay Area as legislators and regulators consider numerous bills and rules this year that ha...
Innovative Co-Ownership Models Offer Promising Solution to California’s Housing Crisis image

Innovative Co-Ownership Models Offer Promising Solution to California’s Housing Crisis
Mar 19 2025
Posted In: Housing,
With California’s housing affordability crisis continuing to strain families and communities and median home prices exce...
San Jose, San Francisco Mayors Announce Plans to Bolster Homelessness Efforts image

San Jose, San Francisco Mayors Announce Plans to Bolster Homelessness Efforts
Mar 19 2025
Posted In: Homelessness,
The Bay Area Council joined a spirited San José City Council meeting last night (Mar 18) to support Mayor Matt Mahan’s ...
Innovative Co-Ownership Models Offer Promising Solution to California’s Housing Crisis image

Innovative Co-Ownership Models Offer Promising Solution to California’s Housing Crisis
Mar 12 2025
Posted In: Housing, Press Releases,
With California’s housing affordability crisis continuing to strain families and communities and median home prices exce...
SFO Hosts Behind-the-Scenes Tour Focused on State-of-the-Art Safety, Security Systems image

SFO Hosts Behind-the-Scenes Tour Focused on State-of-the-Art Safety, Security Systems
Mar 12 2025
Posted In: Public Safety,
Council Helps Win Approval of Affordable Housing in Menlo Park image

Council Helps Win Approval of Affordable Housing in Menlo Park
Mar 12 2025
Posted In: Housing,
A project the Bay Area Council endorsed to build 88 affordable homes in Menlo Park won unanimous City Council approval tod...
Critical Reports Highlight Importance of Council’s Work to Bring Greater Accountability to Homeless Spending image

Critical Reports Highlight Importance of Council’s Work to Bring Greater Accountability to Homeless Spending
Mar 12 2025
Posted In: Homelessness,
Almost six years ago, the Bay Area Council released a seminal report highlighting the scope and severity of the Bay Area...
Decision Near on Fix for Richmond–San Rafael Bridge Traffic image

Decision Near on Fix for Richmond–San Rafael Bridge Traffic
Mar 12 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
Similar to the traffic slog that needlessly delays weekday commuters traveling west on the Richmond–San Rafael Bridge co...
Bay Area Council Economic Institute Partners with Sonoma County image

Bay Area Council Economic Institute Partners with Sonoma County
Mar 12 2025
Posted In: Economy, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute is proud to announce its new partner...
U.S. Should Reconsider Tariffs on Mexico, Canada image

U.S. Should Reconsider Tariffs on Mexico, Canada
Mar 5 2025
Posted In: International Business,
The Bay Area Council today (March 5) issued the following statement expressing high concern at the imposition of U.S. tari...
Bay Area Council Convenes Top Regional Science Leaders to Discuss Threats to Federal Research Funding image

Bay Area Council Convenes Top Regional Science Leaders to Discuss Threats to Federal Research Funding
Mar 5 2025
Posted In: Science and Innovation,
On March 3 leaders of the region’s scientific community met to discuss the future of science funding under the new Trump...
Bay Area Council Hosts AI Policy Leaders for Critical Discussion on Global Regulation image

Bay Area Council Hosts AI Policy Leaders for Critical Discussion on Global Regulation
Mar 5 2025
Posted In: Events,
Over a hundred Bay Area Council members gathered on the historic Klamath today (March 5) for a timely and thought-provokin...
With Eye on Improving Transit Efficiency, Council Backs $2 Billion State Funding Ask to Avoid Service Cuts image

With Eye on Improving Transit Efficiency, Council Backs $2 Billion State Funding Ask to Avoid Service Cuts
Mar 5 2025
Posted In: Uncategorized,
This morning the Bay Area Council joined state Sen. Jesse Arreguin (D-Berkeley), other state legislators,...
Report Highlights Urgency in Fixing California’s Broken Permitting System image

Report Highlights Urgency in Fixing California’s Broken Permitting System
Mar 5 2025
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Housing, Transportation,
The Assembly Select Committee on Permitting Reform, chaired by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland), ye...
Successful Sacramento Day 2025 image

Successful Sacramento Day 2025
Mar 5 2025
Posted In: Events,
Yesterday (March 5), the Bay Area Council, led by Chair Kristina Lawson and CEO Jim Wunderman
Take Action to Address Wildfire Risks and Impacts on Insurance image

Take Action to Address Wildfire Risks and Impacts on Insurance
Feb 26 2025
Posted In: Insurance Reform,
As wildfires and other natural disaste...
Bay Area Council Tour Showcases Groundbreaking Carbon Capture Innovation image

Bay Area Council Tour Showcases Groundbreaking Carbon Capture Innovation
Feb 26 2025
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Events,
Last week, Bay Area Council members had the exclusive opportunity to tour Calpine’s Project Enterprise at the Los Medano...
New KPMG Report Highlights Renewed Confidence in SF Economic Outlook image

New KPMG Report Highlights Renewed Confidence in SF Economic Outlook
Feb 26 2025
Posted In: Economy,
While San Francisco’s post-pandemic recovery has taken a different trajectory than most major cities, business leaders a...
Good News Flows for Sites Reservoir image

Good News Flows for Sites Reservoir
Feb 26 2025
Posted In: Water,
With California experiencing more frequent, longer and severe droughts, the Bay Area Council has long advocated for increa...
Council Sponsoring New CEQA Reform Legislation image

Council Sponsoring New CEQA Reform Legislation
Feb 26 2025
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council is proud to be sponsoring SB 607 by state Senator Scott Wiener, which would make important improvemen...
Council Calls for Efficiency Review to Restore Voter Confidence in Transit Funding image

Council Calls for Efficiency Review to Restore Voter Confidence in Transit Funding
Feb 26 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
As the region grapples with how to ensure that our trains, buses, and ferries continue to run, a new poll by the Metropoli...
Executive Order Raises Concerns about Future of Presidio in San Francisco image

Executive Order Raises Concerns about Future of Presidio in San Francisco
Feb 20 2025
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Feb. 20) expressed strong concern about an executive order by President Trump that appeared to...
Replay: Regional Economic Outlook for Bay Area, Seattle image

Replay: Regional Economic Outlook for Bay Area, Seattle
Feb 6 2025
Posted In: Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council recently hosted an informative and insightful conversation with CEO Jim Wunderman and Seattle Chamber...
Critical SF Commuter Bus Line Resumes Service after Council’s Advocacy image

Critical SF Commuter Bus Line Resumes Service after Council’s Advocacy
Feb 6 2025
Posted In: Transportation,
A widely popular San Francisco bus line that daily shuttled hundreds of commuters from the Marina District and other north...
Member Policy Briefing Highlights 2025 Priorities image

Member Policy Briefing Highlights 2025 Priorities
Feb 6 2025
Posted In: Membership,
Last week, the Bay Area Council policy team hosted our annual Policy Briefing, bringing together our member companies to l...
Council Applauds Legislation Targeting Retail Crime, Illegal Street Selling of Stolen Goods image

Council Applauds Legislation Targeting Retail Crime, Illegal Street Selling of Stolen Goods
Feb 6 2025
Posted In: Public Safety,
The Bay Area Council this week joined local and state elected and community leaders at a press conference announcing forth...
Bay Area Council Welcomes Aaron Hammon as Chief Financial Officer image

Bay Area Council Welcomes Aaron Hammon as Chief Financial Officer
Jan 24 2025
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council is excited to announce the appointment of Aaron Hammon as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effe...
Helping Victims and First Responders During Horrific SoCal Fires image

Helping Victims and First Responders During Horrific SoCal Fires
Jan 9 2025
Posted In: Newsroom,
We’ve all been watching with horror, shock and sadness the catastrophic scenes of destruction in Los Angeles over the pa...
AAPI Coalition and Bay Area Council Requests Gov. Newsom Deploy the CHP on BART to Improve Safety image

AAPI Coalition and Bay Area Council Requests Gov. Newsom Deploy the CHP on BART to Improve Safety
Nov 13 2024
Posted In: Press Releases, Public Safety,
The Bay Area Council and a coalition of over 100 Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) groups and individual leaders, plu...
Bay Area Council Statement on the November 2024 Election image

Bay Area Council Statement on the November 2024 Election
Nov 6 2024
Posted In: Government Relations, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Nov. 6) issued the following statement on the results of the 2024 General Election.
Women’s Leadership: Q&A with Sutter Health Executive Christina Oh image

Women’s Leadership: Q&A with Sutter Health Executive Christina Oh
Sep 25 2024
Posted In: Gender Equity, Membership,
With excitement growing for the Bay Area Council’s inaugural Women’s Leadership Summit presented by Sutter Health ...
Vancouver, BC, Trip Offers Inspiring Vision for Transforming Downtown, Urban Centers image

Vancouver, BC, Trip Offers Inspiring Vision for Transforming Downtown, Urban Centers
Apr 10 2024
Posted In: Uncategorized,
This week the Bay Area Council took a delegation to Vancouver, British Colum...
Bay Area Council and Silicon Valley Leadership Group Exploring Partnership to Establish Nation’s Most Influential Business Group image

Bay Area Council and Silicon Valley Leadership Group Exploring Partnership to Establish Nation’s Most Influential Business Group
Apr 6 2024
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area Council and the Silicon Valley Leadership Group – two of California’s leading business associations – y...
Celebrating Inspiring Women of the San Francisco Bay Area image

Celebrating Inspiring Women of the San Francisco Bay Area
Apr 3 2024
Posted In: Gender Equity,
The Bay Area is teeming with trailblazing women leaders whose immense social, civic, economic, spiritual, and cultural con...

What’s In a Name? A Lot, It Seems
Apr 3 2024
Posted In: Transportation,
The Port of Oakland last week 
Study: Building Market-Rate Housing Improves Affordability for Everyone image

Study: Building Market-Rate Housing Improves Affordability for Everyone
Apr 3 2024
Posted In: Housing,
We’ve been saying it for years, er, decades: building market-rate housing is one of the most cost-effective ways to impr...
Oakland Business Leaders Step Up to Help Address Crime, Safety Issues image

Oakland Business Leaders Step Up to Help Address Crime, Safety Issues
Apr 3 2024
Posted In: Public Safety,
Four Bay Area Council member organizations, including Blue Shield of California, The Clorox Company, Kaiser Permanente and...
Event: Innovation and the Future of Inland California image

Event: Innovation and the Future of Inland California
Mar 27 2024
Posted In: Events,
Monday, April 8Program: 2:30-5 p.m.Reception: 5-6 p.m.The historic Klamath, Pier 9, Embarcadero, San F...
Visit by Top Greek Official Highlights Council’s Leading Role in Advancing Region’s Global Economic Connections image

Visit by Top Greek Official Highlights Council’s Leading Role in Advancing Region’s Global Economic Connections
Mar 27 2024
Posted In: Economy,
The historic Klamath, the Bay Area Council’s floating headquarters on the Embarcadero in San Francisco, continues to be ...
There’s a New Dolphin on the Bay image

There’s a New Dolphin on the Bay
Mar 27 2024
Posted In: Transportation,
On Monday (March 25) Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman joined his fellow SF Bay Ferry board members, Assemb...
Critical Coastal Affordable Housing Project Approved behind Council’s Advocacy image

Critical Coastal Affordable Housing Project Approved behind Council’s Advocacy
Mar 27 2024
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council was proud to help member MidPen Housing secure unanimous approval this week for their long-awaited an...
Analysis: Changes Council Seeks to Proposed Regional Housing Bond Could Double Number of Units Produced image

Analysis: Changes Council Seeks to Proposed Regional Housing Bond Could Double Number of Units Produced
Mar 27 2024
Posted In: Housing,
With changes the Bay Area Council is seeking to make to a regional affordable housing bond measure being eyed for the Nove...
Join the BAC in D.C. (May 7-9)! image

Join the BAC in D.C. (May 7-9)!
Mar 20 2024
Posted In: Events,
Washington DC is facing down what promises to be a historic election this November. A wave of retirements, ruthless intern...
Save the Date: Pacific Summit Set for May 30 in San Jose image

Save the Date: Pacific Summit Set for May 30 in San Jose
Mar 20 2024
Posted In: Events,
Mark your calendars for the Pacific Summit presented by Sutter Health on May 30 from 12:30-4:30 p.m., wi...
Take the March Return to Office Survey image

Take the March Return to Office Survey
Mar 20 2024
Posted In: Membership,
The 
Council-Backed Reservoir Receives $205 Million Boost from Biden, Congress image

Council-Backed Reservoir Receives $205 Million Boost from Biden, Congress
Mar 20 2024
Posted In: Water,
The Bay Area Council-backed Sites Reservoir project was awarded a $205.6 million grant from the federal Bureau of Reclamat...
Groundbreaking Court Win for Housing Reform Legislation image

Groundbreaking Court Win for Housing Reform Legislation
Mar 20 2024
Posted In: Housing,
Bay Area Council member Holland and Knight has secured an important legal victory in a 
Nothing Sluggish About ADU Construction image

Nothing Sluggish About ADU Construction
Mar 20 2024
Posted In: Housing,
Santa Cruz may be known for its banana slugs, but it hasn’t been sluggish when it comes to building accessory dwelling u...
Council Names Assemblymember Buffy Wicks Regionalist of the Year image

Council Names Assemblymember Buffy Wicks Regionalist of the Year
Mar 20 2024
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council this week (March 19) announced Assemblymember Buffy Wic...
Council-Sponsored Homeless Legislation Clears First Hurdle image

Council-Sponsored Homeless Legislation Clears First Hurdle
Mar 20 2024
Posted In: Homelessness,
Legislation the Bay Area Council is co-sponsoring to streamline production of interim housing to address California’s un...
Member Event: SF Business Times Real Estate Deals of the Year image

Member Event: SF Business Times Real Estate Deals of the Year
Mar 13 2024
Posted In: Membership,
Thursday, March 285:15-8:30 p.m.Westin St. FrancisJoin ...
Save the Date: Pacific Summit Set for May 30 in San Jose image

Save the Date: Pacific Summit Set for May 30 in San Jose
Mar 13 2024
Posted In: Events,
Mark your calendars for the Pacific Summit presented by Sutter Health on May 30 from 12:30-4:30 p.m., wi...
Take the March Return to Office Survey image

Take the March Return to Office Survey
Mar 13 2024
Posted In: Events, Membership,
The 
Bay Watch: Regional Jobs Recovery Too Good to Be True image

Bay Watch: Regional Jobs Recovery Too Good to Be True
Mar 13 2024
Posted In: Economy,
Over the past year, the Bay Area Council Economic Institute has reported on monthly data from the federal Bureau of Labor ...
For Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Automobile Commuters, a New Feeling: Hope image

For Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Automobile Commuters, a New Feeling: Hope
Mar 13 2024
Posted In: Transportation,
For morning commuters on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge who face a daily back-up that’s approaching 24 teeth-grinding mi...
New Study: Closing Racial Wage Gap Would Add $55 Billion to Bay Area Economy image

New Study: Closing Racial Wage Gap Would Add $55 Billion to Bay Area Economy
Mar 13 2024
Posted In: Economy,
With debate heating up nationally over diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies to address historic racial inequitie...
Working to Realize Carbon-Free Future for Regional Ferry Service image

Working to Realize Carbon-Free Future for Regional Ferry Service
Mar 13 2024
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
In addition to providing fast, convenient service that connects the region, activates our waterfront and strengthens our e...
New Study: Addressing Racial Wage Gap Would Add $55 Billion to Bay Area Economy image

New Study: Addressing Racial Wage Gap Would Add $55 Billion to Bay Area Economy
Mar 7 2024
Posted In: Press Releases,
Study Comes as Debate Heats Up Nationally over Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Efforts by Public and Private Instituti...
Partner Event: Childcare Crisis and Business — The Case for Action image

Partner Event: Childcare Crisis and Business — The Case for Action
Mar 6 2024
Posted In: Events,
Friday March 228:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.VirtualThere is a lack of affordable childcare in Sil...
Member Event: SF Business Times Real Estate Deals of the Year image

Member Event: SF Business Times Real Estate Deals of the Year
Mar 6 2024
Posted In: Events,
Thursday, March 285:15-8:30 p.m.Westin St. FrancisJoin ...
Behind Council Advocacy, Waymo Gets OK to Expand image

Behind Council Advocacy, Waymo Gets OK to Expand
Mar 6 2024
Posted In: Transportation,
On Friday (March 1) state regulators authorized Bay Area Council member Waymo to expand its fully autonomous commercial ri...
Council Leads Amicus Brief in Pivotal U.S. Supreme Court Homelessness Case image

Council Leads Amicus Brief in Pivotal U.S. Supreme Court Homelessness Case
Mar 6 2024
Posted In: Homelessness,
The Bay Area Council and a coalition of over a dozen organizations submitted a second “friend of the court” brief to t...
Council Co-Sponsoring Game-Changing Legislation Aimed at Unsheltered Homelessness image

Council Co-Sponsoring Game-Changing Legislation Aimed at Unsheltered Homelessness
Mar 6 2024
Posted In: Homelessness,
The Bay Area Council and its partners at SPUR and DignityMoves joined Senator Josh Becker and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan at...
Voters Validate Council’s Ballot Endorsements image

Voters Validate Council’s Ballot Endorsements
Mar 6 2024
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council ran the table in San Francisco in yesterday’s primary election. Proposition A, a $300 million affor...
Bay Area Council and Silicon Valley Leadership Group Exploring Partnership to Establish Nation’s Most Influential Business Group image

Bay Area Council and Silicon Valley Leadership Group Exploring Partnership to Establish Nation’s Most Influential Business Group
Mar 5 2024
Posted In: Press Releases,
First-of-its-kind partnership would represent hundreds of innovative businesses across both Silicon Valley and the...
Prop. F Offers New Tool to Address San Francisco Drug Overdose Crisis image

Prop. F Offers New Tool to Address San Francisco Drug Overdose Crisis
Feb 28 2024
Posted In: Government Relations,
Drug overdose deaths in San Francisco this year are on track to exceed last year’s record total of 813, which was up fro...
Employers Pursue Many Strategies to Reduce Automobile Trips image

Employers Pursue Many Strategies to Reduce Automobile Trips
Feb 28 2024
Posted In: Transportation,
Some of the nation’s most innovative transportation professionals came together last week (Feb. 23) at the Bay Area Coun...
Bay Area Council Congratulates Sweden on New Consulate General in San Francisco image

Bay Area Council Congratulates Sweden on New Consulate General in San Francisco
Feb 28 2024
Posted In: Global Business and Investment,
Sweden last week (Feb. 20) formally opened a full consulate general in San Francisco, replacing its former honorary consul...
Bay Watch: After Gains, Fall Transit Ridership Dips image

Bay Watch: After Gains, Fall Transit Ridership Dips
Feb 21 2024
Posted In: Transportation,
Despite steady if not slow progress in recovering transit ridership since the depths of the pandemic, luring passengers ba...
Council Prepares Legislative Agenda on Homelessness image

Council Prepares Legislative Agenda on Homelessness
Feb 21 2024
Posted In: Homelessness,
The Bay Area Council’s Homelessness Committee and its partners are finalizing an ambitious legislative agenda to be unve...
Bay Area Council Voter Guide image

Bay Area Council Voter Guide
Feb 21 2024
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council this week (Feb. 21) announced its positions on key state and local measures appearing on the March 5 ...
Much Work Before Regional Transportation Funding Measure Is Ready for the Ballot image

Much Work Before Regional Transportation Funding Measure Is Ready for the Ballot
Feb 14 2024
Posted In: Transportation,
As BART and other transit agencies work to recover ridership lost during the pandemic and the shift to remote work, the Ba...
Top State Water Official Briefs Council on Increasing Drought Resilience image

Top State Water Official Briefs Council on Increasing Drought Resilience
Feb 14 2024
Posted In: Water,
The Bay Area Council’s Water & Climate Resilience Committee on Monday (Feb. 12) welcomed California Deputy Secretary...
Bay Area Council Joins State Legislators in Calling for Climate Resilience Bond image

Bay Area Council Joins State Legislators in Calling for Climate Resilience Bond
Feb 14 2024
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection,
The Bay Area Council and Save the Bay joined state Assemblymembers Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) and Damon Connolly (D-Marin) ...
Getting a Whiff of that New (Cal)Train Smell image

Getting a Whiff of that New (Cal)Train Smell
Feb 7 2024
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council was one of the earliest and strongest advocates for electrifying and modernizing the Caltrain commute...
Construction Afoot on Housing Project the Council Endorsed image

Construction Afoot on Housing Project the Council Endorsed
Feb 7 2024
Posted In: Housing,
Menlo Park will soon be welcoming 99 new homes in a project by March Capital Management on Haven Avenue that got the unani...
Proposed San Francisco Tax Reforms Need More Work image

Proposed San Francisco Tax Reforms Need More Work
Feb 7 2024
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area Council has long advocated for reforming a San Francisco tax system that imposes some of the highest levies o...
Bay Area Council Members in Oakland Share Concerns, Solutions to Address Rampant Crime image

Bay Area Council Members in Oakland Share Concerns, Solutions to Address Rampant Crime
Feb 7 2024
Posted In: Public Safety,
With crime in Oakland hitting crisis levels, the Bay Area Council on Monday (Feb. 5) convened member companies from the ci...
Bay Watch: Strong Finish for New Jobs in 2023 image

Bay Watch: Strong Finish for New Jobs in 2023
Feb 7 2024
Posted In: Economy,
Bay Watch is a regular feature of the Bay Area Council Economic Institute that provides analysis and insights on key l...
SF Bay Ferry Marks Year of Great Accomplishments image

SF Bay Ferry Marks Year of Great Accomplishments
Jan 31 2024
Posted In: Transportation,
Last Thursday (Jan. 25) Bay Area Council leadership and members joined the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA)...
Rampant Oakland Crime Prompts Companies to Take Extraordinary Safety Measures image

Rampant Oakland Crime Prompts Companies to Take Extraordinary Safety Measures
Jan 31 2024
Posted In: Public Safety,
The news was bleak out of Oakland this week as residents and businesses are increasinglyfalling victim to growing crim...
Perspective: Doubling Down on DEI image

Perspective: Doubling Down on DEI
Jan 31 2024
Posted In: Gender Equity,
Bay Area Council Chair and Hanson Bridgett Managing Partner Kristina Lawson joined Hanson Bridgett Chief Diversity, Eq...
Planning Under Way for 2026 Regional Transportation Funding Measure image

Planning Under Way for 2026 Regional Transportation Funding Measure
Jan 31 2024
Posted In: Transportation,
While much attention is focused on the upcoming March primary election and the November Presidential election, it’s not ...
Council Weighs in on Regional Housing Bond Proposal image

Council Weighs in on Regional Housing Bond Proposal
Jan 31 2024
Posted In: Housing,
The November 2024 ballot, from top to bottom, is already shaping up to be one of the most consequential in modern times.&n...
Bay Area Council Endorses Prop. 1 on March Ballot; Announces Positions on Other Key Local Measures image

Bay Area Council Endorses Prop. 1 on March Ballot; Announces Positions on Other Key Local Measures
Jan 24 2024
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council this week announced our endorsement of Proposition 1, the Be...
Bay Area Council Housing Reforms Paying Dividends image

Bay Area Council Housing Reforms Paying Dividends
Jan 24 2024
Posted In: Housing,
Housing reform legislation the Bay Area Council sponsored and supported in recent years is paying dividends for homebuilde...
San Mateo County Passes Bay Area Council-Backed Ordinance to Bring Homeless Residents Indoors image

San Mateo County Passes Bay Area Council-Backed Ordinance to Bring Homeless Residents Indoors
Jan 24 2024
Posted In: Homelessness,
Unsheltered homeless residents in San Mateo County will be required to accept shelter when available under a new ordinance...
Bay Watch: Population Woes May Be Easing image

Bay Watch: Population Woes May Be Easing
Jan 24 2024
Posted In: Economy,
The California Department of Finance released new county-level population data for 2023, and for the first time since 2012...
Member Spotlight: Big Win for Calpine Decarbonization Projects image

Member Spotlight: Big Win for Calpine Decarbonization Projects
Jan 24 2024
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Calpine announced that its Sutter Decarbonization Project has been selected by the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations w...
Bay Area Council Endorses Prop. 1 Behavioral Health Services Act image

Bay Area Council Endorses Prop. 1 Behavioral Health Services Act
Jan 22 2024
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 22) announced its formal endorsement of Proposition 1, the
U.S. Supreme Court Sides with Bay Area Council in Taking up Controversial Homelessness Case image

U.S. Supreme Court Sides with Bay Area Council in Taking up Controversial Homelessness Case
Jan 17 2024
Posted In: Homelessness,
In a major victory for the Bay Area Council’s work to address homelessness, the U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to review ...
Announcing 2024 Policy Committee Chairs image

Announcing 2024 Policy Committee Chairs
Jan 17 2024
Posted In: Membership,
The Bay Area Council is extremely fortunate to have incredible leaders to guide the important policy work we do. Because o...
BART Getting Busy with New, Secure Fare Gate Installation image

BART Getting Busy with New, Secure Fare Gate Installation
Jan 17 2024
Posted In: Public Safety,
BART has begun rolling out prototypes of its new, more secure fare...
SFO International Terminal Named in Honor of Sen. Dianne Feinstein image

SFO International Terminal Named in Honor of Sen. Dianne Feinstein
Jan 17 2024
Posted In: China,
The San Francisco Airport Commission this week voted to name the SFO international terminal in honor of Sen. Dianne Feinst...
Bay Area Council Insights on the 2024 Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show and China Night Forum image

Bay Area Council Insights on the 2024 Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show and China Night Forum
Jan 17 2024
Posted In: China,
Last week marked the annual kickoff for one of the world’s biggest technology showcases the 2024 Consumer Electronics Sh...
Bay Area Council Applauds Gov. Newsom for Rejecting Wealth Tax as He Unveils 2024-25 Budget Proposal image

Bay Area Council Applauds Gov. Newsom for Rejecting Wealth Tax as He Unveils 2024-25 Budget Proposal
Jan 10 2024
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 10) issued the following statement in response to Gov. Newsom’s proposed 2024-25 budget...
End of an Era for the SF Business Times as Publisher and Visionary Leader Mary Huss Announces Retirement image

End of an Era for the SF Business Times as Publisher and Visionary Leader Mary Huss Announces Retirement
Jan 10 2024
Posted In: Membership,
After an illustrious 30-year career as head of the Bay Area’s preeminent business news publications, Mary Huss this week...
The Region’s Global Connections Run through the Council and its Floating HQ, the Klamath image

The Region’s Global Connections Run through the Council and its Floating HQ, the Klamath
Jan 10 2024
Posted In: Global Business and Investment,
2023 was a big year for the Bay Area Council on the international front. In addition to
As Homelessness Increases, Council Urges Bay Area Legislators to Embrace Interim Housing image

As Homelessness Increases, Council Urges Bay Area Legislators to Embrace Interim Housing
Jan 10 2024
Posted In: Homelessness,
California is losing ground in the fight against homelessness and should shift focus towards bringing people indoors and s...
Council Condemns Attacks that Cause Berkeley Councilmember to Step Down image

Council Condemns Attacks that Cause Berkeley Councilmember to Step Down
Jan 10 2024
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Citing ongoing political “harassment, stalking and threats” from members of the community, Berkeley City Councilmember...
SCOTUS Hears Oral Arguments in Case Challenging Arbitrary Local Impact Fees image

SCOTUS Hears Oral Arguments in Case Challenging Arbitrary Local Impact Fees
Jan 10 2024
Posted In: Housing,
The U.S. Supreme Court this week heard oral arguments in a case in which the Bay Area Council submitted an
Homelessness Grew in California in 2023, but at a Slower Pace than the Rest of the U.S. image

Homelessness Grew in California in 2023, but at a Slower Pace than the Rest of the U.S.
Dec 20 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
California continues to lose ground in its fight against homelessness, according to the latest data released Friday by the...
Council CEO Named to State Task Force to Reimagine Transit image

Council CEO Named to State Task Force to Reimagine Transit
Dec 20 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman has been appointed by California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin ...
Poll: Richmond Voters Feel Ignored by Regional Transportation Leaders, Overwhelmingly Support Opening Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Third Lane to Motorists image

Poll: Richmond Voters Feel Ignored by Regional Transportation Leaders, Overwhelmingly Support Opening Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Third Lane to Motorists
Dec 8 2023
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
Eighty percent of Richmond voters support opening the third lane on the upper deck of the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge for c...
Breached Bay Levee = Climate Resilience image

Breached Bay Levee = Climate Resilience
Dec 6 2023
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection,
With the help of a large excavator, Bay water recently poured through a broken earthen levee and began filling an old, 300...
Delivering Results for the Bay Area and Our Members image

Delivering Results for the Bay Area and Our Members
Dec 6 2023
Posted In: Membership,
We’re going to need a bigger Flash. That’s what it feels like as ...
A Bright Future for California’s Supply Chain image

A Bright Future for California’s Supply Chain
Dec 6 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The importance of California’s supply chain cannot be overstated – it drives one-third of the state’s economy and cr...
Exploring the Promise of Carbon Sequestration image

Exploring the Promise of Carbon Sequestration
Dec 6 2023
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection,
Achieving California’s ambitious climate goals will take many strategies, including prioritizing new and innovative tech...
Homeless Committee Welcomes New Chairs, Sets Ambitious 2024 Agenda image

Homeless Committee Welcomes New Chairs, Sets Ambitious 2024 Agenda
Dec 6 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
The Bay Area Council’s Homelessness Committee yesterday (Dec. 5) introduced new co-chairs and adopted an ambitious agend...
New Survey Findings Suggests Trend Toward More In-Person Work image

New Survey Findings Suggests Trend Toward More In-Person Work
Dec 6 2023
Posted In: Economy,
The pendulum may be swinging. New data from the November Return to...
78th Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame Dazzles image

78th Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame Dazzles
Dec 6 2023
Posted In: Events,
A record and very energetic crowd, including a Who’s Who of the region’s business leaders, celebrated two incredible B...
Bay Area Homelessness Leader Named CA Housing Secretary image

Bay Area Homelessness Leader Named CA Housing Secretary
Nov 29 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
Yesterday (Nov. 28), Gov. Newsom
A Look Back at Council’s Role in Successful APEC Week image

A Look Back at Council’s Role in Successful APEC Week
Nov 29 2023
Posted In: International Business,
The Bay Area Council was proud to play a key role in bringing the recent APEC Leaders Summit to San Francisco, where Presi...
Assembly Leadership Changes Could Bode Well for Bay Area image

Assembly Leadership Changes Could Bode Well for Bay Area
Nov 29 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
If you believe that whoever controls the levers of power conveys any political advantage, then the leadership and legislat...
Council Joins State Leaders to Reimagine Future of Bay Area Public Transit image

Council Joins State Leaders to Reimagine Future of Bay Area Public Transit
Nov 29 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council joined top transportation leaders at a Senate Select Committee hearing convened by Sen. Scott Wiener ...
Proposed Sites Reservoir Crosses Critical Milestone image

Proposed Sites Reservoir Crosses Critical Milestone
Nov 22 2023
Posted In: Water,
Sites Reservoir, the proposed 1.5 million acre-foot off-stream reservoir that would be the 8th largest in Calif...
Event Highlights Power of Apprenticeships image

Event Highlights Power of Apprenticeships
Nov 22 2023
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
On Friday November 18, the Bay Area Council and our partners in the Northern California Apprenticeship Network hosted a ce...
Council Statement on Gov. Newsom’s AI Announcement image

Council Statement on Gov. Newsom’s AI Announcement
Nov 22 2023
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council this week (Nov. 21) issued the following statement on Gov. Newsom’s announcement about the release ...
Council Joins Supreme Court Case Challenging Arbitrary Local Impact Fees image

Council Joins Supreme Court Case Challenging Arbitrary Local Impact Fees
Nov 22 2023
Posted In: Housing,
Excessive and often arbitrary local fees have long contributed to California’s housing crisis, driving up the cost of bu...
Bay Area, San Francisco and Klamath Shine During Successful APEC Week image

Bay Area, San Francisco and Klamath Shine During Successful APEC Week
Nov 22 2023
Posted In: International Business,
What a week that was!  San Francisco hosted what was by all accounts a very successful APEC Leaders Summit. The ...
Busy Week on the Housing Front image

Busy Week on the Housing Front
Nov 15 2023
Posted In: Housing,
It was a busy week on the housing front, with a key federal court ruling smacking down a lawsuit challenging legislation (...
As APEC Launches, the Bay Area and the Historic Klamath Take Center Stage image

As APEC Launches, the Bay Area and the Historic Klamath Take Center Stage
Nov 15 2023
Posted In: International Business,
As Presidents Biden and Xi Jinping arrived in San Francisco this week for an historic gathering of Asia Pacific leaders, t...
New Reservoir Project Gets Accelerated behind Council’s Advocacy image

New Reservoir Project Gets Accelerated behind Council’s Advocacy
Nov 8 2023
Posted In: Water,
California’s ability to update, improve and modernize its critical infrastructure has too often been delayed and made mo...
Gov. Newsom and California Delegation Fortifies Economic and Environmental Ties in China image

Gov. Newsom and California Delegation Fortifies Economic and Environmental Ties in China
Nov 8 2023
Posted In: China,
Over the past few weeks, a series of delegations to China spearheaded by Gov. Newsom and the California business community...
NBA All-Star Week Coming to the Bay Area image

NBA All-Star Week Coming to the Bay Area
Nov 8 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
With world leaders getting ready to descend on San Francisco and the Bay Area for a major weeklong summit (see below), the...
Council Launches Hard-Hitting Ads to End Needless Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Traffic image

Council Launches Hard-Hitting Ads to End Needless Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Traffic
Nov 8 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
As part of a continuing campaign to ease eastbound morning congestion on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, the Bay Area Coun...
California’s Top Transportation Officials Share Future Vision image

California’s Top Transportation Officials Share Future Vision
Nov 8 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
California Transportation Sec. Toks Omishakin and his top deputies met with dozens of Bay Area Council members for an excl...
Council’s Work to Address BART Safety, Cleanliness Concerns Showing Results image

Council’s Work to Address BART Safety, Cleanliness Concerns Showing Results
Nov 8 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council has advocated fiercely for an aggressive focus on addressing rising safety and cleanliness concerns o...
Member Spotlight: KTSF Offers Chinese Language Coverage of APEC Leaders Summit image

Member Spotlight: KTSF Offers Chinese Language Coverage of APEC Leaders Summit
Oct 27 2023
Posted In: Membership,
With San Francisco hosting the APEC 2023 Leaders Summit (see above) in November, KTSF news, having served the Chinese comm...
New Report Highlights Luxembourg’s Growing Connections to the Bay Area and California image

New Report Highlights Luxembourg’s Growing Connections to the Bay Area and California
Oct 27 2023
Posted In: Global Business and Investment,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute this week released its 
State Blasts San Francisco’s Housing Recalcitrance image

State Blasts San Francisco’s Housing Recalcitrance
Oct 27 2023
Posted In: Housing,
No wonder San Francisco’s housing crisis seems worse than anywhere else. A scathing report by the California Department ...
All Aboard Transit: 49ers Fans, Hybrid Workers, and More! image

All Aboard Transit: 49ers Fans, Hybrid Workers, and More!
Oct 27 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Bay Area Council members the San Francisco 49ers and the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE) are teaming up to give 49ers fans...
Could the Fiscal Cliff Finally Lead to Transit Consolidation? image

Could the Fiscal Cliff Finally Lead to Transit Consolidation?
Oct 27 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Maybe the fiscal cliff will finally do what the Bay Area Council has been advocating for years: achieving some form of con...
Council Applauds Gov. Newsom’s Leadership in China Diplomacy image

Council Applauds Gov. Newsom’s Leadership in China Diplomacy
Oct 27 2023
Posted In: China,
Over a decade ago, the Bay Area Council saw the power of subnational relationships between California, the Bay Area and Ch...
Get Your Tables Now for Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame image

Get Your Tables Now for Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame
Oct 20 2023
Posted In: Events,
It’s one of our signature events and one we look forward to every year with great excitement because we get to spend a j...
Council Applauds Exciting Campaign to Celebrate, Promote San Francisco image

Council Applauds Exciting Campaign to Celebrate, Promote San Francisco
Oct 20 2023
Posted In: Community Engagement,
A consortium of San Francisco business leaders this week (Oct. 19) launched a groundbreaking multimedia campaign to remind...
Regional Commuter Rail Expansion Plans Face Post-Pandemic Realities image

Regional Commuter Rail Expansion Plans Face Post-Pandemic Realities
Oct 20 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The plans are bold and visionary. They aspire to create a highly integrated network of rail transportation systems connect...
Bay Watch: Home Prices Rise for First Time in 14 Months image

Bay Watch: Home Prices Rise for First Time in 14 Months
Oct 13 2023
Posted In: Economy,
Last week news reports across the region celebrated that Bay Area home prices had risen for the first time in 14 months, f...
California Celebrates Selection as National Hydrogen Hub image

California Celebrates Selection as National Hydrogen Hub
Oct 13 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
In a transformative move for renewable energy, California 
Bay Area Council Stands with Israel in Wake of Barbaric Attack; Calls for Peace image

Bay Area Council Stands with Israel in Wake of Barbaric Attack; Calls for Peace
Oct 13 2023
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council this week issued the following statement in the wake of the violent attack by the terrorists group Ha...
Big Swell of Support for SF Waterfront Ferry Expansion image

Big Swell of Support for SF Waterfront Ferry Expansion
Oct 13 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The wave of support for ferry expansion is growing in San Francisco, thanks to an effort spearheaded by the Bay Area Counc...
Council Welcomes Speaker Rivas for Discussion on Key Issues image

Council Welcomes Speaker Rivas for Discussion on Key Issues
Oct 13 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
New Speaker of the California State Assembly, Robert Rivas, today met with members of the Bay Area Council Executive Commi...
Banner Year in Sacramento for Bay Area Council Legislative, Budget Priorities image

Banner Year in Sacramento for Bay Area Council Legislative, Budget Priorities
Oct 13 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
With just one day left before the Oct. 14 deadline for Gov. Newsom to sign or veto legislation, the Bay Area Council is ce...
Member Spotlight: AWS’s Commitment to Bettering California Communities, Businesses and Environment image

Member Spotlight: AWS’s Commitment to Bettering California Communities, Businesses and Environment
Oct 12 2023
Posted In: Membership,
Silicon Valley is the global hub of tech innovation — making Northern California a natural home for the world’s most c...
Bay Area Council Applauds Gov. Newsom’s Veto of Legislation to Ease Penalties for Fare Evasion on Public Transit image

Bay Area Council Applauds Gov. Newsom’s Veto of Legislation to Ease Penalties for Fare Evasion on Public Transit
Oct 9 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council today (Oct. 9) applauded Gov. Newsom’s veto of AB 819, legislation that would have eased penalties ...
Playback: Can We Innovate Our Way Out of Drought image

Playback: Can We Innovate Our Way Out of Drought
Oct 6 2023
Posted In: Water,
Thank you to everyone who attended the Bay Area Council’s recent in-person forum on water sustainability aboard the Klam...
Spirited Discussion with BART Director Debora Allen image

Spirited Discussion with BART Director Debora Allen
Oct 6 2023
Posted In: Events,
The Bay Area Council this week (Oct. 5) launched its Spirited Discussion speakers series on the Klamath, welcoming BART Bo...
RSVP: NY Times SF Bureau Chief Heather Knight Talks SF Present and Future image

RSVP: NY Times SF Bureau Chief Heather Knight Talks SF Present and Future
Oct 6 2023
Posted In: Events,
Her stories and insights are real, infuriating, poignant, uplifting and painful. They reflect the kaleidoscope that is San...
Member Spotlight: Nor Cal Carpenters Union Works to Advance a Culture of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion image

Member Spotlight: Nor Cal Carpenters Union Works to Advance a Culture of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Oct 6 2023
Posted In: Membership,
The Nor Cal Carpenters Union has fought to change the culture of our industry since new leadership was elected to power in...
Meeting Climate Goals with Carbon Capture image

Meeting Climate Goals with Carbon Capture
Oct 6 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
On Monday (Oct. 2) the Bay Area Council Energy Committee, co-chaired by Carla Peterman, Executive Vice President of Corpor...
Making Inroads on Ending CEQA Abuse to Block Housing image

Making Inroads on Ending CEQA Abuse to Block Housing
Oct 6 2023
Posted In: Housing,
It was standing room only at the Bay Area Council Housing Committee meeting this week as members met with top lobbyists an...
Bay Watch: AI Boom is Anything but Artificial image

Bay Watch: AI Boom is Anything but Artificial
Oct 6 2023
Posted In: Economy,
As San Francisco and other cities across the region continue their post-pandemic economic recovery, the growth of the AI i...
Survey: Steady Uptick in Workers Returning to Office image

Survey: Steady Uptick in Workers Returning to Office
Oct 6 2023
Posted In: News,
There’s been a slow, but steady uptick in the number of workers leaving behind their slippers, pajamas and Zoom meetings...
Council Cheers Veto of Bill to Extend Unemployment Benefits to Striking Workers image

Council Cheers Veto of Bill to Extend Unemployment Benefits to Striking Workers
Oct 6 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
California’s unemployment insurance program was established to assist workers who lose their jobs through no fault of th...
Colombia Consul General Highlights Exciting Economic Opportunities in Bogota image

Colombia Consul General Highlights Exciting Economic Opportunities in Bogota
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: Global Business and Investment,
Last Friday, the Bay Area Council’s Global Business & Investment Committee (GBI) hosted a breakfast briefing with&nb...
China Greater Bay Area Development Business Conference image

China Greater Bay Area Development Business Conference
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area Council’s Jennifer Zou participated recently in the first-ever Greater Bay Area (GBA) Development Business ...
Member Viewpoint: PG&E CEO Patti Poppe Challenges CPUC on Powerline Undergrounding image

Member Viewpoint: PG&E CEO Patti Poppe Challenges CPUC on Powerline Undergrounding
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: Membership,
PG&E CEO Patti Poppe in a commentary this week in the Mercury News highlights the utility’s four-year plan to invest...
Reports of SVB’s Death Are Greatly Exaggerated image

Reports of SVB’s Death Are Greatly Exaggerated
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: Economy,
Bay Area Council Economic Institute Senior Director Sean Randolph recently attended a conference at the office of Bay Area...
Bay Watch: Bay Area Remote Work Levels Dropping, Still Highest in the Country image

Bay Watch: Bay Area Remote Work Levels Dropping, Still Highest in the Country
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: Economy,
Bay Area workers are showing signs of leaving the virtual world behind and returning to offices and workplaces in person. ...
Council Uncorks “Spirited Discussion” Speaker Series image

Council Uncorks “Spirited Discussion” Speaker Series
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: Events,
Join us on Thursday, October 5 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm for the first installment of the Bay Area Council's "Spirite...
Getting the Goods on Goods Movement image

Getting the Goods on Goods Movement
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure,
Assemblymember Mia Bonta this week joined the Bay Area Council’s Goods Movement Subcommittee for an engaging and informa...
Bay Area TDM Summit Explores New Ways to Move Around image

Bay Area TDM Summit Explores New Ways to Move Around
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area TDM Summit 2023 featured an all-star lineup of transportation experts and over 100 mobility enthusiasts last ...
Next, You’ll Tell Us There are Flying Ferries. Wait… What? image

Next, You’ll Tell Us There are Flying Ferries. Wait… What?
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council’s Waterfront Mobility Committee convened in a packed room of ferry enthusiasts on Wednesday (Sept. ...
Council’s Advocacy Helps Secure Veto of Harmful Driverless Vehicle Legislation image

Council’s Advocacy Helps Secure Veto of Harmful Driverless Vehicle Legislation
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
California’s ability to compete in the fast-growing autonomous vehicle space got a big boost last week when Gov. Newsom ...
Wunderman Named Chair of New California Coalition; Tracy Hernandez to Serve as CEO image

Wunderman Named Chair of New California Coalition; Tracy Hernandez to Serve as CEO
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
The New California Coalition (NCC), one of the state’s fastest growing business civic groups uniting tens of thousands o...
Sen. Dianne Feinstein Leaves Behind an Expansive Legacy of Leadership, Accomplishment, Service image

Sen. Dianne Feinstein Leaves Behind an Expansive Legacy of Leadership, Accomplishment, Service
Sep 29 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
San Francisco, California and the nation lost a transformational leader today with the passing of Sen. Dianne Feinstein, w...
Bay Area Council Applauds Gov. Newsom’s Veto of Legislation (AB 316) that Would Have Hurt California’s Leadership, Competitiveness in Autonomous Trucking/Vehicle Technology image

Bay Area Council Applauds Gov. Newsom’s Veto of Legislation (AB 316) that Would Have Hurt California’s Leadership, Competitiveness in Autonomous Trucking/Vehicle Technology
Sep 26 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council today (Sept. 25) issued the following statement applauding Gov. Newsom for vetoing AB 316 and enablin...
Member Spotlight: Gilead Announces New Foster City Research Center image

Member Spotlight: Gilead Announces New Foster City Research Center
Sep 22 2023
Posted In: Membership,
Earlier this month, Gilead announced the company’s intent to build a new 
Get Your Tables Now for Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame image

Get Your Tables Now for Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame
Sep 22 2023
Posted In: Events,
It’s one of our signature events and one we look forward to every year with great excitement because we get to spend a j...
Water Sustainability Forum: Can We Innovate Our Way Out of Drought? image

Water Sustainability Forum: Can We Innovate Our Way Out of Drought?
Sep 22 2023
Posted In: Events, Water,
Friday, September 2911 a.m. to 12noonThe Klamath, Pier 9, the Embarcadero, San Francisco
Growing Ties with China at Greater Bay Area Development Business Conference image

Growing Ties with China at Greater Bay Area Development Business Conference
Sep 22 2023
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area Council’s Jennifer Zou participated recently in the first-ever Greater Bay Area (GBA) Development Business ...
Curtain Rises on Shutdown Theater image

Curtain Rises on Shutdown Theater
Sep 22 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
With House Republicans locked in an increasingly ugly intra-party battle and unable to even begin debate on the most nonco...
A Bridge (and Estuary) Not Too Far image

A Bridge (and Estuary) Not Too Far
Sep 22 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council was proud to join local leaders and stakeholders this week for a ferry ride in the Oakland-Alameda Es...
Bay Area Council Goes Nuclear image

Bay Area Council Goes Nuclear
Sep 22 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
With California chasing ambitious climate goals and demand for clean energy skyrocketing, the importance of the Diablo Can...
Council Asks U.S. Supreme Court to Intervene in Homelessness Ruling image

Council Asks U.S. Supreme Court to Intervene in Homelessness Ruling
Sep 22 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
The Bay Area Council today formally asked the U.S. Supreme Court to review a lower federal court ruling that has effective...
Leg Tracker: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly image

Leg Tracker: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly
Sep 22 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
It was a banner year for Bay Area Council legislation on a range of issues, but the overall picture from Sacramento was fa...
Partner Event: Hotel Council of San Francisco image

Partner Event: Hotel Council of San Francisco
Sep 15 2023
Posted In: Membership,
The Hotel Council of San Francisco is delighted to announce its highly anticipated 29th Annual Golf Tournament, the signat...
Fleet Week Weekend Is a Bay Area Favorite! image

Fleet Week Weekend Is a Bay Area Favorite!
Sep 15 2023
Posted In: Events,
Held annually between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, The San Francisco Fleet Week Air Show presented by United attra...
Member Spotlight: Hallcon Opens Largest EV Charging Facility of Its Kind in Bay Area image

Member Spotlight: Hallcon Opens Largest EV Charging Facility of Its Kind in Bay Area
Sep 15 2023
Posted In: Membership,
Hallcon Corporation, a leading provider of mobility and infrastructure solutions, this week (Sept. 12) held the grand open...
Bay Watch: Region Gained 3,000 Jobs in August, but Growth Starting to Slow image

Bay Watch: Region Gained 3,000 Jobs in August, but Growth Starting to Slow
Sep 15 2023
Posted In: Economy,
The nine-county Bay Area added 3,000 jobs last month — a reversal that defied a slight downtick in July, when the r...
Historic Investment in Fighting Retail Theft and Crime image

Historic Investment in Fighting Retail Theft and Crime
Sep 15 2023
Posted In: Public Safety,
It seems like hardly a day goes by that some video goes viral on social media showing groups of criminals brazenly robbing...
Gov. Newsom is Headed to China image

Gov. Newsom is Headed to China
Sep 15 2023
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area Council this week (Sept. 14) loudly applauded an announcement by Gov. Newsom that he will travel to China nex...
Council Cheers Passage of Major Housing (CEQA) Reform Legislation image

Council Cheers Passage of Major Housing (CEQA) Reform Legislation
Sep 15 2023
Posted In: Housing,
Following a Herculean advocacy effort, the Bay Area Council yesterday (Sept. 14) cheered the passage of legislation (AB 16...
Bay Area Council Applauds Gov. Newsom on Announcing China Trip to Highlight Climate Issues image

Bay Area Council Applauds Gov. Newsom on Announcing China Trip to Highlight Climate Issues
Sep 14 2023
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area Council today applauded Gov. Newsom’s announcement that he will lead a group of California government offic...
Unpacking U.S.-India Technology Cooperation image

Unpacking U.S.-India Technology Cooperation
Sep 8 2023
Posted In: Global Business and Investment,
June’s meeting between U.S. President Biden and India’s Prime Minister Modi advanced the U.S.-India connection to a ne...
Learn About New Business Opportunities in China image

Learn About New Business Opportunities in China
Sep 8 2023
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area Council invites you to Investment and Trade with China - New Business Opportunities 
Get Your Tables Now for Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame image

Get Your Tables Now for Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame
Sep 8 2023
Posted In: Events,
It’s one of our signature events and one we look forward to every year with great excitement because we get to spend a j...
Commentary: Time for San Francisco to Pull Plug on Electric Infrastructure Takeover image

Commentary: Time for San Francisco to Pull Plug on Electric Infrastructure Takeover
Sep 8 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
This commentary by Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman appeared today in the San Francisco Examiner.
Commentary: California Businesses Are Ready to Help California Lead on Climate Goals image

Commentary: California Businesses Are Ready to Help California Lead on Climate Goals
Sep 8 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
Joydeep Ganguly, Senior Vice President for Global Operations at Gilead Sciences and Co-Chair of the Bay Area Council’s C...
Regional Economic Recovery Remains Sluggish image

Regional Economic Recovery Remains Sluggish
Sep 8 2023
Posted In: Economy,
For the third quarter in a row, the San Francisco metro area remains second to last in a list of 25 large metropolitan are...
Good News from Initial Court Ruling on Homeless Encampments image

Good News from Initial Court Ruling on Homeless Encampments
Sep 8 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
San Francisco, as part of its efforts to provide shelter to the unhoused, can resume removing illegal encampments that ...
Housing Streamlining Bill Gets a Big Win image

Housing Streamlining Bill Gets a Big Win
Sep 8 2023
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council applauds state Sen. Scott Wiener on his resounding success in passing SB 423, which extends his landm...
Time to Pull Out the Veto Pen image

Time to Pull Out the Veto Pen
Sep 8 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Two bills – one that would undermine work being done to address crime and safety issues on public transit and another th...
Council Urges Assembly to Reject Disastrous Unemployment Insurance Expansion image

Council Urges Assembly to Reject Disastrous Unemployment Insurance Expansion
Sep 8 2023
Posted In: Economy,
California’s unemployment insurance system is currently saddled with $19 billion in debt from claims made during the pan...
Council Members Step Up as San Francisco’s APEC Planning Picks Up Steam image

Council Members Step Up as San Francisco’s APEC Planning Picks Up Steam
Sep 1 2023
Posted In: Events,
Preparations for the arrival of the APEC Leaders Summit in November are picking up steam with recent data from the office ...
As BART Plans New Fare Gates, D.C. Metro Success Shows the Pay Off image

As BART Plans New Fare Gates, D.C. Metro Success Shows the Pay Off
Sep 1 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
With the installation of new more secure fare gates, the Metro transit system serving Washington, D.C., 
Buses, Trains, and Ferries, Oh My! Soon Bay Area Transit Commuters Could Ride All with a Single Card image

Buses, Trains, and Ferries, Oh My! Soon Bay Area Transit Commuters Could Ride All with a Single Card
Sep 1 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Congratulations to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) on completing the first year of the 
Council Congratulates North Bay Sen. Mike McGuire on Being Named Next Senate Pro Tem image

Council Congratulates North Bay Sen. Mike McGuire on Being Named Next Senate Pro Tem
Sep 1 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council this week congratulated state Sen. Mike McGuire, who represents a wide swath of the North Bay an...
Research Reveals Power of Bay Area Council’s Groundbreaking ADU Reforms image

Research Reveals Power of Bay Area Council’s Groundbreaking ADU Reforms
Sep 1 2023
Posted In: Housing,
New research shows the benefits of the Bay Area Council’s landmark accessory dwelling unit (ADUs) reforms and that those...
Date Set for Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame Honoring Two Amazing Leaders image

Date Set for Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame Honoring Two Amazing Leaders
Sep 1 2023
Posted In: Events,
It’s one of our signature events and one we look forward to every year with great excitement because we get to spend a j...
Great Day in the Legislature for Council’s Housing Reform Efforts image

Great Day in the Legislature for Council’s Housing Reform Efforts
Sep 1 2023
Posted In: Housing,
Today was a great day for housing reform in California, with priority housing bills passing out of a critical final legisl...
Member Spotlight: Crown Castle’s Collective Work and Impact Celebrated in Smithsonian Display image

Member Spotlight: Crown Castle’s Collective Work and Impact Celebrated in Smithsonian Display
Aug 25 2023
Posted In: Membership,
The work Crown Castle does every day that enables people to connect with the...
Council Hears about Gov. Newsom’s Bold Mental Health Plan image

Council Hears about Gov. Newsom’s Bold Mental Health Plan
Aug 25 2023
Posted In: Healthcare,
With debate heating up over a bold proposal by Gov. Newsom to address California’s growing mental health crisis, the Bay...
Onerous Stormwater Regulations Threaten Critical Housing image

Onerous Stormwater Regulations Threaten Critical Housing
Aug 25 2023
Posted In: Housing,
If California was as good at making it easy to build housing as it is making it difficult to build housing, we’d have no...
9th Circuit Hints at Relief in Critical Homelessness Case image

9th Circuit Hints at Relief in Critical Homelessness Case
Aug 25 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
Judges for the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals on Wednesday appeared poised to answer San Francisco’s pleas for clarit...
Council Shares Key Priorities with CA Transportation Secretary and Caltrans Regional Director image

Council Shares Key Priorities with CA Transportation Secretary and Caltrans Regional Director
Aug 25 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
California Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin visited the Klamath this week to discuss several key regional transp...
Behind Council’s Advocacy, Bridge Toll Hike Paused image

Behind Council’s Advocacy, Bridge Toll Hike Paused
Aug 25 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council was the first and loudest to oppose a proposed $1.50 bridge toll hike that divided the region, failed...
San Francisco Steers Wrong Direction on Driverless Cars image

San Francisco Steers Wrong Direction on Driverless Cars
Aug 18 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
At a time when San Francisco should be doing everything in its power to create a welcoming environment for innovative tech...
New Poll Supports Council’s Work to Reform CEQA, Land Use Laws image

New Poll Supports Council’s Work to Reform CEQA, Land Use Laws
Aug 18 2023
Posted In: Housing,
A new 
Council-Supported Affordable Homeownership Project Advances image

Council-Supported Affordable Homeownership Project Advances
Aug 18 2023
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council fought for and won support for a housing project in Sunnyvale this week that will deliver 114 new hom...
Council Applauds New California-Australia Climate Partnership image

Council Applauds New California-Australia Climate Partnership
Aug 18 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
Just a few weeks after his top environmental secretary helped lead the Bay Area Council’s business delegation trip to Au...
Capitol Weekly Honors Council’s Wunderman as One of California’s Top 100 Influencers image

Capitol Weekly Honors Council’s Wunderman as One of California’s Top 100 Influencers
Aug 18 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman was once again honored by Capitol Weekly as one California’s Top 100 political movers...
APEC Meets California and Silicon Valley (Nov. 13-17) image

APEC Meets California and Silicon Valley (Nov. 13-17)
Aug 18 2023
Posted In: Events,
As the Bay Area Council prepares for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, an historic and monumental event...
BART Making Strong Moves to Address Crime, Safety and Cleanliness Concerns image

BART Making Strong Moves to Address Crime, Safety and Cleanliness Concerns
Aug 18 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
BART is making some strong moves to address concerns about crime, safety and cleanliness that many riders say are keeping ...
Partner Event: LA Business Council Sustainability Summit image

Partner Event: LA Business Council Sustainability Summit
Aug 11 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Please join the Los Angeles Business Council on September 22 at USC for their Sustainability Summit. This year's Summit wi...
Join the Council in the Clean Air Challenge image

Join the Council in the Clean Air Challenge
Aug 11 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council has joined the Coalition for Clean Air's 
Bay Watch: State of Bay Area Business Travel image

Bay Watch: State of Bay Area Business Travel
Aug 11 2023
Posted In: Economy,
As some cities experience a resurgence in business travel, reaching or exceeding pre-pandemic levels of hotel occupancy, c...
Keeping Up with Housing image

Keeping Up with Housing
Aug 11 2023
Posted In: Housing,
With the Legislature scheduled to return to session next week, the Bay Area Council will be watching closely to ensure a n...
Important Milestones for Expanding Ferry Service to Berkeley image

Important Milestones for Expanding Ferry Service to Berkeley
Aug 11 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
A 
Council Leading Business Delegation to China Nov. 1-8 image

Council Leading Business Delegation to China Nov. 1-8
Aug 11 2023
Posted In: China, Global Business and Investment,
The Bay Area Council invites you to participate in our upcoming 2023 California Trade Delegation to China on November 1-8,...
Council Hails Ruling on Driverless Vehicles in San Francisco image

Council Hails Ruling on Driverless Vehicles in San Francisco
Aug 11 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
In a big win for transportation innovation, expanded mobility options and safer streets, the California Public Utilities C...
Council Applauds Letter from Congressional Representatives Decrying Misguided Bridge Toll Increase image

Council Applauds Letter from Congressional Representatives Decrying Misguided Bridge Toll Increase
Aug 4 2023
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman Had Urged Representatives to Oppose Toll Hike Legislation
Member Spotlight: 49ers Unveil License Plates to Benefit Forests image

Member Spotlight: 49ers Unveil License Plates to Benefit Forests
Aug 4 2023
Posted In: Membership,
The San Francisco 49ers and the 
Member Spotlight: Year Up Bay Area Graduation Honors AAPI Women image

Member Spotlight: Year Up Bay Area Graduation Honors AAPI Women
Aug 4 2023
Posted In: Membership,
On Saturday, July 29, Year Up Bay Area celebrated over 250 students who graduated from their program. These students, now ...
Council Hosts Discussion with Congresswoman Barbara Lee image

Council Hosts Discussion with Congresswoman Barbara Lee
Aug 4 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council was honored to welcome Congresswoman and U.S. Senate candidate Barbara Lee aboard the Klamath for a d...
Caltrain Electrification Chugging Along image

Caltrain Electrification Chugging Along
Aug 4 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Caltrain is on-track for a fully electrified fleet! This past Saturday (July 29), Peninsula and Silicon Valley residents g...
California Resilience Challenge Announces Statewide Request for Proposals for Climate Adaptation Projects image

California Resilience Challenge Announces Statewide Request for Proposals for Climate Adaptation Projects
Aug 4 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Storm & Flood Protection,
The Bay Area Council Foundation this week (Aug. 1) launched the official request for proposals for the California Resilien...
G’Day from Australia: Council Delegation Mixes Business and Fun image

G’Day from Australia: Council Delegation Mixes Business and Fun
Aug 4 2023
Posted In: International Business,
The Bay Area Council-United Airlines Australia Delegation – led by California Secretary of Natural Resources Wade Crowfo...
Seven Bay Area Congressional Representatives Decry Bridge Toll Increase as Not in Best Interests of Residents image

Seven Bay Area Congressional Representatives Decry Bridge Toll Increase as Not in Best Interests of Residents
Aug 4 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
In a 
California Resilience Challenge Announces Statewide Request for Proposals for Climate Adaptation Projects image

California Resilience Challenge Announces Statewide Request for Proposals for Climate Adaptation Projects
Aug 1 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Press Releases,
Grants of up to $200,000 available to help protect under-resourced communities against wildfire, drought, flood, and e...
Major Redwood City Life Sciences Project Advances image

Major Redwood City Life Sciences Project Advances
Jul 28 2023
Posted In: Housing, Science and Innovation,
This week the Redwood City Council approved Longfellow Real Estate Partners to begin theCalifornia Environm...
Opinion: Driverless Technology Can Make Streets Safer image

Opinion: Driverless Technology Can Make Streets Safer
Jul 28 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
With a key decision looming by the California Public Utilities (CPUC) to allow expanded operation of driverless ...
Council Applauds BART Vote to Oppose Bill Weakening Fare Evasion Penalties image

Council Applauds BART Vote to Oppose Bill Weakening Fare Evasion Penalties
Jul 28 2023
Posted In: Public Safety, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council this week applauded a 5-3 vote by the BART Board of Directors to oppose legislation th...
U.S. Wildfire Symposium Addresses Risks to California Insurance Markets image

U.S. Wildfire Symposium Addresses Risks to California Insurance Markets
Jul 21 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Storm & Flood Protection,
With more insurers fleeing California, industry experts convened at an event organized by Bay Area Council member CSAA in ...
Millions of Californians Must Re-Qualify for Medi-Cal image

Millions of Californians Must Re-Qualify for Medi-Cal
Jul 21 2023
Posted In: Healthcare,
Bay Area Council Executive Committee member and Anthem Blue Cross President Beth Andersen wrote the following...
Forum Highlights U.S.-EU Cooperation on AI, other Tech Issues image

Forum Highlights U.S.-EU Cooperation on AI, other Tech Issues
Jul 21 2023
Posted In: Cybersecurity,
The Bay Area Council was honored on July 14 to host a policy dialogue with Didier Reynard, the Commissioner...
Meeting with Chinese Ambassador Promotes Economic Partnership image

Meeting with Chinese Ambassador Promotes Economic Partnership
Jul 21 2023
Posted In: China,
Over the last several years US-China tensions have reached high levels. Recent meetings between American and Chi...
BART Responds to Council Request to Speed New Fare Gates image

BART Responds to Council Request to Speed New Fare Gates
Jul 21 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council got a quick and thorough response from BART on our request to speed up installation of new fare gate...
Clearing the Air on Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Traffic image

Clearing the Air on Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Traffic
Jul 21 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
North Bay Assembly member Damon Connolly on Monday (July 17) joined Richmond City Council member Cesar Zapeda and other Ri...
Council Names Hanson Bridgett Managing Partner Kristina Lawson New Board Chair image

Council Names Hanson Bridgett Managing Partner Kristina Lawson New Board Chair
Jul 21 2023
Posted In: Membership,
The Bay Area Council this week announced the appointment of 
Council Calls on BART to Dramatically Accelerate New Fare Gates to Better Secure System, Help Bring Back Riders and Generate Badly Needed Revenue image

Council Calls on BART to Dramatically Accelerate New Fare Gates to Better Secure System, Help Bring Back Riders and Generate Badly Needed Revenue
Jul 18 2023
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
Modern, secure fare gates could generate tens of millions annually in revenue for the financially strapped system and ...
Council Hosts Brazilian Delegation image

Council Hosts Brazilian Delegation
Jul 14 2023
Posted In: Global Business and Investment, International Business,
On Thursday, July 13, partnering with Stanford University, the Bay Area Council hosted a Brazilian delegation of 30 repres...
Council Engages with Gov. Newsom on Proposed Mental Health Reforms image

Council Engages with Gov. Newsom on Proposed Mental Health Reforms
Jul 14 2023
Posted In: Healthcare,
This week the Bay Area Council joined Governor Gavin Newsom, Senator Susan Talamantes Eggman (D-Stockton), Assemblymember ...
Bay Watch: Are Wealthy People Actually Leaving the Bay Area in Droves? image

Bay Watch: Are Wealthy People Actually Leaving the Bay Area in Droves?
Jul 14 2023
Posted In: Economy,
Short answer: no. However, they are leaving the region at a faster rate than they were before the pandemic, or after the G...
Reigning in Business Taxes Key to Economic Recovery image

Reigning in Business Taxes Key to Economic Recovery
Jul 14 2023
Posted In: Economy,
The San Francisco Office of the Controller this week (July 12) released a 
U.S. Wildfire Symposium Addresses Risks to California Insurance Markets image

U.S. Wildfire Symposium Addresses Risks to California Insurance Markets
Jul 14 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Storm & Flood Protection,
With more insurers fleeing California, industry experts convened at an event organized by Bay Area Council member CSAA in ...
Council Pushes for Expansion of Autonomous Vehicles to Realize Safety, Environmental Benefits image

Council Pushes for Expansion of Autonomous Vehicles to Realize Safety, Environmental Benefits
Jul 14 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council continued its advocacy this week (July 13) to expand access to autonomous vehicles in San Francisco. ...
Council Calls on BART to Accelerate Installation of New, Secure Fare Gates by at Least a Full Year image

Council Calls on BART to Accelerate Installation of New, Secure Fare Gates by at Least a Full Year
Jul 14 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council is calling on BART to accelerate its timeline for installing new, more secure fare gates to address c...
Community Colleges Provide Innovative Pathways to Workforce Opportunities image

Community Colleges Provide Innovative Pathways to Workforce Opportunities
Jun 23 2023
Posted In: Education,
The Baccalaureate Degree Programs at California Community Colleges have been a catalyst of economic and regional developme...
New Report Highlights Economic Impact of CA’s Federal Labs & Research Centers image

New Report Highlights Economic Impact of CA’s Federal Labs & Research Centers
Jun 23 2023
Posted In: Science and Innovation,
Through research (on Earth and beyond) and community engagement, California’s federal labs and research centers bring la...
Landmark UCSF Study on Homelessness Reinforces Council’s Focus on Housing Production image

Landmark UCSF Study on Homelessness Reinforces Council’s Focus on Housing Production
Jun 23 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
A statewide 
Council Hosts Southeast Asian Ambassadors image

Council Hosts Southeast Asian Ambassadors
Jun 23 2023
Posted In: Global Business and Investment,
On June 21 the Bay Area Council hosted four U.S. Ambassadors to the ASEAN region (Southeast Asia) for a discussion of regi...
Governor’s Office Briefs Council on Infrastructure Package image

Governor’s Office Briefs Council on Infrastructure Package
Jun 23 2023
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure,
With Governor Newsom’s CEQA streamlining proposal for clean energy, water, and semiconductor infrastructure projects fac...
BART Takes Big Step to Increase Police on the System image

BART Takes Big Step to Increase Police on the System
Jun 23 2023
Posted In: Public Safety, Transportation,
This week the BART Board voted unanimously to instantly boost the salaries of their police in July by 21% in a bold statem...
Countering the False Narrative on San Francisco image

Countering the False Narrative on San Francisco
Jun 23 2023
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council is a regional organization, but we are headquartered in San Francisco. So, we take particular umbrage...
2023 Pacific Summit Explores Key Trends, Issues and Challenges image

2023 Pacific Summit Explores Key Trends, Issues and Challenges
Jun 23 2023
Posted In: Events,
The Klamath hosted its first-ever Pacific Summit this week (June 20) with top leaders in business, government, and academi...
Wanted: Innovative Ideas for Revitalizing SF image

Wanted: Innovative Ideas for Revitalizing SF
Jun 16 2023
Posted In: Community Engagement,
Bay Area Council members Deloitte and Salesforce are among a coalition of organizations behind a new initiative inviting e...
Port of Oakland Hails Labor Agreement image

Port of Oakland Hails Labor Agreement
Jun 16 2023
Posted In: Economy,
A shroud of uncertainty lifted from the Port of Oakland this week with the announcement of a tentative agreement in long-r...
Visionary Google Plan with 7K Homes Gets Approval image

Visionary Google Plan with 7K Homes Gets Approval
Jun 16 2023
Posted In: Housing, Transportation,
We are thrilled to celebrate the momentous and unanimous approval of the Google North Bayshore Master Plan by the Mountain...
San Mateo County Governments Skirt Council-Supported Housing Law image

San Mateo County Governments Skirt Council-Supported Housing Law
Jun 16 2023
Posted In: Housing,
In 2015 the Bay Area Council sponsored SB 1069 (Wieckowski) recognizing that Accessory Dwelling Units were an under-utiliz...
Bay Watch: Strong Job Gains in May, Defying Tech Layoffs and March Losses image

Bay Watch: Strong Job Gains in May, Defying Tech Layoffs and March Losses
Jun 16 2023
Posted In: Economy,
In March 2023, the Bay Area’s two-year growth streak came to an end when the region lost 4,400 jobs, which many saw as&n...
Oakland Mayor Thao, Oakland Port Welcomes Council Executive Committee image

Oakland Mayor Thao, Oakland Port Welcomes Council Executive Committee
Jun 16 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
New Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao welcomed the Bay Area Council Executive Committee to her city on Thursday, hosted by executiv...
Council Scores Big Win to Save + Improve Transit image

Council Scores Big Win to Save + Improve Transit
Jun 16 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
After months of tireless advocacy, the Bay Area Council applauded the state Legislature this week as it voted to approve a...
Bay Watch: Regional Banking Sector Withdraws image

Bay Watch: Regional Banking Sector Withdraws
Jun 9 2023
Posted In: Economy,
The recent turmoil in the banking sector has put the spotlight on the Bay Area, with the notable failure of Silicon Valley...
Study Endorses Regionalism to Counter Wane in California’s Competitiveness image

Study Endorses Regionalism to Counter Wane in California’s Competitiveness
Jun 9 2023
Posted In: Economy,
If California were a country, it would be the fifth largest economy in the world, poised to surpass Germany and become the...
43rd U.S. Treasurer “Pays” Visit to the Klamath image

43rd U.S. Treasurer “Pays” Visit to the Klamath
Jun 9 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council welcomed a special visitor this week who you may know from her signature on your cash – 43rd Treasu...
Going Green: Caltrain Begins Testing Electrified Trains image

Going Green: Caltrain Begins Testing Electrified Trains
Jun 9 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
In an exciting step toward full electrification, Caltrain ran its first tests running trains using its electric catenary ...
Cutting Red Tape to Spur More Housing, Lower Costs image

Cutting Red Tape to Spur More Housing, Lower Costs
Jun 9 2023
Posted In: Housing,
This week, the Bay Area Council submitted a letter to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in support of a proposed ordi...
Shoe Leather Sacrificed In Push For Newsom Infrastructure Package image

Shoe Leather Sacrificed In Push For Newsom Infrastructure Package
Jun 9 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council wore out a lot of shoe leather this week in Sacramento in our continuing advocacy for Gov. Newsom’s...
Bay Watch: Bay Area Aging Faster Than Ever Before image

Bay Watch: Bay Area Aging Faster Than Ever Before
Jun 2 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Last week, the Bay Area Council Economic Institute wrote about significant racial demographic shifts with data from the la...
Regional Shift Toward Shelter in City Homelessness Budgets image

Regional Shift Toward Shelter in City Homelessness Budgets
Jun 2 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
The mayors of the Bay Area’s two largest cities are proposing to shift resources allocated to addressing homelessness aw...
Piling On: New Study Highlights CEQA’s Role in Housing Crisis image

Piling On: New Study Highlights CEQA’s Role in Housing Crisis
Jun 2 2023
Posted In: Housing,
A new study by Bay Area Council member Holland & Knight reveals that housing remains the top target of California Envi...
NCC Rallies Support for Governor’s Infrastructure Proposal image

NCC Rallies Support for Governor’s Infrastructure Proposal
Jun 2 2023
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Government Relations,
The New California Coalition – co-lead by Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman and CEO of LA BizFed Tracy Hernandez – th...
Transit Safety Concerns Show Early Signs of Softening image

Transit Safety Concerns Show Early Signs of Softening
Jun 2 2023
Posted In: Public Safety, Transportation,
The most recent 
Bay Area Council Continues Focus on Fiscal Cliff as Budget Deadline Looms image

Bay Area Council Continues Focus on Fiscal Cliff as Budget Deadline Looms
Jun 2 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
As Bay Area transit systems face the daunting reality of hitting a “fiscal cliff” as early as 2024 –which would subs...
Bay Watch: New Census Data Highlights Shifting Diversity image

Bay Watch: New Census Data Highlights Shifting Diversity
May 26 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
New demographic data released by the U.S. Census Bureau this week highlights an increasingly diverse Bay Area population. ...
New Partnership Focuses on Growing Life Sciences Jobs image

New Partnership Focuses on Growing Life Sciences Jobs
May 26 2023
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
This week Bay Area Council Senior Vice President Matt Regan visited Ohlone College in Newark for a tour of their state-of-...
CA-China Business Forum Highlights Economic Cooperation image

CA-China Business Forum Highlights Economic Cooperation
May 26 2023
Posted In: China, Global Business and Investment,
This week, in a significant stride toward rebuilding bilateral economic cooperation, the China-California Business Forum ...
Council CEO Shares Ideas with Governor on Addressing San Francisco’s Many Issues image

Council CEO Shares Ideas with Governor on Addressing San Francisco’s Many Issues
May 26 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
Gov. Newsom on Wednesday (March 24) focused his attention on the city he once led, convening top San Francisco business le...
Ferry Impressive: WETA Completes Clean Ferry Conversion Project image

Ferry Impressive: WETA Completes Clean Ferry Conversion Project
May 26 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council joined the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA), Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, and other tran...
Chip, Chip Hooray! VP Harris Hails New $4 Billion Silicon Valley High-Tech Manufacturing Plant image

Chip, Chip Hooray! VP Harris Hails New $4 Billion Silicon Valley High-Tech Manufacturing Plant
May 26 2023
Posted In: Science and Innovation,
Highlighting the Bay Area’s continuing tech and innovation dominance, Vice President Kamala Harris this week (May 22) tr...
Coming Down to Crunch Time for Transit image

Coming Down to Crunch Time for Transit
May 26 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
As state budget negotiations are heating up in the Legislature, the Bay Area Council has launched a full court press to se...
West Coast Best Coast: New Study Shows Tourism Returning to California image

West Coast Best Coast: New Study Shows Tourism Returning to California
May 19 2023
Posted In: Economy,
Few industries suffered during the pandemic quite like tourism as operations ground to a halt and travelers remained wary ...
Council-Supported Victory for Housing in Redwood City image

Council-Supported Victory for Housing in Redwood City
May 19 2023
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council put our commitment to alleviate this region’s housing crisis to work on Tuesday evening (May 16) an...
The Bay Area Council is Bringing “California” to CIIE image

The Bay Area Council is Bringing “California” to CIIE
May 19 2023
Posted In: China, Global Business and Investment, International Business,
The Bay Area Council is excited to announce that we’re full steam ahead in preparing for the China Internat...
Bay Area Job Gains in April Defy Tech Layoffs and Previous Month’s Losses image

Bay Area Job Gains in April Defy Tech Layoffs and Previous Month’s Losses
May 19 2023
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area’s two-year job growth streak came to an end in March 2023 when the region lost 4,400 jobs – a blow many a...
Council Applauds Gov. Newsom’s Unveiling of Bold New Infrastructure Package for California’s Future image

Council Applauds Gov. Newsom’s Unveiling of Bold New Infrastructure Package for California’s Future
May 19 2023
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure,
As an expected $180 billion from the federal infrastructure and climate bills is poised to head to California, the state m...
Senate Appropriations Committee Results Announce Future of Council-Sponsored Bills image

Senate Appropriations Committee Results Announce Future of Council-Sponsored Bills
May 19 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
The much-anticipated, but often obscure Suspense File process in the California Legislature for the Appropriations Committ...
Council Applauds Federal Bill that Aims to Eliminate Parking Requirements Near Transit image

Council Applauds Federal Bill that Aims to Eliminate Parking Requirements Near Transit
May 12 2023
Posted In: Housing, Transportation,
If a bill drops in Congress during debt ceiling negotiations with the fate of the world economy in the balance, does it ma...
CEQA Strikes Again!! image

CEQA Strikes Again!!
May 12 2023
Posted In: Housing,
Citing costly delays from an abusive CEQA lawsuit, a nonprofit builder of a proposed UC Berkeley project to provide housin...
Gimme Shelter: Council Research Cited in SF Resolution Calling for More Temporary Housing image

Gimme Shelter: Council Research Cited in SF Resolution Calling for More Temporary Housing
May 12 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
Like many jurisdictions across California, San Francisco has for years prioritized the construction of permanent housing o...
May Budget Revise Offers Narrow Opening for More Transit Funding to Ward Off Fiscal Cliff image

May Budget Revise Offers Narrow Opening for More Transit Funding to Ward Off Fiscal Cliff
May 12 2023
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
Gov. Newsom today (May 12) unveiled his May budget revision and the overall picture has worsened since he first proposed h...
New Poll: Overwhelming Support for More Police on BART, Greater Focus on Cleanliness and Stronger Enforcement of Rules  image

New Poll: Overwhelming Support for More Police on BART, Greater Focus on Cleanliness and Stronger Enforcement of Rules 
May 9 2023
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
 San Francisco—BART riders and others who have stopped using the system or reduced their use drama...
Celebrating Centennial of Hetch Hetchy’s O’Shaughnessy Dam image

Celebrating Centennial of Hetch Hetchy’s O’Shaughnessy Dam
May 5 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
San Francisco Mayor London N. Breed and Bay Area and federal officials joined the San Francisco Public Utilities...
New BART Tool Will Help Give Passengers a Smoother Ride image

New BART Tool Will Help Give Passengers a Smoother Ride
May 5 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
On May 3, BART unveiled its newly acquired geometry car, known as the Rail Inspection Vehicle or RIV for short, which will...
Bay Watch: Bay Area Population Loss Since 2020 Surpasses 200,000 People image

Bay Watch: Bay Area Population Loss Since 2020 Surpasses 200,000 People
May 5 2023
Posted In: Economy,
New data released this week by the California Department of Finance shows a continuation of population losses in the nine-...
Gilead Unveils New R&D Facilities, Highlighting Bay Area Life Sciences Growth image

Gilead Unveils New R&D Facilities, Highlighting Bay Area Life Sciences Growth
May 5 2023
Posted In: Membership,
As a continuing sign of the boom in biotechnology in the Bay Area, the Bay Area Council helped celebrate the opening of tw...
Costly Berkeley Housing Mandates Highlight Need for Continuing Reform image

Costly Berkeley Housing Mandates Highlight Need for Continuing Reform
May 5 2023
Posted In: Housing,
Costly, excessive and often unnecessary local fees, regulations and other mandates have been a major contributor to Cal...
Small Housing Victories in Marin Worth Celebrating; Highlight Council’s Statewide Reform Victories image

Small Housing Victories in Marin Worth Celebrating; Highlight Council’s Statewide Reform Victories
May 5 2023
Posted In: Housing,
Getting new housing approved in Marin County is notoriously difficult so it’s worth celebrating when even a smaller proj...
Council-Sponsored Legislation Advancing image

Council-Sponsored Legislation Advancing
May 5 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council’s biggest package of legislation in recent memory crossed an important milestone last week when 10 ...
Forum Emphasizes Importance of Broadband Infrastructure image

Forum Emphasizes Importance of Broadband Infrastructure
Apr 28 2023
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute added to a busy week in Sacramento as it hosted aroundtable discussion on broa...
Viewpoint: With World Leaders Coming, SF and Bay Area Can Reset Perceptions image

Viewpoint: With World Leaders Coming, SF and Bay Area Can Reset Perceptions
Apr 28 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
With President Biden, China President Xi Jinping and other top world leaders preparing todescend on San Francisco in N...
CEO Transit Ride-Along Highlights Importance of StateFunding Support image

CEO Transit Ride-Along Highlights Importance of StateFunding Support
Apr 28 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
On April 21, Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman joined 10 transit CEOs from across theBay Area for a multimodal, three...
Big Win for Bay Area Council Capital Transportation Funding Priorities image

Big Win for Bay Area Council Capital Transportation Funding Priorities
Apr 28 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Nearly $141 million in state funding will flow to important public transportation projects acrossthe region that the B...
Council Gaining Traction in Securing Transit Funding toAvert Fiscal Cliff image

Council Gaining Traction in Securing Transit Funding toAvert Fiscal Cliff
Apr 28 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
As transit agencies across the state are barreling towards a fiscal cliff, the Bay Area Council andits partners in the...
Studies Shows Council’s Efforts on Housing Reforms Are Making an Impact image

Studies Shows Council’s Efforts on Housing Reforms Are Making an Impact
Apr 28 2023
Posted In: Housing,
Two recent
Senate Tax Increase Proposal Boggles the Mind, Brings Swift Rebuke image

Senate Tax Increase Proposal Boggles the Mind, Brings Swift Rebuke
Apr 28 2023
Posted In: Economy,
State Senate Democrats this week unveiled their proposed spending plan, including a taxincrease on California’s larg...
California Can’t Make Progress Without CEQA Reform image

California Can’t Make Progress Without CEQA Reform
Apr 28 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Housing,
California’s signature environmental law, the California Environmen...
Impact of Council’s California Resilience Challenge Reverberates Across State image

Impact of Council’s California Resilience Challenge Reverberates Across State
Apr 21 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Storm & Flood Protection,
The Bay Area Council Foundation’s California Resilience Challenge was launched in 2019 withthe aim of speeding clima...
Homeless Housing Legislation Clears Major Hurdle image

Homeless Housing Legislation Clears Major Hurdle
Apr 21 2023
Posted In: Homelessness, Housing,
With an estimated 170,000 Californians experiencing homelessness on any given day, it’scritical that we find fast, a...
Boooo! Oakland A’s Announce Las Vegas Stadium Land Deal image

Boooo! Oakland A’s Announce Las Vegas Stadium Land Deal
Apr 21 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Heartbreak. Shock. Anger. Sadness. The announcement Wednesday that the Oakland A’s hadentered into a binding agreeme...
New study shows how communities in the Wildland Urban Interface can drastically reduce fire risk and reduce insurance premiums image

New study shows how communities in the Wildland Urban Interface can drastically reduce fire risk and reduce insurance premiums
Apr 17 2023
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
Huge implications for insurance coverage and housing construction in ...
New Economic Institute Report Highlights Importance of Improving Connectivity in California image

New Economic Institute Report Highlights Importance of Improving Connectivity in California
Apr 14 2023
Posted In: Economy, Uncategorized,
While California companies have pioneered the communications innovations that are now an everyday part of life for billion...
SF State Breaks Ground on New Affordable Student Housing image

SF State Breaks Ground on New Affordable Student Housing
Apr 14 2023
Posted In: Housing,
San Francisco State University this week broke ground on its West Campus Green project, which includes a first-year reside...
Council-Backed Housing Bills Move Forward image

Council-Backed Housing Bills Move Forward
Apr 14 2023
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council’s housing bills are all doing well as the Legislature holds its first round of hearings. This week ...
Transit Leaders Discuss Ways to Avoid Fiscal Cliff image

Transit Leaders Discuss Ways to Avoid Fiscal Cliff
Apr 14 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Finding a solution to the fiscal cliff facing many Bay Area transit agencies is a top priority for the Bay Area Council an...
Streamline Permitting of Existing Distribution Power Lines image

Streamline Permitting of Existing Distribution Power Lines
Apr 14 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
As constant new warnings emerge about the devastating impacts of climate change, it is more important than ever that we ma...
Perfect the enemy of the good: Court ruling may worsen San Francisco’s homelessness crisis image

Perfect the enemy of the good: Court ruling may worsen San Francisco’s homelessness crisis
Apr 7 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
Street sleeping is unhealthy for people experiencing homelessness and carries with it a higher risk of chronic disease, in...
Story Highlights Exciting Future of Autonomous Vehicles image

Story Highlights Exciting Future of Autonomous Vehicles
Apr 6 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
A fascinating CBS/KPIX news story this week highlighted the exciting potential ...
Promoting Economic Opportunities in China image

Promoting Economic Opportunities in China
Mar 31 2023
Posted In: China,
Represented by Vice President of Global Initiatives Jennifer Zou, the Bay Area Council this week joined the launch ceremon...
Council Partners with Law Enforcement on Recruitment Campaign to Address Critical Officer Shortage image

Council Partners with Law Enforcement on Recruitment Campaign to Address Critical Officer Shortage
Mar 31 2023
Posted In: Public Safety,
On Thursday (March 30), the Bay Area Council hosted over 50 law enforcement personnel from 35 of region’s police and she...
California Resilience Challenge Winners Announced image

California Resilience Challenge Winners Announced
Mar 31 2023
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
More than 100 climate leaders from across the U.S. convened aboard the Bay Area Council’s floating headquarters the Klam...
New Report Examines Bay Area-India Economic Ties image

New Report Examines Bay Area-India Economic Ties
Mar 31 2023
Posted In: Economy, Global Business and Investment,
India has the fastest growing major economy in the world, with a dynamic startup environment and massive digitalization th...
New Report: A California Strategy for Competing for CHIPS Act Funding image

New Report: A California Strategy for Competing for CHIPS Act Funding
Mar 31 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
California has the opportunity to capture a significant share of funding from the 2022 Creating Helpful Incentives to Prod...
Bay Watch: Despite Slowdown, Bay Area VC Investment Remains Strong image

Bay Watch: Despite Slowdown, Bay Area VC Investment Remains Strong
Mar 31 2023
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area economy is considered one of the most innovative business ecosystems in the world, leading in both startups a...
Steee-rike: Court Tosses Abusive CEQA Lawsuit Challenging Oakland A’s Ballpark, Waterfront Development Plan image

Steee-rike: Court Tosses Abusive CEQA Lawsuit Challenging Oakland A’s Ballpark, Waterfront Development Plan
Mar 31 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
A state court of appeal this week tossed a lawsuit seeking to disrupt and delay plans by the Oakland A’s to build a new ...
Member Spotlight: Year Up Bay Area Honors Bank of America-Silicon Valley Market image

Member Spotlight: Year Up Bay Area Honors Bank of America-Silicon Valley Market
Mar 31 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
This month, Year Up Bay Area presented The Cornerstone Award to Bank of America – ...
Klamath Recognized at Real Estate Deal of the Year Awards image

Klamath Recognized at Real Estate Deal of the Year Awards
Mar 31 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
It was a wild idea and an even wilder project: Take an aging ferry boat with a leaky hull and dreary interior and transfor...
Campaign Unveiled to Promote Making Your Future in San Francisco image

Campaign Unveiled to Promote Making Your Future in San Francisco
Mar 24 2023
Posted In: Economy,
On Monday (March 20), the City of San Francisco, Mayor London Breed, and a coalition of business groups comprised of the B...
Good Week on the Public Safety Front image

Good Week on the Public Safety Front
Mar 24 2023
Posted In: Public Safety,
There was a triple shot of good news this week for addressing public concerns about crime, safety and cleanliness on BART ...
Please Permit Us to End Onerous Housing Permit Review image

Please Permit Us to End Onerous Housing Permit Review
Mar 24 2023
Posted In: Housing,
With the Legislative session briskly underway, the Bay Area Council is excited that our priority housing streamlining bill...
New Council-Sponsored Bill a Game Changer in Battle Against Homelessness image

New Council-Sponsored Bill a Game Changer in Battle Against Homelessness
Mar 24 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
Providing permanent housing is the end goal for addressing our homelessness crisis and getting unhoused people off the str...
Edelman Trust Barometer: Navigating a Polarized World image

Edelman Trust Barometer: Navigating a Polarized World
Mar 24 2023
Posted In: Events,
On March 7, over 120 business and thought leaders met on the Klamath for the release of Bay Area Council member Edelman’...
Region’s Top Science and Innovations Leaders Convene image

Region’s Top Science and Innovations Leaders Convene
Mar 24 2023
Posted In: Science and Innovation,
The Bay Area Science and Innovation Consortium (BASIC) Board of Directo...
International Data Center Day Highlights Critical Importance of Industry to Our Economy image

International Data Center Day Highlights Critical Importance of Industry to Our Economy
Mar 22 2023
Posted In: Economy,
We are excited to be celebrating International Data Center Day. International Data Center Day is designed to create i...
Celebrating World Water Day image

Celebrating World Water Day
Mar 22 2023
Posted In: Water,
World Water Day (March 22) inspires awareness and action to promote access to clean water worldwide. This year is all abou...
Member Spotlight: Nossaman Exec Yuliya Oryol Hits Her Stride image

Member Spotlight: Nossaman Exec Yuliya Oryol Hits Her Stride
Mar 17 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Congratulations to Nossaman Partner and Bay Area Council Board Member
Additional SF Police Funding Council Supported Clears First Hurdle image

Additional SF Police Funding Council Supported Clears First Hurdle
Mar 17 2023
Posted In: Public Safety,
Restoring a sense of safety in our cities is critical to bringing workers and visitors back to our downtowns, supporting l...
With Council’s Help, Bay Area Debuts Nation’s First Hydrogen Ferry image

With Council’s Help, Bay Area Debuts Nation’s First Hydrogen Ferry
Mar 17 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The nation’s first commercial zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell ferry arrived in the Bay Area this week, and the Bay Area...
About Time! CA Supreme Court Tosses Abusive CEQA Lawsuit; Clears Way for Lafayette Housing image

About Time! CA Supreme Court Tosses Abusive CEQA Lawsuit; Clears Way for Lafayette Housing
Mar 17 2023
Posted In: Housing,
While the news was good, even if it took so long, for a 315-unit housing project in Lafayette (item above), a
Bay Watch: Bay Area Employment Recovers to Pre-Pandemic Levels, with South Bay Leading the Way image

Bay Watch: Bay Area Employment Recovers to Pre-Pandemic Levels, with South Bay Leading the Way
Mar 17 2023
Posted In: Economy,
After 3 years of steady, slow growth, the Bay Area has fully recovered its pre-pandemic jobs.A Bay Area Council Econom...
Annual SacDay Advocacy Trip Highlights Council’s Ambitious Legislative Agenda image

Annual SacDay Advocacy Trip Highlights Council’s Ambitious Legislative Agenda
Mar 17 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The path to addressing many of the Bay Area’s biggest challenges often runs straight through Sacramento, which is why th...
New First-Of-Its-Kind Tool Will Track San Francisco Bay Area’s Pandemic Recovery Against Other Major Metropolitan Areas image

New First-Of-Its-Kind Tool Will Track San Francisco Bay Area’s Pandemic Recovery Against Other Major Metropolitan Areas
Feb 28 2023
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute and CBRE benchmark economic activity across 15 indicators
Bay Watch: Leisure, Hospitality Industry Slow to Recover image

Bay Watch: Leisure, Hospitality Industry Slow to Recover
Feb 24 2023
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area’s tourism industry has experienced one of the slowest recoveries in the nation. Between shutdowns during th...
Council Welcomes Order by Newsom to Increase Delta Water Deliveries image

Council Welcomes Order by Newsom to Increase Delta Water Deliveries
Feb 24 2023
Posted In: Water,
Capturing water from atmospheric river storms and storing it for future use by people and the environment is more importan...
Council Applauds Appointment of Andrew Fremier to Lead Metropolitan Transportation Commission image

Council Applauds Appointment of Andrew Fremier to Lead Metropolitan Transportation Commission
Feb 24 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council this week applauded the appointment of veteran transportation leader Andrew Fremier as Executive Dire...
BART Doubling Police Presence on Trains image

BART Doubling Police Presence on Trains
Feb 24 2023
Posted In: Public Safety, Transportation,
Moving to address concerns about safety and cleanliness on the region’s backbone transit system, BART President Janice L...
Council-Sponsored Bill Seeks to Accelerate Housing Permitting in San Francisco image

Council-Sponsored Bill Seeks to Accelerate Housing Permitting in San Francisco
Feb 24 2023
Posted In: Housing,
San Francisco is one of the only jurisdictions in the country that requires developers to go through arduous and discretio...
Former Council Chair Nelson Rising Passes Away image

Former Council Chair Nelson Rising Passes Away
Feb 17 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Member Spotlight: BART Unveils New Communications Campaigns to Complement Ridership Recovery image

Member Spotlight: BART Unveils New Communications Campaigns to Complement Ridership Recovery
Feb 17 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
With a focus on rider experience and community engagement, especially of younger demographics, BART has unveiled new campa...
A Tireless Champion for California, the Bay Area and San Francisco, Sen. Feinstein Announces Retirement image

A Tireless Champion for California, the Bay Area and San Francisco, Sen. Feinstein Announces Retirement
Feb 17 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Climate Bond Debate Heats Up image

Climate Bond Debate Heats Up
Feb 17 2023
Posted In: Water,
Following the Governor’s call for a climate resilience bond on the 2024 ballot, Senators Eggman and Niello on Friday int...
Can a Statewide Ballot Measure Solve Unsheltered Homelessness? image

Can a Statewide Ballot Measure Solve Unsheltered Homelessness?
Feb 17 2023
Posted In: Homelessness,
Unsheltered homelessness costs lives. This winter alone, six homeless residents died in the cold on a single night in San ...
New Report: Technology, China and the New U.S. Industrial Policy image

New Report: Technology, China and the New U.S. Industrial Policy
Feb 17 2023
Posted In: China,
In the 2000s, from China’s entry into the WTO in 2001 to 2016, San Francisco Bay Area companies were at the heart of an ...
Spring Festival Celebrates Bay Area’s Strong Ties with China image

Spring Festival Celebrates Bay Area’s Strong Ties with China
Feb 17 2023
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area Council on Thursday (Feb. 16) ushered in the Year of the Rabbit with our signature Spring Festival Celebratio...
New Study: San Francisco Business Taxes Far Surpass Other Bay Area Cities image

New Study: San Francisco Business Taxes Far Surpass Other Bay Area Cities
Feb 17 2023
Posted In: Economy,
Most businesses have choices in where they decide to locate, invest, create jobs and grow, and many factors play into thos...
<a>Restoring Rider Confidence Critical to BART’s Future</a> image

Restoring Rider Confidence Critical to BART’s Future

Feb 17 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Restoring public confidence in the safety of BART is critical to restoring ridership on the Bay Area’s backbone public t...
New Study: San Francisco Business Taxes Far Surpass Other Bay Area Cities image

New Study: San Francisco Business Taxes Far Surpass Other Bay Area Cities
Feb 16 2023
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
Findings Highlight Significance of Business Taxes as Cities Ramp Up C...
Statement on Sen. Dianne Feinstein Announcing She Will Not Seek Re-election image

Statement on Sen. Dianne Feinstein Announcing She Will Not Seek Re-election
Feb 14 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council today issued the following statement on the announcement by Sen. Dianne Feinstein that she will not b...
Council Mourns Passing of Alameda County Supervisor Richard Valle image

Council Mourns Passing of Alameda County Supervisor Richard Valle
Feb 3 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Opinion: Would Government Reform Lead to Better Outcomes on Key Issues? image

Opinion: Would Government Reform Lead to Better Outcomes on Key Issues?
Feb 3 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
Money—and more accurately, taxpayer money--often seems to be the solution to many of the problems that ail us, from home...
Latest Return to Work/Transit Survey Shows New Habits Getting Locked In image

Latest Return to Work/Transit Survey Shows New Habits Getting Locked In
Feb 3 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Since April 2021, the Bay Area Council has been collecting data from the Bay Area’s biggest employers on their return to...
Renewed Push for SALT Relief in DC image

Renewed Push for SALT Relief in DC
Feb 3 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
When the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 passed in November of that year, many Americans and U.S. businesses hailed its lowe...
Take Down of Crime Ring Highlights Effectiveness of Multi-Agency Law Enforcement Response image

Take Down of Crime Ring Highlights Effectiveness of Multi-Agency Law Enforcement Response
Feb 3 2023
Posted In: Public Safety,
Brazen daylight robberies, thefts and other street-level crimes against individuals and businesses take a steep toll on th...
State Workers’ Comp System Proves Reforms Can Work image

State Workers’ Comp System Proves Reforms Can Work
Feb 3 2023
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Achieving meaningful and comprehensive government reforms can seem impossible in a place as politically and bureaucratical...
Council Hosts Early APEC Planning Meeting image

Council Hosts Early APEC Planning Meeting
Feb 3 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council this week (Feb. 1) hosted business and government leaders aboard our floating headquarters, the Klama...
Bay Watch: As Transit Struggles, Traffic Surges image

Bay Watch: As Transit Struggles, Traffic Surges
Feb 3 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Since the onset of the pandemic, transit agencies that rely on office workers for sustained ridership have struggled to re...
Council Applauds State Grant to Complete Caltrain Electrification image

Council Applauds State Grant to Complete Caltrain Electrification
Feb 3 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
This week the State of California awarded $367 million to Caltrain to complete its electrification project that will fully...
<a>Majority of Bay Area Cities Shirk Housing Deadline</a> image

Majority of Bay Area Cities Shirk Housing Deadline

Feb 3 2023
Posted In: Housing,
A majority of Bay Area cities and counties this week struggled to meet a deadline for submitting plans required by the sta...
Bay Area Council Hails State Supreme Court Ruling Rejecting Challenge to Regional Measure 3 (RM3) image

Bay Area Council Hails State Supreme Court Ruling Rejecting Challenge to Regional Measure 3 (RM3)
Jan 25 2023
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 25) released the following statement applauding a ruling by the state Supreme Court defea...
Council Celebrates Ruling for Livermore 100% Affordable Housing Project image

Council Celebrates Ruling for Livermore 100% Affordable Housing Project
Jan 20 2023
Posted In: Housing,
A rabid anti-housing group in Livermore recently got a solid beat down in its lawsuit opposing a 100% affordable housing p...
Not Again: Zombie Wealth Tax Bill Returns image

Not Again: Zombie Wealth Tax Bill Returns
Jan 20 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
Like a zombie from a B-grade horror movie, it appears legislation to chase away jobs and investment by raising taxes on hi...
Bay Watch: Region Ends the Year Strong, but Layoffs Loom image

Bay Watch: Region Ends the Year Strong, but Layoffs Loom
Jan 20 2023
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area ended the year strong, adding nearly 14,000 jobs and bringing unemployment rates across the region down even ...
New Data: Professional Workers Returning to San Francisco Bay Area image

New Data: Professional Workers Returning to San Francisco Bay Area
Jan 20 2023
Posted In: Economy,
We’re not out of the woods yet, by a long shot, but
Council Urges State Funding to Avoid Transit Fiscal Cliff image

Council Urges State Funding to Avoid Transit Fiscal Cliff
Jan 20 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Staring down the barrel of at least a $22 billion budget deficit, Gov. Newsom and the Legislature will have some hard choi...
Bay Watch: Bay Area Population Falls for Third Straight Year image

Bay Watch: Bay Area Population Falls for Third Straight Year
Jan 20 2023
Posted In: Economy,
New data released this week by the California Department of Finance offers a first look at the region’s population in 20...
Council Applauds Federal Grant for Critical Golden Gate Bridge Seismic Work image

Council Applauds Federal Grant for Critical Golden Gate Bridge Seismic Work
Jan 20 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Federal officials gathered in San Francisco this week (Jan. 23) to celebrate the awarding of a $400 million federal grant ...
Bay Area Must Address Police Officer Shortages image

Bay Area Must Address Police Officer Shortages
Jan 20 2023
Posted In: Public Safety,
Police departments across the Bay Area are experiencing severe officer shortages and the timing couldn’t be worse as con...
New Global Business and Investment Committee Launches Consuls General Speaker Series; Announces APEC Emphasis image

New Global Business and Investment Committee Launches Consuls General Speaker Series; Announces APEC Emphasis
Jan 20 2023
Posted In: Global Business and Investment,
The Bay Area Council’s new Global Business a...
<a>Major Victory! CA Supreme Court Ruling Unlocks Windfall for Bay Area Transportation</a> image

Major Victory! CA Supreme Court Ruling Unlocks Windfall for Bay Area Transportation

Jan 20 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Better late than never. The Bay Area Council this week (Jan. 25) wildly cheered a ruling by the California Supreme Court t...
Bay Watch: Have We Really Turned the Corner on Inflation? image

Bay Watch: Have We Really Turned the Corner on Inflation?
Jan 13 2023
Posted In: Economy,
New data released this week by the Bureau of Labor Statistics had markets excited about easing inflation readings for the ...
What a Waste: Time Is Now to Accelerate New Water Storage image

What a Waste: Time Is Now to Accelerate New Water Storage
Jan 13 2023
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The recent storms that tore a destructive path across California also dumped an estimated 24 trillion gallons of water, en...
Governor’s Proposed Budget Sees Big Deficit, and It Could Get Worse image

Governor’s Proposed Budget Sees Big Deficit, and It Could Get Worse
Jan 13 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
The state’s reservoirs may be filling from historic rainfall, but the budget coffers are not enjoying a similar downpour...
CEQA Court Case Could Be Unmitigated Disaster for California’s Housing Crisis image

CEQA Court Case Could Be Unmitigated Disaster for California’s Housing Crisis
Jan 13 2023
Posted In: Housing,
The stakes could not be higher for addressing California’s historic housing shortage and affordability crisis than the o...
Bay Area Council Statement on Gov. Newsom’s Proposed 2023 Budget image

Bay Area Council Statement on Gov. Newsom’s Proposed 2023 Budget
Jan 10 2023
Posted In: News,
San Francisco—The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 10) issued the following statement on Gov. Newsom’s pr...
Bay Area Council Launches 2023 Workforce Initiative image

Bay Area Council Launches 2023 Workforce Initiative
Jan 6 2023
Posted In: News, Workforce of the Future,
2023 promises to be a very big year for the Bay Area Council Workforce Committee.  Significant new philanthropic fund...
Big Bay Area Wins in Omnibus Package image

Big Bay Area Wins in Omnibus Package
Jan 6 2023
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area’s global innovation and technological dominance was on full display this week when Bay Area Council member ...
Christmas Miracle: Federal San Francisco Bay Restoration Program Gets Huge Boost image

Christmas Miracle: Federal San Francisco Bay Restoration Program Gets Huge Boost
Jan 6 2023
Posted In: Water,
San Francisco Bay is one of the largest and most ecologically important estuaries in the United States, but you would neve...
Council Working to Restore Confidence in Public Transit image

Council Working to Restore Confidence in Public Transit
Jan 6 2023
Posted In: Transportation,
Public safety is the core of a functioning and productive society and vital for attracting and retaining a competitive wor...
A New Year, A New Agenda for Recovery, Growth image

A New Year, A New Agenda for Recovery, Growth
Jan 6 2023
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council begins the new year with a renewed sense of optimism and energy, along with a sober and focused deter...
Up, Up and Away: United Bringing New Jobs to SFO image

Up, Up and Away: United Bringing New Jobs to SFO
Dec 16 2022
Posted In: Membership,
Bay Area Council member United is planning to add 2,200 jobs at San Francisco International Airport next year as part of a...
We Have Ignition: Bay Area Innovation Engine Goes Nuclear image

We Have Ignition: Bay Area Innovation Engine Goes Nuclear
Dec 16 2022
Posted In: Science and Innovation,
The Bay Area’s global innovation and technological dominance was on full display this week when Bay Area Council member ...
Celebrating 200 Years of U.S.-Mexico Relations image

Celebrating 200 Years of U.S.-Mexico Relations
Dec 16 2022
Posted In: International Business,
For his work on advancing deeper economic ties between the Bay Area, California and Mexico, Bay Area Council Economic Inst...
Building Support for More U.S. Investment in Housing image

Building Support for More U.S. Investment in Housing
Dec 16 2022
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council and 30 of our members met this week with Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf and Sacramento Mayor Darrell Stei...
Return to Work Survey: 65% of Employers at “New Normal” image

Return to Work Survey: 65% of Employers at “New Normal”
Dec 16 2022
Posted In: News, Transportation,
The future of the Bay Area’s transit systems and urban centers is becoming more clear thanks to new data from the bi-mon...
Bay Area Council Hails Selection of San Francisco for Major Asia-Pacific Economic Leadership Summit image

Bay Area Council Hails Selection of San Francisco for Major Asia-Pacific Economic Leadership Summit
Nov 18 2022
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council hailed the announcement today (Nov. 18) that San Francisco will host the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic C...
To Meet Governor’s Drought Goals, These Projects Deserve Support image

To Meet Governor’s Drought Goals, These Projects Deserve Support
Aug 26 2022
Posted In: News, Water,
By Jim Wunderman and Charley Wilson Governor Newsom recently unveiled...
A “Sub”-Par Day – Klamath Rams WWII Submarine, During WWII image

A “Sub”-Par Day – Klamath Rams WWII Submarine, During WWII
Aug 12 2022
Posted In: News, Newsroom,
The Klamath is nearly 100 years old and has sailed through many turbulent times (get it, cause boats?) but perhap...
Bay Area Council Applauds Governor’s Water Supply Strategy to Adapt to Drought, Climate Change image

Bay Area Council Applauds Governor’s Water Supply Strategy to Adapt to Drought, Climate Change
Aug 11 2022
Posted In: Water,
The Bay Area Council today (Aug. 11, 2022) applauded Governor Newsom’s Water Supply Strategy to strengthen the state’s...
5 Things You Didn’t Know About the Historic Klamath image

5 Things You Didn’t Know About the Historic Klamath
Jul 18 2022
Posted In: Newsroom,
The Bay Area Council put the Klamath out of business!  The Klamath started her service running ...
Bay Area Council Adds Powerhouse Team to Bolster Housing, State Government Relations Work image

Bay Area Council Adds Powerhouse Team to Bolster Housing, State Government Relations Work
Jul 15 2022
Posted In: Press Releases,
Alex Torres and Louis Mirante Bring Deep Connections, Strong Record...
California Resilience Challenge Announces Statewide Request for Proposals for Climate Adaptation Projects image

California Resilience Challenge Announces Statewide Request for Proposals for Climate Adaptation Projects
Jul 14 2022
Posted In: Press Releases,
Grants of up to $200,000 ava...
Webinar Replay: Homeless Encampments and the Law image

Webinar Replay: Homeless Encampments and the Law
May 27 2022
Posted In: Events, Homelessness,
The Bay Area Council on Thursday (May 26) hosted a webinar exploring the complex legal issues surrounding the proliferatio...
Howard Terminal Steps Up to Bat at Crucial Hearing Next Week image

Howard Terminal Steps Up to Bat at Crucial Hearing Next Week
May 27 2022
Posted In: News,
The visionary plan by the Oakland A’s to transform an underutilized cargo terminal at Howard Terminal into a gleaming wa...
Progress in Effort to Better Unify Regional Transportation Systems image

Progress in Effort to Better Unify Regional Transportation Systems
May 27 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
Do you think the region is best served by 28 separate transit and transportation agencies that often operate independently...
Big Week for Water Transportation image

Big Week for Water Transportation
May 27 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
There was a lot going on over the past week in the regional water transportation (aka ferry) world. The Bay Area Council h...
State Court Lambastes CEQA Abuse image

State Court Lambastes CEQA Abuse
May 27 2022
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council is hailing a recent decision by the First District of the California Court of Appeal that included wi...
Rivas Emerges as New Assembly Speaker image

Rivas Emerges as New Assembly Speaker
May 27 2022
Posted In: Government Relations,
Assemblymember Robert Rivas (D-Salinas) today released a statement announcing he has secured enough votes within the Democ...
Warriors Make a Splash, Heading to NBA Finals image

Warriors Make a Splash, Heading to NBA Finals
May 27 2022
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council sends congratulations to the Golden State Warriors, whose Rick Welts sits on our Executive Committee,...
Partner Spotlight: Edison International Calls for More Urgency in Climate Change Response image

Partner Spotlight: Edison International Calls for More Urgency in Climate Change Response
May 20 2022
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
California must act with more urgency to address the continuing effects of climate change because the cost of inaction is ...
Member Spotlight: Visa Foundation Commits $12 Million to Address Youth Homelessness image

Member Spotlight: Visa Foundation Commits $12 Million to Address Youth Homelessness
May 20 2022
Posted In: Homelessness, Membership,
Visa Foundation has announced a $12 million grant to
Fang Family Makes Major Gift to Recognize AAPI Month image

Fang Family Makes Major Gift to Recognize AAPI Month
May 20 2022
Posted In: China,
The Florence Fang Family Foundation, in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, on Thursday (Ma...
Exciting Outlook for Waterfront Mobility in the Bay Area image

Exciting Outlook for Waterfront Mobility in the Bay Area
May 20 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
This week the Bay Area Council launched its new Waterfront Mobility Committee under the leadership of co-chairs Heather Sa...
Biden Housing Plan Gives a Nod to Council Strategies image

Biden Housing Plan Gives a Nod to Council Strategies
May 20 2022
Posted In: Housing,
Fresh off a successful DC advocacy trip that focused heavily on housing reforms, and our 2021 decision to open a permanent...
Member Spotlight: A Golden Opportunity for Sunnyvale Wells Fargo Business Owner  image

Member Spotlight: A Golden Opportunity for Sunnyvale Wells Fargo Business Owner 
May 13 2022
Posted In: Membership,
Bay Area Council member Wells Fargo serves more than 3 million small business customers. Priya Vasan of Sunnyvale is one o...
Return of Workers to Offices Creeping Up as More Employers Embrace “New Normal” image

Return of Workers to Offices Creeping Up as More Employers Embrace “New Normal”
May 13 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
Thirteen months of survey data provided by Bay Area employers show we may be living in the “new normal” for in-person ...
New Report: No, Global Innovation/Tech Organizations Aren’t Leaving the Bay Area image

New Report: No, Global Innovation/Tech Organizations Aren’t Leaving the Bay Area
May 13 2022
Posted In: Uncategorized,
While the Bay Area has lost some residents and companies during the pandemic, the good news is that we have continued to g...
A’s Howard Terminal Plan Gets (Green) Thumbs Up image

A’s Howard Terminal Plan Gets (Green) Thumbs Up
May 13 2022
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
Helps ease unwanted sprawl. Check. Reduces automobile emissions. Check. Avoids development in areas threatened by wildfire...
New Homelessness Counts Offer Bad News, Good News image

New Homelessness Counts Offer Bad News, Good News
May 13 2022
Posted In: Housing,
New data released this week shows that homelessness in the Bay Area is getting worse, with the region’s unhoused populat...
Member Spotlight: Intel Commits to Net-Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2040 image

Member Spotlight: Intel Commits to Net-Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2040
May 13 2022
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
In April, Intel Corporation announced plans to further reduce our direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions to develop ...
New Report: Benefits of Optimizing Land Uses Near Transit Stations image

New Report: Benefits of Optimizing Land Uses Near Transit Stations
May 13 2022
Posted In: Economy, Transportation,
A new brief from the Bay Area Council Economic Institute this week highlights the benefits of optimizing land use at trans...
Council Launches New Committees on Waterfront Mobility and Goods Movement image

Council Launches New Committees on Waterfront Mobility and Goods Movement
May 13 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council is launching two new policy committees to address pressing regional policy challenges. Next week, the...
$300,000,000,000 image

$300,000,000,000
May 13 2022
Posted In: Economy,
The California tax machine is running at full throttle. Gov. Newsom today unveiled his May budget revision, and the number...
Council Brings the Region’s Priorities to D.C. image

Council Brings the Region’s Priorities to D.C.
May 13 2022
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council this week stormed (not like that) the nation’s capital to meet with top Congressional leaders and B...
Bay Area Council Urges State and Federal Leaders to Invest in High-Speed Rail image

Bay Area Council Urges State and Federal Leaders to Invest in High-Speed Rail
May 8 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council joined with three former US Transportation Secretaries, who chair the US High Speed Rail Coalition, a...
Council Testifies on Harm of Over-Reaching Federal Anti-Trust Legislation image

Council Testifies on Harm of Over-Reaching Federal Anti-Trust Legislation
May 6 2022
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area’s world-leading innovation economy has flourished in large part because of a free-market system that encour...
Member Spotlight: The Force is with Alaska Airlines image

Member Spotlight: The Force is with Alaska Airlines
May 6 2022
Posted In: Membership,
Alaska Airlines joined forces with Disneyland Resort on May the Fourth to unveil a new, one-of-its-kind Star Wars-themed a...
Council Mourns Passing of Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta image

Council Mourns Passing of Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta
May 6 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council joined the chorus of community members and Congressional leaders who mourned the passing this week of...
Council Hosts Briefing with Attorney General Rob Bonta image

Council Hosts Briefing with Attorney General Rob Bonta
May 6 2022
Posted In: Government Relations,
On Tuesday evening (May 3), California Attorney General Rob Bonta joined members of the Bay Area Council Executive Committ...
WETA Votes to Propel Region into Greener Future image

WETA Votes to Propel Region into Greener Future
May 6 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
The Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) Board of Directors voted yesterday (May 5) to launch the first zero-em...
Encouraging News for Oakland A’s Howard Terminal Project image

Encouraging News for Oakland A’s Howard Terminal Project
May 6 2022
Posted In: Housing,
The visionary plan by the Oakland A’s to transform an underutilized cargo terminal at Howard Terminal into a gleaming wa...
Apprenticeship Gaining Steam as a Key Tool in California’s Workforce Strategy image

Apprenticeship Gaining Steam as a Key Tool in California’s Workforce Strategy
May 6 2022
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council is committed to apprenticeship programs as key to developing a workforce that meets the talent demand...
Continuing Population Decline a Warning for California image

Continuing Population Decline a Warning for California
May 6 2022
Posted In: News,
In an ominous sign for California’s economic future, the state recorded its second straight year of population loss. In ...
Member Spotlight: The Force is with Alaska Airlines image

Member Spotlight: The Force is with Alaska Airlines
May 6 2022
Posted In: Membership,
Alaska Airlines joined forces with Disneyland Resort on May the Fourth to unveil a new, one-of-its-kind Star Wars-the...
Report on Single-Payer Health Care Leaves “More Questions than Answers” image

Report on Single-Payer Health Care Leaves “More Questions than Answers”
Apr 29 2022
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Four months after disastrous legislation (AB 1400) to create a so-called single-payer healthcare system in California died...
Council Supports Tax Exemption for Manufacturing, R&D Equipment image

Council Supports Tax Exemption for Manufacturing, R&D Equipment
Apr 29 2022
Posted In: Economy,
California’s economic competitiveness would get a big boost under legislation (SB 1951, Grayson) the Bay Area Council is...
Analysis: Howard Terminal Not Viable for Cargo Uses image

Analysis: Howard Terminal Not Viable for Cargo Uses
Apr 29 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
Some critics of a visionary plan by the Oakland A’s to transform an aging and underutilized cargo terminal at the Port o...
Council-Sponsored CARE Court Bill Faces First Test image

Council-Sponsored CARE Court Bill Faces First Test
Apr 29 2022
Posted In: Homelessness,
The Bay Area Council was on hand Monday for a meeting with Governor Newsom and state and local elected leaders to discuss...
Seamless Regional Transit Advancing image

Seamless Regional Transit Advancing
Apr 29 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
Work is progressing on the development of sweeping changes to the Bay Area’s transit system that would deliver more inte...
Bay Area Council Applauds Key Decision on High-Speed Rail Valley-to-Valley Segment image

Bay Area Council Applauds Key Decision on High-Speed Rail Valley-to-Valley Segment
Apr 29 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
The California High-Speed Rail Authority on Thursday (April 28) unanimously approved the
California’s High-Speed Rail Project: Approval of the San Jose to Merced Environmental Documents is Essential for Jobs, the Environment, Business Competitiveness and Quality of Life image

California’s High-Speed Rail Project: Approval of the San Jose to Merced Environmental Documents is Essential for Jobs, the Environment, Business Competitiveness and Quality of Life
Apr 27 2022
Posted In: News, Transportation,
By Jim Wunderman, President and CEO of the Bay Area Council, Ashley Swearengin, President and CEO of...
State Must Fulfill Its Commitment to Calbright College image

State Must Fulfill Its Commitment to Calbright College
Apr 22 2022
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Colleges across America are experiencing an unprecedented enrollment crisis. California’s own community college system h...
Council Talks with Rep. Doris Matsui about U.S. Competitiveness Legislation image

Council Talks with Rep. Doris Matsui about U.S. Competitiveness Legislation
Apr 22 2022
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area Council Government Relations Committee held a special meeting with Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-Sacramento) ...
Council-Sponsored Homelessness Bill Faces First Test image

Council-Sponsored Homelessness Bill Faces First Test
Apr 22 2022
Posted In: Homelessness,
SB 2211 (Ting), a bill the Bay Area Council is co-sponsoring to expand California’s inventory of emergency shelters, wil...
Council-Sponsored Water Innovation Bill Clears First Committee Hurdle image

Council-Sponsored Water Innovation Bill Clears First Committee Hurdle
Apr 22 2022
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
A bill co-sponsored by the Bay Area Council and the California Municipal Utilities Association to advance technological in...
Bay Area Council Leads North-South-Valley Coalition to Boost Drought Resilience image

Bay Area Council Leads North-South-Valley Coalition to Boost Drought Resilience
Apr 22 2022
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council and the Southern California Water Coalition this week asked state leaders to commit $6.5 billion from...
New Analysis: Tech Jobs and the Many Jobs They Create image

New Analysis: Tech Jobs and the Many Jobs They Create
Apr 15 2022
Posted In: Economy,
An analysis released this week (April 13) by the Bay Area Council Economic Institute found that technology jobs are as imp...
Major Council-Backed Sea Level Rise Project Breaks Ground image

Major Council-Backed Sea Level Rise Project Breaks Ground
Apr 15 2022
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
The US Army Corps of Engineers broke ground Thursday (April 14) on a project to build four miles of 15 foot high levees an...
New Regional Leadership Focuses on Housing Solutions image

New Regional Leadership Focuses on Housing Solutions
Apr 15 2022
Posted In: Housing, Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council has long advocated for a strong regional approach to addressing our housing crisis, including sup...
Bay Area Council Poll: Voters Say It’s Getting Much Harder to Find Housing image

Bay Area Council Poll: Voters Say It’s Getting Much Harder to Find Housing
Apr 14 2022
Posted In: Housing, Press Releases,
Overwhelming support for ADUs, infill and transit-oriented housing and converting unused office space to housing; supp...
2022 Bay Area Council Poll: COVID Fears Linger with Many Saying a Return to “Normal” Could be Six Months, One Year Away image

2022 Bay Area Council Poll: COVID Fears Linger with Many Saying a Return to “Normal” Could be Six Months, One Year Away
Apr 7 2022
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Even as the COVID pandemic recedes, almost half of Bay Area voters (49%) harbor concern about contracting the deadly virus...
2022 Bay Area Council Poll: Voters Demand “Get Tough” Approach on Homelessness image

2022 Bay Area Council Poll: Voters Demand “Get Tough” Approach on Homelessness
Apr 4 2022
Posted In: Homelessness, Press Releases,
Bay Area voters have reached their breaking point when it comes to a seemingly intractable homeless crisis that is wreckin...
2022 Bay Area Council Poll Registers Big Jump in Concerns about Crime and Safety image

2022 Bay Area Council Poll Registers Big Jump in Concerns about Crime and Safety
Mar 31 2022
Posted In: Press Releases,
Nearly 2/3rds avoid big city downtowns because of concerns about crime
Report: Future of California Advanced Technology and Basic Research image

Report: Future of California Advanced Technology and Basic Research
Mar 29 2022
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute released today (March 29) its Future of Basic Science and Advanced Technology Repo...
2022 Bay Area Council Poll Finds Deep Malaise Settling Over the Region image

2022 Bay Area Council Poll Finds Deep Malaise Settling Over the Region
Mar 29 2022
Posted In: Press Releases,
With the Bay Area still working to shake off the jarring and painful effects of the COVID pandemic while long-standing pro...
Analysis: Plan for Massive Oakland Business Tax Hike Would Be Ruinous for Jobs Recovery, Economic Growth image

Analysis: Plan for Massive Oakland Business Tax Hike Would Be Ruinous for Jobs Recovery, Economic Growth
Mar 24 2022
Posted In: Uncategorized,
A proposed business tax increase the Oakland City Council is exploring would jeopardize the city’s already lagging jobs ...
Show me the Money; Bay Area Competes for Federal Transportation Largesse image

Show me the Money; Bay Area Competes for Federal Transportation Largesse
Mar 18 2022
Posted In: News, Transportation,
From electrifying Caltrain to extending BART to San Jose, the Bay Area is lining up its top transportation infrastructure ...
Inexplicable Advisory Vote on Howard Terminal image

Inexplicable Advisory Vote on Howard Terminal
Mar 18 2022
Posted In: News,
Even when the evidence seemed indisputable that plans by the Oakland A’s to build a transformative new ballpark at Howar...
Housing the Middle: Council Sponsors Conversation on Affordable Housing Solutions image

Housing the Middle: Council Sponsors Conversation on Affordable Housing Solutions
Mar 18 2022
Posted In: Housing, News,
The Council was proud to sponsor Housing the Middle: Bay Area Affordable Housing Solutions, a provocative, solutions-orie...
Member Spotlight: Calbright College Making Strides and Building Career Pathways for Californians image

Member Spotlight: Calbright College Making Strides and Building Career Pathways for Californians
Mar 18 2022
Posted In: News, Workforce of the Future,
California’s first and only fully-online, public community college is making exceptional progress under the new leadersh...
Employer Survey: Almost 70% See “New Normal” Operations by Summer image

Employer Survey: Almost 70% See “New Normal” Operations by Summer
Mar 8 2022
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
Almost one full year of survey data provided by Bay Area employers shows the post-pandemic “new normal” for in-person ...
Bay Area Council Calls on Legislature to Enact Comprehensive Reforms to End Abuse of CEQA image

Bay Area Council Calls on Legislature to Enact Comprehensive Reforms to End Abuse of CEQA
Mar 7 2022
Posted In: Press Releases,
In the wake of an abusive and shameful California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) lawsuit that effectively will deny enro...
We’re Not Done Yet: Council Sponsors New ADU Reform Bill image

We’re Not Done Yet: Council Sponsors New ADU Reform Bill
Mar 4 2022
Posted In: Housing,
Six years after the Bay Area Council sponsored the legislation (SB 1069, Wieckowski) that launched a statewide and nationa...
New CA Housing Goals Better Reflect Actual Need image

New CA Housing Goals Better Reflect Actual Need
Mar 4 2022
Posted In: Housing,
One of the primary challenges in addressing California’s decades-old housing affordability crisis is the ridiculously lo...
Council Examining Newsom Plan for Treating Homeless with Mental Health, Substance Abuse Disorders image

Council Examining Newsom Plan for Treating Homeless with Mental Health, Substance Abuse Disorders
Mar 4 2022
Posted In: Homelessness,
Amidst growing scenes of human suffering and despair on California’s streets, Governor Newsom on Thursday (March 3) anno...
Council Announces New Policy Focus on Maritime, Goods Movement image

Council Announces New Policy Focus on Maritime, Goods Movement
Mar 4 2022
Posted In: News,
The maritime and goods movement industry is a major driver of economic activity across the Bay Area. It encompasses our po...
Let It Flow: Federal Funding for Bay Area Transportation image

Let It Flow: Federal Funding for Bay Area Transportation
Mar 4 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
The Federal Transit Administration announced yesterday (March 3) that five Bay Area transit operators will receive an addi...
San Francisco Mayor London Breed Unveils “Welcome Back to SF” Campaign image

San Francisco Mayor London Breed Unveils “Welcome Back to SF” Campaign
Mar 4 2022
Posted In: Economy,
San Francisco Mayor London Breed this week announced commitments by major employers to return to in-person work during the...
Biden SOTU Highlights Importance of Apprenticeships image

Biden SOTU Highlights Importance of Apprenticeships
Mar 4 2022
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
President Biden in his State of the Union on Tuesday (March 1) underscored the critical role our workforce will play in th...
California Resilience Challenge Winners Announced image

California Resilience Challenge Winners Announced
Feb 28 2022
Posted In: Press Releases,
Today (Feb. 28) the California Resilience Challenge, an initiative of the Bay Area Council Foundation, announced the 13 wi...
Webinar: Can We Restore the California Dream? image

Webinar: Can We Restore the California Dream?
Feb 25 2022
Posted In: Economy,
There was a time when people were California dreamin’ and flocking to the Golden State with flowers in their hair. Not s...
Council Hosts Trans-Pacific Ceremony to Celebrate Chinese New Year image

Council Hosts Trans-Pacific Ceremony to Celebrate Chinese New Year
Feb 25 2022
Posted In: China,
Last night (Feb. 24), the Bay Area Council hosted our annual Chinese New Year Celebration and Global Leadership Award Cere...
State Water Allocations Highlight Urgency to Create More H2O image

State Water Allocations Highlight Urgency to Create More H2O
Feb 25 2022
Posted In: Water,
As we enter the third year of our most recent drought, the federal Bureau of Reclamation this week announced dramatic redu...
Legislation Addresses UC Berkeley Enrollment Freeze image

Legislation Addresses UC Berkeley Enrollment Freeze
Feb 25 2022
Posted In: Government Relations,
New legislation (SB 866) introduced this week (Feb. 21) by state Sen. Scott Weiner (San Francisco) would shield student an...
Gov. Newsom Reappoints Wunderman Chair of Regional Ferry Board image

Gov. Newsom Reappoints Wunderman Chair of Regional Ferry Board
Feb 25 2022
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
Gov. Gavin Newsom today announced the reappointment of Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman as Chair of the
Council Co-Sponsors Legislation to Alleviate Unsheltered Homelessness Crisis image

Council Co-Sponsors Legislation to Alleviate Unsheltered Homelessness Crisis
Feb 25 2022
Posted In: Homelessness,
California has the least sheltered homeless population in the U.S. Just 30% of homeless Californians have access to emerge...
Abusive CEQA Lawsuit Threatens UC Berkeley Admissions image

Abusive CEQA Lawsuit Threatens UC Berkeley Admissions
Feb 18 2022
Posted In: News,
Thousands of prospective UC Berkeley students would be denied admission next year under a misguided and disastrous court r...
Big Win for Oakland A’s Ballpark Plans image

Big Win for Oakland A’s Ballpark Plans
Feb 18 2022
Posted In: News,
There’s still a long way to go, but Bay Area Council member Oakland A’s reached an important milestone this week (Feb....
Big Month for Regional Ferry Service image

Big Month for Regional Ferry Service
Feb 18 2022
Posted In: News,
There was a lot of good news this past month for fans of regional ferry service. The Port of Redwood City this week (Feb. ...
Worst Drought in 1,200 Years? How About We Make More Water image

Worst Drought in 1,200 Years? How About We Make More Water
Feb 18 2022
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, News,
New resear...
Not Again! Failed Wealth Tax Legislation Returns image

Not Again! Failed Wealth Tax Legislation Returns
Feb 18 2022
Posted In: News,
We worked hard to kill it once and we’ll do it again. San Jose Assemblymember Alex Lee has returned with legislation to ...
Council Sponsors Legislation to Fast Track Transportation Infrastructure Projects image

Council Sponsors Legislation to Fast Track Transportation Infrastructure Projects
Feb 11 2022
Posted In: News, Transportation,
With billions of dollars in new federal infrastructure funding poised to pour into the Bay Area, new legislation (SB 922) ...
Gov. Newsom Signs Legislation Reinstating Business Tax Credits image

Gov. Newsom Signs Legislation Reinstating Business Tax Credits
Feb 11 2022
Posted In: News,
There was a ray of good news this week for thousands of businesses statewide struggling (see related story below) to recov...
California Holds Highest Unemployment Rate in the Nation image

California Holds Highest Unemployment Rate in the Nation
Feb 11 2022
Posted In: Economy, News,
Though California’s joblessness peaked at 16.4 percent in April 2020, our state’s unemployment rate remains the highes...
New Data Highlights Impact of Bay Area’s Horrible Housing Shortage image

New Data Highlights Impact of Bay Area’s Horrible Housing Shortage
Feb 11 2022
Posted In: Housing, News,
Not that we need more evidence of California’s historic housing shortage and affordability crisis, but the National Asso...
Council Advocates for Megaregion Dozen Transportation Projects image

Council Advocates for Megaregion Dozen Transportation Projects
Feb 4 2022
Posted In: News, Transportation,
Last Friday, the Megaregion Working Group – comprised of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, Sacramento Area Cou...
Revitalizing East Bay Manufacturing image

Revitalizing East Bay Manufacturing
Feb 4 2022
Posted In: Economy, News,
The Bay Area tech economy is much more than companies building new software off lines of code. Advanced manufacturing is a...
ADUs Come to the White House image

ADUs Come to the White House
Feb 4 2022
Posted In: Housing, News,
Almost six years after legislation the Bay Area Council sponsored ignited a statewide surge in new accessory dwelling unit...
Council Co-Sponsoring Seamless Transit Transformation Act image

Council Co-Sponsoring Seamless Transit Transformation Act
Feb 4 2022
Posted In: News, Transportation,
Getting commuters back on transit is hard enough with lingering concerns about COVID, but our region’s disjointed and la...
Bay Area Council Cheers Demise of AB 1400 Single Payer Healthcare Legislation image

Bay Area Council Cheers Demise of AB 1400 Single Payer Healthcare Legislation
Jan 31 2022
Posted In: Healthcare, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 31) issued the following statement on the demise of AB 1400, single-payer healthcare legi...
High Stakes Wager Sets Stage for 49ers-Rams Showdown image

High Stakes Wager Sets Stage for 49ers-Rams Showdown
Jan 28 2022
Posted In: Membership,
Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman and Los Angeles Business Federation CEO Tracy Hernandez are most often seen collaborati...
Despite Gains in 2021, Regional Economic and Transit Recovery Face Uphill Battle image

Despite Gains in 2021, Regional Economic and Transit Recovery Face Uphill Battle
Jan 28 2022
Posted In: Transportation,
New data from December 2021 show modest gains in employment in the Bay Area, California and the nation overall, ending a y...
Governor’s Proposed Housing Investments in 2022-2023 Budget image

Governor’s Proposed Housing Investments in 2022-2023 Budget
Jan 28 2022
Posted In: Housing,
Governor Newsom’s proposed 2022-2023 budget lays out his priorities for tackling the state's housing crisis and inc...
Getting More Value in California from New Federal Infrastructure Spending image

Getting More Value in California from New Federal Infrastructure Spending
Jan 28 2022
Posted In: Economy,
For decades California has faced an infrastructure financing deficit, as federal and state support has declined and counti...
Save the Date: Celebrate the 2021 California Resilience Challenge image

Save the Date: Celebrate the 2021 California Resilience Challenge
Jan 21 2022
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, News,
Join the Bay Area Council Foundation the evening of Monday, February 28 for a hybrid virtual and in-per...
Council CEO Jim Wunderman Named to MTC Network Manager Advisory Group image

Council CEO Jim Wunderman Named to MTC Network Manager Advisory Group
Jan 21 2022
Posted In: News, Transportation,
The rubber is about to meet the road on our way to a more integrated Bay Area transit system. Bay Area Council President a...
Council-Endorsed Housing Development in Alameda Wins Preliminary Approval image

Council-Endorsed Housing Development in Alameda Wins Preliminary Approval
Jan 21 2022
Posted In: Housing, News,
This week (Jan. 18) the Alameda City Council on a 4-1 vote moved ahead with the approval process for a 589-unit mixed use ...
Legislation to Dismantle CA Healthcare System Moves to Assembly Floor image

Legislation to Dismantle CA Healthcare System Moves to Assembly Floor
Jan 21 2022
Posted In: News,
This week (Jan. 19) the Assembly Appropriations Committee approved AB 1400 (Kalra), a sweeping piece of legislation propos...
Partner Spotlight: Growth Sector Trains Community College Students for Engineering Careers image

Partner Spotlight: Growth Sector Trains Community College Students for Engineering Careers
Jan 21 2022
Posted In: News, Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area remains a hub for national labs, cutting edge engineering, and biotech companies, many of whom are represente...
Member Spotlight: New Comcast RISE Business Directory image

Member Spotlight: New Comcast RISE Business Directory
Jan 14 2022
Posted In: Membership,
Last year, Comcast launched Comcast RISE, a national effort to uplift and support local small businesses hardest hit by th...
Does Record State Budget Mask Deeper Threats? image

Does Record State Budget Mask Deeper Threats?
Jan 14 2022
Posted In: Economy,
It’s hard not feel good when there’s a blizzard of cash raining down on you. But it can also mask serious issues, much...
Council CEO Jim Wunderman to Headline Statewide Desalination Conference image

Council CEO Jim Wunderman to Headline Statewide Desalination Conference
Jan 14 2022
Posted In: News, Water,
The recent deluge of rain and snow started to refill California reservoirs and aquifers badly depleted by record drought, ...
Council Member Accenture Commits to Big Expansion of Apprenticeship Hiring image

Council Member Accenture Commits to Big Expansion of Apprenticeship Hiring
Jan 14 2022
Posted In: News, Workforce of the Future,
Last week (Jan. 13), Accenture made massive strides in increasing apprenticeship opportunities within their recruitment st...
Council-Endorsed Housing Development in Daly City Wins Preliminary Approval image

Council-Endorsed Housing Development in Daly City Wins Preliminary Approval
Jan 14 2022
Posted In: Housing, News,
The Daly City City Council last week gave an initial OK to 1,200 units of new housing as part of a larger development the ...
Council-Sponsored Reforms Tighten Screws on Cities to Produce Housing image

Council-Sponsored Reforms Tighten Screws on Cities to Produce Housing
Jan 7 2022
Posted In: Housing, News,
It was supposed to be the blueprint for meeting the Bay Area’s housing needs. But it was barely worth the paper it was p...
Massive $163 Billion Tax Hike Proposed to Dismantle CA Healthcare System image

Massive $163 Billion Tax Hike Proposed to Dismantle CA Healthcare System
Jan 7 2022
Posted In: News,
Taxes on California businesses and consumers would be increased a stunning $163 billion annually (yes, annually!) under di...
Bay Area Council Joins Key State Transportation Working Group on Infrastructure Investment image

Bay Area Council Joins Key State Transportation Working Group on Infrastructure Investment
Jan 7 2022
Posted In: News, Transportation,
As a key California transportation stakeholder, the Bay Area Council has been invited by California Transportation Sec. Da...
Steep Drop in Migration to CA a Troubling Sign for the Economy image

Steep Drop in Migration to CA a Troubling Sign for the Economy
Dec 17 2021
Posted In: Economy,
A big part of California’s economic success over the decades is the migration here of top talent from other states and o...
Council Advocacy Helps Push Two Major Water Projects Closer to the Finish Line image

Council Advocacy Helps Push Two Major Water Projects Closer to the Finish Line
Dec 17 2021
Posted In: Water,
Plans to build the new Sites Reservoir and expand the Pacheco Reservoir both cleared major hurdles at the California Water...
Major Milestone for Oakland A’s Waterfront Ballpark image

Major Milestone for Oakland A’s Waterfront Ballpark
Dec 17 2021
Posted In: Community Engagement,
The Oakland A’s bold plans for a new waterfront ballpark and surrounding commercial and residential development at Howar...
Downtown SF Rail Extension, Cornerstone of Regional Transit Network, Achieves New Milestone image

Downtown SF Rail Extension, Cornerstone of Regional Transit Network, Achieves New Milestone
Dec 17 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
The Transbay Joint Powers Authority (TJPA), which owns and operates the multimodal Salesforce Transit Center in downtown S...
Bayer Gets Green Light for Berkeley Campus Plans image

Bayer Gets Green Light for Berkeley Campus Plans
Dec 17 2021
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Plans by biopharmaceutical leader and Bay Area Council member Bayer to transform its Berkeley product development and manu...
Assemblymember Buffy Wicks Appointed Housing Committee Chair image

Assemblymember Buffy Wicks Appointed Housing Committee Chair
Dec 10 2021
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
California Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon this week (Dec. 7) appointed East Bay Assemblymember Buffy Wicks Chair of the A...
Council Confronts Tough Options for Boosting Drought Resilience image

Council Confronts Tough Options for Boosting Drought Resilience
Dec 10 2021
Posted In: Water,
With California plunging deeper into drought, the Bay Area Council Water & Climate Resilience Committee met with Natur...
With Political Changes, Big Opportunity for Business image

With Political Changes, Big Opportunity for Business
Dec 10 2021
Posted In: Economy,
From redistricting, term limits and demographic shifts to a wave of legislative retirements, California’s political land...
Housing, Homelessness Top Bay Area Council Priorities for 2022 image

Housing, Homelessness Top Bay Area Council Priorities for 2022
Dec 3 2021
Posted In: News,
Two of the Bay Area’s most intractable and worsening problems are housing and homelessness, and the Bay Area Council, ou...
Survey: Fewer Days at the Office, More Traffic image

Survey: Fewer Days at the Office, More Traffic
Dec 3 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area commute may never be the same again, but what that means for the region’s highways and mass transit systems...
Member Spotlight: Comcast image

Member Spotlight: Comcast
Dec 3 2021
Posted In: Membership,
Comcast recently announced it will award $1 million in total grants as well as technology and marketing resources to 100 O...
Celebrating 76 Years of Business, Philanthropic Leadership image

Celebrating 76 Years of Business, Philanthropic Leadership
Nov 19 2021
Posted In: Events,
In our first major in-person event since the COVID pandemic forced us all into a virtual world, the Bay Area Council and C...
New Report Examines Growing Economic Losses from Wildfires image

New Report Examines Growing Economic Losses from Wildfires
Nov 12 2021
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
California’s record-breaking fires over the last five years have illustrated an urgent need for policy action to reduce ...
Ten Years On, an East Bay Housing Project Poised to Move Forward image

Ten Years On, an East Bay Housing Project Poised to Move Forward
Nov 12 2021
Posted In: Housing,
When Bay Area Council Senior Vice President Matt Regan first testified in support of a 315-unit housing project in Lafayet...
Santa Clara Knuckles Under to Opponents of Homeless Housing image

Santa Clara Knuckles Under to Opponents of Homeless Housing
Nov 12 2021
Posted In: Homelessness,
The Santa Clara City Council this week knuckled under to angry local opponents of a proposed 60-unit project to provide tr...
Member Spotlight: California Life Sciences image

Member Spotlight: California Life Sciences
Nov 12 2021
Posted In: Membership,
California Life Sciences (CLS) announced its 2021 Pantheon award winners–an annual celebration of those companies and in...
Steep Water Restrictions Loom as Talks Collapse image

Steep Water Restrictions Loom as Talks Collapse
Nov 5 2021
Posted In: Water,
Millions of Bay Area water users could see cuts of up to 50% in dry years after state water officials walked away from neg...
Big Housing Wins, But Much More to Do image

Big Housing Wins, But Much More to Do
Nov 5 2021
Posted In: Housing,
This week, the Bay Area Council’s Housing Committee led a discussion with state leaders on their priorities for housing ...
Bridge Crossing Data a Good News, Bad News Story image

Bridge Crossing Data a Good News, Bad News Story
Nov 5 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
The good news is that the number of commuters crossing Bay Area bridges has returned to pre-pandemic levels. That’s also...
Member Spotlight: DoorDash Launches Safety Initiative image

Member Spotlight: DoorDash Launches Safety Initiative
Nov 5 2021
Posted In: Membership,
We’re excited to announce another major development to continue improving the Dasher experience. We’re
Important Step for Oakland A’s Waterfront Ballpark and Development image

Important Step for Oakland A’s Waterfront Ballpark and Development
Oct 29 2021
Posted In: News,
The Alameda County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday (Oct. 26) delivered the equivalent of an inning-saving base hit to adva...
Creating More Seamless Regional Transportation image

Creating More Seamless Regional Transportation
Oct 29 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
Better integrating fares among the region’s many transit providers. Creating more seamless transit connections between s...
Pitching for World Cup in the Bay Area image

Pitching for World Cup in the Bay Area
Oct 29 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Bay Area elected leaders and business leaders are joining forces to bring the World Cup to Levi’s Stadium in 2026. San J...
The Pen is Not Mightier than the Drought image

The Pen is Not Mightier than the Drought
Oct 29 2021
Posted In: Water,
Bay Area Council CEO this week penned an OpEd for Calmatters highlighting the urgency of developing new water sources ...
New Report Examines Future Manufacturing Careers image

New Report Examines Future Manufacturing Careers
Oct 29 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Manufacturing holds an important key to the economy of California, which is the nation’s largest manufacturing state. It...
Member Spotlight: Automotus Accelerates Commercial Adoption of EVs, Improves Parking Turnover for Local Businesses image

Member Spotlight: Automotus Accelerates Commercial Adoption of EVs, Improves Parking Turnover for Local Businesses
Oct 26 2021
Posted In: News,
Founded in 2017, new Bay Area Council member Automotus uses first-of-its-kind computer vision technology to help cities, a...
Campaign Seeks Hybrid Lane on Richmond Bridge image

Campaign Seeks Hybrid Lane on Richmond Bridge
Oct 22 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
Advocates for less congestion on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge led by the Bay Area Council recently launched the Common S...
New Study Examines California’s Landmark Paid Family Leave Program Over 20 Years image

New Study Examines California’s Landmark Paid Family Leave Program Over 20 Years
Sep 21 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
California’s first-in-the-nation paid family leave (PFL) program is almost two decades old and a new in-depth Bay Area C...
Gov. Newsom Signs Council-Sponsored Bill to Close Major Housing Reform Loophole image

Gov. Newsom Signs Council-Sponsored Bill to Close Major Housing Reform Loophole
Sep 16 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Sept. 16) applauded Gov. Gavin Newsom for signing urgency legislation (AB 1174, Tim Grayson) i...
Statement on Gov. Newsom’s Recall Victory image

Statement on Gov. Newsom’s Recall Victory
Sep 15 2021
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council today (Sept. 15) issued the following statement on the resounding defeat of an effort to recall Gov. ...
Bay Area Council Urges Gov. Newsom to Sign Wildfire Bill image

Bay Area Council Urges Gov. Newsom to Sign Wildfire Bill
Sep 10 2021
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
For centuries, California’s indigenous residents used small, controlled fires to manage vegetation growth in forests and...
Jim Wunderman Answers Questions about Regional Ferry Service image

Jim Wunderman Answers Questions about Regional Ferry Service
Sep 10 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
As the Bay Area makes good progress in stamping out COVID and business activity picks up around the region, so has ferrybo...
Member Spotlight: Cal Water Proposes Over $1 Billion Investment in State Water Systems image

Member Spotlight: Cal Water Proposes Over $1 Billion Investment in State Water Systems
Sep 10 2021
Posted In: Membership,
In July, Cal Water submitted its 2022-2024 infrastructure improvement plans for all of its California districts with the s...
Watch: Opportunities for U.S. Partnerships in China’s Greater Bay Area Region image

Watch: Opportunities for U.S. Partnerships in China’s Greater Bay Area Region
Sep 10 2021
Posted In: China,
This week (Sept. 8), Bay Area Council Economic Institute Senior Director Sean Randolph presented the findings of
Economists Target Restrictive Zoning in Housing Crisis image

Economists Target Restrictive Zoning in Housing Crisis
Sep 3 2021
Posted In: Housing,
A report this week by the White House Council of Economic Advisors came at just the right time as two bills the Bay Area C...
Data Visualization Tool Highlights California’s Slowing Population Growth Since 1990s image

Data Visualization Tool Highlights California’s Slowing Population Growth Since 1990s
Sep 3 2021
Posted In: Economy,
A new visualization tool created by the Bay Area Council Economic Institute tracking California’s demographic trends by ...
Bay Area Council Recommends COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for All Private Sector Employers, Businesses image

Bay Area Council Recommends COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for All Private Sector Employers, Businesses
Aug 31 2021
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Aug. 31) announced it is formally recommending all private sector employers, businesses and ot...
Big Win for Housing image

Big Win for Housing
Aug 27 2021
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
Breaking the stranglehold of single-family zoning on California’s housing landscape has long been seen as a critical par...
Survey: As Delta Variant Surges, Employers Delaying Return to Office Plans image

Survey: As Delta Variant Surges, Employers Delaying Return to Office Plans
Aug 27 2021
Posted In: Healthcare,
The fast-spreading COVID-19 delta variant appears to be causing some Bay Area businesses to pull back slightly on their pl...
Bay Area Council Helps Plan Sea Level Rise Defense image

Bay Area Council Helps Plan Sea Level Rise Defense
Aug 27 2021
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
How will the Bay Area pay for defending its shoreline from rising sea levels? How can we speed projects to ensure action i...
Council CEO Jim Wunderman Again Named to Capitol Weekly Top 100 image

Council CEO Jim Wunderman Again Named to Capitol Weekly Top 100
Aug 27 2021
Posted In: Government Relations,
We’ve frankly lost count of the number of times Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman has been named to the state’s most-...
Bay Area Council Calls for State Forestry Stimulus to Fight Wildfires image

Bay Area Council Calls for State Forestry Stimulus to Fight Wildfires
Aug 20 2021
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
With record wildfires again sweeping California and state and federal agencies struggling to manage California’s 33 mill...
Council Asks Legislature to Help Silicon Valley Stave Off Drought Disaster image

Council Asks Legislature to Help Silicon Valley Stave Off Drought Disaster
Aug 20 2021
Posted In: Water,
The Bay Area Council this week called on state legislators to appropriate $20 million to help Valley Water—Silicon Valle...
Housing and Homelessness Committees Meet image

Housing and Homelessness Committees Meet
Aug 20 2021
Posted In: Homelessness, Housing,
The Bay Area Council’s Housing and Homelessness Committees this week welcomed Dr. U.S. Housing and Urban Development Sen...
All Aboard Bay Area Transit image

All Aboard Bay Area Transit
Aug 20 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council is proud to support the newly-launched All Aboard Bay Area Transit campaign, a one-stop shop for info...
Attention Shifts to State Water Plan as Drought Worsens image

Attention Shifts to State Water Plan as Drought Worsens
Aug 13 2021
Posted In: Water,
Plans by state agencies to force water users in the Bay Area and elsewhere to leave more water in rivers and streams at th...
Picture Worth 1,000 Words – and Even More ADUs image

Picture Worth 1,000 Words – and Even More ADUs
Aug 13 2021
Posted In: Housing,
Member Spotlight: 49ers Elevate Bay Area Black-Owned Businesses image

Member Spotlight: 49ers Elevate Bay Area Black-Owned Businesses
Aug 13 2021
Posted In: Membership,
Amid both the ongoing pandemic and the fight against social injustice, the San Francisco 49ers, a longtime member of the B...
How much would it cost to drought-proof the Bay Area? image

How much would it cost to drought-proof the Bay Area?
Aug 6 2021
Posted In: Water,
Even a small risk of supply disruption warrants big investments in drought-proof water.
Bay Area Council Employer Survey: 40% Expect Return to Workplaces Just Three Days a Week Post-Pandemic image

Bay Area Council Employer Survey: 40% Expect Return to Workplaces Just Three Days a Week Post-Pandemic
Aug 4 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area commute may never be the same again, but what that means for the region’s highways and mass transit systems...
Stage Set for 2021 Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame Presented by Kaiser Permanente image

Stage Set for 2021 Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame Presented by Kaiser Permanente
Jul 30 2021
Posted In: Events,
The stage is set for a big, in-person return this year of the Annual Dinner and Bay Area Business Hall of Fame presented b...
State Approves $13 Million Council-Backed Request to Advance Desalination image

State Approves $13 Million Council-Backed Request to Advance Desalination
Jul 30 2021
Posted In: Water,
California this week approved $13 million for a major desalination research and development initiative that the Bay Area C...
Tour Highlights Innovative Sares Regis, LifeMoves Homeless Housing image

Tour Highlights Innovative Sares Regis, LifeMoves Homeless Housing
Jul 30 2021
Posted In: Homelessness,
Several Bay Area Council members and partner organizations toured the award-winning LifeMoves supportive interim housing c...
TixforTransit Winners Announced image

TixforTransit Winners Announced
Jul 30 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
We have our winners. The Bay Area Council recently partnered with five of our Bay Area professional sports teams on Tixfor...
BART Making Good Progress on Measure RR Work image

BART Making Good Progress on Measure RR Work
Jul 30 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council was proud to help lead the regional campaign that succeeded in overwhelmingly passing Measure RR in 2...
Council Headlines China Technology Summit image

Council Headlines China Technology Summit
Jul 30 2021
Posted In: China,
This week (July 26), the Bay Area Council offered opening remarks at the 23rd Annual Meeting of China Association for Scie...
Bay Area Council Economic Institute and Silicon Valley Leadership Group Receive California 100 Grant to Examine CA’s Advanced Technology Future image

Bay Area Council Economic Institute and Silicon Valley Leadership Group Receive California 100 Grant to Examine CA’s Advanced Technology Future
Jul 19 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute (BACEI) and Silicon Valley Leadership Group (SVLG) today announced that they are t...
Enter and Win: Council Announces #TixforTransit Contest image

Enter and Win: Council Announces #TixforTransit Contest
Jul 16 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
Bay Area transit systems are continuing to ramp up service and provide reduced fares while also taking strong measures to ...
Council Launches 2021 California Resilience Challenge Amidst Drought, Wildfire Emergencies image

Council Launches 2021 California Resilience Challenge Amidst Drought, Wildfire Emergencies
Jul 16 2021
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council Foundation on Monday, July 12 launched the official request for proposals for the California Resilien...
California Unemployment Badly Lags Pre-Pandemic Trends image

California Unemployment Badly Lags Pre-Pandemic Trends
Jul 16 2021
Posted In: Economy,
While many media outlets and business climate deniers across the state continue their fixation on the lack of a so-called ...
Keeping the Oakland A’s in Oakland image

Keeping the Oakland A’s in Oakland
Jul 16 2021
Posted In: Economy,
With a key vote looming on the Oakland A’s plan to build a new ballpark at Howard Terminal north of Jack London Square, ...
California Clean Air Day 2021: Microgrants Program image

California Clean Air Day 2021: Microgrants Program
Jul 16 2021
Posted In: Government Relations,
On Wednesday, October 6, the Bay Area Council and 250 businesses and organizations across the state will unite to take par...
Redwood City Ferry Terminal Steaming Ahead image

Redwood City Ferry Terminal Steaming Ahead
Jul 16 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
Plans for extending regional ferry service to Silicon Valley are accelerating, with Gov. Newsom this week signing budget l...
California Resilience Challenge Announces Statewide Request for Proposals for Climate Adaptation Projects image

California Resilience Challenge Announces Statewide Request for Proposals for Climate Adaptation Projects
Jul 12 2021
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council Foundation today launched the official request for proposals for the California Resilience Challenge ...
California Economic Future: What, Me Worry? image

California Economic Future: What, Me Worry?
Jul 9 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Almost 50% of Californians said they are seriously thinking of leaving the state in the next few years or are giving it so...
Transit Agencies Getting Aggressive to Promote Ridership image

Transit Agencies Getting Aggressive to Promote Ridership
Jul 9 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
As the Bay Area economy reopens, the regional commute is also revving up. And while new data shows commuters are choosing ...
Council Helps Push Record State Investments to Fight Homelessness image

Council Helps Push Record State Investments to Fight Homelessness
Jul 9 2021
Posted In: Homelessness,
The budget Gov. Newsom signed last week commits a record $12 billion over the next two years to fight homelessness, and ca...
Climate Priorities Poised for Big Wins in State Budget – But Fight’s Not Over image

Climate Priorities Poised for Big Wins in State Budget – But Fight’s Not Over
Jul 9 2021
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Storm & Flood Protection,
The record budget Gov. Newsom signed last week includes nearly $8 billion for unspecified climate resilience, drought, and...
Partner Spotlight: CEO Action for Racial Equity image

Partner Spotlight: CEO Action for Racial Equity
Jul 9 2021
Posted In: Membership,
Launched in October 2020, CEO Action for Racial Equity
Report: Rethinking Mexico and Its Ties to Silicon Valley image

Report: Rethinking Mexico and Its Ties to Silicon Valley
Jul 9 2021
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute recently released a report authored by Senior Director Dr. Sean Randolph exami...
WETA Launches New Alameda Seaplane Lagoon Route, Increases Other SF Bay Ferry Services image

WETA Launches New Alameda Seaplane Lagoon Route, Increases Other SF Bay Ferry Services
Jul 2 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
This week (July 1), the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA), the City of Alameda and Alameda Point Partne...
Berryessa TOD Project Advances in San Jose image

Berryessa TOD Project Advances in San Jose
Jul 2 2021
Posted In: Housing,
A mixed-use development directly adjacent to the Berryessa BART station in San Jose that proposes to create 3,450 resident...
Bernard J. Tyson’s Legacy Celebrated with Portrait Unveiling image

Bernard J. Tyson’s Legacy Celebrated with Portrait Unveiling
Jul 2 2021
Posted In: Membership,
The Bay Area Council was honored to be included in a celebration of the legacy and contributions of Bernard J. Tyson this ...
Litigation Abuse Under CEQA Delays Yet Another Affordable Housing Project image

Litigation Abuse Under CEQA Delays Yet Another Affordable Housing Project
Jul 2 2021
Posted In: Housing,
After an exhaustive review process with multiple public hearings and countless hours of community outreach and input, the ...
Bay Area Council Applauds BART for Restoring Service Hours Ahead of Schedule, Bolstering Economic Recovery image

Bay Area Council Applauds BART for Restoring Service Hours Ahead of Schedule, Bolstering Economic Recovery
Jul 1 2021
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
SAN FRANCISCO—On July 1, BART agreed to restore near pre-pandemic service four weeks earlier than originally planned, as...
Bay Area Council Implores BART Board to Add Additional Service to Aid California Economy image

Bay Area Council Implores BART Board to Add Additional Service to Aid California Economy
Jun 25 2021
Posted In: News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council, in partnership with the Golden Gate Restaurant Association and Bay Area concert venues and performin...
Fighting Back Against Misguided, Ham-Fisted Federal Legislation to Hobble California’s Innovation Economy image

Fighting Back Against Misguided, Ham-Fisted Federal Legislation to Hobble California’s Innovation Economy
Jun 25 2021
Posted In: News,
California’s innovation economy is under direct siege by misguided lawmakers in D.C. who want to dismantle some of the w...
Congressman Garamendi’s Strong Leadership Could Finally Make Hovercraft a Reality in the Bay Area image

Congressman Garamendi’s Strong Leadership Could Finally Make Hovercraft a Reality in the Bay Area
Jun 25 2021
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
San Francisco—The Bay Area could finally add hovercraft to its arsenal of regional traffic-fighting too...
New Report Outlines $11.8 Billion Regional Strategy for Ending Bay Area Homelessness image

New Report Outlines $11.8 Billion Regional Strategy for Ending Bay Area Homelessness
Jun 3 2021
Posted In: Homelessness,
With the Bay Area accounting for 30% of the total rise in U.S. homelessness since 2017, the nation’s highest rate of uns...
Council Condemns Latest Anti-Asian Violence image

Council Condemns Latest Anti-Asian Violence
May 14 2021
Posted In: News,
Another in a series of violent attacks against Asians left two San Francisco women seriously injured this week when a knif...
Gov. Newsom Unveils Record Budget image

Gov. Newsom Unveils Record Budget
May 14 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Gov. Newsom today released his revised budget, a sweeping and historic $267 billion spending plan that is designed to get ...
Art Gensler: Architectural Visionary Transformed the Profession image

Art Gensler: Architectural Visionary Transformed the Profession
May 14 2021
Posted In: Membership,
The Bay Area Council mourns the passing this week of visionary architect and good friend Art Gensler. The outpouring of re...
State Audit Highlights Calbright College’s Potential image

State Audit Highlights Calbright College’s Potential
May 14 2021
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Calbright College, California’s first statewide online community college, got off to a bumpy start but deserves the oppo...
#MeetLocalSF Can Help Speed Up Economic Recovery, Boost Jobs image

#MeetLocalSF Can Help Speed Up Economic Recovery, Boost Jobs
May 14 2021
Posted In: Economy,
What is one way businesses can help boost the local economy and get us back on the road to recovery? By meeting local! As ...
Bay Area Council Poll: Homelessness Dominates Concerns image

Bay Area Council Poll: Homelessness Dominates Concerns
May 4 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
Housing Costs and Affordability Remain Top Concerns, while Concerns Soften about the Bay Area’s Notorious...
Northern California Apprentice Network Launches image

Northern California Apprentice Network Launches
Apr 30 2021
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
As the Bay Area and the greater Northern California megaregion begin the recovery process, increasing equitable opportunit...
Google’s Bold San Jose Mixed-Use Transit Village Clears Key Hurdle image

Google’s Bold San Jose Mixed-Use Transit Village Clears Key Hurdle
Apr 30 2021
Posted In: Housing,
Google’s bold plans for creating a mixed-use transit village west of downtown San Jose took a big step forward this week...
Tax Increase Legislation Advances on Questionable Voting Practice image

Tax Increase Legislation Advances on Questionable Voting Practice
Apr 30 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Even with Gov. Newsom pledging not to sign any legislation that would raise taxes, a bill to do exactly that is moving for...
Member Spotlight: Blue Shield of California Sets NextGen Sustainability Goals image

Member Spotlight: Blue Shield of California Sets NextGen Sustainability Goals
Apr 30 2021
Posted In: Membership,
Climate change is an urgent public health issue. According to a recent
Bay Area Council Poll Finds Huge Support for Merging Caltrain and BART image

Bay Area Council Poll Finds Huge Support for Merging Caltrain and BART
Apr 30 2021
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
Merging two of the region’s largest commuter rail systems into a single system ringing the bay is a winning idea, accord...
Bay Area Residents Cite Significant Concerns About the Burdens, Obstacles Facing Businesses image

Bay Area Residents Cite Significant Concerns About the Burdens, Obstacles Facing Businesses
Apr 27 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
Even as the Bay Area economy begins to reopen and recover from a year-long COVID shutdown, a strong majority of residents ...
Study: Bayer Expansion Would Generate $613M in Economic Activity, Support 3,800 Jobs image

Study: Bayer Expansion Would Generate $613M in Economic Activity, Support 3,800 Jobs
Apr 23 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area’s life sciences industry is booming, and plans by Bayer to dramatically expand its Berkeley product develop...
Following Chauvin Verdict, Much Work Remains image

Following Chauvin Verdict, Much Work Remains
Apr 23 2021
Posted In: Gender Equity,
The nation breathed a deep sigh of relief this week with the conviction of Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin for th...
Coalition for CA’s Future Picks Up Steam image

Coalition for CA’s Future Picks Up Steam
Apr 23 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Does the minting of new startup billionaires mean California shouldn’t be concerned about the economy? Don’t tell that...
Headwinds Buffet California Jobs Recovery image

Headwinds Buffet California Jobs Recovery
Apr 9 2021
Posted In: Economy,
New state unemployment data released this week highlights the headwinds that continue to buffet California’s economic re...
California Housing Permits Badly Lag Competitor States image

California Housing Permits Badly Lag Competitor States
Apr 9 2021
Posted In: Housing,
California continues to struggle to permit housing at the level necessary due to a lack of land zoned at the appropriate d...
Bay Area Council Helps Climate Resilience Bond Clear First Hurdle image

Bay Area Council Helps Climate Resilience Bond Clear First Hurdle
Apr 9 2021
Posted In: Water,
California moved one step closer Thursday (April 8) to voting on a $6.7 billion climate resilience bond on the fall 2022 b...
Help Create Real Estate Career Opportunities for Bay Area Youth image

Help Create Real Estate Career Opportunities for Bay Area Youth
Apr 9 2021
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council continues to work closely with Project Destined, a paid vi...
Member Spotlight: United Launches Pilot Training Academy image

Member Spotlight: United Launches Pilot Training Academy
Apr 9 2021
Posted In: Membership,
United Airlines, the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, has begun accepting applications as it embarks on an ...
Finally, It’s Infrastructure Week image

Finally, It’s Infrastructure Week
Apr 2 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
President Biden this week unveiled his $2.3 trillion proposal to invest in upgrading and expanding the nation’s crumblin...
Analysis Shows Lifting SALT Cap Would Create Thousands of CA Jobs image

Analysis Shows Lifting SALT Cap Would Create Thousands of CA Jobs
Apr 2 2021
Posted In: Economy,
A new analysis by the Bay Area Council Economic Institute suggests that restoring the full state and local tax (SALT) dedu...
Council Urges Consideration of Alternative Water Plan as Drought Worsens image

Council Urges Consideration of Alternative Water Plan as Drought Worsens
Apr 2 2021
Posted In: Water,
For the second straight year, California’s Sierra snowpack is far below the historic April 1 average, according to the s...
Bay Area Council Applauds WETA’s Pandemic Recovery Program image

Bay Area Council Applauds WETA’s Pandemic Recovery Program
Apr 2 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
Yesterday (April 1) the WETA Board of Directors, chaired by Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman, unanimously approved its
As Concerns Grow of New COVID Surge, Bay Area Council Poll Finds Troubling Pockets of Vaccine Hesitancy image

As Concerns Grow of New COVID Surge, Bay Area Council Poll Finds Troubling Pockets of Vaccine Hesitancy
Mar 31 2021
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
As concerns grow about a possible fourth COVID surge and public health officials race to roll out vaccines, the 2021 Bay A...
Council’s D.C. Week Comes at Key Time, Helps Deepen Important Relationships image

Council’s D.C. Week Comes at Key Time, Helps Deepen Important Relationships
Mar 26 2021
Posted In: Government Relations,
With the recent passage of the federal COVID relief package and ahead of an expected federal infrastructure bill, the Bay ...
Whoa, Not More Taxes image

Whoa, Not More Taxes
Mar 26 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Another tax on California’s economy surfaced this week (March 22) even as the state announced that budget revenues are e...
Member Spotlight: Siemens Supports Feeding America image

Member Spotlight: Siemens Supports Feeding America
Mar 26 2021
Posted In: Membership,
In partnership with Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger relief organization, the Siemens Foundation recently an...
Partner Spotlight: California Rebuilding Fund image

Partner Spotlight: California Rebuilding Fund
Mar 26 2021
Posted In: Membership,
The COVID-19 shock to California’s economy has been deep and pervasive, hitting both small towns and large cities across...
We Must Stand Together in Condemning Racial Violence and Hatred image

We Must Stand Together in Condemning Racial Violence and Hatred
Mar 19 2021
Posted In: Community Engagement,
The horrific attack this week at three spas in Atlanta, Georgia, that left eight people dead, including six Asian women, h...
Another Tax Hike Rears Its Ugly Head image

Another Tax Hike Rears Its Ugly Head
Mar 19 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Not again. Another misguided tax hike proposal has reared its head in Sacramento as California sits on record revenues, ro...
Workforce Retraining Critical to Strong Economic Rebound image

Workforce Retraining Critical to Strong Economic Rebound
Mar 19 2021
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The COVID pandemic has upended and disrupted labor markets in profound ways. Millions of jobs lost, many that may never re...
Council Endorses 1,729 Homes in Menlo Park image

Council Endorses 1,729 Homes in Menlo Park
Mar 19 2021
Posted In: Housing,
This week the Bay Area Council Housing Endorsement Committee voted to endorse Willow Village in Menlo Park, an ambitious c...
Join: Return to Work Employer Network image

Join: Return to Work Employer Network
Mar 19 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
Understanding employers’ plans for returning to work will be crucial in reopening and ramping up capacity of the Bay Are...
Member Spotlight: Verizon Initiative Supporting Women image

Member Spotlight: Verizon Initiative Supporting Women
Mar 19 2021
Posted In: Membership,
Verizon has announced Verizon Women’s CoLab, a new effort to support women amid the current crisis of women leaving the ...
Member Spotlight: Google Fueling Economic Recovery image

Member Spotlight: Google Fueling Economic Recovery
Mar 19 2021
Posted In: Membership,
Google this week announced bold plans to help accelerate economic recovery by investing over $7 billion in offices and dat...
Bay Area Loses Over 65,000 More Jobs Than Originally Estimated image

Bay Area Loses Over 65,000 More Jobs Than Originally Estimated
Mar 12 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Annual revisions released today by the California Employment Development Department show that the nine-county Bay Area los...
Council Celebrates Year of the Ox, Honors Former Gov. Brown image

Council Celebrates Year of the Ox, Honors Former Gov. Brown
Mar 12 2021
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area Council celebrated the Lunar New Year and the arrival of the Year of the Ox during a virtual event this week ...
Big Price Tag for SF’s Safe Sleeping Sites for Homeless image

Big Price Tag for SF’s Safe Sleeping Sites for Homeless
Mar 12 2021
Posted In: Homelessness,
You might think that small, temporary tent compounds to house the homeless in San Francisco would be less costly than rent...
Charging into the Future on Road Usage Charging image

Charging into the Future on Road Usage Charging
Mar 12 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
As California moves to electrify its transportation sector, funding from gas taxes that is critical to maintaining the sta...
Member Spotlight: DoorDash Pledges Main Street Strong Initiatives image

Member Spotlight: DoorDash Pledges Main Street Strong Initiatives
Mar 12 2021
Posted In: Membership,
The COVID-19 Restaurant Relief Grant program is part of DoorDash’s five-year, $200 million 
Partner Spotlight: Oakland Chamber Highlights Internship Opportunities image

Partner Spotlight: Oakland Chamber Highlights Internship Opportunities
Mar 12 2021
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Are you hosting a summer intern? Do you want to hire a summer intern but not sure where to start? This summer, the Ba...
Study: SF Arts Organizations Generate $1.7 Billion in Economic Activity image

Study: SF Arts Organizations Generate $1.7 Billion in Economic Activity
Mar 11 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
As COVID restrictions begin to lift, the reopening of San Francisco’s nonprofit arts and cultural organizations will be ...
Council Backs Push for Action on Infrastructure image

Council Backs Push for Action on Infrastructure
Mar 5 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council has joined over 3...
Member Spotlight: A’s Hit Key Milestone on Waterfront Ballpark image

Member Spotlight: A’s Hit Key Milestone on Waterfront Ballpark
Mar 5 2021
Posted In: Membership,
The city of Oakland on Feb. 26 released its Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR), which offers an incredibly thorough ...
Council Endorses Legislation for $6.7 Billion Climate Resilience Bond image

Council Endorses Legislation for $6.7 Billion Climate Resilience Bond
Mar 5 2021
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Storm & Flood Protection,
Assemblymember Kevin Mullin (San Mateo) joined the Bay Area Council’s Water and Climate Resilience Committee recently fo...
Waiting for Economic Point of No Return Not an Option image

Waiting for Economic Point of No Return Not an Option
Mar 5 2021
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area Council didn’t coin the term “exodus” to describe anecdotal stories of companies, jobs and investment l...
New Housing Report Studies Regional Initiatives That Can Be Replicated Statewide image

New Housing Report Studies Regional Initiatives That Can Be Replicated Statewide
Feb 26 2021
Posted In: Housing, News,
The Bay Area isn’t the only region in California facing a housing crisis. In every corner of the state, housing advocate...
Council Congratulates New MTC Chair Alfredo Pedroza image

Council Congratulates New MTC Chair Alfredo Pedroza
Feb 26 2021
Posted In: News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council congratulates Napa County Supervisor Alfredo Pedroza on being named this week (Feb. 24) Chair of the ...
Council Announces New Partnership to Deepen Board, Executive Diversity image

Council Announces New Partnership to Deepen Board, Executive Diversity
Feb 19 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Despite years of hard work, women and communities of color continue to be underrepresented in the highest echelons of busi...
Council Meets with Governor’s Senior Counselor on Housing and Homeless image

Council Meets with Governor’s Senior Counselor on Housing and Homeless
Feb 19 2021
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council’s Housing Committee this week welcomed Jason Elliott, Senior Counselor to Gov. Newsom on Housing an...
Celebrating the Year of the Ox image

Celebrating the Year of the Ox
Feb 12 2021
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area Council wishes you a happy, healthy and prosperous Lunar New Year. We are optimistic that the Year of the Ox ...
Liccardo: Don’t Blame Tech for Exodus image

Liccardo: Don’t Blame Tech for Exodus
Feb 12 2021
Posted In: Economy,
As the Bay Area Council moves quickly to advance our Business Climate Initiative, we were encouraged to read a powerful co...
Council Co-Sponsors Water Innovation Bill image

Council Co-Sponsors Water Innovation Bill
Feb 12 2021
Posted In: Water,
The Bay Area Council is proud to partner with the California Municipal Utilities Association in sponsoring SB 351 which au...
Terner Center Study Affirms Value of Housing Reforms image

Terner Center Study Affirms Value of Housing Reforms
Feb 12 2021
Posted In: Housing,
Legislation (SB 35) the Bay Area Council supported has been effective in reducing housing costs and streamlining productio...
State Audit Details “Disjointed” Homeless Response image

State Audit Details “Disjointed” Homeless Response
Feb 12 2021
Posted In: Homelessness,
California’s approach to addressing homelessness is disjointed between siloed state agencies, and the entity tasked with...
George P. Shultz: An Appreciation image

George P. Shultz: An Appreciation
Feb 12 2021
Posted In: Membership,
With the recent passing George P. Shultz, who served as U.S. Secretary of State from 1982 to 1989, America lost perhaps it...
Partner Spotlight: California Competes image

Partner Spotlight: California Competes
Feb 12 2021
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
In California there are 6.8 million adults ages 25–54 who graduated high school but have not completed a postsecondary d...
Council Joins Campaign to Deepen Board Diversity image

Council Joins Campaign to Deepen Board Diversity
Feb 8 2021
Posted In: News,
Despite years of hard work, women and communities of color continue to be underrepresented in the highest echelons of busi...
Statement on Passing of George P. Shultz image

Statement on Passing of George P. Shultz
Feb 7 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Feb. 7) issued the following statement on the passing of George P. Shultz.
Troubling New Data Highlights Urgency of Addressing Bay Area Jobs Exodus image

Troubling New Data Highlights Urgency of Addressing Bay Area Jobs Exodus
Feb 5 2021
Posted In: Economy,
Newly released data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the first glimpse of the pace of recovery in regional e...
Council Calls for Passage of National Apprenticeship Act of 2021 image

Council Calls for Passage of National Apprenticeship Act of 2021
Feb 5 2021
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Congress today (Feb. 5) was expected to pass the
Partner Spotlight: Revolution Foods image

Partner Spotlight: Revolution Foods
Jan 29 2021
Posted In: Membership,
More than 11 million children in the U.S. live in food insecure homes, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (US...
Bay Area Council Helps California with Wildfire Resilience image

Bay Area Council Helps California with Wildfire Resilience
Jan 29 2021
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council met recently with senior members of the Newsom Administration to discuss ways the private sector can ...
Rep. Speier Reintroduces Legislation to Restore San Francisco Bay image

Rep. Speier Reintroduces Legislation to Restore San Francisco Bay
Jan 29 2021
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection,
Congresswoman Jackie Speier on Thursday (Jan. 28) reintroduced the San Francisco Bay Restoration Act, a bill to provide in...
Mourning the Passing of Katherine Strehl image

Mourning the Passing of Katherine Strehl
Jan 29 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council mourned the passing this week of Katherine Strehl, a former Council staff member and a widely respect...
Progress in Bringing Ferry Service to Silicon Valley image

Progress in Bringing Ferry Service to Silicon Valley
Jan 29 2021
Posted In: Transportation,
Plans to bring ferry service to Redwood City are moving forward. The Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA), whic...
New Report: Making the Megaregional Case for a New Transbay Rail Crossing image

New Report: Making the Megaregional Case for a New Transbay Rail Crossing
Jan 27 2021
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
A new transbay rail crossing between San Francisco and the East Bay would not only ease congestion along one of the Bay Ar...
Council Advocacy Helps Approval of UCSF Parnassus Heights Project image

Council Advocacy Helps Approval of UCSF Parnassus Heights Project
Jan 22 2021
Posted In: Housing,
Yesterday (Jan. 21), the UC Board of Regents voted to approve a project by UC San Francisco (UCSF) to modernize the univer...
Statement on Inauguration of President Biden and Vice President Harris image

Statement on Inauguration of President Biden and Vice President Harris
Jan 20 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 20) issued the following statement on the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice Pr...
Fighting to Keep Jobs in California image

Fighting to Keep Jobs in California
Jan 15 2021
Posted In: Economy,
The stories continue to mount about California’s worsening business climate and the exodus of key companies, investors a...
Keeping Martin Luther King Jr.’s Dream Alive More Important Than Ever image

Keeping Martin Luther King Jr.’s Dream Alive More Important Than Ever
Jan 15 2021
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Like few periods in recent memory, the past year has exposed our country’s continuing struggle to address painful, long-...
Statement on AB 71 to Raise Taxes on Struggling Businesses image

Statement on AB 71 to Raise Taxes on Struggling Businesses
Jan 13 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 13) issued the following statement in response to the introduction of AB 71, proposed le...
Take Action: Support UCSF Parnassus Heights Plan image

Take Action: Support UCSF Parnassus Heights Plan
Jan 11 2021
Posted In: News,
A UC San Francisco project the Bay Area Council has endorsed to modernize the university’s 70-year-old Parnassus Heights...
Call to Participate in Bay Area Council Focus Groups on Returning to Transit image

Call to Participate in Bay Area Council Focus Groups on Returning to Transit
Jan 11 2021
Posted In: News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council is inviting employers to join focus groups for in-depth conversations about returning ...
Council Helps Secure Almost $1 Billion for Regional Transportation image

Council Helps Secure Almost $1 Billion for Regional Transportation
Jan 11 2021
Posted In: News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council applauds Congress for awarding almost $980 million to the Bay Area to support our regional transporta...
In Memoriam: Silicon Valley Legend and Former Bay Area Council Chair Paul Cook image

In Memoriam: Silicon Valley Legend and Former Bay Area Council Chair Paul Cook
Jan 11 2021
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council is mourning the recent death of
Newsom Plan for Helping Struggling Businesses a Welcome Start image

Newsom Plan for Helping Struggling Businesses a Welcome Start
Jan 8 2021
Posted In: News,
Gov. Newsom this week previewed his
Statement on the Violent Insurrection to Overturn the Election image

Statement on the Violent Insurrection to Overturn the Election
Jan 7 2021
Posted In: Press Releases,
On behalf of the Bay Area Council, CEO Jim Wunderman today (Jan. 7) issued the following statement in the wake of the horr...
New Analysis Shows Number of Jobs that Can Work from Home in the Bay Area, Highlights Regional Implications image

New Analysis Shows Number of Jobs that Can Work from Home in the Bay Area, Highlights Regional Implications
Dec 21 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
SAN FRANCISCO—The Bay Area has a higher percentage of jobs eligible for remote work than any other majo...
Business Climate Woes Weigh Heavily image

Business Climate Woes Weigh Heavily
Dec 18 2020
Posted In: Economy, News,
Beyond the hard data and growing anecdotal evidence of departing companies, declining investment, lost jobs and shrinking ...
Grim COVID News Calls for Redoubling Safety Precautions image

Grim COVID News Calls for Redoubling Safety Precautions
Dec 18 2020
Posted In: News,
News reports this week delivered some gut-punching statistics about the very serious spike of COVID-19 in the Bay Are...
Declining Population Signals More Trouble for Economy image

Declining Population Signals More Trouble for Economy
Dec 18 2020
Posted In: Economy, News,
New data released Wednesday by the California Department of Finance shows the nine-county Bay Area total population stagna...
Small Business Getting Walloped by Pandemic Closures image

Small Business Getting Walloped by Pandemic Closures
Dec 18 2020
Posted In: Economy, News,
As the state of California faces new public health orders to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, a new Small Business Majorit...
Clint Reilly Expands Media Holdings image

Clint Reilly Expands Media Holdings
Dec 18 2020
Posted In: News,
Legendary political strategist, real estate mogul and philanthropist Clint Reilly this week expanded his growing media hol...
Bay Area-Australia Report Released image

Bay Area-Australia Report Released
Dec 18 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute on Wednesday (Dec. 16) released its latest global study, this time examining&...
Member Spotlight: Gilead Sciences image

Member Spotlight: Gilead Sciences
Dec 18 2020
Posted In: News,
Gilead Sciences this month announced the launch of its Racial Equity Community Impact Fund, which will support high-impact...
Skelton: Sen. Feinstein Should Be Able to Retire on Her Own Terms image

Skelton: Sen. Feinstein Should Be Able to Retire on Her Own Terms
Dec 18 2020
Posted In: News,
Sen. Dianne Feinstein has dedicated her life to public service and the Bay Area Council has been extremely proud to work w...
Oracle’s Departure Another Sign Business Climate Deniers Are Dooming California Economy image

Oracle’s Departure Another Sign Business Climate Deniers Are Dooming California Economy
Dec 11 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council today issued the following statement on the announcement by Oracle that it is relocating its headquar...
WETA Names New Executive Director, Releases Study to Bring Hovercraft Services to the Bay image

WETA Names New Executive Director, Releases Study to Bring Hovercraft Services to the Bay
Dec 11 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council is thrilled to congratulate Seamus Murphy on his appointment as the new Executive Director of the San...
Council Looks Ahead to a Full 2021 Legislative Session Focused on Housing image

Council Looks Ahead to a Full 2021 Legislative Session Focused on Housing
Dec 11 2020
Posted In: Housing, News,
The 2021 legislative session appears the be shaping up as a retread of 2020 with all the major housing bills that failed t...
California Releases Smartphone-Based Exposure Notification System image

California Releases Smartphone-Based Exposure Notification System
Dec 11 2020
Posted In: News,
This week, California released its smartphone-based exposure notification system “CA Notify.” The system—built into ...
Was 2019 the Final Year of a Dominant Decade for the Bay Area? image

Was 2019 the Final Year of a Dominant Decade for the Bay Area?
Dec 11 2020
Posted In: Economy, News,
Newly released data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis for 2019 reveals a slowing GDP picture for the region, one that i...
CA State Treasurer Named to Global Economy and Environment Leadership Group image

CA State Treasurer Named to Global Economy and Environment Leadership Group
Dec 11 2020
Posted In: News,
Fiona Ma, California State Treasurer, was named to the Council for Inclusive Capitalism this week (Tuesday), joining 27 le...
From Silicon Valley to Sydney: What will a Trans-Pacific Collaboration Mean for the Future? image

From Silicon Valley to Sydney: What will a Trans-Pacific Collaboration Mean for the Future?
Dec 11 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute has developed a new report to assess the unique ties connecting Australia with the...
Opinion: Passive Observer: the U.S. and Asia’s New Trade Pact image

Opinion: Passive Observer: the U.S. and Asia’s New Trade Pact
Dec 11 2020
Posted In: News,
Last month, fifteen nations signed the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP); the U.S. however, did not sign....
Member Spotlight: Facebook Invests $150 Million in Bay Area Low Income Housing image

Member Spotlight: Facebook Invests $150 Million in Bay Area Low Income Housing
Dec 11 2020
Posted In: Housing, News,
Facebook Inc. announced this week (Wednesday) that developments for the lowest-income tier in the Bay Area will get $150 m...
Council Applauds Appointment of Dee Dee Myers to Lead GO-Biz image

Council Applauds Appointment of Dee Dee Myers to Lead GO-Biz
Dec 11 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council applauds Gov. Gavin Newsom’s appointment today of Dee Dee Myers, former Warner Brothers e...
With Release of Feasibility Study, Bay Area Council Encourages WETA to Bring Hovercraft Services to the Bay image

With Release of Feasibility Study, Bay Area Council Encourages WETA to Bring Hovercraft Services to the Bay
Dec 10 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
SAN FRANCISCO--Today the Water Emergency Transportation Authority received a much-anticipated Hovercraft Feasibility Study...
COVID Surge Prompts New Lockdown Measures image

COVID Surge Prompts New Lockdown Measures
Dec 4 2020
Posted In: News,
A dramatic surge in COVID cases and rising hospitalizations prompted Gov. Newsom this week to unveil
Labor Force Numbers Plummet in High-Cost Metro Areas image

Labor Force Numbers Plummet in High-Cost Metro Areas
Dec 4 2020
Posted In: Economy, News,
New data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides finer detail on the potential long-term economic destruction ...
Bay Area Council Prevails in Lawsuit Opposing Trump Administration H-1B Restrictions image

Bay Area Council Prevails in Lawsuit Opposing Trump Administration H-1B Restrictions
Dec 4 2020
Posted In: News,
The U.S. District Court for Northern California this week (Dec. 1) handed the Bay Area Council and U.S. Chamber of Commerc...
Bay Area Benefits from State Transportation Funding image

Bay Area Benefits from State Transportation Funding
Dec 4 2020
Posted In: News, Transportation,
Legislation (SB1) the Bay Area Council worked hard to pass in 2017 will provide $400 million for 11 transportation project...
Bay Area Council Support Leads to $100 Million for Megaregion Rail Project image

Bay Area Council Support Leads to $100 Million for Megaregion Rail Project
Dec 4 2020
Posted In: News, Transportation,
One of California’s worst freight rail bottlenecks will be unclogged with help from a $100 million federal infrastructur...
Newsom Unveils Early Learning Master Plan image

Newsom Unveils Early Learning Master Plan
Dec 4 2020
Posted In: News,
This week Governor Newsom released his much-anticipated Master Plan for Early Learning and Care. For over a decade th...
Court Rules in Favor of Bay Area Council in Lawsuit Opposing Trump Administration H-1B Restrictions image

Court Rules in Favor of Bay Area Council in Lawsuit Opposing Trump Administration H-1B Restrictions
Dec 1 2020
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The U.S. District Court for Northern California today handed the Bay Area Council a major victory in its lawsuit to block ...
After Raising Objections, Bay Area Council Applauds End of 60% Work from Home Mandate image

After Raising Objections, Bay Area Council Applauds End of 60% Work from Home Mandate
Nov 20 2020
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
An onerous work-from-home mandate on Bay Area businesses was formally shelved today (Nov. 20) after the Bay Area Council r...
Council Honors Business, Philanthropic Leadership at 25th Anniversary Business Hall of Fame image

Council Honors Business, Philanthropic Leadership at 25th Anniversary Business Hall of Fame
Nov 20 2020
Posted In: Events, Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council this week (Nov. 17) honored three incredible business and philanthropic leaders at the 25th
Hire Together 2.0 – Connecting the Region’s Future Workforce image

Hire Together 2.0 – Connecting the Region’s Future Workforce
Nov 20 2020
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
On Thursday, students and job seekers from throughout the region gathered (virtually) to hear from some of the region’s ...
Damning Report Highlights Need for Affordable Housing Reforms image

Damning Report Highlights Need for Affordable Housing Reforms
Nov 20 2020
Posted In: Housing,
A damning
Bay Area Comes Out on Top as Project Homekey Wraps image

Bay Area Comes Out on Top as Project Homekey Wraps
Nov 18 2020
Posted In: Homelessness, News,
Governor Gavin Newsom has finished announcing Project Homekey grants. How did the Bay Area do? The Bay Area accounts for r...
Replay: UC President Michael Drake in Conversation with Council CEO Jim Wunderman image

Replay: UC President Michael Drake in Conversation with Council CEO Jim Wunderman
Nov 13 2020
Posted In: News,
New University of California President Michael V. Drake, MD joined Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman this week (Nov. 12) ...
Council-Backed Housing Near BART Station Approved image

Council-Backed Housing Near BART Station Approved
Nov 13 2020
Posted In: Housing, News,
More than 750 units of new housing near the West Oakland BART station that the Bay Area Council endorsed have been approve...
Hire Together 2.0 Virtual Career Fair image

Hire Together 2.0 Virtual Career Fair
Nov 13 2020
Posted In: News, Workforce of the Future,
One week until the second Bay Area virtual career fair! The Bay Area Council is excited to provide a platform for leading...
Economic Profile: Bay Area Leads California in H1-B Visas image

Economic Profile: Bay Area Leads California in H1-B Visas
Nov 13 2020
Posted In: News,
Foreign workers and immigrants have always been significant contributors to the Bay Area’s and California’s economies....
Replay: Doctors Creating CA’s COVID Vaccine Guidelines Discuss Process image

Replay: Doctors Creating CA’s COVID Vaccine Guidelines Discuss Process
Nov 13 2020
Posted In: Healthcare, News,
As multiple potential COVID-19 vaccines enter larger-scale efficacy trials, hopes are growing for a release of one or more...
California Voters Appear to Reject Big Tax Increase on Business, Spike Rent Control and Back Gig Economy image

California Voters Appear to Reject Big Tax Increase on Business, Spike Rent Control and Back Gig Economy
Nov 6 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council applauded California voters for appearing to reject an estimated $11.5 billion tax increase (Prop. 15...
Webinar 11/9: Hear from the Doctors Devising California’s COVID Vaccine Plan image

Webinar 11/9: Hear from the Doctors Devising California’s COVID Vaccine Plan
Nov 6 2020
Posted In: Healthcare, News,
As multiple potential COVID-19 vaccines enter larger-scale efficacy trials, hopes are growing for a release of one or more...
What Does Higher Education in the Bay Area Look Like Post-Pandemic? image

What Does Higher Education in the Bay Area Look Like Post-Pandemic?
Nov 6 2020
Posted In: Economy, News,
The Bay Area has one of the most highly educated populations in the nation with 49% of people over the age of 25 holding a...
Trade Must Go On! image

Trade Must Go On!
Nov 6 2020
Posted In: China, News,
While the nation held its breath in anticipation of the 2020 election results, the Bay Area Council’s California Pavilio...
Business Times Recognizes Region’s Most Admired CEOs image

Business Times Recognizes Region’s Most Admired CEOs
Nov 6 2020
Posted In: News,
The San Francisco Business T...
Partner Event: The Future of Transportation in California image

Partner Event: The Future of Transportation in California
Nov 6 2020
Posted In: News,
The California Department of Transportation (C...
Living While Black in America image

Living While Black in America
Oct 30 2020
Posted In: News,
Stories are legion of fearful parents of Black children having to caution them about how to conduct themselves in encounte...
Council-Endorsed Affordable Housing Project Approved image

Council-Endorsed Affordable Housing Project Approved
Oct 30 2020
Posted In: Housing, News,
A 72-unit affordable housing development in Castro Valley that the Bay Area Council endorsed won approval from the Alameda...
Call to Participate in Bay Area Council Focus Groups on Returning to Transit image

Call to Participate in Bay Area Council Focus Groups on Returning to Transit
Oct 30 2020
Posted In: News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council invites employers to participate in focus groups to have in-depth conversations about returning to wo...
Council Says “Whoa!” To New Taxes in Latest Ad image

Council Says “Whoa!” To New Taxes in Latest Ad
Oct 30 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council this week unveiled the third in a series of hard-hitting video ads to bring attention to the harmful ...
MUFG Union Bank Grant Supports Council’s Workforce of the Future Initiative image

MUFG Union Bank Grant Supports Council’s Workforce of the Future Initiative
Oct 30 2020
Posted In: News, Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Initiative has been awarded a $75,000 grant from the
COVID Recovery: Bridge Traffic Near Normal Levels as Commuters Avoid Transit image

COVID Recovery: Bridge Traffic Near Normal Levels as Commuters Avoid Transit
Oct 30 2020
Posted In: Economy, News, Transportation,
New data analyzed by the Bay Area Counc...

The Port of Oakland is Open for Business
Oct 30 2020
Posted In: News,
On October 22, the Bay Area Council and the Jiangsu Department of Commerce co-hosted a semi-virtual trade seminar to intro...
Prop. 15 Will Add to California’s Economic Hardship image

Prop. 15 Will Add to California’s Economic Hardship
Oct 29 2020
Posted In: Government Relations,
Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman co-authored the following OpEd with Greater Sacramento Economic Council CEO Barry B...
How We’re Preparing for More Wildfires and the Big One image

How We’re Preparing for More Wildfires and the Big One
Oct 23 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, News,
California’s hotter and drier climate, paired with a century of fire mismanagement, has created an explosive combination...
Court Ruling Highlights Urgency of Passing Prop 22 image

Court Ruling Highlights Urgency of Passing Prop 22
Oct 23 2020
Posted In: News, Transportation,
A state appeals court ruling Thursday (Oct. 22) threatened the existence of app-based ride-hailing companies in California...
11th Economic Profile Highlights Sluggish Recovery image

11th Economic Profile Highlights Sluggish Recovery
Oct 23 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute on Thursday (Oct. 22) released its 11th Bay Area Economic Profile, mark...
Bay Area Council Sues Trump Administration to Block New H1-B Visa Restrictions image

Bay Area Council Sues Trump Administration to Block New H1-B Visa Restrictions
Oct 23 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council this week (Oct. 20) filed suit to block the Trump Administration from implementing harmful new restri...
Council Unveils Second Ad in Tax Impact Campaign image

Council Unveils Second Ad in Tax Impact Campaign
Oct 23 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council this week began airing the second in a series of ads highlighting how a raft of proposed general tax ...
Housing Committee Welcomes Sen. Wiener, Talks 2021 Legislative Strategy image

Housing Committee Welcomes Sen. Wiener, Talks 2021 Legislative Strategy
Oct 23 2020
Posted In: Housing, News,
This week, the Bay Area Council’s Housing Committee met to shape our legislative strategy for 2021. The meeting was kick...
Regional Housing Allocations Adopted image

Regional Housing Allocations Adopted
Oct 23 2020
Posted In: Housing, News,
The Association of ...
Member Spotlight: Blue Shield image

Member Spotlight: Blue Shield
Oct 23 2020
Posted In: News,
Blue Shield of California, a taxpaying, nonprofit health plan, is proud to model diversity and gender equity starting at t...
Bay Area Council Sues Trump Administration to Block New H1-B Visa Restrictions image

Bay Area Council Sues Trump Administration to Block New H1-B Visa Restrictions
Oct 19 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today filed suit to block the Trump Administration from implementing harmful new restrictions that ef...
2020 Bay Area Council Voter Guide image

2020 Bay Area Council Voter Guide
Oct 9 2020
Posted In: Government Relations, News,
As the Bay Area struggles to emerge from one of the worst economic downturns in generations, a raft of general tax measure...
Council Continues Advocacy Against Work from Home Mandate image

Council Continues Advocacy Against Work from Home Mandate
Oct 9 2020
Posted In: News, Transportation,
Today (Oct. 9) the Bay Area Council continued to speak out against a misguided proposal that would require 60% of office w...
How Will COVID-19 Affect Bay Area Venture Capital Investment? image

How Will COVID-19 Affect Bay Area Venture Capital Investment?
Oct 9 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area is renowned globally for its strong presence of technology giants, successful startups, and unmatched ability...
How to Reach 855 Million Chinese Consumers from Your California Home? image

How to Reach 855 Million Chinese Consumers from Your California Home?
Oct 9 2020
Posted In: News,
The Covid-19 crisis has sent businesses around the world scrambling to find new ways to reach their customers. T...
Member Spotlight: United image

Member Spotlight: United
Oct 9 2020
Posted In: News,
How can I bring my employees back safely?  That’s the question on the minds of America’s CEOs with ...
Council Mourns Passing of Dr. Alma Salazar image

Council Mourns Passing of Dr. Alma Salazar
Oct 9 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council extends its condolences to our advocacy partners UniteLA over the passing of Dr. Alma Salazar. Alma w...
How Will the Bay Area Economy Recover from the COVID-19 Pandemic? image

How Will the Bay Area Economy Recover from the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Oct 2 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Find out on October 22nd by joining us for our Biennial Economic Profile Virtual Launch Event presented by Fifth Third Ban...
Opportunity for All Summit Highlights Affirmative Action, White Allies, and more! image

Opportunity for All Summit Highlights Affirmative Action, White Allies, and more!
Oct 2 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Affirmative action has had a controversial history in California. Despite various attempts to overturn the ban enacted by ...
Council Members Share Deep Concerns Over Work from Home Mandate image

Council Members Share Deep Concerns Over Work from Home Mandate
Oct 2 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Bay Area Council members shared their specific concerns regarding the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s proposed ...
25th Anniversary Bay Area Business Hall of Fame image

25th Anniversary Bay Area Business Hall of Fame
Oct 2 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
It’s virtually the best event you will attend this year. The Bay Area Council is gearing up for our 25th Anni...
Council Fights Cockamamie Work from Home Mandate image

Council Fights Cockamamie Work from Home Mandate
Sep 25 2020
Posted In: News, Transportation,
Think you’re tired now of Zoom meetings? Just wait until you get a load of a daft new scheme from the Metropolitan Trans...
Act Now: Support UCSF’s Bold Plan for SF Parnassus Campus image

Act Now: Support UCSF’s Bold Plan for SF Parnassus Campus
Sep 25 2020
Posted In: Housing, News,
The Bay Area Council proudly endorses plans by member organization University of California, San Franc...
CRC Spotlight: Resilient Groundwater in California’s Agricultural Heartland image

CRC Spotlight: Resilient Groundwater in California’s Agricultural Heartland
Sep 25 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, News,
This is the last in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the 
Statement on Gov. Newsom’s order banning gas-powered vehicles image

Statement on Gov. Newsom’s order banning gas-powered vehicles
Sep 23 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council, which was the first business organization to endorse California's historic AB 32 Global Solutions Ac...
Remembering Affordable Housing Champion John Stewart image

Remembering Affordable Housing Champion John Stewart
Sep 18 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council lost a good friend and California lost a great champion for low-income housing with the passing of Jo...
Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund Announces First Investments image

Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund Announces First Investments
Sep 18 2020
Posted In: News,
The American Heart Association this week announced the first 10 organizations that will receive investments from the
California Laggin’ – State’s Economic Recovery Stalls image

California Laggin’ – State’s Economic Recovery Stalls
Sep 18 2020
Posted In: News,
New data released this morning (Sept. 18) from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows California’s unemployment rate in Au...
Council Hails Signing of Paid Family Leave Legislation image

Council Hails Signing of Paid Family Leave Legislation
Sep 18 2020
Posted In: News,
Governor Newsom on Thursday (Sept. 17) signed legislation the Bay Area Council helped create and bring to the finish line ...
Council’s Advocacy Helps Secure $1.2 Billion for BART image

Council’s Advocacy Helps Secure $1.2 Billion for BART
Sep 18 2020
Posted In: News,
Gridlock may rule the day in Washington, D.C., but that didn’t stop the Bay Area Council from helping unlock $1.2 billio...
CRC Spotlight Series: Gateway Cities Council of Governments image

CRC Spotlight Series: Gateway Cities Council of Governments
Sep 18 2020
Posted In: News,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the 
Scary Skies Call for Urgent Climate Resilience Action image

Scary Skies Call for Urgent Climate Resilience Action
Sep 11 2020
Posted In: News,
The skies over the Bay Area and much of the West Coast took on an apocalyptic hue this week as record wildfires poured thi...
Save The Date: Opportunity for All Summit: Affirmative Action in California image

Save The Date: Opportunity for All Summit: Affirmative Action in California
Sep 11 2020
Posted In: News,
On Oct. 2 from 10 a.m. to 12noon, the Bay Area Council will be hosting the Opportunity for All Summit presented by Kaiser ...
Council Urges Governor’s Signature on Key Bills, Including Hard-Fought Reform for Nurse Practitioners image

Council Urges Governor’s Signature on Key Bills, Including Hard-Fought Reform for Nurse Practitioners
Sep 11 2020
Posted In: News,
After eight long years of focused advocacy, the Bay Area Council joined with other supporters in applauding the hard-fough...
Member Spotlight: Waymo image

Member Spotlight: Waymo
Sep 11 2020
Posted In: News,
Waymo is a technology company with a mission to make it safe and easy for people and things to get where they’re going. ...
RSVP: San Francisco Crisis Point or Turning Point? image

RSVP: San Francisco Crisis Point or Turning Point?
Sep 11 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council is pleased to partner on the San Francisco Business Times’ annual signature event San Fran...
CRC Spotlight Series: Strengthening Western Riverside County Energy Resilience image

CRC Spotlight Series: Strengthening Western Riverside County Energy Resilience
Sep 11 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, News,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the 
Council Welcomes New Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Chairs image

Council Welcomes New Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Chairs
Sep 11 2020
Posted In: Gender Equity, News,
The Gender, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee this week (Sept. 9) announced the appointment to new co-chairs, including J...
CRC Spotlight Series: Greening the City of Watsonville image

CRC Spotlight Series: Greening the City of Watsonville
Sep 4 2020
Posted In: News,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the California R...
New Resilience Challenge Video Highlights Launch of Round 2 image

New Resilience Challenge Video Highlights Launch of Round 2
Sep 4 2020
Posted In: News, Water,
Following up the wild success of our 2020 California Resilience Challenge, the Bay Area Council Foundation has completed p...
Legislature Heads Home after Failing to Advance Significant Housing Reform image

Legislature Heads Home after Failing to Advance Significant Housing Reform
Sep 4 2020
Posted In: Housing, News,
Claims that this would be the year of housing quickly fizzled when the Legislature’s lack of action left many important ...
Fighting Back Against Ill-Timed Taxes image

Fighting Back Against Ill-Timed Taxes
Sep 4 2020
Posted In: News,
As if we needed another reminder of California’s battered and fragile economy, a prominent social media company made sur...
Council Urges Supporters to Send Governor Newsom Letters Backing Housing Bills image

Council Urges Supporters to Send Governor Newsom Letters Backing Housing Bills
Sep 2 2020
Posted In: News,
Two bills the Bay Area Council sponsored to address California's housing crisis are awaiting Governor Newsom's signature. ...
Housing Reforms Help Break Resistance to East Bay Project image

Housing Reforms Help Break Resistance to East Bay Project
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
When people want to know why housing is so scarce and so expensive in California they should look no further than the Terr...
“Hire Together” Virtual Career Fair Reaches 500 Students, Job Seekers image

“Hire Together” Virtual Career Fair Reaches 500 Students, Job Seekers
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
Almost 500 students and other job seekers participated in a first-of-its-kind virtual career fair this week (Aug. 25) that...
Northern California Megaregion Taking Shape image

Northern California Megaregion Taking Shape
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
Following the landmark report&...
Council Endorses 540 Housing Units in Redwood City image

Council Endorses 540 Housing Units in Redwood City
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
This week the Bay Area Council’s Housing Endorsement Subcommittee was thrilled to endorse the Greystar South Main Mixed-...
Council Mourns Passing of James Fang image

Council Mourns Passing of James Fang
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council is mourning the untimely passing of San Francisco leader James Fang from natural causes at the age of...
Still Battling to Realize Promise of the 19th Amendment image

Still Battling to Realize Promise of the 19th Amendment
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
This week (Aug. 26) we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th am...
Big Apple Shares Lessons on Right to Shelter and COVID Response for Homelessness image

Big Apple Shares Lessons on Right to Shelter and COVID Response for Homelessness
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
Shortly after the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) moved quickly t...
Supporting Wildfire Relief and Response image

Supporting Wildfire Relief and Response
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
Wildfires are once again wreaking havoc on Northern California, displacing thousands of residents and causing untold damag...
Council Delivers 57,000 COVID Masks to South Bay Homeless Services Provider image

Council Delivers 57,000 COVID Masks to South Bay Homeless Services Provider
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
After several months of delays due to backlogs in international shipping, the Bay Area Council China Initiative team this ...
CRC Spotlight Series: Fighting Fire with Incentive in San Diego image

CRC Spotlight Series: Fighting Fire with Incentive in San Diego
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the 
Council Joins Members in Making Clean Air Day Pledge image

Council Joins Members in Making Clean Air Day Pledge
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay area Council is proud to announce its participation in the California ...
Big Federal Energy Grant Highlights Region’s Science Power image

Big Federal Energy Grant Highlights Region’s Science Power
Aug 28 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area’s vaunted innovation engine got a big boost recently when the Department of Energy (DOE) announced $115 mil...
Council Opposes Shutdown of Scooters, eBikes and other Micromobility Vehicles image

Council Opposes Shutdown of Scooters, eBikes and other Micromobility Vehicles
Aug 25 2020
Posted In: News,
On Aug. 25, the Bay Area Council, SPUR, and the Silicon Valley Leadership Group issued a joint letter in opposition to AB...
Council Takes Positions Against Exclusionary Zoning image

Council Takes Positions Against Exclusionary Zoning
Aug 21 2020
Posted In: News,
With mounting tensions in Sacramento as Capitol politics continue to block important statewide housing production bills fr...
New Report: Apprenticeships in the Tech Sector, Updating a Traditional Model for the 21st Century image

New Report: Apprenticeships in the Tech Sector, Updating a Traditional Model for the 21st Century
Aug 21 2020
Posted In: News,
With the Bay Area economy moving into recovery mode, the Bay Area Council Economic Institute is focused on analyzing the s...
Council Joins Bay Area Professional Sports Teams in Supporting Prop 16 image

Council Joins Bay Area Professional Sports Teams in Supporting Prop 16
Aug 21 2020
Posted In: News,
Presidents, CEOs and Chairs of seven professional sports teams based in the Bay Area united this week in support of Propos...
ICYMI: Impact of Pandemic on State Housing Crisis and Residential Markets image

ICYMI: Impact of Pandemic on State Housing Crisis and Residential Markets
Aug 21 2020
Posted In: News,
California's new Housing and Community Development Director Gustavo Velasquez and Zillow Sr. Economist
Council Partners with Silicon Valley Leadership Group and Bay Area Community College Consortium on First-of-its-Kind Virtual Career Fair image

Council Partners with Silicon Valley Leadership Group and Bay Area Community College Consortium on First-of-its-Kind Virtual Career Fair
Aug 21 2020
Posted In: News, Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future program has partnered with the Silicon Valley Leadership Group, the Bay A...
California Resilience Spotlight Series: Extreme Flooding in the San Joaquin River Basin image

California Resilience Spotlight Series: Extreme Flooding in the San Joaquin River Basin
Aug 21 2020
Posted In: News,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the California R...
Council Secures Critical PPE Face Masks for Communities in Need image

Council Secures Critical PPE Face Masks for Communities in Need
Aug 21 2020
Posted In: News,
As reopening schools and businesses join hospitals and government agencies in efforts to procure masks and PPE, shortages ...
New Franklin Templeton-Gallup Survey Gives Key Insights for Restaurant Industry on Road to Recovery image

New Franklin Templeton-Gallup Survey Gives Key Insights for Restaurant Industry on Road to Recovery
Aug 21 2020
Posted In: News,
A new survey released this week by member company Franklin Templeton in partnership with Gallup reveals importan...
Bay Area Council Responds to Near Suspension of Lyft, Uber in California image

Bay Area Council Responds to Near Suspension of Lyft, Uber in California
Aug 20 2020
Posted In: News, Uncategorized,
San Francisco — The Bay Area Council issued the statement below today (Aug. 20) following the potential suspension of Ly...
Hitting the (Virtual) Road to Secure More Housing image

Hitting the (Virtual) Road to Secure More Housing
Aug 14 2020
Posted In: Housing,
With more than 2,200 new housing units at stake, the Bay Area Council this week hit the virtual road to testify in support...
SF Bay Ferry Celebrates Opening of Expanded SF Terminal image

SF Bay Ferry Celebrates Opening of Expanded SF Terminal
Aug 14 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
This week the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA), joined by Mayor London Breed, state ...
Wunderman Named (Again) to Top 100 CA Movers and Shakers image

Wunderman Named (Again) to Top 100 CA Movers and Shakers
Aug 14 2020
Posted In: Government Relations,
For the sixth consecutive year, Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman has been named to the prestigious Capitol Weekly Top 10...
Health Equity Taking Center Stage image

Health Equity Taking Center Stage
Aug 14 2020
Posted In: Healthcare,
Among other things, COVID-19 has highlighted serious inequities in our healthcare system. The pandemic has had a dispropor...
California Resilience Spotlight Series: Repairing the Gold Rush’s Tarnished Legacy image

California Resilience Spotlight Series: Repairing the Gold Rush’s Tarnished Legacy
Aug 14 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the California R...
Science, Innovation Consortium Helps Secure $185 Million for Energy Research image

Science, Innovation Consortium Helps Secure $185 Million for Energy Research
Aug 14 2020
Posted In: Science and Innovation,
A consortium of the Bay Area’s leading science and technology institutions led by the Bay Area Council and our Economic ...
Member Spotlight: Oakland Zoo Reopens, Needs Your Support image

Member Spotlight: Oakland Zoo Reopens, Needs Your Support
Aug 14 2020
Posted In: Membership,
Outfitted with robust health and safety protocols, the Oakland Zoo has reopened its doors to provide stir-crazy Bay Area r...
Council-Backed Housing Reforms Hitting Home image

Council-Backed Housing Reforms Hitting Home
Aug 7 2020
Posted In: Housing,
A raft of housing reforms that the Bay Area Council has played a leading role in getting through the legislature in recent...
Council Hitting Back Against Dangerous New Taxes image

Council Hitting Back Against Dangerous New Taxes
Aug 7 2020
Posted In: Economy,
Dangerous new legislation, AB1253, surfaced last week in Sacramento proposing a massive new personal income tax increase t...
Caltrain Funding Measure Gets OK for November Ballot image

Caltrain Funding Measure Gets OK for November Ballot
Aug 7 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council applauds an agreement hammered out this week by leaders in Santa Clara, San Francisco, and San Mateo ...
Expanding Apprenticeships Can Fuel Equitable Economic Recovery image

Expanding Apprenticeships Can Fuel Equitable Economic Recovery
Aug 7 2020
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
In the past five months, we have faced a pandemic, record unemployment, and nationwide protests over the killing of George...
Council’s Sustainable Transportation Bill (SB 288) Advances image

Council’s Sustainable Transportation Bill (SB 288) Advances
Aug 7 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
Legislation the Bay Area Council is co-sponsoring to fast track sustainable transportation projects this week cleared a ke...
Cutting Red Tape to Advance Green Projects image

Cutting Red Tape to Advance Green Projects
Aug 7 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
In 2016, behind the leadership of Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Bay Area voters overwhelmingly approved regional Measure AA to ra...
California Resilience Challenge Spotlight Series: Resilient Communities at Clear Lake image

California Resilience Challenge Spotlight Series: Resilient Communities at Clear Lake
Aug 7 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Water,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the California Resilience Challenge, a first-of-its-kind stat...
Member Spotlight: Blue Shield of California’s BlueSky Mental Health Initiative A Big Success image

Member Spotlight: Blue Shield of California’s BlueSky Mental Health Initiative A Big Success
Aug 7 2020
Posted In: Healthcare, Membership,
Council Supports Legislation to Accelerate Housing for the Homeless image

Council Supports Legislation to Accelerate Housing for the Homeless
Jul 31 2020
Posted In: Homelessness,
The Bay Area Council is proud to support four bills to help accelerate and streamline the production of affordable housing...
Council Backs More Workforce Funding in Next Federal Stimulus Bill image

Council Backs More Workforce Funding in Next Federal Stimulus Bill
Jul 31 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council has joined with members Autodesk and Workday to advocate for including additional workforce funding i...
California Resilience Challenge Spotlight: Keeping the Groundwater at Bay image

California Resilience Challenge Spotlight: Keeping the Groundwater at Bay
Jul 31 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Storm & Flood Protection,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the California Resilience Challenge, a first-of-its-kind stat...
California High Speed Rail Shares Progress and Updates image

California High Speed Rail Shares Progress and Updates
Jul 31 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council Transportation Committee this week (July 28) welcomed California High Speed Rail Authority CEO Brian ...
Regional Ferry Service Awarded $4.45 Million Federal DOT Grant image

Regional Ferry Service Awarded $4.45 Million Federal DOT Grant
Jul 24 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
In great news for Bay Area water transit, the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) was awarded a $4.45 million ...
Support Flowing for Casita Coalition image

Support Flowing for Casita Coalition
Jul 24 2020
Posted In: Housing,
Within a few months of its incorporation into its own nonprofit, the Casita Coa...
California Resilience Challenge Spotlight: Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center image

California Resilience Challenge Spotlight: Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center
Jul 24 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the California R...
Silicon Valley Leadership Group Welcomes New CEO image

Silicon Valley Leadership Group Welcomes New CEO
Jul 24 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council extends its hearty congratulations to new Silicon Valley Leadership Group CEO Ahmad Thomas, and exten...
ICYMI: What to Expect in the Next Round of Federal COVID Relief image

ICYMI: What to Expect in the Next Round of Federal COVID Relief
Jul 24 2020
Posted In: News,
As Congress returned from recess this week, all eyes have been on Washington to see what the next roll out of federal st...
Member Spotlight: Google Strengthens Anti-Discrimination Policies for Advertising image

Member Spotlight: Google Strengthens Anti-Discrimination Policies for Advertising
Jul 24 2020
Posted In: Membership,
To further improve access to housing, employment, and credit opportunities, Google is introducing a new personalized adver...
Jobs Return, But Remain at Risk as COVID Surges image

Jobs Return, But Remain at Risk as COVID Surges
Jul 17 2020
Posted In: Economy,
Following unprecedented job losses as a result of shelter in place orders, over a quarter of jobs had returned to the regi...
WETA Welcomes Two New Board Members; Adopts Means-Based Fares image

WETA Welcomes Two New Board Members; Adopts Means-Based Fares
Jul 17 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
The Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) chaired by Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman has welcomed two new mem...
California Resilience Challenge Spotlight: Transforming Schools Into Resilience Centers image

California Resilience Challenge Spotlight: Transforming Schools Into Resilience Centers
Jul 17 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Storm & Flood Protection, Water,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the
ICYMI: How COVID is Impacting Commercial Real Estate image

ICYMI: How COVID is Impacting Commercial Real Estate
Jul 17 2020
Posted In: News,
The COVID-19 pandemic has turned the commercial real estate world upside down as the economic shutdown closes offices and ...
Council Elevates Racial Equity, Justice in Policy Work image

Council Elevates Racial Equity, Justice in Policy Work
Jul 13 2020
Posted In: Membership,
The world has changed. We adjusted. This week, the Bay Area Council Executive Committee under the leadership of ...
Former Council Chair Lenny Mendonca Calls for Greater Focus on Mental Health Issues image

Former Council Chair Lenny Mendonca Calls for Greater Focus on Mental Health Issues
Jul 13 2020
Posted In: Healthcare,
Former Bay Area Council Chair Lenny Mendonca recently revealed his battle with depression and anxiety in a powerful and po...
California Resilience Challenge Spotlight: High Tech Forest Resilience image

California Resilience Challenge Spotlight: High Tech Forest Resilience
Jul 13 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
This is one in a series of profiles of the 12 winners of the California R...
John A. Sobrato Makes $5.2 Million Grant to Seed New Immigrant Relief Fund image

John A. Sobrato Makes $5.2 Million Grant to Seed New Immigrant Relief Fund
Jul 13 2020
Posted In: Membership,
John A. Sobrato announced a $5.2 million grant to seed a new Immigrant Relief Fund for San Mateo County. The fund will lau...

Commentary: Ensuring a “Phase One” U.S.-China Trade Deal Works is Crucial
Jul 13 2020
Posted In: China,
With US-China relations at a low point and large-scale decoupling of the two economies a destabilizing possibility, Bay Ar...
Startups Pitch Globally as Nanjing Tech Week Goes Virtual image

Startups Pitch Globally as Nanjing Tech Week Goes Virtual
Jul 2 2020
Posted In: China,
With travel still restricted across the globe, entrepreneurs and investors are searching for new ways to connect for cross...
Council’s Leadership Helping Expand Paid Family Leave image

Council’s Leadership Helping Expand Paid Family Leave
Jul 2 2020
Posted In: Gender Equity, Workforce of the Future,
Legislation (SB 1383, Jackson) the Bay Area Council was instrumental in drafting to expand paid family leave (PFL) to more...
Council-Backed Housing Project Gets OK in Mtn. View image

Council-Backed Housing Project Gets OK in Mtn. View
Jul 2 2020
Posted In: Housing,
A little-used parking lot will be repurposed to build 303 new homes as part of a mixed-use project the Bay Area Council en...
First-Of-Its-Kind Regional Housing Authority Takes Flight image

First-Of-Its-Kind Regional Housing Authority Takes Flight
Jul 2 2020
Posted In: Housing,
A new regional housing financing authority—the first of its kind in California—that the Bay Area Council helped create...
Bay Area Council Hails Court Ruling in Favor of Regional Measure 3 image

Bay Area Council Hails Court Ruling in Favor of Regional Measure 3
Jun 29 2020
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council today hailed a state Court of Appeal ruling rejecting a legal challenge to Regional Measure 3 (RM3), ...
Top Leaders Join Bay Area Council Webinar on Racial Inequity in the Time of COVID image

Top Leaders Join Bay Area Council Webinar on Racial Inequity in the Time of COVID
Jun 26 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The COVID pandemic is taking a disproportionate toll on communities of color, highlighting long-standing racial and econom...
California Resilience Challenge Winners Announced image

California Resilience Challenge Winners Announced
Jun 26 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Press Releases,
The California Resilience Challenge, an unprecedented statewide initiative of the Bay Area Council Foundation, unveiled th...
Statement: Improve and Expand ACA, Don’t Eliminate It image

Statement: Improve and Expand ACA, Don’t Eliminate It
Jun 26 2020
Posted In: Healthcare, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council released a statement today (June 26) in response to a legal brief the Trump Administration filed Thur...
Council Works to Accelerate Transportation Project Delivery image

Council Works to Accelerate Transportation Project Delivery
Jun 26 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
Legislation (SB 288, Wiener) the Bay Area Council is working to pass would speed up a wide range of bicycle, complete stre...
Analysis: BART Ridership and Racial Disparities image

Analysis: BART Ridership and Racial Disparities
Jun 26 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
BART ridership under COVID-19 shelter-in-place orders has fallen less significantly at stations located in neighborhoods w...
Member Spotlight: AT&T California Contributes $3.5 Million for COVID Relief image

Member Spotlight: AT&T California Contributes $3.5 Million for COVID Relief
Jun 26 2020
Posted In: Membership,
AT&T California is making $3.5 million in contributions to California community-based organizations who are providing ...
Member Spotlight: Union Bank Pledges $10 Million for Social and Racial Justice image

Member Spotlight: Union Bank Pledges $10 Million for Social and Racial Justice
Jun 26 2020
Posted In: Membership,
On June 18, Union Bank committed $10 million to launch a Community Recovery Progr...
Member Spotlight: Biocom Study Examines Life Sciences image

Member Spotlight: Biocom Study Examines Life Sciences
Jun 26 2020
Posted In: Membership,
Biocom recently released its 2020 Economic Impact Report featuring the most recent data about California’s life science ...
Bay Area Council Statement on President Trump’s Plan to Extend Restrictions on Foreign Workers image

Bay Area Council Statement on President Trump’s Plan to Extend Restrictions on Foreign Workers
Jun 22 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman today (June 22) issued the following statement on President Trump’s plan to sign an e...
A Note from CEO Jim Wunderman on Juneteenth image

A Note from CEO Jim Wunderman on Juneteenth
Jun 19 2020
Posted In: News,
On this day 155 years ago, news of emancipation and the Civil War’s end finally reached the last group of enslaved Afric...
Member Spotlight: Bristol Meyers Squibb image

Member Spotlight: Bristol Meyers Squibb
Jun 19 2020
Posted In: News,
Access to food during the COVID-19 pandemic is a concern, especially for immunocompromised patients unable to leave their ...
State Gives Bay Area Much Bigger Mandatory Housing Targets, Spurring Call to Action image

State Gives Bay Area Much Bigger Mandatory Housing Targets, Spurring Call to Action
Jun 19 2020
Posted In: News,
It was described as a coming housing wakeup call for local officials. The Bay Area Council sponsored SB 828 (Wiener) in 20...
Council Advocates for Carpooling Campaign as Region Begins to Reopen image

Council Advocates for Carpooling Campaign as Region Begins to Reopen
Jun 19 2020
Posted In: News,
Anticipating that single occupancy vehicle use will be on the rise as people begin to return to their workplaces, the Bay ...
ICYMI: Council and Pearson Team Up for Webinar Examining the Power of Hidden Bias image

ICYMI: Council and Pearson Team Up for Webinar Examining the Power of Hidden Bias
Jun 19 2020
Posted In: News,
Unconscious biases are underlying qualities, attitudes, and stereotypes attributed to certain groups based on prevailing v...
Bernard J. Tyson’s Legacy Lives image

Bernard J. Tyson’s Legacy Lives
Jun 19 2020
Posted In: News,
The legacy of the late Bernard J. Tyson, former Kaiser Permanente Chairman & CEO and Bay Area Council Chair, can be de...
California Resilience Challenge Announces Winners of 2020 Climate Resilience Grants image

California Resilience Challenge Announces Winners of 2020 Climate Resilience Grants
Jun 19 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, News, Press Releases,
Today the California Resilience Challenge, an initiative of the Bay Area Council Foundation, announced the 12 winners of i...
New Report to Governor’s Paid Family Leave Task Force Highlights Key Effects of Program to Date image

New Report to Governor’s Paid Family Leave Task Force Highlights Key Effects of Program to Date
Jun 18 2020
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
California’s landmark Paid Family Leave (PFL) program has enabled more mothers to enter the workforce while helping brin...
Bay Area Traffic is Up to 52% of Normal, According to Our New Tracker image

Bay Area Traffic is Up to 52% of Normal, According to Our New Tracker
Jun 16 2020
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
Once the source of epic traffic jams, new data-visualization shows travel between Silicon Valley and San Francisco is lagg...
Listening, Taking Action on Racial Justice, Equity image

Listening, Taking Action on Racial Justice, Equity
Jun 12 2020
Posted In: Community Engagement, Gender Equity,
The horrific killing of George Floyd ignited nationwide protests to end police brutality against Black Americans, but it h...
Replay: Virtual Pacific Summit Videos Now Available image

Replay: Virtual Pacific Summit Videos Now Available
Jun 12 2020
Posted In: Events,
What?! You missed the Bay Area Council’s first-ever Pacific Summit presented by TMG Partners? Then you’re in luck. Vid...
Council Initiative to Unveil Winners of $2 Million Climate Challenge image

Council Initiative to Unveil Winners of $2 Million Climate Challenge
Jun 12 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Storm & Flood Protection,
Following an avalanche of proposals from across the state, the Bay Area Council is set to announce the much-anticipated wi...
Upcoming Webinar: The Power of Hidden Biases and the Impact on the Workforce image

Upcoming Webinar: The Power of Hidden Biases and the Impact on the Workforce
Jun 12 2020
Posted In: Events,
In the past few months we have seen systematic racism and its effects play out in real time. Whether it’s the unjust tre...
Safely Reopening Regional Ferry Service as Commute Grows image

Safely Reopening Regional Ferry Service as Commute Grows
Jun 12 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
The Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) is resuming and enhancing ferry service in various cities after months...
ICYMI: Getting California Back to Work image

ICYMI: Getting California Back to Work
Jun 12 2020
Posted In: News,
As part of its continuing series of webinars examining different aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bay Area Council th...
Member Spotlight: Year Up Launches Initiative to Connect Diverse Talent to Contact-Tracing Jobs image

Member Spotlight: Year Up Launches Initiative to Connect Diverse Talent to Contact-Tracing Jobs
Jun 12 2020
Posted In: Membership,
Year Up is launching a new initiative to ensure contact tracing jobs are going to those in our community who are most impa...
Lessons from China on Reopening Restaurants image

Lessons from China on Reopening Restaurants
Jun 12 2020
Posted In: China,
Two weeks ago, the Mayor London Breed issued a plan for reopening San Francisco. On Wednesday, the Mayor made a surprise a...
Partner Spotlight: Visit California image

Partner Spotlight: Visit California
Jun 12 2020
Posted In: Community Engagement,
During these unprecedented times, Visit California is working on initiatives to inspire community support and begin safe a...
Racial Justice, COVID-19 Focus of 2020 Pacific Summit image

Racial Justice, COVID-19 Focus of 2020 Pacific Summit
Jun 5 2020
Posted In: Events,
A powerful lineup of business and elected leaders and national political commentators joined the Bay Area Council’s firs...
Interest Growing in Economic Recovery Bond image

Interest Growing in Economic Recovery Bond
Jun 5 2020
Posted In: Government Relations,
California cities, counties and school districts could avoid drastic cuts to vital public services under a proposal by Bay...
Statement on Protests in Wake of George Floyd’s Death image

Statement on Protests in Wake of George Floyd’s Death
Jun 1 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today issued the following statement on the protests taking place in response to the death last week ...
Council Co-Sponsoring New Housing Production Legislation image

Council Co-Sponsoring New Housing Production Legislation
May 22 2020
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council is proud to partner with California Forward in sponsoring SB 1385, which authorizes residential deve...
Fiscal Crisis Growing for Cities, Counties image

Fiscal Crisis Growing for Cities, Counties
May 22 2020
Posted In: Economy,
State and local governments are facing a growing fiscal crisis as the COVID-19 shutdown (see below) starts to hit budgets....
Urgency to Reopen as Job Losses Hit Historic Levels image

Urgency to Reopen as Job Losses Hit Historic Levels
May 22 2020
Posted In: Economy,
The COVID-19 shutdown cost Bay Area economy over half a million jobs in April – more than an eighth of all jobs in the r...
COVID-19: The Outlook for Hospitals image

COVID-19: The Outlook for Hospitals
May 22 2020
Posted In: News,
Hospitals have been on the front lines of California’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but disruption to their normal...
Juan Sánchez Muñoz Named UC Merced’s Fourth Chancellor image

Juan Sánchez Muñoz Named UC Merced’s Fourth Chancellor
May 22 2020
Posted In: Membership,
The University of California Board of Regents this week approved Dr. Juan Sánchez Muñoz’s appointment as UC Merced’s...
Partner Spotlight: MEBO Group image

Partner Spotlight: MEBO Group
May 22 2020
Posted In: China,
Expanding California’s COVID-19 testing capacity is critical to stemming the spread of the deadly virus and reopening th...
Partner Spotlight: Hytch image

Partner Spotlight: Hytch
May 22 2020
Posted In: Membership,
Helping people emerge from the shelter-in-place response to the Covid19 pandemic will require data-informed strategies and...
Council Endorses Projects Proposing 1,700 New Homes image

Council Endorses Projects Proposing 1,700 New Homes
May 15 2020
Posted In: Housing,
Three development projects that include a combined almost 1,700 units of housing this week earned the endorsement of the B...
New CEO Survey Finds Dramatic Workplace Changes in Response to COVID-19 image

New CEO Survey Finds Dramatic Workplace Changes in Response to COVID-19
May 15 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area can expect a dramatic shift in where employees work as shelter-in-place orders slowly lift and the economy re...
Bay Area Council Statement on Agreement Between Tesla and Alameda County image

Bay Area Council Statement on Agreement Between Tesla and Alameda County
May 13 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
San Francisco—The Bay Area Council today issued the following statement on the agreement between Tesla ...
Climate Resilience Bond Could Create Between 75,000-119,000 Jobs Says New Bay Area Council Economic Institute Report image

Climate Resilience Bond Could Create Between 75,000-119,000 Jobs Says New Bay Area Council Economic Institute Report
May 12 2020
Posted In: Press Releases, Storm & Flood Protection,
A bond measure to protect California communities from wildfires, droughts, floods, and extreme heat events could create be...
Big Win for Major Cupertino Housing Project image

Big Win for Major Cupertino Housing Project
May 11 2020
Posted In: News,
A Santa Clara County Superior Court judge last week delivered a major victory for Bay Area Council member Sand Hill Proper...
Bay Area Council Statement on Threat by Tesla CEO Elon Musk to Relocate Company over COVID-19 Restrictions image

Bay Area Council Statement on Threat by Tesla CEO Elon Musk to Relocate Company over COVID-19 Restrictions
May 10 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (May 9) issued the following statement in response to tweets by Tesla CEO Elon Musk threatening...
Bay Area Council Statement on Lawsuit Against Uber and Lyft image

Bay Area Council Statement on Lawsuit Against Uber and Lyft
May 5 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (May 5) issued the following statement on a lawsuit filed against Uber and Lyft:
Council’s Advocacy Helps Reopen Vital Construction Work image

Council’s Advocacy Helps Reopen Vital Construction Work
May 1 2020
Posted In: Housing,
Following weeks of steady advocacy to exempt vital construction projects from shelter-in-place (SIP) orders, the Bay Ar...
Racing to Shelter the Homeless in the Time of COVID image

Racing to Shelter the Homeless in the Time of COVID
May 1 2020
Posted In: Homelessness,
Providing hotels and other innovative housing solutions for California’s homeless population is key to stopping the spre...
Member Spotlight: pymetrics Revolutionzing Talent Acquisition image

Member Spotlight: pymetrics Revolutionzing Talent Acquisition
May 1 2020
Posted In: Membership,
As employers across the country, and especially in the Bay Area, are confronted with endless changes brought about by COVI...
Bay Area Council Survey Finds Growing Pressure to Reopen Economy image

Bay Area Council Survey Finds Growing Pressure to Reopen Economy
Apr 28 2020
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
Strong support for shelter-in-place restrictions, but economic toll mounting as growing number of business ...
Council Mourns Passing of Linda Bidrossian image

Council Mourns Passing of Linda Bidrossian
Apr 24 2020
Posted In: News,
On Saturday, April 18, the Bay Area Council received the crushing blow when our beloved Linda Bidrossian - the Senior Vice...
Council Helps Secure Large Shipment of Masks for Port of Oakland image

Council Helps Secure Large Shipment of Masks for Port of Oakland
Apr 24 2020
Posted In: News, Uncategorized,
A large shipment of surgical masks the Bay Area Council sourced from a manufacturer in China and helped clear customs and ...
Announcing Virtual 2020 Pacific Summit on June 5 image

Announcing Virtual 2020 Pacific Summit on June 5
Apr 24 2020
Posted In: Events,
We’re extremely excited to announce that the 2020 Pacific Summit is going virtual, with an incredible line up of speaker...
Bay Area Awarded $160 Million for Key Transportation Projects image

Bay Area Awarded $160 Million for Key Transportation Projects
Apr 24 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
The California State Transportation Agency this week 
Member Spotlight: Alaska Airlines Foundation Supports Vulnerable Nonprofits image

Member Spotlight: Alaska Airlines Foundation Supports Vulnerable Nonprofits
Apr 24 2020
Posted In: Membership,
The Alaska Airlines Foundation is awarding $315,000 to 23 nonprofits in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington....
ICYMI: Is China Getting Back to Business? image

ICYMI: Is China Getting Back to Business?
Apr 24 2020
Posted In: China,
As part of the Bay Area Council’s continuing series of webinars on various aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic, we talked r...
Council Engaging National Effort to Save Thousands of Nonprofits Excluded from CARES Act image

Council Engaging National Effort to Save Thousands of Nonprofits Excluded from CARES Act
Apr 17 2020
Posted In: Government Relations, News,
Thousands of civic and community benefit organizations across the country employing almost 1.4 million people were wrongly...
Council Delivers Thousands of Masks to Needy Organizations image

Council Delivers Thousands of Masks to Needy Organizations
Apr 17 2020
Posted In: News,
With surgical masks in desperately short supply, the Bay Area Council this week delivered thousands of masks to the agency...
Speeding Up Key Hwy 101 Infrastructure Project image

Speeding Up Key Hwy 101 Infrastructure Project
Apr 17 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
Work on a project to replace a critical segment of Highway 101 in San Francisco that the Council played a role in coordina...
Council Endorses 300-Unit Housing Project in Mountain View image

Council Endorses 300-Unit Housing Project in Mountain View
Apr 17 2020
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council is excited to endorse 1001 N. Shoreline Blvd. in Mountain View. This project from Council member Sare...
Member Spotlight: JPMorgan Chase Announces $50 Million Global Philanthropic Commitment image

Member Spotlight: JPMorgan Chase Announces $50 Million Global Philanthropic Commitment
Apr 17 2020
Posted In: Membership,
JPMorgan Chase announced a
COVID-19 Hits Jobs, Economy Hard image

COVID-19 Hits Jobs, Economy Hard
Apr 10 2020
Posted In: Economy,
Shelter-in-place orders are proving critical in stemming the transmission of COVID-19, but they are also having a profound...
Tracking Economic Fallout of COVID-19 image

Tracking Economic Fallout of COVID-19
Apr 10 2020
Posted In: Economy,
The rapid pace in the escalation of the COVID-19 crisis in terms of both its health and economic effects has been unpreced...
Council’s ADU Work Gets Big Boost from Chan Zuckerberg Initiative image

Council’s ADU Work Gets Big Boost from Chan Zuckerberg Initiative
Apr 10 2020
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council has been at the forefront of the revolution to make accessory dwelling units (ADU), aka granny or in-...
New Council LinkedIn Group Focuses on Future Workforce Strategies image

New Council LinkedIn Group Focuses on Future Workforce Strategies
Apr 10 2020
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
As we all adjust to a new normal, industry experts across the Bay have been looking for ways to help our future workforce ...
China’s Lessons for Restarting the Economy after COVID-19 image

China’s Lessons for Restarting the Economy after COVID-19
Apr 10 2020
Posted In: China,
On April 6, the Bay Area Council’s China Initiative welcomed MEBO-International Chairman Kevin Xu for a virtual discussi...
Member Spotlight: United Airlines image

Member Spotlight: United Airlines
Apr 10 2020
Posted In: Membership,
United Airlines has partnered with Governor Newsom to provide free, round-trip flights for medical volunteers traveling...
Member Spotlight: Bristol Myers Squibb image

Member Spotlight: Bristol Myers Squibb
Apr 10 2020
Posted In: Membership,
Bristol Myers Squibb this week (April 7) announced an expansion of its existing patient support programs to help eligible...
Decoding the Impact of COVID-19 on China’s Economy image

Decoding the Impact of COVID-19 on China’s Economy
Apr 3 2020
Posted In: China,
COVID-19 hit China right before the Spring Festival, the most disruptive event in China when almost all businesses close t...
Member Spotlight: SF State University Classes Go Virtual image

Member Spotlight: SF State University Classes Go Virtual
Apr 3 2020
Posted In: Membership,
On March 9, San Francisco State University’s President Lynn Mahoney announced that all courses would transition to remot...
Member Spotlight: Black and Veatch Launches COVID-19 Response Accelerator image

Member Spotlight: Black and Veatch Launches COVID-19 Response Accelerator
Apr 3 2020
Posted In: Membership,
Are you a startup with a solution that can reduce the severity of the coronavirus outbreak, but need help commercializing ...
April 3 COVID-19 Response Update image

April 3 COVID-19 Response Update
Apr 3 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council is continuing to work with our members, partners, and local, state and federal government officials o...
Member Spotlight: Instacart to Add 300,000 Personal Shoppers image

Member Spotlight: Instacart to Add 300,000 Personal Shoppers
Mar 27 2020
Posted In: Membership,
As the economy and workforce begin to feel the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis, Bay Area Council member Instacart is provi...
Federal COVID-19 Includes Billions for Homeless image

Federal COVID-19 Includes Billions for Homeless
Mar 27 2020
Posted In: Homelessness,
Following efforts by the Bay Area Council and AllHome to corral regional leaders behind a united ask for $5 billion in fed...
Keeping Essential Services/Businesses Operating image

Keeping Essential Services/Businesses Operating
Mar 27 2020
Posted In: Housing,
While state and local shelter-in-place orders are helping stop the spread of COVID-19, they are also creating confusion am...
New Webinar Series Provides Expertise, Insights on COVID-19 Issues image

New Webinar Series Provides Expertise, Insights on COVID-19 Issues
Mar 27 2020
Posted In: Healthcare,
Accurate, timely information is among the key weapons in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic, from understanding public ...
Bay Area Council Poll: COVID-19 Economic Concerns Soar image

Bay Area Council Poll: COVID-19 Economic Concerns Soar
Mar 25 2020
Posted In: News,
Bay Area residents’ concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic rose dramatically over a one-week period in mid-March as the vi...
Message from CEO Jim Wunderman image

Message from CEO Jim Wunderman
Mar 20 2020
Posted In: News,
I hope this finds you all safe and healthy. These are unprecedented times. Our world has been turned upside down and insid...
COVID-19 Impacts Intensify, Widen; So Do Countermeasures image

COVID-19 Impacts Intensify, Widen; So Do Countermeasures
Mar 13 2020
Posted In: News,
The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically worsened this week, with schools and other public institutions closing, ...
New “Missing Middle” Housing Bill Introduced image

New “Missing Middle” Housing Bill Introduced
Mar 13 2020
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council’s 2020 housing priority is to pass legislation designed to boost housing production. While the stat...
One Step Closer to Redwood City Ferry Service image

One Step Closer to Redwood City Ferry Service
Mar 13 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
The future for ferry service in Redwood City is looking bright after the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) t...
Council Urges Reauthorization of Federal Transportation Funding Bill image

Council Urges Reauthorization of Federal Transportation Funding Bill
Mar 13 2020
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
United by an ambitious transportation agenda for our country, the Metropolitan Civic Leadership Alliance, a new group of n...
Climate Resilience Experts Convene at the Council image

Climate Resilience Experts Convene at the Council
Mar 13 2020
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
California’s leading climate resilience experts spent an all-day session at the Bay Area Council last week reviewing pro...
Two Council Members Named to 40 under 40 image

Two Council Members Named to 40 under 40
Mar 13 2020
Posted In: Membership,
Member Spotlight: Webcor Unveils Specialty Contracting Unit image

Member Spotlight: Webcor Unveils Specialty Contracting Unit
Mar 13 2020
Posted In: Membership,
Webcor, one of California’s largest general and specialty construction contractors, has unveiled a new specialty contrac...
Inclusive San Jose Housing Project Wins Council Endorsement image

Inclusive San Jose Housing Project Wins Council Endorsement
Mar 6 2020
Posted In: Housing,
A San Jose housing complex that includes a mix of market rate, workforce, affordable and deeply affordable units near tran...
Coronavirus: Keep Calm and Wash Your Hands image

Coronavirus: Keep Calm and Wash Your Hands
Mar 6 2020
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council is aware and takes seriously the growing spread of the coronavirus, its threat to public health and i...
Pay Equity and Transparency Key in the Modern Workplace image

Pay Equity and Transparency Key in the Modern Workplace
Mar 6 2020
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
It matters what your employees think. Pay equity and transparency continue to be essential in building a more equitable wo...
Member Spotlight: Bank of Marin Celebrates 30 Years image

Member Spotlight: Bank of Marin Celebrates 30 Years
Mar 6 2020
Posted In: Housing,
Happy 30th Anniversary to Bank of Marin!  Since 1990, the bank’s philosophy, “banking built on trust and relation...
Council Urges YES Vote on Prop. 13 to Benefit Colleges, Universities image

Council Urges YES Vote on Prop. 13 to Benefit Colleges, Universities
Feb 28 2020
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
California’s public colleges and universities play a vital role in preparing students to meet the state’s future workf...
Celebrating Regional Water Transit and Bay Crossings image

Celebrating Regional Water Transit and Bay Crossings
Feb 28 2020
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council Water Transit Subcommittee held its inaugural 2020 meeting Tuesday (Feb. 25), celebrating Council CEO...
Council Co-Sponsoring Bills Taking Aim at Excessive Housing Fees image

Council Co-Sponsoring Bills Taking Aim at Excessive Housing Fees
Feb 28 2020
Posted In: Housing,
A tangle of local impact fees that most cities across the Bay Area and California impose on new housing can add up to $100...
Calm and Information Critical to Combating Coronavirus Threat image

Calm and Information Critical to Combating Coronavirus Threat
Feb 28 2020
Posted In: Healthcare,
As concerns grow about the spread of the novel coronavirus, officially named COVID-19, the Bay Area Council remains commit...
Healthcare Committee Welcomes New Co-Chair image

Healthcare Committee Welcomes New Co-Chair
Feb 28 2020
Posted In: Healthcare,
Speaking of the coronavirus, the nasty bug was a key part of the discussion at the Bay Area Council Healthcare Committee o...
Member Spotlight: Alaska Airlines image

Member Spotlight: Alaska Airlines
Feb 28 2020
Posted In: Membership,
For Alaska Airlines guests, the world is getting closer – and easier to reach. Alaska Airlines recently announced it’s...
Bay Area Council Announces Alliance with 2020 PGA Championship image

Bay Area Council Announces Alliance with 2020 PGA Championship
Feb 25 2020
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council and the
Council Honors Sen. Feinstein at Chinese New Year Celebration image

Council Honors Sen. Feinstein at Chinese New Year Celebration
Feb 21 2020
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area’s strong and enduring relationship with China was celebrated this week (Feb. 18) when hundreds of leaders g...
Homelessness Dominates State of the State image

Homelessness Dominates State of the State
Feb 21 2020
Posted In: Homelessness,
Governor Gavin Newsom dedicated nearly the entirety of Thursday’s State of the State of Address to the issues of housing...
From the Front Lines of the Nation’s Housing Battles image

From the Front Lines of the Nation’s Housing Battles
Feb 21 2020
Posted In: Housing,
One of the nation’s leading journalists on housing issues was welcomed by the Bay Area Council Housing Committee this we...
Career Fairs Provide Good Opportunities in Tight Labor Market image

Career Fairs Provide Good Opportunities in Tight Labor Market
Feb 21 2020
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
With record-low unemployment and a tight labor market, Bay Area employers are struggling to find qualified workers for ma...
Resilience Challenge Provides Sobering Look at Risks Ahead image

Resilience Challenge Provides Sobering Look at Risks Ahead
Feb 21 2020
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection,
Over 80 cities, counties, special districts, and Native American tribes have applied for climate change planning grants un...
Member Spotlight: Genentech and SF State University image

Member Spotlight: Genentech and SF State University
Feb 21 2020
Posted In: Membership,
A $10.5 million, five-year grant to San Francisco State University from the nonprofit foundation of biotech powerhouse&nbs...
Long-Awaited Highway 101 Express Lane Project Begins image

Long-Awaited Highway 101 Express Lane Project Begins
Feb 14 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Easing congestion along the important Highway 101 corridor connecting San Francisco and San Jose through Silicon Valley ha...
Action Alert: Support 307-Unit Oakland Housing Project image

Action Alert: Support 307-Unit Oakland Housing Project
Feb 14 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Oakland stands to lose out on more than 300 units of new housing if opponents get their way. The Rubicon Partners project ...
Water & Climate Resilience Committee image

Water & Climate Resilience Committee
Feb 14 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council’s Water & Climate Resilience Committee on Thursday (Feb. 13) featured a robust discussion on th...
New Data Highlights Astronomical Costs for Building Affordable Housing image

New Data Highlights Astronomical Costs for Building Affordable Housing
Feb 14 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
It’s no secret that building housing in the Bay Area is expensive, but new data shows just how jaw-dropping those costs ...
Deadline Near to Reserve Hospitality Space at 2020 PGA Championship image

Deadline Near to Reserve Hospitality Space at 2020 PGA Championship
Feb 14 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Going, going, gone!  Time’s almost up to reserve a private chalet for the upcoming
A Quiet Upzoning Revolution image

A Quiet Upzoning Revolution
Feb 7 2020
Posted In: Housing,
SB 50 may be dead, but a movement the Bay Area Council began championing almost five years ago is quietly doing what that ...
Unclogging the Talent Pipeline image

Unclogging the Talent Pipeline
Feb 7 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Many students confront significant obstacles to completing their college education and securing necessary certificates and...
Opportunity Zone Regulations Coming into Focus image

Opportunity Zone Regulations Coming into Focus
Jan 31 2020
Posted In: Housing,
The long-awaited release of new federal regulations is bringing into focus what investors can expect from Opportunity Zone...
Member Spotlight: Microsoft Going Carbon Negative image

Member Spotlight: Microsoft Going Carbon Negative
Jan 31 2020
Posted In: Membership,
The scientific consensus is clear. The world confronts an urgent carbon problem. While the world will need to reach n...
Casita Coalition Earns National Recognition image

Casita Coalition Earns National Recognition
Jan 31 2020
Posted In: Housing,
Co-founded by the Bay Area Council,
Will California Have the Talent It Needs to Compete Economically? image

Will California Have the Talent It Needs to Compete Economically?
Jan 31 2020
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Are students and job seekers getting the education and training employers need to compete in a rapidly changing and global...
Momentum Gaining in Winning Housing Reforms, but Much Work Remains image

Momentum Gaining in Winning Housing Reforms, but Much Work Remains
Jan 24 2020
Posted In: Housing,
After years of relentless advocacy, housing leaders agree they’re starting to see the tide turn in the fight to refor...
Council Delegation Forges New Ties with India image

Council Delegation Forges New Ties with India
Jan 24 2020
Posted In: Economy,
Expanding and deepening economic connections between California, the Bay Area-Silicon Valley and India was the focus of a ...
Lloyd Dean Named CEO of CommonSpirit Health image

Lloyd Dean Named CEO of CommonSpirit Health
Jan 24 2020
Posted In: Membership,
Lloyd Dean, former Chair of the Bay Area Council, on Wednesday was named CEO of CommonSpirit Health, the largest nonprofit...
San Francisco Business Times’ 2020 Mayors Economic Forecast image

San Francisco Business Times’ 2020 Mayors Economic Forecast
Jan 21 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
What are the priorities and top issues being addressed by each Mayor in 2020? San Francisco Mayor London Breed and Oakland...
FASTER Legislation Advances in Sacramento image

FASTER Legislation Advances in Sacramento
Jan 17 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
One of the Bay Area Council’s major 2020 priorities passed a legislative milestone this week. The Senate Transportation ...
Chief Diversity Officers Outline Broad 2020 Goals image

Chief Diversity Officers Outline Broad 2020 Goals
Jan 17 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Chief diversity officers of Bay Area Council member companies met recently as part of an ongoing series of discussions on ...
Governor Announces New Actions on Homelessness image

Governor Announces New Actions on Homelessness
Jan 17 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday concluded a weeklong statewide homelessness tour in Oakland, where he announced $3...
Council Endorses Coastside Affordable Housing Project image

Council Endorses Coastside Affordable Housing Project
Jan 17 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council Housing Committee this week endorsed a 71-unit affordable housing project that nonprofit MidPen Housi...
Bay Area Council Leads Delegation to India to Expand, Deepen Economic Ties image

Bay Area Council Leads Delegation to India to Expand, Deepen Economic Ties
Jan 13 2020
Posted In: Press Releases,
California and the Bay Area-Silicon Valley are poised to reap significant benefits from deepening economic ties with India...
SF State University, United Airlines Partner on Career Advancement Program San Francisco State University and United image

SF State University, United Airlines Partner on Career Advancement Program San Francisco State University and United
Jan 10 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
San Francisco State University and United Airlines have developed a unique new professional development program that offer...
Wunderman Takes Gavel at First WETA Meeting image

Wunderman Takes Gavel at First WETA Meeting
Jan 10 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman on Thursday (Jan. 9) presided over his first Water Emergency Transportation Authority (...
BART Makes Game-Changing Investment to Modernize the System image

BART Makes Game-Changing Investment to Modernize the System
Jan 10 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The BART Board of Directors on Thursday (Jan. 9) awarded a $798 million contract to Hitachi Rail STS USA, Inc. to design a...
Council Priorities Reflected in Governor’s Draft Water Resilience Portfolio image

Council Priorities Reflected in Governor’s Draft Water Resilience Portfolio
Jan 10 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Top Bay Area Council priorities for water and climate resilience were included in Gov. Newsom’s long-awaited draft Water...
Bay Area Council Supports SB 50 to Address California’s Housing Crisis image

Bay Area Council Supports SB 50 to Address California’s Housing Crisis
Jan 7 2020
Posted In: Housing, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council issued the following statement in support of legislation (SB 50) announced today (Jan. 7) by state Se...
New Research Supports Council’s Landmark ADU Initiative image

New Research Supports Council’s Landmark ADU Initiative
Jan 3 2020
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Making more efficient use of the Bay Area’s already-developed urban and suburban areas to address the region’s housing...
Gov. Newsom Names Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman to Helm Water Emergency Transportation Authority image

Gov. Newsom Names Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman to Helm Water Emergency Transportation Authority
Jan 2 2020
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman has been named by Gov. Gavin Newsom to serve as Chair of the Water Emergency Transporta...
Bay Area Council Names New Leader to Head Its Economic Institute image

Bay Area Council Names New Leader to Head Its Economic Institute
Dec 16 2019
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council has named Jeff Bellisario Exec...
New Ferry Service Coming to Alameda Next Year image

New Ferry Service Coming to Alameda Next Year
Dec 13 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
Following on the success of the new Richmond-San Francisco ferry service that launched earlier this year,...
FASTER Continues Regional Engagement in the East Bay image

FASTER Continues Regional Engagement in the East Bay
Dec 13 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
This week, FASTER presented to the AC Transit Board of Directors as part of an ongoing effort to engage with stakeholders ...
Housing Committee Celebrates Productive 2019 image

Housing Committee Celebrates Productive 2019
Dec 13 2019
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council’s Housing Committee met Monday to reflect on what has been a highly productive year, with passage o...
Carrying Subnational Panda Diplomacy in the 21st Century image

Carrying Subnational Panda Diplomacy in the 21st Century
Dec 13 2019
Posted In: China, Uncategorized,
This week, the Bay Area Council celebrated a longstanding Chinese foreign policy tradition by promoting dialogue and peace...
Check Your Blind Spots on Unconscious Bias image

Check Your Blind Spots on Unconscious Bias
Dec 13 2019
Posted In: Gender Equity, Workforce of the Future,
Unconscious bias plays a central role in shaping our perspectives on those we work with and the people we surround ourselv...
Council Praises Agreement on USMCA image

Council Praises Agreement on USMCA
Dec 11 2019
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council praised Congressional leaders for reaching agreement this week on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.
New Council Chair Mary Huss Outlines Her Vision image

New Council Chair Mary Huss Outlines Her Vision
Dec 6 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council Board of Directors this week held its final meeting of 2019, taking stock of an extremely productive ...
California Resilience Challenge Announces Statewide Competition for Climate Adaptation Projects image

California Resilience Challenge Announces Statewide Competition for Climate Adaptation Projects
Dec 2 2019
Posted In: Press Releases, Storm & Flood Protection, Water,
The Bay Area Council today launched the official request for proposals for the “California Resilience Challenge” — a...
Connecting Immigrants, Refugees to Tech Jobs image

Connecting Immigrants, Refugees to Tech Jobs
Nov 22 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
There are nearly 2 million immigrants and refugees currently in the U.S. who have college degrees from their home countrie...
Fighting to Keep Statewide Housing Reform image

Fighting to Keep Statewide Housing Reform
Nov 22 2019
Posted In: Housing,
A terrible and misguided court decision in San Mateo County threatens to undo and undermine a raft of recent legislation a...
Expanding Trade through Subnational Connections image

Expanding Trade through Subnational Connections
Nov 22 2019
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area Council continued its support for subnational dialogue by co-hosting the Yangtze River Delta-California Coope...
Promoting Bay to Bay Technology Links image

Promoting Bay to Bay Technology Links
Nov 22 2019
Posted In: China,
As part of our recent China trade mission, the Bay Area Council participated in the 21st China Hi-Tech Fair with over 3,00...
Tri-Valley 2040 Visioning Summit image

Tri-Valley 2040 Visioning Summit
Nov 22 2019
Posted In: Economy,
On Monday, the Bay Area Council Economic Institute organized the Tri-Valley 2040 Visioning Summit in partnership with the ...
On Housing, Tech Companies Walking the Walk image

On Housing, Tech Companies Walking the Walk
Nov 8 2019
Posted In: Housing,
Bay Area Council member Apple became the latest tech company to put its money where its mouth is in addressing the region...
Bigger is Better: Showcasing California at Massive Chinese Trade Exhibition image

Bigger is Better: Showcasing California at Massive Chinese Trade Exhibition
Nov 8 2019
Posted In: China, Uncategorized,
Representing the only U.S. state to participate in one the world’s largest import exhibitions, the Bay Area Council this...
Expanding Economic Opportunity to All Regions of the State image

Expanding Economic Opportunity to All Regions of the State
Nov 8 2019
Posted In: Homelessness, Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council this week brought its insights and expertise to the 2019 Cali...
Partner Spotlight: Visit California image

Partner Spotlight: Visit California
Nov 8 2019
Posted In: Membership,
Tourism powers regional economies, and in the past decade in the Bay Area alone, tourism generated $37.8 billion in travel...
It’s Baaaack! image

It’s Baaaack!
Nov 1 2019
Posted In: Housing,
The high-profile rejection of a fully-compliant housing proposal in San Bruno has been resurrected as a bigger and better ...
New Coalition Targets Traffic’s Stranglehold on the Bay Area image

New Coalition Targets Traffic’s Stranglehold on the Bay Area
Nov 1 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council today announced it is forming a new coalition of transportation companies focused on dramatically exp...
Now is the Time to Invest in Early Childhood Education image

Now is the Time to Invest in Early Childhood Education
Nov 1 2019
Posted In: Early Childhood Education,
Early childhood education is an issue of public safety, it is an issue of national security, and it is an issue of economi...
China Looks to the Bay Area on Deepening Regionalism image

China Looks to the Bay Area on Deepening Regionalism
Nov 1 2019
Posted In: China,
The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area of China is looking to the Bay Area for insights on how to deepen regional ...
JPMorgan Chase Joins California Resilience Challenge image

JPMorgan Chase Joins California Resilience Challenge
Nov 1 2019
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
JPMorgan Chase pledged $500,000 this week to the 
Engaging the Region to Create a FASTER Bay Area image

Engaging the Region to Create a FASTER Bay Area
Nov 1 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
Congested roadways, packed and infrequent transit, and projects that run over-time and over-budget have become an unfortun...
Housing Committee Welcomes Assemblymember David Chiu image

Housing Committee Welcomes Assemblymember David Chiu
Oct 25 2019
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council Housing Committee this week welcomed Assemblymember David Chiu for a recap of this year’s housing l...
Creating Seamless School-to-Career Transitions image

Creating Seamless School-to-Career Transitions
Oct 25 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Data from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that students are more likely to fall through the cracks in t...
Chief Diversity Officers Forum Advances Inclusive Workplaces image

Chief Diversity Officers Forum Advances Inclusive Workplaces
Oct 18 2019
Posted In: Gender Equity, Workforce of the Future,
Management plays a key role in advancing or damaging diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Chief Diversity Officers co...
New ADU Laws: Helping Homeowners and Cities Achieve Change image

New ADU Laws: Helping Homeowners and Cities Achieve Change
Oct 18 2019
Posted In: Housing,
On the heels of Governor Newsom’s signing of a package of Bay Area Council-backed accessory dwelling un...
Future of Work: How Employers Are Adapting to Changing Needs image

Future of Work: How Employers Are Adapting to Changing Needs
Oct 11 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The future of work is upon us, and how employers adapt to changing needs in the workforce will be critical in maintaining ...
Protecting the Bay Against Rising Seas Means Amending Old Approaches image

Protecting the Bay Against Rising Seas Means Amending Old Approaches
Oct 11 2019
Posted In: Water,
After four years of research, the Bay Conservation and Development Commission made an informed and unanimous vote to amend...
Governor Newsom Signs Council-Backed ADU and Housing Reform Bills into Law image

Governor Newsom Signs Council-Backed ADU and Housing Reform Bills into Law
Oct 9 2019
Posted In: Housing,
Key Housing Legislation to Streamline Production and Ease Regulatory Barriers
Bay Area Council Weighs In on State Water Resilience image

Bay Area Council Weighs In on State Water Resilience
Oct 4 2019
Posted In: Water,
The Bay Area Council’s Water and Climate Resilience Committee has submitted eight key recommendations for Gov. News...
Calbright Online College Opens Its ‘Doors’ image

Calbright Online College Opens Its ‘Doors’
Oct 4 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Calbright College this week officially opened its registration for the 2020 year. With over 400 applications in the first ...
CSU East Bay President Morishita Announces Retirement image

CSU East Bay President Morishita Announces Retirement
Sep 27 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Longtime Bay Area Council Board member Leroy Morishita this week announced his retirement after a 40-year career with the ...
Member Spotlight: Hitachi image

Member Spotlight: Hitachi
Sep 27 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
When you think of fast cars, Hitachi may not be the first name that comes to mind. But Hitachi won big last weekend when t...
Better Managing Forests for Climate Resilience image

Better Managing Forests for Climate Resilience
Sep 27 2019
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Water,
The Bay Area Council Water & Climate Resilience Committee met Thursday to discuss managing California's forests and th...
ADUs Help Solve Housing and Climate Crises image

ADUs Help Solve Housing and Climate Crises
Sep 27 2019
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Housing,
The Bay Area’s housing shortage and affordability crisis are pushing more and more workers farther and farther from jobs...
Announcing Annual Dinner Presenting Sponsor image

Announcing Annual Dinner Presenting Sponsor
Sep 27 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
We’re extremely excited to announce that Kaiser Permanente will serve as Presenting Sponsor of the
President Trump Weighs in on California Homelessness image

President Trump Weighs in on California Homelessness
Sep 20 2019
Posted In: Homelessness, Uncategorized,
Jetting to the Bay Area for a campaign fundraiser, President Trump this week generated headlines for a series of comments ...
Employer Input Key to Effective Career Technical Education Programs image

Employer Input Key to Effective Career Technical Education Programs
Sep 20 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
As a leader in workforce development in the region, the Bay Area Council has been asked to serve on California’s Career ...
Council CEO Honored with Prestigious JHC Legacy Award image

Council CEO Honored with Prestigious JHC Legacy Award
Sep 20 2019
Posted In: News,
Over 800 guests gathered at the Oakland Museum last night to celebrate the city’s biggest salute to trailblazing busines...
Need for Speed Cited in Bay Restoration Efforts image

Need for Speed Cited in Bay Restoration Efforts
Sep 20 2019
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection,
The Bay Area needs to hurry efforts to restore Bay wetlands, according to a recent
President Napolitano’s Leadership Elevated the University of California image

President Napolitano’s Leadership Elevated the University of California
Sep 18 2019
Posted In: News, Press Releases, Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council today (Sept. 18) issued the following statement on University of California President Janet Napolitan...
Leaders Convene for Annual Meeting of Members image

Leaders Convene for Annual Meeting of Members
Sep 13 2019
Posted In: Membership, Uncategorized,
It was a double-header at the 2019 Annual Members Meeting this week (Sept. 9) as Bay Area Council members gathered at Orac...
Wunderman Receives Prestigious Honor in Shanghai image

Wunderman Receives Prestigious Honor in Shanghai
Sep 13 2019
Posted In: China,
For his leadership over more than a decade in building economic ties between the Bay Area and Shanghai, Bay Area Council C...
San Jose Students Get Inside Scoop on Aviation Careers image

San Jose Students Get Inside Scoop on Aviation Careers
Sep 13 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized, Workforce of the Future,
A group of San Jose high school students this week learned about the diverse opportunities available to them in aviation d...
U.S. Bank’s Mahesh Kharkar to Co-Chair Workforce Committee image

U.S. Bank’s Mahesh Kharkar to Co-Chair Workforce Committee
Sep 6 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Committee welcomes Mahesh Kharkar, US Bank Northern California Market Pre...
744 Housing Units Win Initial OK Behind Council Support image

744 Housing Units Win Initial OK Behind Council Support
Sep 6 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Housing-starved San Francisco moved a step closer to adding 744 new units Thursday (Sept. 5) when the San Francisco Plann...
Housing Wake Up Call Coming for Regions, Cities image

Housing Wake Up Call Coming for Regions, Cities
Sep 6 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
It was described at the time as a low-profile or “sleeper” housing bill in the midst of a raft of much higher profile ...
West Coast Leaders Explore Regional Solutions to Homelessness image

West Coast Leaders Explore Regional Solutions to Homelessness
Sep 6 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Co-Chair of Gov. Newsom’s new Commission on Homelessness and Supportive Housing joined other top West Coast business...
All Aboard! ACE Train Expands Megaregion Rail Service image

All Aboard! ACE Train Expands Megaregion Rail Service
Sep 6 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Starting tomorrow (Sept. 7), ACE Train and the San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission wil...
Federal Grant a Boon for BART to San Jose Extension image

Federal Grant a Boon for BART to San Jose Extension
Aug 30 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
The power of public private partnerships was on full display this week when the Federal Transit Administration announced $...
Summit Celebrates Key Milestone in U.S.-China Relations image

Summit Celebrates Key Milestone in U.S.-China Relations
Aug 30 2019
Posted In: China,
Hundreds of business, government and civic leaders gathered last week for a day-long event hosted by the Florence Fang Fa...
New Analysis: ADUs Are Good for Your Health image

New Analysis: ADUs Are Good for Your Health
Aug 30 2019
Posted In: Housing,
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are good for your health, according to a new analysis by the California Budget & Polic...
Alaska Airlines Joins California Resilience Challenge image

Alaska Airlines Joins California Resilience Challenge
Aug 30 2019
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection,
Alaska Airlines this week joined the California Resilience Challenge, pledging $10...
The James Irvine Foundation Helps Grow Bay Area Tech Apprenticeships image

The James Irvine Foundation Helps Grow Bay Area Tech Apprenticeships
Aug 30 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future initiative has been awarded a $300,000 grant from The James Irvine Founda...
Regional Ferry Fleet Continues to Expand with Arrival of New Boat image

Regional Ferry Fleet Continues to Expand with Arrival of New Boat
Aug 23 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
In a fun series of tweets, the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA...

Trade War Not Deterring Council’s China Work
Aug 23 2019
Posted In: China, Economy,
The U.S.-China trade war continues to ratchet up, but it’s not deterring the Bay Area Council’s work to expand and dee...
Four Straight: Council’s Wunderman Named to Capitol Top 100 image

Four Straight: Council’s Wunderman Named to Capitol Top 100
Aug 23 2019
Posted In: Government Relations, News,
Reflecting the Bay Area Council’s continuing strong influence in Sacramento, CEO Jim Wunderman was again named to the pr...
Heavy Hitters Convene in Sacramento to Talk Housing Solutions image

Heavy Hitters Convene in Sacramento to Talk Housing Solutions
Aug 23 2019
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
On Wednesday, the Bay Area Council’s Housing Committee convened in Sacramento to hear from the housing champions of the ...
Committee Focuses on Family Leave, Flexible Workplace Policies image

Committee Focuses on Family Leave, Flexible Workplace Policies
Aug 16 2019
Posted In: Gender Equity, Workforce of the Future,
The importance of strong paid family leave policies in fostering a positive and productive workplace was among the key top...
UC Merced Marks Key Milestone image

UC Merced Marks Key Milestone
Aug 16 2019
Posted In: Education,
This week the Bay Area Council joined member UC Merced at its highly-anticipated ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the s...
Member Spotlight: DLA Piper’s Dean Fealk image

Member Spotlight: DLA Piper’s Dean Fealk
Aug 9 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Gov. Gavin Newsom this week announced the appointment of Dean Fealk, a partner at Council member DLA Piper, to the Califor...
Cities Face Growing Legal Action over Housing image

Cities Face Growing Legal Action over Housing
Aug 9 2019
Posted In: Housing,
Cities are coming under increasing legal fire to take action on the housing crisis. The latest example came this week when...
Study on Tearing Down Hetch Hetchy Misses the Mark image

Study on Tearing Down Hetch Hetchy Misses the Mark
Aug 2 2019
Posted In: Water,
A new study sponsored by a group determined to tear down the Bay Area’s leading clean water and power infrastructure tri...
Resilience Challenge Enters Key Phase image

Resilience Challenge Enters Key Phase
Aug 2 2019
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection,
As the Bay Area Council nears an important milestone in its ambitious California Resilience Challenge, a new
Warriors, MUNI Team Up for Slam Dunk on Transit image

Warriors, MUNI Team Up for Slam Dunk on Transit
Aug 2 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
The Golden State Warriors are teaming up with MUNI to promote transit ridership. The Bay Area Council’s Transportation C...
Top Newsom Economic Advisor Shares Insights on Future Workforce Initiative image

Top Newsom Economic Advisor Shares Insights on Future Workforce Initiative
Aug 2 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
When it comes to the nature of work in California, change is the name of the game. How well we adapt to that change will h...
As Housing Crisis Grinds On, Grim News on New Applications image

As Housing Crisis Grinds On, Grim News on New Applications
Aug 2 2019
Posted In: Housing,
No one ever said solving our housing crisis was going to be easy, and new data out from the U.S. Census Bureau provided am...
BART Names New General Manager to Lead System Forward image

BART Names New General Manager to Lead System Forward
Jul 26 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
BART this week named a new general manager to move the regional mass transit system forward as it makes progress on an amb...
Bay Area Council Goes ‘All-In’ to Combat Homelessness image

Bay Area Council Goes ‘All-In’ to Combat Homelessness
Jul 26 2019
Posted In: Homelessness,
The Bay Area Council this week joined with Tipping Point Community and a phalanx of business, community and philanthropic ...
Caltrain’s Unveils Bold Vision to Triple Capacity by 2040 image

Caltrain’s Unveils Bold Vision to Triple Capacity by 2040
Jul 26 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
Caltrain riders can expect to see more trains, faster trains and more service under a bold plan unveiled this week. The dr...
Mayor Schaaf Touts Oakland’s Promise during Busy China Economic Tour image

Mayor Schaaf Touts Oakland’s Promise during Busy China Economic Tour
Jul 26 2019
Posted In: China, Economy,
Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf had one message for Chinese business and government leaders during a weeklong, five-city econom...
Council’s Graduating Summer Intern Class Ready to Shape the Future image

Council’s Graduating Summer Intern Class Ready to Shape the Future
Jul 26 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
With workforce development a top policy priority for the Bay Area Council, we are proud to offer a year-round Internship P...
Council Salutes Oakland Port’s Chris Lytle as He Sails into Retirement image

Council Salutes Oakland Port’s Chris Lytle as He Sails into Retirement
Jul 19 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council salutes Chris Lytle, Executive Director of the Port of Oakland, who is retiring today after 53 years ...
Member Spotlight: Via image

Member Spotlight: Via
Jul 19 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Via is the world’s leader in on-demand public transit and has more than 70 micro-transit deployments across the world, i...
BART Making Progress on Transit-Oriented Development image

BART Making Progress on Transit-Oriented Development
Jul 19 2019
Posted In: Housing, Transportation,
With almost 1,500 units completed since 2013, another almost 1,300 under construction and another 2,300 on the drawing boa...
Release the e-Scooters image

Release the e-Scooters
Jul 19 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council applauded a decision this week by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Authority that will allo...
Workforce Discussion Focuses on Performance Management image

Workforce Discussion Focuses on Performance Management
Jul 19 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Performance management and the evaluation of an employee’s value in a company have been identified as an important issue...
New San Francisco ADU Reforms Signal Success of Council Advocacy image

New San Francisco ADU Reforms Signal Success of Council Advocacy
Jul 19 2019
Posted In: Housing,
A major initiative the Bay Area Council launched in 2016 to dramatically expand the construction of accessory dwelling uni...

Mary Huss Elected 39th Bay Area Council Chair
Jul 19 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Mary Huss, President and Publisher of the San Francisco Business Times and Silicon Valley Business Journal, this week was ...
Council Advocacy Helps Move Housing Legislation Forward image

Council Advocacy Helps Move Housing Legislation Forward
Jul 12 2019
Posted In: Housing,
In a divide and conquer strategy, the Bay Area Council housing policy team this week zigzagged through the Capitol going f...
Preparing for Autonomous Vehicles image

Preparing for Autonomous Vehicles
Jul 12 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
Autonomous vehicle technology is rapidly changing how cities and companies think about transportation infrastructure and t...
Bay Area Homelessness Up 24% Since 2017 image

Bay Area Homelessness Up 24% Since 2017
Jul 12 2019
Posted In: Homelessness,
Three months after a Bay Area Council Economic Institute
Scaling Diversity and Inclusion Impacts in the Workplace image

Scaling Diversity and Inclusion Impacts in the Workplace
Jul 12 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council recently convened chief diversity officers from throughout the region to address the challenge of mea...
Community College Chancellor Deserves New Term image

Community College Chancellor Deserves New Term
Jul 12 2019
Posted In: Education,
The California Community College (CCC) system under the leadership of Chancellor Eloy Oakley has embarked on a bold and in...
Council-Led China Delegation Hailed as Great Success image

Council-Led China Delegation Hailed as Great Success
Jul 12 2019
Posted In: China,
A group of entrepreneurs and business leaders hailed as a major success a one-week tour through China the Bay Area Council...
Governor Signs Far Reaching Energy and Wildfire Bill image

Governor Signs Far Reaching Energy and Wildfire Bill
Jul 12 2019
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
Major new legislation aimed at helping energy utilities grapple with increased wildfire risks sailed through the legislatu...
Major Housing Contributions Underscores the Need for State Action image

Major Housing Contributions Underscores the Need for State Action
Jun 28 2019
Posted In: Housing,
Google announced a $1 billion contribution towards the housing crisis, aiming to deliver 20,000 Bay Area homes. Days later...
Apprenticeships Gaining Steam as a Strong Pathway for Talent image

Apprenticeships Gaining Steam as a Strong Pathway for Talent
Jun 28 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Professional apprenticeship programs are growing, both in the Bay Area and nationwide, and are proving to be a valuable wa...
Council Advocacy Helps Restore Calbright Funding image

Council Advocacy Helps Restore Calbright Funding
Jun 14 2019
Posted In: Education, Workforce of the Future,
Funding for the California Online Community College District (Calbright College) has been restored after a strong advocacy...
Come One, Come All! image

Come One, Come All!
Jun 14 2019
Posted In: China,
Bay Area and California companies looking to showcase their products to hungry and well-funded Chinese wholesale and retai...
Updating Employment Laws to Reflect Changing Needs of the Gig Economy image

Updating Employment Laws to Reflect Changing Needs of the Gig Economy
Jun 14 2019
Posted In: Economy,
Millions of Californians are choosing to work as independent contractors in the emerging gig economy for the freedom and f...
Member Spotlight: Wells Fargo image

Member Spotlight: Wells Fargo
Jun 14 2019
Posted In: Membership,
For Wells Fargo, supporting communities and addressing our biggest challenges has always been a major focus. The Bay Area ...
Bay Area Pays a Lion’s Share of CA Personal Income Tax image

Bay Area Pays a Lion’s Share of CA Personal Income Tax
Jun 14 2019
Posted In: Economy,
New data from the California Franchise Tax Board shows the Bay Area’s importance to the state’s fiscal health. Based o...
Thank You Golden State Warriors! image

Thank You Golden State Warriors!
Jun 14 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
It didn’t end the way we wanted, but the Golden State Warriors are by any definition CHAMPIONS! The Warriors made the Ba...
Bay Area Coalition Honored for Leadership in Passing Key Regional Transportation Improvement Ballot Measure image

Bay Area Coalition Honored for Leadership in Passing Key Regional Transportation Improvement Ballot Measure
Jun 6 2019
Posted In: News, Press Releases, Transportation,
A bold regional campaign that was led by the Silicon Valley Leadership Group, Bay Area Council and SPUR and succeeded in p...
Trump Mexico Tariff Threat Rattles California image

Trump Mexico Tariff Threat Rattles California
May 31 2019
Posted In: Economy,
A threat by President Trump to impose tariffs on goods coming from Mexico has huge implications for California. The Bay Ar...
Council Endorses Stanford University Expansion Plan image

Council Endorses Stanford University Expansion Plan
May 31 2019
Posted In: Housing,
Stanford University, the fountainhead for Silicon Valley innovation, is advancing a bold, 20-year vision for expanding the...
Council Advocates for Higher Education Funding in State Budget image

Council Advocates for Higher Education Funding in State Budget
May 31 2019
Posted In: Education, Government Relations,
Education is critical in preparing California’s workforce for current and future jobs. That’s why the Bay Area Council...
A’s Waterfront Stadium, Development Offers Big Economic Benefits image

A’s Waterfront Stadium, Development Offers Big Economic Benefits
May 31 2019
Posted In: Economy,
A proposal by the Oakland A’s to build a privately financed waterfront ballpark at Howard Terminal near Jack London Squa...
Driving Toward an Autonomous Vehicle Future image

Driving Toward an Autonomous Vehicle Future
May 31 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
Technology and innovation are key driving forces for the Bay Area economy. A new horizon for these forces is the world of ...
Council to D.C.: Release $1.25 Billion BART Funding image

Council to D.C.: Release $1.25 Billion BART Funding
May 31 2019
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
A deadly accident this week that shut down the upper deck of the Bay Bridge, wreaking havoc during peak commute hours, hig...
Council Advocates for Key Issues in D.C. image

Council Advocates for Key Issues in D.C.
May 24 2019
Posted In: Government Relations,
Restoring funding for high speed rail, easing U.S.-China trade tensions and reversing elements of recent tax reform that p...
Water Transit Subcommittee Welcomes New Co-Chairs image

Water Transit Subcommittee Welcomes New Co-Chairs
May 24 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council Water Transit Subcommittee convened last week with three new co-chairs and a renewed sense of urgency...
Senate Clean Drinking Water Proposal Gets Councils Nod image

Senate Clean Drinking Water Proposal Gets Councils Nod
May 24 2019
Posted In: Government Relations, Water,
The Bay Area Council Water and Climate Resilience Committee met on Tuesday to vet competing proposals in ...
New Paper Identifies Risks of Not Adapting to Changing Workforce image

New Paper Identifies Risks of Not Adapting to Changing Workforce
May 24 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area is known worldwide as a hub for innovation and strong economic growth. As economic innovation continues to ch...
WaPo Story Features Council Research on Homeless Problem image

WaPo Story Features Council Research on Homeless Problem
May 24 2019
Posted In: Homelessness,
The regional nature of the Bay Area’s homeless crisis was brought into sharp relief in a powerful Washington Post story ...
Strong Majority Say the Bay Area is the Best Place on Earth to Live image

Strong Majority Say the Bay Area is the Best Place on Earth to Live
May 21 2019
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
All is not lost, according to the 2019 Bay Area Council Poll. Despite the Bay Area’s significant challenges, the poll fi...
Homelessness Soars in the Bay Area image

Homelessness Soars in the Bay Area
May 17 2019
Posted In: Homelessness, Uncategorized,
Maybe it’s time for a different approach. A little over a month after the Bay Area Council Economic Institute released a...
Major Setback for Ambitious Housing Reform Bill image

Major Setback for Ambitious Housing Reform Bill
May 17 2019
Posted In: Housing,
Ambitious legislation that would have dramatically eased local zoning and removed other regulatory barriers to allow for m...
New Casita Coalition Working to Expand ADUs image

New Casita Coalition Working to Expand ADUs
May 17 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Casita Coalition, a grassroots statewide effort co-founded by the Bay Area Council and other housing advocates, held i...
Changing Nature of Work Requires Upskilling and Retraining image

Changing Nature of Work Requires Upskilling and Retraining
May 17 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The future of work is increasingly gaining traction among business leaders, educators, and government officials alike. Th...
More Work to Do to Make Workplaces Family Friendly image

More Work to Do to Make Workplaces Family Friendly
May 17 2019
Posted In: Gender Equity, Workforce of the Future,
California has work to do to improve conditions for working moms, according to a recent ranking by
New SFO-Tel Aviv Flights Highlight Strong Bay Area-Israel Connections image

New SFO-Tel Aviv Flights Highlight Strong Bay Area-Israel Connections
May 17 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
Underscoring the strong and growing connections between the Bay Area and Israel, El Al Israel Airlines this week began new...
Addressing Growing Demand for Skilled Construction Workers image

Addressing Growing Demand for Skilled Construction Workers
May 10 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area continues to grow both economically and geographically. That growth puts big demands on the construction labo...
Council Welcomes Budding Leaders image

Council Welcomes Budding Leaders
May 10 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
A group of excited fourth graders saw millions of dollars at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, heard from Bay Are...
Analysis: $7.3B Economic Benefits, 6.1K Jobs from Oakland A’s Waterfront Ballpark image

Analysis: $7.3B Economic Benefits, 6.1K Jobs from Oakland A’s Waterfront Ballpark
May 10 2019
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
A proposal by the Oakland A’s to build a privately financed waterfront ballpark at Howard Terminal near Jack London Squa...
UC Merced Tops Off image

UC Merced Tops Off
May 10 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
It is one of the largest and, arguably, most complex social infrastructure projects in the nation. Now, every building in ...
Study Will Explore Bringing Ferries to Berkeley image

Study Will Explore Bringing Ferries to Berkeley
May 10 2019
Posted In: Transportation, Uncategorized, Water,
The Council has been a champion of expanding regional ferry service to help alleviate traffic congestion and Council CEO J...
Lt. Gov. Kounalakis Joins the Council in Welcoming Columbian President image

Lt. Gov. Kounalakis Joins the Council in Welcoming Columbian President
May 10 2019
Posted In: Events,
On Wednesday (May 8), Bay Area Council members joined Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis and Council CEO Jim Wunderman in hosti...

Bay Area Council Names Its 2019 Regionalist of the Year
May 10 2019
Posted In: Events, Government Relations, Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council applauds Bay Area legislators for their hard work in advancing policies in the Capital to improve our...
Top Elected, Government Leaders Hear from Council Members during Sacramento Advocacy Day image

Top Elected, Government Leaders Hear from Council Members during Sacramento Advocacy Day
May 10 2019
Posted In: Government Relations, Uncategorized,
More than 60 Bay Area Council members led by Board Chairman Bernard J. Tyson, Chairman and CEO of Kaiser Permanente, trave...
April Tax Showers Bring May Revenue for State Budget image

April Tax Showers Bring May Revenue for State Budget
May 10 2019
Posted In: Economy,
California’s soaring economy is giving Gov. Gavin Newsom more revenue, money he proposes using to prepare for a future d...
Curated Career Fairs Connect Local, Diverse Talent to Employers image

Curated Career Fairs Connect Local, Diverse Talent to Employers
May 3 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
A record 300 job seekers connected with 64 employers on Tuesday (April 30) at the latest in a series of career fairs organ...
New Report: Building a More Inclusive Bay Area Economy image

New Report: Building a More Inclusive Bay Area Economy
May 3 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Through diversity and inclusion efforts, businesses can reap tremendous benefits while providing opportunities for young m...
Mourning the Passing of a Great Bay Area Leader image

Mourning the Passing of a Great Bay Area Leader
May 3 2019
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area, California and the nation lost a great leader this week with the passing of former Rep. Ellen Tauscher, who ...
New Report Explores How Bay Area Employers Can Build a More Inclusive Economy image

New Report Explores How Bay Area Employers Can Build a More Inclusive Economy
Apr 30 2019
Posted In: News, Workforce of the Future,
Through diversity and inclusion efforts, businesses can reap tremendous benefits while providing opportunities for young m...
Tech Apprenticeships Building Momentum throughout the region image

Tech Apprenticeships Building Momentum throughout the region
Apr 26 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
As the technology sector continues to grow its innovation footprint throughout the Bay Area, employers are examining new w...
Council Launches Statewide Casita Coalition to Promote ADUs image

Council Launches Statewide Casita Coalition to Promote ADUs
Apr 26 2019
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council has launched a new statewide coalition to expand construction of accessory dwelling units, aka “cas...
Big Plans for Expanding Regional Rail Service image

Big Plans for Expanding Regional Rail Service
Apr 26 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
Regional rail operators have big plans for the future of transit. Representatives from ACE Rail, BART, Caltrain, and Valle...
Council-Sponsored Homelessness Bill Advances image

Council-Sponsored Homelessness Bill Advances
Apr 26 2019
Posted In: Government Relations, Homelessness,
Two weeks after releasing a groundbreaking report on homelessness in the Bay Area, a B...
Council CEO Skewers IPO Tax Proposal image

Council CEO Skewers IPO Tax Proposal
Apr 26 2019
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations,
A proposal this week to tax IPO stock-based compensation brought swift condemnation from Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderma...
Economic Institute Insights: Regional Job Growth Surges image

Economic Institute Insights: Regional Job Growth Surges
Apr 26 2019
Posted In: Economy,
Bay Area job growth surged again in March led by gains in information and professional services in the San Francisco and S...
Report Launch: Building an Inclusive Economy image

Report Launch: Building an Inclusive Economy
Apr 26 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Join the Bay Area Council Economic Institute for the launch of its new report in partnership with LeadersUp: B...
In Ominous Sign, Net Migration to Bay Area Turns Negative; First Time in a Decade image

In Ominous Sign, Net Migration to Bay Area Turns Negative; First Time in a Decade
Apr 19 2019
Posted In: Economy,
In an ominous sign for the Bay Area economy and labor market, net migration to the region turned negative for the first ti...
Oh Canada! New Report Highlights Strong Economic, Innovation Ties with Bay Area image

Oh Canada! New Report Highlights Strong Economic, Innovation Ties with Bay Area
Apr 19 2019
Posted In: Economy, Uncategorized,
Strong and growing economic connections between the Bay Area/Silicon Valley and Canada are helping fuel a vibrant cross-bo...
Council Takes Positions on Numerous Housing Bills image

Council Takes Positions on Numerous Housing Bills
Apr 19 2019
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council’s Housing Committee met this week to determine positions on a raft of state housing bills. The meet...
After 20 Years, Time to Increase Cal Grant Funding for Students Attending Private Colleges image

After 20 Years, Time to Increase Cal Grant Funding for Students Attending Private Colleges
Apr 19 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The buying power of Cal Grant financial aid for students attending independent nonprofit colleges and universities has plu...
Solving Local Transit Barriers through Public Private Partnerships image

Solving Local Transit Barriers through Public Private Partnerships
Apr 19 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council brought together top employers in the Peninsula with local government elected leaders to openly engag...
Council Partners with James Irvine Foundation to Address Poverty image

Council Partners with James Irvine Foundation to Address Poverty
Apr 19 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized, Workforce of the Future,
Almost half of all California workers are struggling with poverty. Recognizing the inequities and challenges this poses fo...
Port of Oakland Delivering Big Economic Benefits image

Port of Oakland Delivering Big Economic Benefits
Apr 19 2019
Posted In: Economy, Uncategorized,
The Port of Oakland supports 84,144 jobs in the Bay Area and 20% of those jobs are Oakland-based, according to an
Member Spotlight: BPM Helping Low-Income Students Realize College Dreams image

Member Spotlight: BPM Helping Low-Income Students Realize College Dreams
Apr 19 2019
Posted In: Membership, Uncategorized,
As stewards of the Bay Area, Bay Area Council members are constantly seeking opportunities to better serve the region we c...
Groundbreaking Report Shines Light on Regional Homelessness Crisis image

Groundbreaking Report Shines Light on Regional Homelessness Crisis
Apr 12 2019
Posted In: Homelessness, Uncategorized,
The Bay Area’s homeless crisis ranks among the most severe in the United States, according to a groundbreaking new study...
Big Week in Sacramento for Council-Supported Legislation image

Big Week in Sacramento for Council-Supported Legislation
Apr 12 2019
Posted In: Housing, Uncategorized,
Fanning out across hearing rooms in the state capitol, Bay Area Council policy leaders this week testified in support of f...
Encouraging Ruling in Regional Measure 3 Court Case image

Encouraging Ruling in Regional Measure 3 Court Case
Apr 12 2019
Posted In: Transportation, Uncategorized,
Funding from an almost $5.6 billion regional transportation ballot measure that the Bay Area Council helped pass in 2017 ...
Paula Downey Goes Out on Top image

Paula Downey Goes Out on Top
Apr 12 2019
Posted In: Membership, Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council congratulates Executive Committee member Paula Downey on her retirement last week as President and CE...
Announcing 2019 Pacific Summit with Gov. Gavin Newsom image

Announcing 2019 Pacific Summit with Gov. Gavin Newsom
Apr 10 2019
Posted In: Events,
Mark your calendar for one of the Bay Area Council's most anticipated and thought-provoking events of the year. The 2019 P...
Report: Bay Area Homeless Crisis among Worst in the Country image

Report: Bay Area Homeless Crisis among Worst in the Country
Apr 10 2019
Posted In: Homelessness, News, Uncategorized,
The Bay Area’s homeless crisis ranks among the most severe in the United States, according to a groundbreaking new study...
Key Housing Bills Clear First Hurdle image

Key Housing Bills Clear First Hurdle
Apr 5 2019
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing, Uncategorized,
Key legislation the Bay Area Council supports to address California’s housing crisis cleared an important first hurdle t...
Much Work to Do to Close Gender Pay Gap image

Much Work to Do to Close Gender Pay Gap
Apr 5 2019
Posted In: Gender Equity,
More than 50 years since the passage of the Equal Pay Act of 1963, women still are paid just .80 cents for every dollar pa...
What’s the Future of Work in the Age of AI? image

What’s the Future of Work in the Age of AI?
Apr 5 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
As our workforce continues to change and expand in the age of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) will play a critica...
Highlighting Importance of the World’s Bay Areas image

Highlighting Importance of the World’s Bay Areas
Apr 5 2019
Posted In: China, Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council took center stage as co-hosts of the Global Bay Areas Cooperation and Development Forum (GBAF) last F...
Unicorns Prancing in the Bay Area image

Unicorns Prancing in the Bay Area
Mar 29 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area is home to more than half of all U.S.-based “unicorns,” according to a new analysis by the Bay Area Counc...
Advocacy Pays Off on Peninsula Express Lane Project image

Advocacy Pays Off on Peninsula Express Lane Project
Mar 29 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Easing traffic on one of the Bay Area’s most economically productive corridors through Silicon Valley has long been one...
Council Welcomes United States Ambassador to the European Union image

Council Welcomes United States Ambassador to the European Union
Mar 29 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council on Wednesday (March 27) welcomed U.S. Ambassador to the European Union Gordon Sondland for a wide-ran...
Getting Into the Zone image

Getting Into the Zone
Mar 29 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council is getting in the zone, the Opportunity Zone, that is. The 2017 federal tax reform created Opportunit...
Bay Area Council Announces Support for STEM Legislation image

Bay Area Council Announces Support for STEM Legislation
Mar 29 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The Bay Area Council is supporting crucial legislation to expand access to computer science education in K-12 classrooms.&...
The Apprentice (Bay Area Style) image

The Apprentice (Bay Area Style)
Mar 29 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Expanding apprenticeship opportunities is a key strategy in the Bay Area Council’s efforts to meet the region’s growin...
Partner Spotlight: Golden State Opportunity’s CalEITC4Me Campaign image

Partner Spotlight: Golden State Opportunity’s CalEITC4Me Campaign
Mar 22 2019
Posted In: Economy,
Every year hard working Californians leave roughly $2 billion on the table. That’s money working families and individuals could have claimed thro...
Iconic Bay Area Flintstone Home Under Stone Age Criticism image

Iconic Bay Area Flintstone Home Under Stone Age Criticism
Mar 22 2019
Posted In: Community Engagement,
Last week the city of Hillsborough filed a lawsuit against the homeowner of the landmark Flintstone House nestled in the hills off of I-280. A long...
Developing the Next Generation of Aspiring Change Makers in A City Classroom image

Developing the Next Generation of Aspiring Change Makers in A City Classroom
Mar 22 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Using the Bay Area as a classroom, the Coro Fellows Program develops emerging leaders to work and lead acro...
Homelessness: Causes, Consequences and Solutions image

Homelessness: Causes, Consequences and Solutions
Mar 22 2019
Posted In: Homelessness, Housing,
The Bay Area has one of the largest and least sheltered homeless populations in the United States, but does little to coordinate resources at a reg...
We Messed with Texas image

We Messed with Texas
Mar 22 2019
Posted In: Economy,
It was the Golden State against the Lone Star State on Thursday night at the Commonwealth Club, as Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman...
Council Sponsors Housing Legislation to Address Missing Middle image

Council Sponsors Housing Legislation to Address Missing Middle
Mar 22 2019
Posted In: Housing,
State lawmakers are working furiously to push a suite of housing legislation encompassing over 200 bills and secure endorsements ahead of committe...
Ferry Service Coming to Berkeley? image

Ferry Service Coming to Berkeley?
Mar 15 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
A public planning process for connecting Berkeley to a fast-growing regional ferry system got the thumbs up this week from the City Council. Berkel...
LinkedIn Report Highlights Importance of Council’s Upskilling Work image

LinkedIn Report Highlights Importance of Council’s Upskilling Work
Mar 15 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The pace of hiring may slow nationally in the coming months, according to a recent report by Bay Area Council member LinkedIn that highlights the i...
Former Council Chair Michael Covarrubias Profiled image

Former Council Chair Michael Covarrubias Profiled
Mar 15 2019
Posted In: Housing, Membership, Uncategorized,
Even if you have not crossed paths with Michael Covarrubias in business or socially, it’s likely that as a Bay Area resident you have had indir...
Tour Showcases North Bay Rebuilding Opportunities image

Tour Showcases North Bay Rebuilding Opportunities
Mar 15 2019
Posted In: Housing,
As the North Bay continues to rebuild following the devastating 2017 fires, the Bay Area Council today led a group of real estate developers and in...
New Regional Housing Authority Proposed image

New Regional Housing Authority Proposed
Mar 8 2019
Posted In: Housing,
Strengthening regional approaches to solving the housing crisis has long been a major advocacy focus for the Bay Area Council, so we were encourage...
Celebrating Gender Equity on International Women’s Day image

Celebrating Gender Equity on International Women’s Day
Mar 8 2019
Posted In: Gender Equity,
Today (March 8) we celebrate International Women's Day. The Bay Area Council joins the global community in celebrating the women who support our co...
A Passage to India image

A Passage to India
Mar 8 2019
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council on March 4 welcomed newly-appointed Indian Ambassador to the United States Harsh Vardan Shringla on his first trip to the Bay ...
Connecting Students to Careers at SFO image

Connecting Students to Careers at SFO
Mar 8 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
For the second consecutive year, the Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Committee partnered with the San Francisco International Airport ...
Flexibility Critical to Preserving Millions of Independent Contractors Jobs image

Flexibility Critical to Preserving Millions of Independent Contractors Jobs
Mar 1 2019
Posted In: Government Relations, Workforce of the Future,
A move to modernize state labor laws could jeopardize millions of California jobs—from real estate agents to graphic designers—if changes now b...
Developing Regional Talent Development Network image

Developing Regional Talent Development Network
Mar 1 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Education and training are critical elements in developing an inclusive and diverse workforce, but the connections between employers and educators/...
Advancing Workforce Digitalization and Economic Inclusion image

Advancing Workforce Digitalization and Economic Inclusion
Mar 1 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
As technology continues to impact the development of our workforce, big questions are emerging about maintaining and growing economic inclusivity i...
Council Applauds Gov. Newsom’s Action on Trade image

Council Applauds Gov. Newsom’s Action on Trade
Mar 1 2019
Posted In: China, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council applauded Gov. Gavin Newsom’s action this week (Feb. 28) appointing Lt. Gov. and former U.S. Ambassador Eleni Kounalakis as ...
Searching for Solutions to Growing Homelessness Crisis image

Searching for Solutions to Growing Homelessness Crisis
Mar 1 2019
Posted In: Homelessness,
Top leaders gathered in Sacramento this week (Feb. 28) in search of solutions to California’s housing and homelessness crisis at a summit convene...
Atmospheric River a Reminder of Bay Area Vulnerability to Extreme Storms image

Atmospheric River a Reminder of Bay Area Vulnerability to Extreme Storms
Mar 1 2019
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection,
A second atmospheric river pummeled Northern California this week, bringing historic rain, flooding, snow and winds, prompting Gov. Gavin Newsom to...
Member Spotlight: Sutter Health Opens New CPMC Van Ness Campus in SF image

Member Spotlight: Sutter Health Opens New CPMC Van Ness Campus in SF
Mar 1 2019
Posted In: Membership,
San Francisco residents now have a modern new hospital at their doorstep as Sutter prepares to open the doors to its new California Pacific Medical...
Construction Leadership Convenes to Grow Workforce Pipelines Across Region image

Construction Leadership Convenes to Grow Workforce Pipelines Across Region
Feb 22 2019
Posted In: Events, Housing, Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council convened top employers in the construction industry for the first-of-its-kind Occupational Council this week (Feb. 19) to addr...
Council and Community Partners Host President Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Summit in Oakland image

Council and Community Partners Host President Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Summit in Oakland
Feb 22 2019
Posted In: Events, Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council served on the local host committee for the Obama Foundation’s My Brother’s Keeper Rising! Summit held in Oakland this week...
Council Reviews Key Housing Legislation image

Council Reviews Key Housing Legislation
Feb 22 2019
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
The LAO urged the Legislature to focus more on lower income housing than the “missing middle” where Governor placed a lot of emphasis. As Calif...
Chinese New Year Event Honors Legendary Florence Fang image

Chinese New Year Event Honors Legendary Florence Fang
Feb 15 2019
Posted In: China, News,
A packed room of Bay Area Council members, partners and friends gathered Wednesday (Feb. 13) to honor Florence Fang with the Global Leadership Awar...
Reports of Death of High Speed Rail Greatly Exaggerated image

Reports of Death of High Speed Rail Greatly Exaggerated
Feb 15 2019
Posted In: Press Releases, Transportation,
No, high speed rail in California is not dead. Despite some initial confusion over remarks in his state of the state address this week, Gov. Gavin ...
Council Works to Strengthen Healthcare Talent Pipeline image

Council Works to Strengthen Healthcare Talent Pipeline
Feb 15 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Committee recently conducted its first medical assistant Occupational Council 2019, examining ways...
Member Spotlight: Postmates image

Member Spotlight: Postmates
Feb 15 2019
Posted In: Membership, Workforce of the Future,
Postmates is exploring policy solutions with lawmakers to address workforce challenges in the gig economy. Last month, Postmates expressed support ...
Shape the Future of the Bay Area image

Shape the Future of the Bay Area
Feb 15 2019
Posted In: Membership, News,
The Bay Area is a place of incredible innovation, transformation and progress. And for almost 75 years, the Bay Area Council has been the leading s...
Council Sounds Alarm Bell for Regional Action on Extreme Storms image

Council Sounds Alarm Bell for Regional Action on Extreme Storms
Feb 13 2019
Posted In: News, Press Releases, Storm & Flood Protection,
An atmospheric river battering the Bay Area and Northern California should serve as a powerful reminder of the mounting risks and costs the region ...
Member Spotlight: Accenture Unveils New Innovation Hub image

Member Spotlight: Accenture Unveils New Innovation Hub
Feb 8 2019
Posted In: Membership,
Accenture this week (Feb. 6) opened a flagship innovation hub in the iconic Salesforce Tower. The hub is a state-of-the-art destination where cli...
Economic Forecast: Slower Growth a Good Thing? image

Economic Forecast: Slower Growth a Good Thing?
Feb 8 2019
Posted In: Economy,
Is a looming recession about to hit? That question was on the top of everyone’s mind this morning as the Bay Area Council Economic Institute conv...
Homes, Not Walls image

Homes, Not Walls
Feb 8 2019
Posted In: Housing,
An ill-advised attempt at humor by a Silicon Valley mayor brought a strong backlash from housing advocates this week and put a spotlight on the Bay...
Council Hears from State Water Board Chair on Controversial Cuts image

Council Hears from State Water Board Chair on Controversial Cuts
Feb 8 2019
Posted In: Water,
Against a backdrop of lawsuits and accusations of water grabs, state Water Resources Control Board Chair Felicia Marcus addressed a packed house a...
BART Readies Early Bird Bus Service as Seismic Project Nears image

BART Readies Early Bird Bus Service as Seismic Project Nears
Feb 8 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
As BART gets ready to begin a critical seismic retrofit of the Transbay Tube it’s ...
Bay Area Cities Dominate Best-Performing Ranking image

Bay Area Cities Dominate Best-Performing Ranking
Feb 1 2019
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Bay Area (and megaregion) cities again dominated an annual ranking of the nation’s best-performing cities. The ranking by the esteemed Milken Ins...
Member Spotlight: Auerbach International image

Member Spotlight: Auerbach International
Feb 1 2019
Posted In: Membership,
For almost three decades, Auerbach International has expanded its clients into countries and cultures b...
Register for North Bay Development Tour image

Register for North Bay Development Tour
Feb 1 2019
Posted In: Housing,
In the wake of the tragic North Bay fires, civic leaders in Santa Rosa and Sonoma County enacted a sweeping package of incentives to promote more f...
Working at SFO: A Spotlight on Hospitality in the Aviation Industry image

Working at SFO: A Spotlight on Hospitality in the Aviation Industry
Feb 1 2019
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Jobs, jobs, jobs! This was what over 80 educators, talent trainers, employers, and other community stakeholders took away from Working at SFO on Th...
Getting Serious about Hovercraft image

Getting Serious about Hovercraft
Feb 1 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
With ridership soaring on regional water transit, Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman thinks it’s time to take a much closer look at adding hoverc...
Mourning a True Bay Area Hero image

Mourning a True Bay Area Hero
Feb 1 2019
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area and San Francisco Giants fans everywhere mourned the death this week (Jan. 27) of Peter Magowan, whose boyhood love for the team would...
Statement on Pacific Gas & Electric Reorganization Plans image

Statement on Pacific Gas & Electric Reorganization Plans
Jan 15 2019
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council issued the following statement on the announcement by PG&E that it plans to file for Chapter 11 reorganization. PG&E w...
Bold Regional Plan Offers Unique Opportunity to Significantly Help Fix the Bay Area’s Painful Housing Crisis image

Bold Regional Plan Offers Unique Opportunity to Significantly Help Fix the Bay Area’s Painful Housing Crisis
Jan 11 2019
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
Solving the Bay Area’s epic housing crisis will require a wide range of strategies and a considerable amount of give and take among a diverse mix...
Council Cements Partnership with Key Chinese City image

Council Cements Partnership with Key Chinese City
Jan 11 2019
Posted In: China,
Fresh from cementing a new partnership agreement with the Chinese city of Nanjing, the Bay Area Council hosted a reception on Monday (Jan. 7) for t...
Member Spotlight: 49ers Home Field Shines in Championship image

Member Spotlight: 49ers Home Field Shines in Championship
Jan 11 2019
Posted In: Membership,
No Bay Area sports teams hoisted a trophy from the NCAA football title game on Monday, but the 49ers’ Levi’s Stadium was in championship form. ...
Gov. Newsom’s Proposed Budget a Good First Step for Addressing California’s Major Challenges image

Gov. Newsom’s Proposed Budget a Good First Step for Addressing California’s Major Challenges
Jan 10 2019
Posted In: Economy, Education, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council applauded Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed 2019-20 budget as a good first step in addressing California’s major challenges whi...
Former Council Chair Mendonca Named Chief Economic, Business Advisor to Gov.-elect Newsom image

Former Council Chair Mendonca Named Chief Economic, Business Advisor to Gov.-elect Newsom
Jan 5 2019
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 5) heartily applauded the appointment of its former chair, Lenny Mendonca, to serve as Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom’s...
Seattle Shows Benefits of Increasing Housing Supply image

Seattle Shows Benefits of Increasing Housing Supply
Jan 4 2019
Posted In: Housing,
Funny how the whole supply/demand thing works when it comes to housing. A recent story in the —even as the region grows. It’s a message the Bay...
Another Milestone for Regional Ferry Service Expansion image

Another Milestone for Regional Ferry Service Expansion
Jan 4 2019
Posted In: Transportation,
For the second time in as many months, regional ferry service expansion will celebrate another important milestone. The Water Emergency Transportat...
Optimism, Anxiety over Water Plan and Bay Restoration image

Optimism, Anxiety over Water Plan and Bay Restoration
Jan 4 2019
Posted In: Water,
The Bay Area Council Water Committee received mixed news as state regulators continued their plan to reclaim water from the Bay Area and other regi...
Resounding Council YES to Denser Housing near Transit image

Resounding Council YES to Denser Housing near Transit
Dec 14 2018
Posted In: Housing,
The Bay Area Council Housing Committee this week endorsed Sen. Scott Wiener’s revised legislation aimed at increasing housing density near public...

State Approves Water Cuts; SF Eyes Plan Warily
Dec 14 2018
Posted In: Water,
State regulators approved a controversial water plan late Wednesday (Dec. 12) that the Bay Area Council Economic Institute
Council Gives Big Thumbs Down to Texting Tax image

Council Gives Big Thumbs Down to Texting Tax
Dec 14 2018
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations,
A proposal by the California Public Utilities Commission to tax text messaging got a strong thumbs down this week from the Bay Area Council and oth...
Meeting California’s Advanced Energy Workforce Needs image

Meeting California’s Advanced Energy Workforce Needs
Dec 14 2018
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Committee partnered with California Community Colleges to host an Advanced Energy Industry Roundta...
Expanding Economic Opportunity in the Megaregion image

Expanding Economic Opportunity in the Megaregion
Dec 14 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The economic and social progress of the North San Joaquin Valley (NSJV) was discussed recently at the University of the Pacific’s Center for Busi...
Member Spotlight: Alston & Bird, Celebrating 10 Years in CA image

Member Spotlight: Alston & Bird, Celebrating 10 Years in CA
Dec 14 2018
Posted In: Membership,
2018 marks a year of celebration for Alston & Bird, a leading national law firm that provides a full ra...
How an Earthquake and a Helicopter Ride Led to Regional Water Transit image

How an Earthquake and a Helicopter Ride Led to Regional Water Transit
Dec 7 2018
Posted In: News, Storm & Flood Protection, Transportation,
The creation of the Bay Area’s modern-day regional water transit service may have all started with an earthquake and a helicopter ride. Renowned ...

Wiener Returns with New Housing-Transit Bill
Dec 7 2018
Posted In: Housing, Transportation,
State Sen. Scott Wiener is stepping up again to address California’s massive housing crisis, this week introducing legislation that would require...
Council Briefs Gov.-elect Newsom on Megaregion Project image

Council Briefs Gov.-elect Newsom on Megaregion Project
Dec 7 2018
Posted In: Economy,
Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom received a briefing today on research the Bay Area Council Economic Institute is doing that examines the important economic...

Workforce of the Future Completes Morgan Family Foundation Grant
Dec 7 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future team successfully completed outcomes for a second grant from the Morgan Family Foundation. The gra...

Celebrating the Year of the Pig
Dec 7 2018
Posted In: China, Events,
Join the Bay Area Council for its 9th Annual Chinese New Year Celebration on February 13 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Julia Morgan Ballroom in San Fr...

Member Spotlight: SENER
Dec 7 2018
Posted In: Membership,
Perspective matters. And though 10 years may not seem like a long time to some, to the engineering and technology group,

Damning Report Highlights What Council Has Been Saying for Years
Nov 30 2018
Posted In: Housing, Transportation,
A damning report the California Air Res...

Council, KPMG Explore Exciting New Opportunity Zone Program
Nov 30 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy,
Dozens of impoverished and low-income areas around the Bay Area are eligible for investment under a new federal O...

Workforce of the Future Completes Grant with Citi Foundation
Nov 30 2018
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future initiative wound down a successful grant with the Citi Foundation at the end of November. The gran...

SF State Announces Largest Gift in Its History
Nov 30 2018
Posted In: Membership,
From one Bay Area Council member to another, San Francisco State University President Leslie Wong recently announced the largest gift in the school...

Member Spotlight: CSAA Insurance Group
Nov 30 2018
Posted In: Membership,
CSAA Insurance Group, an AAA insurer, joins a small group of private financiers to invest in a new Forest Resilience Bond that funds the upfront co...

Many Ways to Help Victims of Deadly Fires
Nov 16 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, News,
Northern California too soon is reeling from a deadly fire. The Camp Fire in Butte County exploded to become one of the state’s most destructive ...

Hall of Fame Honors Business, Civic & Philanthropic Leadership
Nov 16 2018
Posted In: Events, Membership,
A star-studded audience of more than 700 celebrated business, civic and philanthropic leadership on Thursday at the Bay Area Council’s 73rd

Call to Action for Tech Apprenticeships
Nov 16 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Tech companies often poach talent from one another, competing for the same employees in the region in order to fill critical technical positions, a...

Election Results Point to Need for More Regional Cooperation
Nov 9 2018
Posted In: Government Relations,
Tuesday’s election produced some great news on the housing and transportation fronts, but it was more difficult to divine a clear overarching mes...

Council’s Wunderman among the Bay Area’s Most Admired CEOs
Nov 9 2018
Posted In: News,
Great leadership, vision and values. Those were the themes of the San Francisco Business Times’ Most Admired CEOs Awards on Thursday celebrating ...

Council Opens New Office and New Agreements in China – Greeted Warmly At President Xi’s Trade Event
Nov 9 2018
Posted In: China,
The U.S. and China may be locked in a simmering trade war, but that didn’t dampen the warm reception the Bay Area Council received as it led a de...

Council Works to Address Aviation Maintenance Labor Shortfall
Nov 9 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Airline officials met this week with faculty from five Bay Area community colleges for the last of a series of Occupational Councils the Bay Area C...

Members Making News: Sutter Health, Heller Manus
Nov 2 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Healthcare,
Sutter Health’s Mills-Peninsula Medical Center recently announced the launch of a new groundbreaking approach to avoid delays in treating ...
As Election Day Nears, No Time for Complacency image

As Election Day Nears, No Time for Complacency
Nov 2 2018
Posted In: Government Relations,
With the election just days away, new polling shows voters siding with the Bay Area Council on two of the most hotly contested propositions on the ...

Council Welcomes New Chinese Consul General
Nov 2 2018
Posted In: China,
Sino-American relations may be strained, but that isn’t interfering with the Bay Area Council’s long-standing work to advance regional economic...

California’s Housing Horrors
Nov 2 2018
Posted In: Housing,
California is producing just seven units of housing for every 10 new households, according to a report by Up for Growth that was the focus of a dis...

Member Spotlight: Claremont Club & Spa
Nov 2 2018
Posted In: Membership,
The historic Claremont Club & Spa perched in the verdant Berkeley hills was the sett...

Bay Area – Germany Dialogue on Smart Manufacturing / Industry 4.0
Nov 2 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
From November 7 – 9, the Bay Area hosts a German delegation of Smart Manufacturing / Industry 4.0 leaders, including the recipient of the Frost &...

Highways to Hell
Oct 26 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
On the remote chance Bay Area commuters weren’t aware how awful their commutes are, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission this week released...

Strengthening Career Pathways for Community College Students
Oct 26 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Construction in the Bay Area is booming, which is presenting serious challenges for many companies that badly need workers for a variety of importa...

So Much for the Demise of Silicon Valley
Oct 26 2018
Posted In: Economy,
While some outsiders see a decline of Silicon Valley, a major announcement by JP Morgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon suggests the news of its death may be...

ANNUAL DINNER: TICKETS NOW ON SALE, TABLES SELLING OUT
Oct 26 2018
Posted In: Events,
Don't miss the business leadership event of the year! Tables are going quickly - and tickets are now on sale - for our 73rd Annual Dinner &...

New Data: Bay Area’s Roads Worst in the Country
Oct 19 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
With absentee ballots arriving in mailboxes and election day just a few weeks off, new data released this week on California’s deteriorating road...

Leaders Share Ideas on Family-Friendly Workplaces
Oct 19 2018
Posted In: Gender Equity,
How do companies create family-friendly workplace policies to advance gender equity? The Bay Area Council on Wednesday (Oct. 17) hosted the Future ...

Employers Weigh In on Creating an Inclusive Workforce
Oct 19 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Business giants Airbnb, Genentech, Nibbi Brothers General Contractors, and Salesforce joined the Bay Area Council on Monday (Oct. 15) at Airbnb to ...

As Ferry Ridership Grows, a New Vessel Commissioned
Oct 19 2018
Posted In: Transportation,
There’s more good news in the push to accelerate the expansion of regional ferry service. The Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) thi...

Supreme Court Rejects Bid to Dismantle Hetch Hetchy
Oct 19 2018
Posted In: Water,
The California Supreme Court on Wednesday (Oct. 17) pounded yet another nail in the coffin of a misguided effort to tear down the system that provi...

Election 2018: Where the Council Stands
Oct 12 2018
Posted In: Government Relations,
Political campaigns are heating up. Absentee ballots are arriving. Votes are being cast. There are critical issues on the November ballot that will...

Trip Highlights Potential of Hovercraft on the Bay
Oct 12 2018
Posted In: Transportation,
The gate opened at the bow of the vessel, a black skirt draped around its hull. We boarded and took our seats. Within minutes, the boat rose quickl...

Tracking Rebuilding Progress One Year after North Bay Fires
Oct 12 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement,
On the one-year anniversary of the horrible North Bay fires, Bay Area Council Economic Institute President Micah Weinberg joined KQED Forum this we...

Career Fair Focuses on Highly Skilled Immigrants and Refugees
Oct 12 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
In the United States, two million skilled immigrants and refugees currently face under-employment or unemployment. In partnership with Upwardly Glo...

SF Business Times Names Its Most Admired CEOs of 2018
Oct 12 2018
Posted In: News,
You'll never guess who was named one of the San Francisco Business Times outstanding CEOs of 2018? That's right.  We are thrilled to announce th...

Member Spotlight: United Airlines Flexes Economic Muscle at SFO
Oct 12 2018
Posted In: Membership,
United Airlines recently held its SFO Family Day to show off its United San Francisco maintenance facility that includes 15 buildings on 144 acres,...

Partner Spotlight: CA Competes Report Examines College Dropout Problem
Oct 12 2018
Posted In: Education,
California Competes today released its latest report, Back to College...

Dismal Grades for California’s Bridges, Roads and Transit
Oct 5 2018
Posted In: Transportation,
Good thing California’s bridges, roads and transit aren’t trying to get into a top tier college. More likely, they’d be placed on academic pr...

Merced Visit Highlights Megaregion, Public-Private Partnerships
Oct 5 2018
Posted In: Economy,
The important role of Merced and UC Merced in the growing Northern California megaregion was the focus of a recent trip the Bay Area Council made t...

Council-Backed Bills Provide New Tools to Combat Homelessness
Oct 5 2018
Posted In: Housing,
This year’s legislative session closed with Governor Brown signing three Bay Area Council-backed bills aimed at easing California’s spiraling h...

Career Fairs Focus on Increasing Workforce Opportunity, Diversity and Inclusion
Oct 5 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Career fairs the Bay Area Council helped support and organize in the past several weeks with partners LeadersUp and Work2Future connected hundreds ...

Member Spotlight: Alaska Airlines Goes Back to School
Oct 5 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Membership,
In celebration of “Back to School,” Alaska Airlines along with the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) and the San Francisco Police D...

Learning from Portland’s Regional Governance Model
Sep 28 2018
Posted In: Economy,
A Bay Area Council delegation of business and government leaders traveled to Portland, Ore., this week to see what we can learn about that region...

City Manager Resignation Highlights Housing Frustration
Sep 28 2018
Posted In: Housing,
The city manager of tony Lafayette submitted his resignation this week in a move that reflected the growing frustration many in the Bay Area feel a...

Road Funding Repeal & Rent Control Ballot Propositions Trailing
Sep 28 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
Two key California propositions that the Bay Area Council has made mission critical for the November election appear to be trending favorably, acco...

Major Water Districts Join California Resilience Challenge
Sep 26 2018
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California and the Santa Clara Valley Water District today (Sept. 26) announced they have joined the

Housing Advocacy Paying Off
Sep 21 2018
Posted In: Housing,
There was encouraging news on the housing front this week as several projects the Bay Area Council was supporting won approval. It may not end a cr...

Getting a First Hand Look at North Bay Fire Recovery
Sep 21 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement,
The deadly and devastating fires were long ago extinguished, but the difficult work of recovering and rebuilding continues in the North Bay. To und...

Can the Bay Area Hover Its Way Out of Traffic?
Sep 21 2018
Posted In: Transportation,
In the 1930s, a fleet of ferry boats carried about 55 million passengers a year in the Bay Area (adjusted for population, twice the ridership of BA...

Combatting Toxic Workplace Cultures
Sep 21 2018
Posted In: Gender Equity,
We Said Enough and #MeToo movement leader Adama Iwu, Vice President of State and Community Relations for Visa, joined the Bay Area Council Gender E...

Member Spotlight: AIM Addresses Looming Aviation Maintenance Worker Shortage
Sep 21 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
As a wave of retirements threatens a labor shortage in the aviation maintenance industry, Bay Area Council member Aviation Institute of Maintenance...

Warriors’ Rick Welts Adds Hall of Famer to His Title
Sep 14 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement,
Rick Welts hasn’t scored a single point, made a single steal or grabbed even one rebound since he began an almost 50-year career in the NBA in 19...

Council Members Take Center Stage at Global Climate Summit
Sep 14 2018
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection,
Gov. Jerry Brown convened leaders from around the world in San Francisco this week for the Global Climate Action Summit and many Bay Area Council m...

Career Fair Focuses on Opportunities for Youth of Color
Sep 14 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Committee this week (Sept. 20) partnered with Work2Future on a San Jose career fair that focused o...

Closing the Skills Gap across Industries
Sep 7 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Fierce demand and competition for workforce talent is steering a growing number of tech companies, including Google, Amazon, IBM and Tesla, to buil...

Leveraging Tech, Innovation to Address Regional Challenges
Sep 7 2018
Posted In: Economy,
The Bay Area Council this week was thrilled to partner with member company TechCrunch on Disrupt SF 2018, one of the technology industry’s bigges...

CA Faces Staggering $1 Trillion Infrastructure Funding Gap
Sep 7 2018
Posted In: Economy,
California’s vibrant economy and communities rely on an extensive infrastructure network of highways, bridges, ports, levees, rail lines, schools...

Hetch Hetchy Tour Highlights Latest Threat to the System
Sep 7 2018
Posted In: Water,
Bay Area Council Water Committee Chairs Andy Ball and Jim Levine this week led a coalition of business leaders on an overnight tour of the Hetch He...

Gavin Newsom Outlines Priorities at Council Forum
Aug 31 2018
Posted In: Government Relations,
Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom visited the Bay Area Council on Tuesday to talk about his bid to become California’s next governor and share his insights o...

SF Mayor Breed Addresses Council Members at Annual Meeting
Aug 31 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, Membership,
It was a double-header at the 2018 Annual Members Meeting this week (Aug. 27) as Bay Area Council members gathered at AT&T Park to hear from ke...

Council Urges Governor’s Signature on Key Bills
Aug 31 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
It ain’t over until Gov. Brown signs, but the Bay Area Council this week was still cheering one of its most successful legislative campaigns in r...

Council Hosts India’s Technology Minister
Aug 31 2018
Posted In: China, Government Relations,
On August 28 the Bay Area Council hosted a private dinner in Palo Alto with the Hon. Ravi Shankar Prasad, India’s Minister of Electronics, IT, La...

Flawed Plan Would Decimate Bay Area Water Reliability
Aug 31 2018
Posted In: Water,
(This opinion piece ran in the San Francisco Chronicle on Aug. 28, 2018) By Jim Wunderman Apart from a famous Mark Twain quote involving...

Stupski Foundation Grant Propels Occupational Councils
Aug 31 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Innovative Occupational Councils (OCs) the Bay Area Council launched this year to address workforce gaps in key industries have exceeded expectatio...

Key Council-Backed Housing Legislation Advances
Aug 29 2018
Posted In: Housing, News, Press Releases,
Legislation (SB 1227, Skinner) the Bay Area Council sponsored to address a critical statewide shortage of affordable student housing is headed to G...

Council-Backed BART Housing Bill Clears Senate
Aug 24 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
Legislation the Bay Area Council is supporting that would usher in tens of thousands of new housing units near BART stations passed the Senate this...

Pushing Back on Business, Jobs Taxes
Aug 24 2018
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations,
A number of Bay Area cities are teeing up new taxes on the November ballot aimed at jobs and business that will hurt the region’s economic compet...

Member Spotlight: UC Merced Celebrates Completion of First Phase of ‘2020 Project’
Aug 24 2018
Posted In: Membership,
The University of California, Merced — the newest campus in the 10-school University of California syste...

JP Morgan Chase Grant Fuels Innovative Workforce Program
Aug 24 2018
Posted In: News, Workforce of the Future,
JPMorgan Chase & Co. continues its commitment to the Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future program with a $100,000 grant. These funds wi...

Partner Spotlight: 42 Silicon Valley
Aug 24 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council's Workforce of the Future Committee is always looking for organizations to partner with that are committed to expanding access...

Council Partners on Leading Tech Industry Conference
Aug 24 2018
Posted In: Events,
The Bay Area Council is partnering with TechCrunch on its biggest, most-anticipated event of the year. Disrupt SF 2018 will be held September 5-7 i...

Council Works the Capitol Halls as Legislative Deadlines Near
Aug 17 2018
Posted In: Government Relations,
State lawmakers were working furiously this week to wrap up the current legislative session and the Bay Area Council was working furiously to ensur...

Council CEO Again Named to Top 100 Influencers List
Aug 17 2018
Posted In: News,
For the fourth straight year, Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman was named to the

New Report: Expanding Rent Control Hurts Local Coffers
Aug 17 2018
Posted In: Housing,
Expanding rent control will chill investment in new and existing housing and reduce local tax revenues by tens of millions of dollars annually, acc...

Bad Roads Costing Bay Area Commuters Thousands
Aug 17 2018
Posted In: Transportation,
Bad roads and highways cost many Bay Area commuters upwards of almost $3,000 a year in wasted time, vehicle repairs and other costs, according to a...

Mentorship Programs Valuable for Growing New Leaders
Aug 17 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
Mentorships are a valuable way for employers to grow leadership from within their ranks, while building employee satisfaction through repeated enga...

Breakfast with Ravi Shankar Prasad
Aug 17 2018
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
The California Business Roundtable, California Chamber of Commerce, Bay Area Council, DLA Piper, and The Westly Group, in partnership with NASSCOM,...

A Bay Area-Europe Collaboration on Cybersecurity Education
Aug 10 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Cybersecurity, Economy,
EIT Digital and Bay Area Council member UC Berkeley have joined forces to launch Cybersecurity...

Council Urges Stronger Police Response to BART Crime
Aug 10 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
Despite a spasm of violent and deadly attacks on BART, wavering confidence in the system and a depleted police force, the mass transportation agenc...

As Housing Crisis Grows, Council Convenes Top Leaders to Identify Solutions
Aug 10 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council Housing Committee on Wednesday (Aug. 8) convened a powerhouse group of elected, labor, government and industry leaders at our ...

Sen. Feinstein Leads Landmark Shoreline Restoration Project Launch
Aug 10 2018
Posted In: News, Water,
Sen. Dianne Feinstein led a group of local, state and federal officials in a ceremony Friday in San Jose’s Alviso neighborhood launching the Sout...

Advanced Manufacturing: Gears are Turning
Aug 10 2018
Posted In: Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Committee convened its first Advanced Manufacturing Occupational Council on Wednesday, August 1 to...
New Report: Overcoming CA’s $1 Trillion Infrastructure Deficit image

New Report: Overcoming CA’s $1 Trillion Infrastructure Deficit
Aug 10 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, News, Transportation,
With California facing a $1 trillion infrastructure deficit between now and 2050, a new Bay Area Council Economic Institute report explores how pub...

Council CEO Calls for Regional “Mutual Aid” Response for BART
Aug 8 2018
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman today (Aug. 8) called for an immediate regional “mutual aid” response by Bay Area law enforcem...

New Tariffs to Escalate Construction Costs Impacting Bay Area’s Housing Production and Prices
Aug 3 2018
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
Tariffs of 20% the Trump administration imposed last year on imports of Canadian softwood lumber, and more recent tariffs of 15% and 10% on steel a...
Bay Area Cities Approve, Deny New Taxes on Business image

Bay Area Cities Approve, Deny New Taxes on Business
Aug 3 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Housing, Membership,
A number of cities across the Bay Area have been pursuing initiatives to increase taxes on businesses with stated goals of generating revenue amid ...

73rd Annual Dinner & Business Hall of Fame to Honor Business and Philanthropic Titans
Aug 3 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
Mark your calendar for the Bay Area Council’s signature celebration of the region's top business, civic and community leadership. The 73rd Annual...

Modernizing The Master Plan: The Future of Higher Ed in California
Aug 3 2018
Posted In: Economy, Education, Events,
On August 14, the Assembly Select Committee on the Master Plan for Higher Education in California, chaired by Assemblymember Berman (Palo Alto), wi...

Start-Up Competition Highlights Bay Area-China Connections
Jul 27 2018
Posted In: China,
As part of our ongoing work to build stronger economic and innovation connections between the Bay Area and China, the Bay Area Council on Thursday ...

Workforce Engaged as a Partner in the Region
Jul 27 2018
Posted In: Events, Gender Equity, Workforce of the Future,
Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future has been active on all fronts, continuing to participate in regional events centered on workforce ...
A Gusher of Water News image

A Gusher of Water News
Jul 27 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Water,
Water news was flowing this week as the Bay Area Council hit back at a new attempt to raze Hetch Hetchy reservoir, applauded funding for increased ...
November Ballot Positions Announced image

November Ballot Positions Announced
Jul 27 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education,
The Bay Area Council Executive Committee has adopted positions on a range of state and local ballot measures that voters will decide in November. ...

Responding to New Threat to Hetch Hetchy Water and Power System
Jul 27 2018
Posted In: News, Press Releases, Water,
The Bay Area Council today (July 24) issued the following statement following a recent visit by U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke to Yosemite Nati...

Member Spotlight: Siebert’s Gary Hall Appointed Chair of National Securities Oversight Board
Jul 25 2018
Posted In: Membership, Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council congratulates Executive Committee member Gary Hall for his appointment as Chair of the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (...
Napa Moves Proactively to Ease Onerous Granny Unit Fees image

Napa Moves Proactively to Ease Onerous Granny Unit Fees
Jul 25 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Housing,
Reducing and eliminating onerous local fees that discourage homeowners from building accessory dwelling units (ADUs), aka granny units, is among th...
Da Mayor Honored for Lifetime of Civil Rights Leadership image

Da Mayor Honored for Lifetime of Civil Rights Leadership
Jul 20 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Government Relations,
Former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown Jr. was awarded the NAACP’s Spingarn Medal on Wednesday, July 18 for his lifelong commitment to the commu...

Member Spotlight: Landed
Jul 20 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Housing,
Founded in 2015 by Stanford Business School alumni facing the uncertainty of being able to afford to buy a home in the Bay Area themselves, Landed ...

Feds Surprise with $177M for Massive Sea Level Rise, Restoration Project
Jul 20 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The South Bay is poised to become more resilient to rising sea levels, thanks to an unexpected decision from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to fu...

Voters to Decide on Housing at Brisbane Baylands
Jul 20 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area would add 2,200 units of badly needed housing at an idle former industrial property located near transit under a proposal the Brisbane...
Careers Take Flight at Working@SJC image

Careers Take Flight at Working@SJC
Jul 20 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Events,
Amid San Jose’s warm and sunny weather Tuesday afternoon, roughly 70 job seekers, educators, and talent trainers on Tuesday (July 17) attended Wo...

New Report: Tri-Valley Rising 2018
Jul 20 2018
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Events,
There’s a valley in the Bay Area that has been leading the region in job creation over the past 12 years, but it’s not the valley you might be ...

PROFILE X: BAY AREA JUMPS TO TOP 20 WORLD ECONOMIES
Jul 13 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy,
With a GDP of nearly $750 billion, the Bay Area is now a Top 20 world economy, jumping from 23 to 19 since 2016. This was just one of many key find...

ALAMEDA OKS 760-UNIT HOUSING PROJECT THAT COUNCIL ENDORSED
Jul 13 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Housing,
Alameda took a big step in adding much needed housing when the City Council on Tuesday (July 10) unanimously approved the EIR and Master Plan for A...

TRAFFIC RELIEF MEASURE HEADING TO SAN MATEO COUNTY BALLOT
Jul 13 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Transportation,
Worsening traffic plagues the Bay Area, and San Mateo County commuters suffer from some of the worst of it. A 2017 Metropolitan Transportation Comm...

Statement Denouncing Misguided Regional Measure 3 Lawsuit
Jul 10 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (July 10) issued the following statement responding to a lawsuit seeking to invalidate Regional Measure 3 (RM3), an init...

ADVISORY: Bay Area Council Economic Institute to Unveil New Regional Economic Profile
Jul 9 2018
Posted In: News, Newsroom, Press Releases,
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – This Tuesday the Bay Area Council Economic Institute will release its biannual comprehensive analysis of the regional economy...

STATEMENT: COUNCIL IN SUPPORT OF GOVERNOR’S ESTABLISHMENT OF A WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE CONFERENCE COMMITTEE
Jul 9 2018
Posted In: News, Newsroom, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council applauds Governor Jerry Brown and the Legislative Leadership’s decision to convene a conference committee dedicated to Wildf...

Endgame: Tariffs, Technology and China
Jul 6 2018
Posted In: China, Economy, News,
This opinion piece by Bay Area Council Economic Institute Senior Director Dr. Sean Randolph appeared in the Silicon Valley Business Journal in ...

BART HOUSING BILL ADVANCES
Jun 29 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing, Transportation,
The Bay Area would add 20,000 units of new transit-oriented housing, including 7,000 units designated as affordable for lower and middle income res...

STACEY ABRAMS TALKS WITH THE COUNCIL ON HER HISTORIC RUN FOR GEORGIA GOVERNOR
Jun 29 2018
Posted In: Events, Gender Equity, Government Relations,
Stacey Abrams, whose historic run to become the first African American female governor in U.S history has captured national attention, was the feat...

KEVIN DURANT HELPS COUNCIL WELCOME ALASKA AIRLINES CEO BRAD TILDEN TO BAY AREA
Jun 29 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Membership,
It was a star power celebration Thursday as the Bay Area Council joined with member company Alaska Airlines to co-host a reception for Alaska Airli...

COUNCIL-BACKED WATER STORAGE PROJECTS MOVE CLOSER TO REALITY
Jun 29 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Water,
Three important Bay Area water storage projects that originally were slated to receive zero or only a small portion of available state funding are ...

COUNCIL’S THREE HOUSING BILLS ADVANCE
Jun 22 2018
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
All three of the bills the Bay Area Council is sponsoring to address California’s housing crisis advanced this week. The Council is sponsoring mo...

Council Urges Immediate Action on Comprehensive Federal Immigration Reform
Jun 20 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (June 20) issued the following statement on the urgent need for enacting comprehensive immigration reform and ending the...
Opinion: What ZTE Deal Tells Us About Chinese Technological Prowess image

Opinion: What ZTE Deal Tells Us About Chinese Technological Prowess
Jun 19 2018
Posted In: China, Economy, News,
(This OpEd by Bay Area Council Economic Institute Senior Director Sean Randolph ran in the San Francisco Chronicle on Sunday, June 17.) B...
Council Urges Legislative Action for Secure, Reliable Energy Future image

Council Urges Legislative Action for Secure, Reliable Energy Future
Jun 18 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council on Friday, June 15 submitted the following letter urging Gov. Brown and state legislative leaders to take immediate action...

CONDOLEEZZA RICE, DAVID BROOKS & #METOO LEADERS WOW PACIFIC SUMMIT
Jun 15 2018
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Cybersecurity,
The timing was ideal. As President Trump met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore, guests at the Bay Area Council’s 2018 Pacific Sum...

REGISTER TODAY: MAPPING BIOTECH’S FUTURE IN THE BAY AREA
Jun 15 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Events,
The Bay Area Council Workforce of the Future program will be hosting a 
2018BACPoll: Voters Hold Dim View of Tax Reform, Immigration Crackdown image

2018BACPoll: Voters Hold Dim View of Tax Reform, Immigration Crackdown
Jun 12 2018
Posted In: Economy, News, Press Releases,
As the national debate on immigration rumbles – from banning or punishing so-called sanctuary cities, fortifying borders, ending Deferred Action ...

2018 BACPoll: 4 of 10 Have Witnessed Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Jun 8 2018
Posted In: Economy, Gender Equity, News,
Almost four out of 10 Bay Area voters say they have witnessed sexual harassment in the workplace and a ...
2018 BACPoll: Can Transportation Tech Solve Bay Area Traffic? image

2018 BACPoll: Can Transportation Tech Solve Bay Area Traffic?
Jun 7 2018
Posted In: News, Newsroom, Press Releases,
Bay Area voters are embracing new automobile and transportation technologies, from ride-hailing apps to responsive traffic signals, drones and elec...
BACPoll: Housing Frustration Spikes image

BACPoll: Housing Frustration Spikes
Jun 6 2018
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
Frustration over the Bay Area’s housing crisis intensified over the past year as the number of voters in the 2018 Bay Area Council Poll who say i...
BACPoll: Voters Say They’d Pay to End Awful Traffic image

BACPoll: Voters Say They’d Pay to End Awful Traffic
Jun 4 2018
Posted In: News, Press Releases, Transportation,
Bay Area voters are so frustrated with the region’s horrific traffic that they are willing to dig deep—really deep—into their pockets to solv...
BACPoll: More People Looking to Leave Bay Area as Housing, Traffic Problems Mount image

BACPoll: More People Looking to Leave Bay Area as Housing, Traffic Problems Mount
Jun 3 2018
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
Growing pessimism among voters about the overall direction the Bay Area is heading has more and more people thinking about heading for the doors. B...
Study: 20 Strategies for Improving (or Worsening) Housing Crisis image

Study: 20 Strategies for Improving (or Worsening) Housing Crisis
May 29 2018
Posted In: Housing, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute today (May 29) released a study showing how 20 different strategies – from fast tracking mega projects to...

Bay Area Council Poll: Newsom Holds Strong Lead in Governor’s Race
May 16 2018
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Newsroom,
Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom holds a firm lead among Bay Area voters in the June primary to become California’s next Governor, according to the 2018...

THE COCA-COLA FOUNDATION TO HELP BAY AREA YOUTH “TASTE THE FEELING”
May 11 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Initiative received a big boost of support from the Coca-Cola Foundation with a year-long grant to...

VOTE EARLY, VOTE OFTEN FOR REGIONAL MEASURE 3
May 11 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Absentee ballots began arriving this week in Bay Area mailboxes ahead of the June election and the Bay Area Council is urging early voters to suppo...

New Study Will Explore Opportunities for Expanding, Deepening Bay Area, Fresno, Central Valley Megaregion Connections
Apr 30 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The Bay Area Council Economic Institute and Central Valley Community Foundation today announced the launch of an in-de...
New Report: Early Childhood Care and Education Key to Advancing Gender Equity in the Workplace image

New Report: Early Childhood Care and Education Key to Advancing Gender Equity in the Workplace
Apr 24 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Economy,
Workplace cultures that promote and even reward crazy long hours are doing more than causing baggy, blood-shot eyes and caffeine addictions. They...

GOOD NEWS, NOT-SO-GOOD NEWS ON HOUSING
Apr 20 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
It was a good news, bad news week in the Bay Area Council’s continuing fight to loosen the grip of the state’s historic housing shortage and af...
STATE ECONOMIC STRATEGY BILL ADVANCES image

STATE ECONOMIC STRATEGY BILL ADVANCES
Apr 20 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
California is a global innovation and economic powerhouse, but currently does not have a statewide, comprehensive plan to grow its economy. That wo...
HISTORIC VOTE TURNS THE TIDE FOR SAN FRANCISCO BAY image

HISTORIC VOTE TURNS THE TIDE FOR SAN FRANCISCO BAY
Apr 13 2018
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
The San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority on Wednesday approved nearly $18 million in grants for wetlands restoration and flood protection projec...
Charting a Course for Megaregion Coordination image

Charting a Course for Megaregion Coordination
Apr 6 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
A rising economy, a massive housing shortage and growing traffic in the Bay Area are causing major changes across the Northern California megaregio...
New Report: California’s Healthcare Sector Key to Meeting State Climate Action Goals image

New Report: California’s Healthcare Sector Key to Meeting State Climate Action Goals
Apr 2 2018
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Healthcare,
New Report: California’s Healthcare Sector Key to Meeting State Climate Action Goals
Council’s Board Welcomes Senator Feinstein and Mayor Schaaf image

Council’s Board Welcomes Senator Feinstein and Mayor Schaaf
Mar 30 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein and Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf met with the Bay Area Council’s Board of Directors Thursday to discuss a range of pr...
ON ONE HAND: GROWING CHINESE INVESTMENT IN THE BAY AREA MEGAREGION image

ON ONE HAND: GROWING CHINESE INVESTMENT IN THE BAY AREA MEGAREGION
Mar 16 2018
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
As business and economic connections deepen across the Bay Area megaregion so do opportunities to attract greater foreign direct investment in ever...
THUMBS UP FOR NEW HOUSING THAT COUNCIL BACKED image

THUMBS UP FOR NEW HOUSING THAT COUNCIL BACKED
Mar 16 2018
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
It won’t solve the region’s housing crisis alone, but it was a step in the right direction as the Millbrae City Council Tuesday (March 13) appr...
OP-ED: KEEP INTERNATIONAL STARTUPS FLOWING TO THE BAY AREA image

OP-ED: KEEP INTERNATIONAL STARTUPS FLOWING TO THE BAY AREA
Mar 9 2018
Posted In: Economy, News, Newsroom,
It’s no secret that the Bay Area is the leading place for technology, innovation and entrepreneurial activity in the nation. Not the only one, fo...
OCCUPATIONAL COUNCILS TARGET SKILLS GAPS image

OCCUPATIONAL COUNCILS TARGET SKILLS GAPS
Mar 9 2018
Posted In: Economy, Education, Events,
Last Wednesday, the Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Committee wrapped up research for a one-year evaluation of its Occupational Counci...
CELEBRATING WOMEN AND WORKING FOR GENDER EQUITY image

CELEBRATING WOMEN AND WORKING FOR GENDER EQUITY
Mar 9 2018
Posted In: Economy, Events, Gender Equity,
The world celebrated International Women's Day on Thursday to honor the social, economic, and political achievements of women across the globe and ...
COUNCIL-SPONSORED BILL TACKLES DEARTH OF STUDENT HOUSING image

COUNCIL-SPONSORED BILL TACKLES DEARTH OF STUDENT HOUSING
Feb 26 2018
Posted In: Economy, Education, Government Relations,
Across California an estimated 762,000 college students experience some form of housing insecurity or homelessness because of the state’s massive...
TRAFFIC RANKING POINTS TO URGENCY FOR BIG INVESTMENT image

TRAFFIC RANKING POINTS TO URGENCY FOR BIG INVESTMENT
Feb 9 2018
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Housing,
Not that Bay Area residents need a reminder of how urgently we need to invest big on regional traffic relief, but a ranking released this week by c...
LEADERS DISCUSS WAYS TO SOLVE THE BAY AREA’S HOUSING CRISIS image

LEADERS DISCUSS WAYS TO SOLVE THE BAY AREA’S HOUSING CRISIS
Feb 9 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area’s top business and political leaders converged at Facebook today (Feb. 9) to recommit themselves to addressing California’s housin...
NEW BILL INTRODUCED ON SKILLED IMMIGRATION image

NEW BILL INTRODUCED ON SKILLED IMMIGRATION
Jan 26 2018
Posted In: Economy, Education, Government Relations,
In the ongoing immigration debate, the Bay Area Council places special importance on the issues surrounding skilled immigration – H-1B visas, the...
THE SKY’S THE LIMIT: FIRST AVIATION CAREER EXPLORATION DAY IS A SUCCESS image

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT: FIRST AVIATION CAREER EXPLORATION DAY IS A SUCCESS
Jan 26 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
Seeking to find solutions to their growing technical talent needs, Bay Area Council members Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, and San Francisco Int...
Voters to Decide $4.5 Billion Traffic Relief, Transit Improvement Plan image

Voters to Decide $4.5 Billion Traffic Relief, Transit Improvement Plan
Jan 24 2018
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 24)  loudly cheered a decision by the Bay Area Toll Authority to seek voter approval in June 2018 for Regional Me...
REGIONAL MEASURE 3 TAKES IMPORTANT STEP FORWARD image

REGIONAL MEASURE 3 TAKES IMPORTANT STEP FORWARD
Jan 12 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
A bold plan to invest $4.5 billion across the region to ease traffic and improve mass transit for millions of commuters took an important step forw...
KEY MILESTONE IN SEA-LEVEL RISE DESIGN COMPETITION image

KEY MILESTONE IN SEA-LEVEL RISE DESIGN COMPETITION
Jan 12 2018
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
The Resilient by Design Bay Area Challenge entered its final phase on Thursday (Jan. 11), with each of the 10 world-class design teams being assign...
WITH RECORD BUDGET PROPOSAL, GOV. BROWN SEES RAIN IN THE FUTURE image

WITH RECORD BUDGET PROPOSAL, GOV. BROWN SEES RAIN IN THE FUTURE
Jan 12 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
There hasn’t been a lot of rain so far this winter, but Gov. Jerry Brown had the wet stuff on his mind this week (Jan. 11) when he released a $19...
THE YEAR OF HOUSING, ROUND II image

THE YEAR OF HOUSING, ROUND II
Jan 5 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Many folks in Sacramento called 2017 the Year of Housing for the 15 bills (many of which the Bay Area Council supported) that Gov. Jerry Brown sign...
THE ART OF FERRIES image

THE ART OF FERRIES
Jan 5 2018
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Housing,
Expanding regional ferry service in the Bay Area continues to be a top priority for the Bay Area Council, and we have been inspired by the ambitiou...

11TH ANNUAL ECONOMIC FORECAST CONFERENCE ON JAN. 19
Jan 5 2018
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
What is the economic outlook for the Bay Area in 2018 and beyond? How will national and international trends affect our region? Join the Bay Area C...
2018 POLICY AGENDA TARGETS HOUSING, TRANSPORTATION, WORKFORCE image

2018 POLICY AGENDA TARGETS HOUSING, TRANSPORTATION, WORKFORCE
Dec 8 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
Behind the Bay Area Council’s continuing advocacy, the California legislature this year took its first (albeit modest) actions to address the sta...
BREAKING THE SILENCE ON SEXUAL HARASSMENT image

BREAKING THE SILENCE ON SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Dec 8 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Gender Equity,
The issue of sexual harassment has burst into the open in recent months as a growing number of women across the country have shared graphic and pai...
FOCUS TURNS TO 2018 FOR ESCALATING RESPONSE TO CA HOUSING CRISIS image

FOCUS TURNS TO 2018 FOR ESCALATING RESPONSE TO CA HOUSING CRISIS
Dec 1 2017
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Events,
California’s housing crisis was the hot topic of a discussion the Bay Area Council Housing Committee hosted this week with special guest Eleni Ko...
BANDING TOGETHER AGAIN TO HELP NORTH BAY FIRE VICTIMS image

BANDING TOGETHER AGAIN TO HELP NORTH BAY FIRE VICTIMS
Dec 1 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
As winter approaches, there is growing urgency to help get shelter, medical care and other important services to the tens of thousands of residents...
Bay Area Leads Nation in Squeezing Most Economic Value from Water image

Bay Area Leads Nation in Squeezing Most Economic Value from Water
Nov 28 2017
Posted In: Economy, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area not only is one of the stingiest water users in the country it also squeezes more economic value out of every precious drop than any m...
Tax Reform Proposal Misses the Mark image

Tax Reform Proposal Misses the Mark
Nov 17 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council is a nonprofit nonpartisan public policy organization that represents many of the largest employers in the Silicon Valley/Bay ...
California Businesses Launch Major New Climate Resilience Initiative image

California Businesses Launch Major New Climate Resilience Initiative
Nov 13 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council today launched the “California Climate Challenge,” a major new initiative to strengthen California’s resilience to clima...
Council Announces $3.3 Million for North Bay Fire Relief image

Council Announces $3.3 Million for North Bay Fire Relief
Nov 10 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council raised more than $3.3 million for North Bay fire relief during its Annual Dinner and Bay Area Business Hall of Fame event on N...
BAY AREA BANDING TOGETHER FOR NORTH BAY FIRE RELIEF image

BAY AREA BANDING TOGETHER FOR NORTH BAY FIRE RELIEF
Oct 27 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council this week announced it is partnering with a coalition of business and community leaders to promote Band Together Bay Area, a c...
WHO ARE THE BAY AREA’S MOST ADMIRED CEOS? image

WHO ARE THE BAY AREA’S MOST ADMIRED CEOS?
Oct 27 2017
Posted In: Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council is proud to partner with member San Francisco Business Times on one of the largest and most highly anticipated CEO award progr...
Regional Coalition Submits Bid for Amazon HQ2 image

Regional Coalition Submits Bid for Amazon HQ2
Oct 19 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
Leveraging a highly skilled and educated talent pool, a renowned innovation culture unmatched in the world and a slew of large transit-rich develop...
SAN FRANCISCO STATE TO HONOR COUNCIL’S JIM WUNDERMAN image

SAN FRANCISCO STATE TO HONOR COUNCIL’S JIM WUNDERMAN
Oct 6 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Events,
The Bay Area Council’s own Jim Wunderman will be honored as San Francisco State University Alumnus of the Year at the 2017 President’s Dinner &...
REGIONAL HOUSING, TRANSPORTATION PLAN STARTING IN THE RED image

REGIONAL HOUSING, TRANSPORTATION PLAN STARTING IN THE RED
Oct 6 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
An update to the Bay Area’s long-range regional housing and transportation planning roadmap, Plan Bay Area 2040 (PBA), has been finalized and we...
TAKING NEW APPROACHES TO ADDRESSING REGION’S WORKFORCE NEEDS image

TAKING NEW APPROACHES TO ADDRESSING REGION’S WORKFORCE NEEDS
Oct 6 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
Joined by leaders from industry, academia and philanthropy, the Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Committee on Monday (Oct. 2) explored ...
FIRST IMPORTANT STEP IN ADDRESSING CA HOUSING CRISIS image

FIRST IMPORTANT STEP IN ADDRESSING CA HOUSING CRISIS
Sep 30 2017
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Events,
California took an important first step today in addressing its massive housing crisis when Gov. Jerry Brown signed a package of legislation aimed ...

COUNCIL CHAIR BERNARD J. TYSON A NATIONAL VOICE ON BIPARTISAN HEALTHCARE FIX
Sep 30 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Healthcare,
The debate over the nation’s healthcare system continues to rage and Kaiser Permanente Chairman and CEO and Bay Area Council Chair Bernard J. Tys...

COUNCIL HEADLINES CHINA’S MAJOR INNOVATION WEEK PRESIDED OVER BY PREMIER LI KEQIANG
Sep 30 2017
Posted In: China, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
For over 10 years, the Bay Area Council has helped expand bilateral trade and investment between the Bay Area and the fast-emerging technology and ...

NEW POLL HIGHLIGHTS URGENCY FOR HOUSING SOLUTIONS
Sep 22 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Results of a new statewide poll gave added urgency to the Bay Area Council’s efforts in securing Gov. Jerry Brown’s signature on legislation to...

COUNCIL WELCOMES BEIJING MAYOR, SIGNS MOU EXPANDING ECONOMIC COOPERATION
Sep 22 2017
Posted In: China, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council this week was honored to welcome Beijing Mayor Chen Jining to the Bay Area as he attended a ceremony for the signing of a memo...

TAKING OFF: COUNCIL LOOKS TO STRENGTHEN TALENT PIPELINE IN THE AVIATION INDUSTRY
Sep 22 2017
Posted In: Economy, Education, Events,
Strengthening talent pipelines from high schools into technical training programs and improving the rate of community college graduates taking cert...

LEGISLATURE TAKES FIRST STEP IN ADDRESSING HOUSING CRISIS
Sep 15 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The state legislature late Thursday (Sept. 15) took a first step in addressing California’s epic housing crisis by approving a package of bills a...

MAKING THE BAY RESILIENT BY DESIGN
Sep 15 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Against the backdrop of record-breaking flooding in Houston and the Caribbean, the Resilient by Design Bay Area Challenge on Sunday (Sept. 10) anno...

MAJOR NEW BAY AREA INNOVATION CENTER IN CHINA ANNOUNCED
Sep 15 2017
Posted In: China, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council this week joined leaders from the Chinese district of Gulou to announce the launch of an exciting new Bay Area Innovation Cent...

Bay Area Coalition Hails Assembly Passage of Traffic Busting Bill
Sep 13 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
A coalition representing many of the Bay Area’s largest employers and millions of workers and residents today hailed the state Assembly passage o...

MAJOR TRANSPORTATION FUNDING MEASURE CLEARS CRITICAL HURDLE
Sep 8 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
After months of the Bay Area Council’s intense advocacy in Sacramento, a bill that could lead to major transportation improvement projects to eas...

OVER 80% OF COUNCIL MEMBERS OPPOSE RESCINDING DACA
Sep 8 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council joins with many others nationwide that are expressing serious policy concerns about the Trump Administration’s rescinding of...

SUPERVISOR TANG TALKS NEW LOCAL DENSITY PROGRAM FOR MISSING MIDDLE
Sep 8 2017
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
The missing middle has become an increasing problem in the Bay Area, with affordable housing production aimed at low and very low income residents ...

DEVELOPING STRONG TALENT PIPELINES TO MEET GROWING WORKFORCE DEMANDS
Sep 8 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
“Casting a wide net” was agreed upon as a top priority by Bay Area Council member participants at the Workforce of the Future Committee’s thi...

Statement on Charlottesville Tragedy, Bay Area Rallies
Aug 17 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council today (Aug. 17) issued the following statement in response to reported plans by a white nationalist or similar group to hold a...

TALKING WORKFORCE, HOUSING & AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES WITH ASSEMBLYMEMBER BERMAN
Aug 14 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Education,
How California and the Bay Area prepare for rapidly changing workforce needs was a major focus of a conversation today (Aug. 11) that the Bay Area ...

KEY CHINA PARTNER HONORED AS RISING INNOVATION STAR
Aug 14 2017
Posted In: China, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
A rising star in China’s fast-emerging technology and innovation sector that the Bay Area Council has been partnering with since our entry into t...

FLYING IN TO CLOSE AVIATION INDUSTRY WORKFORCE GAP
Aug 14 2017
Posted In: Economy, Education, Events,
An expected surge in aviation maintenance jobs in the Bay Area in the next few years has industry leaders scrambling to find qualified workers. Emp...

WORKING TO CAPTURE BIGGER SHARE OF CHINESE INVESTMENT
Aug 14 2017
Posted In: China, Economy, Events,
Chinese investment in the U.S. is booming and the Bay Area Council is working to attract as much as possible to our region. Chinese foreign direct ...

BAY AREA WATER SUPPLIES DEPENDENT ON HEALTHY FORESTS
Aug 14 2017
Posted In: Economy, Events, Storm & Flood Protection,
The impact of a century of fire suppression policies in the Sierra Nevada could have major implications for Bay Area water supplies, and the Bay Ar...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: BACK TO SCHOOL AT ORACLE
Aug 14 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
If you visit Oracle headquarters in Redwood Shores, you'll see a new building under construction at the north end of campus. In early 2018, Design ...

BAY AREA JOBS-HOUSING IMBALANCE GROWS
Aug 4 2017
Posted In: Economy, Housing, Transportation,
The Bay Area’s jobs-housing imbalance is getting worse, adding to the region’s affordability crisis and threatening to undermine the region’s...

FERRY RIDERSHIP SOARS TO NEW HIGHS
Aug 4 2017
Posted In: Economy, Transportation, Water,
Ridership on San Francisco Bay Ferry is soaring, highlighting the importance of the Bay Area Council’s continuing work to dramatically expand the...

COUNCIL URGES CAUTION ON NEW PROPOSAL TO LIMIT IMMIGRATION
Aug 4 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council issued the following statement responding to legislation introduced Wednesday (Aug. 2) by President Trump and Sens. Tom Cotton...

Bernard J. Tyson Elected Bay Area Council Chair
Jul 31 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council Executive Committee and Board of Directors on Wednesday (July 26) welcomed new Chair Bernard J. Tyson, Chairman and CEO of Kai...

Council Scores Another Housing Win with New TOD Law
Jul 31 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
Legislation the Bay Area Council sponsored that could bring 20,000 units of new housing to the region got Gov. Brown’s signature last Friday (Jun...

Addressing Gender Bias in Workplace Communications
Jul 31 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
Gender differences in communications styles can often adversely affect women in the workplace, as men are more likely to talk more and suggest idea...

Sen. Monning Addresses Water Committee on Clean Water Fund
Jul 31 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
It’s estimated that as many as one million Californians (10 times the population of Flint, Michigan) lack access to safe, clean drinking water, m...

Advancing U.S.-China Cooperation on Financial Services Innovation
Jul 31 2017
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
On Tuesday, the Council was joined by Fiona Ma, member of the California Board of Equalization, to honor 14 top banking officials from China’s ce...

Innovation Bridge: Technology, Startups, and Europe’s Connection to Silicon Valley
Jul 31 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
On July 25 the Economic Institute released its newest report—Innovation Bridge: Technology, Startups, and Europe’s Connection to Silicon Valley...

California Community College’s Career Education Rebranding Looking Good
Jul 31 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
On Friday (July 21), the California Community Colleges launched a new campaign the Bay Area Council had advocated for that will boost awareness of ...

Historic Caltrain Electrification Groundbreaking
Jul 21 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
Following years of hard work and advocacy, the Bay Area Council today joined Governor Jerry Brown, Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, Congresswoman Anna E...

Major Victory for California’s Clean Energy Future
Jul 21 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
This week marked a major victory for Governor Jerry Brown and California’s clean energy future with the legislature's bipartisan passage of a lan...

Council Says Goodbye to Friend, Colleague and Civic Leader Patricia Dando
Jul 21 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
Longtime San Jose leader Patricia Dando passed away on July 16 with her husband Bob and her family at her side. Pat, who was former Vice-Mayor of S...

Ronnie Lott, Dave Clark, and Leonard Williams Welcomed as BAYEP Champions
Jul 21 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
On Monday, the Bay Area Council and Bay Area Young Men of Color Employment Partnership (BAYEP) partner LeadersUp met with NFL star Ronnie Lott, KTV...

Innovation Bridge: Technology, Startups, and Europe’s Connection to Silicon Valley
Jul 21 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute, EIT Digital, and the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Business Associations invite you to ...

Statement: Caltrain Electrification Groundbreaking
Jul 21 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
MILLBRAE, CA— Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman today joined Governor Jerry Brown, Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, Congresswoman Anna ...

Council Hails Key Vote on Bill to Address Bay Area’s Traffic, Commute Crisis
Jul 14 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
Following weeks of intensive advocacy in the Bay Area and Sacramento, the Bay Area Council hailed yesterday’s pivotal vote by the Assembly Transp...

Next Steps for Businesses in the California-China Clean Energy Partnership
Jul 14 2017
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
This week, the Council reunited participants of Governor Jerry Brown's recent Clean Energy delegation to Beijing, China to discuss next steps. Cali...

Water Committee Meeting set to discuss controversial bill with Senator Monning
Jul 14 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
The next meeting of the Bay Area Council Water Committee will feature special guest Senator Bill Monning (D-Carmel) to discuss SB 623. An estimat...

International Competition for Bay Resilience off to Huge Start
Jul 14 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
Last month, the Bay Area Council joined with Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf, San Mateo County Supervisor Dave Pine and other Bay Area leaders to annou...

Bay Area Balance: Preserving Open Space, Addressing Housing Affordability
Jul 14 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Failure to produce housing in the Bay Area’s urban core and near transit represents a serious threat to the region’s open space, according to a...

Coca Cola Looking to Bottle Bay Area Talent
Jul 14 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
On Wednesday the Bay Area Council Workforce of the Future team and Bay Area Young Men of Color Employment Partnership (BAYEP) colleague LeadersUp t...

Council Hails Key Vote on Bill to Address Bay Area’s Traffic, Commute Crisis
Jul 13 2017
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
SAN FRANCISCO—Following weeks of intensive advocacy in the Bay Area and Sacramento, the Bay Area Council today hailed a pivotal vote by the Assem...

New Report: Underdevelopment of Urban Infill Jeopardizes Bay Area’s Economically Significant Open Space
Jul 13 2017
Posted In: Press Releases,
Key Business, Environmental Groups Unite in Unprecedented Partnership A...

Key Vote on Bill to Authorize Regional Transportation Funding Measure
Jul 7 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Government Relations,
A critical vote is scheduled for Monday, July 10 in the Assembly Transportation Committee on legislation (SB 595) to authorize a regional transport...

Workforce Opportunities Soar at United
Jul 7 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
In a recent tour of United Airlines, the Bay Area Council Workforce of the Future team learned about the ample workforce career pathways offered in...

Council-backed Housing Bill Heads to Governor’s Desk
Jul 6 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council today (July 6) cheered the passage by the California Legislature of a bill by state Sen. Bob Wieckowski (Fremont) that clears ...

Poll: Strong Majority Back Bridge Toll Increase to Ease Grinding Traffic
Jun 30 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
Bay Area voters fed up with grinding congestion badly want new funding for large, regional traffic relief and transportation improvement projects a...

Real Reasons to Embrace Autonomous Vehicles
Jun 30 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
Autonomous, or self-driving, vehicles are undeniably cool, but, in their meeting with industry experts from Waymo (Google), Zoox, and Lyft, Bay Are...

Council Works to Improve Workforce Diversity
Jun 30 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
On Tuesday (June 27), Bay Area Council Workforce of the Future Committee Chair Julius Robinson, Managing Director & Group Head, Corporate Socia...

Senator Skinner and Council Talk Solutions to Housing Crisis
Jun 30 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
On Thursday (June 29), the Bay Area Council Housing Committee met with State Senator Nancy Skinner, whose district covers large parts of Contra Cos...

Council Comments on NAFTA Modernization
Jun 30 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
This week, the U.S. International Trade Commission held hearings to explore and receive input on modernizing the North American Free Trade Agreemen...

Building Housing, Protecting Open Space Compatible
Jun 30 2017
Posted In: Economy, Events, Housing,
This Monday, Economic Institute President Micah Weinberg discussed the importance of preserving open space in the Bay Area while addressing the hou...

Upcoming Healthcare Committee Meeting
Jun 30 2017
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
Would you like to discuss the very latest developments in healthcare policy with other industry leaders?  Would you like the chance to weigh in co...

Traffic is Hellish: New Measure Big on BART and Ferries Will Help A Lot
Jun 23 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Government Relations, Transportation,
Our polling and traffic studies all confirm what you experience – traffic is the Bay Area is epically bad. The Bay Area Council is working direc...

Leading the Megaregion Charge for Better Rail Connections
Jun 23 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council continues to lead the charge for enhancing megaregional rail system, and on Wednesday joined a gathering of 50 key decision ma...

New Oakland A’s Stadium Would Generate $3.05 Billion in Economic Benefits, 2K Jobs
Jun 23 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
Oakland residents and businesses would reap $3.05 billion in economic benefits over the first 10 years from the construction and operation of a new...

Council Builds on Momentum to Attract Chinese Investment to California
Jun 23 2017
Posted In: China, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Building on a successful trip with Governor Jerry Brown to China and the Select California Investment Summit in Sacramento, the Bay Area Council’...

GOP Healthcare Bill Unveiled; Big Impacts for California
Jun 23 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Healthcare,
Senate Republicans on Thursday (June 22) revealed draft language of a bill that would repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Better ...

Member Spotlight: DLA Piper Launches Global Scholarship Initiative
Jun 23 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Economy,
DLA Piper has awarded 21 scholarships to students from some of the world's least developed countries including Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Senegal, Ugan...

New Oakland A’s Stadium Would Generate $3.05 Billion in Economic Impacts, Create 2K Jobs
Jun 20 2017
Posted In: Economy, News, Newsroom,
Oakland residents and businesses would reap $3.05 billion in economic benefits over the first 10 years from the construction and operation of a new...

New Analysis Looks at Strengths, Weaknesses of Bay Area Economy
Jun 16 2017
Posted In: Economy, News, Science and Innovation,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute today released analysis of recent California Employment Development Department (EDD) job and labor force es...

Oakland Zoo Expansion Benefits Entire Region
Jun 16 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
The launch of the new California Trail, an $80 million expansion project that will double the size of Oakland Zoo, heralds an exciting new commitme...

Council Works to Bring Chinese Clean Energy Investment to CA
Jun 16 2017
Posted In: China, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Fresh from our successful trip with Governor Jerry Brown to China to promote climate change partnership, the Bay Area Council this week joined a fi...

Council Agenda Gets Receptive Ear in D.C.
Jun 16 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Economy,
Transportation, housing, trade and healthcare were among the issues a Bay Area Council-led business delegation discussed this week in Washington, D...

Council Statement on Tragic Shootings in SF, D.C.
Jun 14 2017
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Newsroom,
Two shooting tragedies today (June 14) struck painfully close to home for the Bay Area Council. A Bay Area Council-led business delegation arriving...

TALENT DRAIN GROWING AS HOUSING CRISIS DEEPENS
Jun 9 2017
Posted In: Economy, Education, Housing,
Net new arrivals to the Golden State have fallen 17% since February, a new LinkedIn report finds. While the Bay Area historically has shown strong ...

COUNCIL CHINA CLEAN ENERGY DELEGATION WITNESS TO HISTORY
Jun 9 2017
Posted In: China, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council’s delegation of business leaders accompanying Gov. Jerry Brown this week to Beijing, China, for a global conference on clima...

BAY AREA COUNCIL LEADS DELEGATION ACCOMPANYING GOV. JERRY BROWN TO CHINA FOR GLOBAL CLEAN ENERGY SUMMIT
Jun 2 2017
Posted In: China, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
On Monday, June 5, the Bay Area Council will lead a high-level business delegation to Beijing, China, to accompany Gov. Jerry Brown for an annual m...

BAY AREA COUNCIL HELPS LAUNCH INTERNATIONAL RESILIENT BY DESIGN COMPETITION
Jun 2 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council on Wednesday (May 31) joined with Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf, San Mateo County Supervisor Dave Pine and other Bay Area leaders...

Statement on President Trump’s Decision to Withdraw U.S. from Paris Climate Accord
Jun 1 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Economy,
The Bay Area Council today (June 1) issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s withdrawing the United States from the...

COUNCIL WORKING TO CONNECT SILICON VALLEY AND THE HEARTLAND
May 12 2017
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
Much of the political rhetoric of the 2016 Presidential campaign focused on the winners and losers of the nation’s economic transformation over t...

COUNCIL KEEPING UP PRESSURE FOR CALTRAIN ELECTRIFICATION FUNDING
Apr 21 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
With the clock ticking on a June deadline to begin work on electrifying Caltrain, the Bay Area Council is continuing its advocacy to secure $647 mi...

NEW REGIONAL CLIMATE CHANGE PLAN TAKES UNPRECEDENTED REACH
Apr 21 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
A sweeping plan approved this week by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District to address climate change takes unprecedented reach in cracking ...

COLIN POWELL, FAREED ZAKARIA, ERIC GARCETTI HEADLINE OUTLOOK CONFERENCE
Apr 21 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
Time is running out to secure your seat at the Bay Area Council’s 2017 Outlook Conference: The Pacific Summit presented by Kaiser Permanente on T...

PUSH FOR SINGLE-PAYER THREATENS ACA STABILITY
Apr 14 2017
Posted In: Economy, Events, Healthcare,
With rumors continuing to swirl around Republican-led efforts to repeal and replace the ACA, California legislative leaders are taking a different ...

MEETING WITH REP. DESAULNIER FOCUSES ON TRANSPORTATION FUNDING
Apr 14 2017
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
On Thursday (April 13), the Bay Area Council’s Transportation Committee met with Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA 11) at Microsoft Corporation t...

New Poll Finds That 25% of Homeowners Would Add an In-­Law Unit, Creating 400,000 New and Affordable Housing Units
Apr 12 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
SAN FRANCISCO—Amid the Bay Area’s crippling housing crisis, important legislation that took...

COUNCIL HAILS HUGE VICTORY FOR CA ROADS, TRANSPORTATION
Apr 7 2017
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
Bay Area motorists dodging potholes and fighting traffic can loosen their grip on the wheel after an historic vote in the legislature last night (A...

BAC POLL: ECONOMIC CONFIDENCE SLIPPING; GENERATIONS DIVIDED OVER HOUSING
Apr 7 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
The Bay Area Council is responding to recent results of our Bay Area Council Poll that show economic confidence slipping as the region’s epic hou...

COUNCIL OFFERS INSIGHTS ON US-CHINA AGTECH GROWTH
Apr 7 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Economy,
Bay Area Council Chief of Global Business Development Del Christensen on Thursday (April 6) led a panel at the Silicon Valley Forum’s “AgTech a...

BAC Poll: Millennials, Older Generations Divided Over Housing Problems, Solutions
Apr 2 2017
Posted In: Economy, Housing, Membership,
Older Bay Area voters who have lived here the longest and own their home are far less likely to support building new housing compared with millenni...

Economic Confidence Slipping as Housing, Traffic Woes Mount
Apr 1 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area’s epic housing and traffic crises are taking a serious and growing toll on economic confidence, according to results of the 2017 Bay...

Residents Say Declare Traffic Emergency; Fix It, Tax Me If Needed
Mar 31 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
With federal and state transportation funds dramatically falling off even as regional traffic reaches new records, Bay Area voters are ready to tak...

Council Supports Landmark CA Investment to Fix Roads and Highways
Mar 29 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council today (March 29) issued the following statement on the announcement by Governor Jerry Brown and top Legislative leaders of a 1...

Statement on NFL OK for Raiders to Las Vegas Move
Mar 27 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council issued the following statement in response to a vote today (March 27) by NFL owners approving plans by the Oakland Raiders to ...

Council Helps Forge New UCBerkeley-China R&D Partnership
Mar 27 2017
Posted In: China, Economy, Healthcare,
The Bay Area Council today (March 27) applauded the announcement of a new partnership between the Center for Information Technology Research in the...

SOLVING ENERGY STORAGE PUZZLE KEY TO RENEWABLES FUTURE
Feb 23 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
California’s continuing efforts to shift to renewable energy will depend to a large degree on solving the challenge of how to store that energy. ...

FINAL DECISION NEAR FOR INNOVATIVE COMMUTER SHUTTLES PROGRAM
Feb 17 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
A commuter shuttles program that the Bay Area Council was instrumental in developing on behalf of regional employers is poised to be made permanent...

COUNCIL ADVOCATES FOR FINAL CALTRAIN ELECTRIFICATION FUNDING
Feb 13 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
After years of hard work and advocacy, the Bay Area Council is making a final push to secure the remaining funding needed to electrify and moderniz...

FORUM FOCUSES ON DISRUPTIVE APPROACHES TO SOLVING BAY AREA TRAFFIC
Feb 13 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
An overflow audience of Bay Area business and transportation leaders met today at the Bay Area Council for a riveting forum on innovative approache...

Restricting Immigration Hurts the Bay Area, Council Members Say
Feb 3 2017
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
Recent actions and statements by President Trump and his administration on immigration, including an executive order ostensibly banning citizens an...

MENLO PARK HOUSING PROJECT ENDORSED BY COUNCIL APPROVED
Jan 27 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
A transit-oriented housing, retail and office development that the Bay Area Council endorsed won unanimous approval by the Menlo Park City Council ...

THE NEW COMMUTE: DISRUPTING BAY AREA TRAFFIC
Jan 27 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
In response to the Bay Area’s traffic crisis, emerging private transportation companies are offering new, innovative solutions for a comfortable,...

WATER TRANSIT COMMITTEE MAKING WAVES
Jan 27 2017
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Events,
This week, the Bay Area Council’s Water Transit Committee met with Assemblymember David Chiu (D-San Francisco), who reported on opportunities to ...

TOP ECONOMISTS, BUSINESS LEADERS GIVE ECONOMIC FORECASTS ON INAUGURATION DAY
Jan 20 2017
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Education,
As the world watched the inauguration of President Donald Trump, the Bay Area Council Economic Institute’s 10th Annual Economic Forecast presente...

Council Secures Grant for New, Innovative Workforce Program
Jan 20 2017
Posted In: Economy, Education, News,
A regional initiative the Bay Area Council is leading to increase employment opportunities for young men of color in the Bay Area got a major boost...

Statement on Gov. Brown’s Proposed 2017-18 Budget
Jan 11 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council issued the following statement on Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposed 2017-18 budget: “Gov. Brown’s proposed budget wisely refl...

Proposed Water Cuts Could Be Devastating for Bay Area
Jan 6 2017
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council voiced strong concerns at a State Water Resources Board hearing Tuesday (Jan. 3) on proposed changes to how water is allocated...

Council Pushes for Legislative Action on Housing Crisis
Jan 6 2017
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
As the Bay Area Council gears up to drive action in the Legislature this year on California’s housing crisis, a new report out this week provides...

Council in the Mix as Affordable Care Act Repeal Plans Debated
Jan 6 2017
Posted In: Economy, Healthcare,
Anxieties are running high as the new Administration and Congress are signaling imminent changes to the Affordable Care Act if not a full repeal. C...

What the President-Elect Should Know about Trade, Manufacturing & Jobs
Dec 16 2016
Posted In: China, Economy, Government Relations,
A wave of working-class anger and discontent over lost manufacturing jobs is credited by many with helping Donald Trump win the White House, but a ...

Help End the Scourge of Family Homelessness
Dec 16 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Economy,
The Bay Area Council is urging its members to help secure a $10 million challenge grant from Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff and his wife, Lynne, to fu...

Bay Area Water Leaders Give Input to National Policy Agenda
Dec 16 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Events,
Forty of the Bay Area’s top water leaders convened at Google on Thursday (Dec. 15) to map out federal water advocacy in the Trump-era. The meetin...

Council Joins President Obama for Final My Brother’s Keeper White House Convening
Dec 16 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
This week, Bay Area Council Economic Institute President Micah Weinberg attended the final White House convening for President Obama's My Brother's...

Taking Action to Address Workforce Needs
Dec 9 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
The Bay Area Council recently hosted Van Ton-Quinlivan (Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Economic Development, Cal...

Decision Time: Keeping the Raiders in Oakland
Dec 9 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
A deal to build a modern, new stadium for the Oakland Raiders is headed to the Oakland City Council next Tuesday, and the Bay Area Council is worki...

Will 2017 Be the Year for Housing Solutions in Sacramento?
Dec 9 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
A who’s who of Bay Area housing leaders and major employers converged on the Bay Area Council Thursday for an unvarnished and sobering discussion...

Mentorships Key to Increasing Women in Senior Leadership Roles
Dec 9 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events, Gender Equity,
The Gender Equity Committee met this week to participate in an interactive discussion with Shavon Lindley, CEO of Women Evolution, which creates in...

Council Doubling Down on Solving Regional Commute Mess
Dec 2 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
The Bay Area Council just loves a good challenge, and there is perhaps no bigger challenge for the region than bringing some relief to the congeste...

Prime Minister of Ireland Addresses Council Leadership
Dec 2 2016
Posted In: Economy, Education, Events,
Enda Kenny, Prime Minister (An Taoiseach) of the Republic of Ireland, addressed the Bay Area Council’s Board of Directors on Thursday, discussing...

Commuter Shuttles Program Getting Better and Better
Nov 18 2016
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Transportation,
The commuter shuttles program that the Bay Area Council helped develop on behalf of employers just gets better and better. A mid-year progress repo...

Stricter Homesharing Limits Hurt Housing Affordability
Nov 18 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Housing,
Placing stricter limits on homesharing does almost nothing to increase housing supply and only makes things worse for homeowners that rely on short...

Exciting News for Expanding Ferry Service to Silicon Valley
Nov 18 2016
Posted In: Economy, News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council is wading forward in its work to expand ferry service to the Peninsula and South Bay, where exploding job growth has led to se...

Commuter Shuttles “Hub” Approach Means More Traffic, Emissions, Accidents
Nov 15 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Newsroom,
Replacing the successful system that private commuter shuttles use to pick up and drop off riders with fewer centralized “hub” locations would ...

Big Election Wins for Bay Area, Council on Housing, Transportation
Nov 11 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Economy,
Millions of Bay Area commuters could breathe a sigh of relief Tuesday when 70 percent of voters passed Measure RR to fix and upgrade BART, the regi...

The Bay Area Takes on Big Data
Nov 11 2016
Posted In: News,
California is a hotbed for big data innovation. Against that backdrop, the Bay Area Council recently welcomed some of the region’s brightest mind...

BAC Insiders Tour: SFO
Nov 11 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Membership,
SFO International Airport reflects the City itself: small but mighty.  In its compact 2,500 acres of developed land, it manages to move more than ...

Getting Down to Business to Enact In-Law Legislation
Nov 11 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
Energized by our victory in passing SB 1069 to make building in-law units easier, faster and cheaper for homeowners, the Bay Area Council's Housing...

On Nov. 8, Vote for a Better Bay Area
Nov 4 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, Housing,
It's almost over, but there's still one more very important thing to do before you can put Election 2016 in your rear-view mirror. Unless you've al...

Learning Lessons from Los Angeles on Bold Transportation Planning
Nov 4 2016
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council last year took pride in touting a book by a prominent UCLA professor detailing how our region has outperformed Los Angeles ove...

Talking Tech with Assemblymember Evan Low
Nov 4 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Government Relations, Science and Innovation,
Autonomous vehicles, drones and internet privacy were among the topics covered on Tuesday (Nov. 1) when the Bay Area Council’s Government Relatio...

Member Spotlight: KKR
Nov 4 2016
Posted In: Membership,
Congratulations to KKR, the global investment firm which rece...

Council Honors John Chambers and Jane Shaw
Oct 28 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council on Wednesday held its 71st Annual Dinner and Bay Area Business Hall of Fame presented by Union Bank, inducting Cisc...

Council Water Transit Advocacy Makes Waves; WETA Opens New Facility
Oct 28 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council’s advocacy efforts to rapidly expand our region’s water transit system are paying off. This week the Water Emergency Trans...

Proposed Water Cuts Hit SF, Silicon Valley
Oct 28 2016
Posted In: Water,
The Bay Area could lose as much as 10 percent of its water supply if draft recommendations by the State Water Resources Control Board are adopted n...

By the Numbers: Solving the Housing Affordability Crisis
Oct 21 2016
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
A groundbreaking analysis of San Francisco’s housing crisis released this week (Oct. 19) by the Bay Area Council Economic Institute identified wh...

Council Leads Tech Delegation to China
Oct 21 2016
Posted In: China, Science and Innovation,
A high-level delegation of Bay Area entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors and scientists led by Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman this week (...

Educators, Employers Meet to Bridge Workforce Gap
Oct 21 2016
Posted In: Education, Workforce of the Future,
The Bay Area Council's Workforce of the Future Committee, in partnership with the Bay Area Community College Consortium, hosted its first marketpla...

Dim Assessment of Regional Housing, Transportation Plan
Oct 21 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
Plan Bay Area – the region’s long-range housing and transportation blueprint -- isn’t likely to do much to improve housing affordability or e...

House Committee Readies for Action in 2017
Oct 21 2016
Posted In: Housing,
On the heels of passing statewide legislation we sponsored (SB 1069) to expand housing by easing restrictions on in-law units, the Bay Area Council...

Council’s Cornelious Burke Named Sacto 40 Under 40
Oct 21 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News,
This week (Oct. 17) the Sacramento Business Journal honored Sacramento’s top young leaders at its 40 Under 40 celebration, and the Bay Area Counc...

Election 2016: Bay Area Council Positions
Oct 14 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council Executive Committee approved positions on various state, regional and local ballot measures and propositions appearing on the ...

Water Committee Meets. Rain Falls.
Oct 14 2016
Posted In: Water,
There were no special dances or incantations at the Bay Area Council Water Committee meeting last Friday (Oct. 7) at member HNTB in Oakland, and ye...

Housing Crisis Hurting CA Climate Change Goals
Oct 14 2016
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Housing,
The Bay Area’s housing crisis is undermining California’s ambitious and global-leading work to combat climate change. Bay Area Council Senior V...

Member Spotlight: Year Up
Oct 14 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Membership,
Six million motivated young adults in this country lack access to stable career pathways. At the same time, 12 million U.S. jobs will go unfulfille...

How Will the Bay Area Meet Future Workforce Needs?
Oct 7 2016
Posted In: Economy, Education, Events,
The Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future Committee convened Thursday (Oct. 5) to give an update on the Council’s work to improve the numb...

BASIC Scores Big Win for California Innovation
Oct 7 2016
Posted In: Education, Government Relations, Science and Innovation,
The Council’s Bay Area Science and Innovation Consortium (BASIC) scored a hug win when Governor Brown recently signed AB 2664 into law. This bill...

Covered CA Making Progress, but Challenges Remain
Oct 7 2016
Posted In: Healthcare,
The Bay Area Council’s Healthcare Committee hosted a fascinating discussion this week (Oct. 5) about the current state of the Affordable Care Act...

Council Forms Megaregion Partnership with Sacramento to Keep Jobs, Grow Economy
Oct 5 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council today  announced a new partnership with the Greater Sacramento Area Economic Coun...

More Ferries Coming Soon, Serving New Routes and Destinations
Sep 30 2016
Posted In: Economy, News, Transportation,
The big WETA and Golden Gate ferries that serve the region’s heavy commute corridors will soon be complemented by nimble, privately financed and ...

Council Notches Its Best Legislative Record in Years
Sep 30 2016
Posted In: Economy, Education, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council was poised to notch its best legislative record in years with the deadline for Gov. Jerry Brown to sign or veto bills coming t...

Council Explores Legal Options on Brisbane NIMBY Plan
Sep 30 2016
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
The city of Brisbane made its claim for NIMBY of the year with its audacious proposal to accept 8 million square feet of commercial and industrial ...

Governor Signs Council-Sponsored Housing Bill
Sep 27 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council today (Sept. 27) applauded Governor Jerry Brown for signing legislation it sponsored that will make it easier, faster and less...

State Sen. Jackson Talks Fair Pay with Council’s Gender Equity Committee
Sep 16 2016
Posted In: Economy, Gender Equity, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council's Gender Equity Committee on Thursday (Sept. 15) welcomed state Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) for an invigorat...

Council Builds Stronger Economic, Trade & Investment Connections with Nanjing
Sep 16 2016
Posted In: China,
The Bay Area Council, in collaboration with the Gulou District of Nanjing, recently completed a trade show promoting Bay Area businesses and Counci...

Council-MTC Study Finds 9.6 Million Ride Commuter Shuttles
Sep 16 2016
Posted In: Economy, News, Transportation,
Public and private shuttle services around the Bay Area carried more passengers in the 2014-15 fiscal year than all but six of the region's public ...

Member Spotlight: 49ers Foundation Makes Big Play to Help Community
Sep 16 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Membership,
The 49ers Foundation has a long history of generously support...

Shovel Ready: Leaders Mark Key Milestone for Regional Ferry Expansion
Sep 15 2016
Posted In: News, Press Releases, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council on Thursday (Sept. 15) hailed the ground breaking for a new Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) operations and mai...

Council Calls for Strong Regional Effort to Keep Raiders
Sep 15 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council responded quickly to a decision by the Southern Nevada Tourism Infrastructure Committee on Thursday (Sept. 15) approving $750 ...

New Report: $15.4 Billion in Economic Impacts from Santa Clara County Transportation Plan
Sep 15 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Santa Clara County is forecast to realize at least $15.4 billion in new business and economic activity from a 30-year transportation investment pla...

CEO Policy Roundtable Focuses on Coming Trends, Challenges
Sep 9 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events, Membership,
The Bay Area Council on Thursday (Sept. 8) hosted a CEO Roundtable discussion moderated by KPMG San Francisco Managing Partner Debbie Messemer that...

Member Spotlight: Pucci Foods
Sep 9 2016
Posted In: Membership,
Pucci Foods has been around for almost 100 years, but the Hayward-based seafood supplier is not stuck in the past. Under the leadership of CEO Chri...

Council’s Work to Expand Bay Area-China Trade Highlighted
Sep 9 2016
Posted In: China,
As leaders from the world’s largest economies gathered in Hangzhou last week, we are reminded of China’s rising global responsibilities. Protoc...

Council Welcomes Senator Boxer During CA Farewell Tour
Sep 2 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
Making a stop at the Bay Area Council on a California farewell tour ahead of her retirement later this year, U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer Thursday (Aug....

Bay Area Businesses Lead the Way to Renewable Energy Future
Sep 2 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The basic architecture of the electricity grid is unchanged from the time of Thomas Edison, Professor Arun Majumdar told the Bay Area Council’s E...

Council Scores Big Legislative Wins, Urges Governor’s Signature
Sep 2 2016
Posted In: Education, Government Relations, Housing,
When the state’s solons adjourned late Wednesday (Aug. 31), two major bills the Council sponsored were headed to Governor Jerry Brown’s desk fo...

Legislature Passes Council-backed Second Unit Housing Bill
Aug 30 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council today (Aug. 30) hailed the passage of SB 1069, legislation authored by state Sen. Bob Wieckowski (Fremont) that clears the way...

Major Win for Council’s Transformative Water Data Bill
Aug 26 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, News,
Legislation the Bay Area Council is sponsoring to revolutionize how California uses data technology to better manage the state’s water system is ...

Do You Know the Way… to LA?
Aug 26 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events, Housing,
Join the Bay Area Council on our trip to Los Angeles from Sept. 19-21 and meet with Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Los Angeles Metropolitan Trans...

Council Welcomes New Chief Financial Officer
Aug 18 2016
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Aug. 18) announced the hiring of Jeanine Hawk as its new chief financial officer. Hawk will carry out the financial, fi...

New Report: UC Supports Immense, and Growing, Start-Up Culture
Aug 17 2016
Posted In: Economy, News, Press Releases,
Entrepreneurial activity and innovation has been rapidly accelerating across the University of California in recent y...

Council Urges Continued Talks on By-Right Housing Reforms
Aug 12 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council and Southern California Leadership Council, which are leading a statewide coalition of employers, affordable housing advocates...

Council Continues Push for Landmark Housing Reform
Aug 12 2016
Posted In: Economy,
California’s epic housing crisis is hurting more than lower- and middle-income working families struggling to find housing they can afford. It’...

Second Dwelling Unit Bill Clears Key Assembly Committee
Aug 12 2016
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
Legislation (SB 1069) by Senator Bob Wieckowski that the Bay Area Council is sponsoring to ease restrictions on second dwelling units sailed throug...

New Report: Housing Crisis Threatens CA Climate Change Goals
Aug 9 2016
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
California’s epic housing crisis is hurting more than lower- and middle-income working families ...

Misguided Tech Jobs Tax Fails in San Francisco
Aug 5 2016
Posted In: Economy, News, Newsroom,
A misguided proposal to tax San Francisco tech companies for creating jobs — a proposal we vigorously opposed — failed this week at the Board ...

Bay Restoration Funding to Start Flowing in 2017
Aug 5 2016
Posted In: Economy, News, Newsroom,
Fresh from the historic passage of Measure AA by voters this June, the San Francisco Baylands Steering Committee convened at the Bay Area Council o...

Council Battles Stiff Opposition on Fast Track Housing Bill
Aug 5 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
It’s do or die time for legislation the Bay Area Council is championing to help combat California’s epic housing crisis. As legislators returne...

First-of-its-Kind Workplace Gender Equity Guide Unveiled
Jul 29 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
Advancing gender equity in the workplace, especially at the C-suite and Board level, continues to be a major challenge for employers nationwide. Th...

Council Advocacy on Near-Term Commute Relief Rewarded
Jul 29 2016
Posted In: Economy, News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council’s advocacy for near-term commute relief was rewarded this week when the Metropolitan Transportation Commission approved $40 ...

Supporting Free Trade and Growing Manufacturing Not Mutually Exclusive
Jul 29 2016
Posted In: China, Economy, Government Relations,

Council Names Bernard J. Tyson Vice Chair
Jul 26 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, Healthcare,
The Bay Area Council Executive Committee has elected Kaiser Permanente Chairman and CEO Bernard J. Tyson Vice Chair of the organization, positionin...

Council Works to Expand Opportunities for Boys and Men of Color
Jul 22 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events, News,
On Thursday, in partnership with LeadersUp, My Brother’s Keeper Alliance, Urban Strategies Council, PolicyLink and the City of Oakland, the Bay A...

No Summer Recess in Work to Win Landmark Housing Reform
Jul 22 2016
Posted In: Housing, News, Transportation,
The Legislature may be on summer recess, but the Bay Area Council isn’t taking a break from its continuing work to win approval of Governor Jerry...

Council Housing Committee Co-Chair Kofi Bonner Highlights Governor’s Streamlining Affordable Housing Bill on “Market Makers”
Jul 13 2016
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,

All Aboard on Caltrain Electrification
Jul 13 2016
Posted In: Economy, News, Newsroom,

First-of-its-kind Regional Online Tool Will Connect Educators, Employers
Jul 1 2016
Posted In: Economy, Education, News,
Helping students enter the workforce with the education, skills and training that employers want is the goal of a first-of-its-kind regional online...

Council Scores Big Wins this Week in Sacramento
Jul 1 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Council’s two sponsored bills SB 1069 and AB 1755 were both passed by Legislative Committees this week in Sacramento. SB 1069 authored by  S...

Can Megaregion Approach Help Solve Megaproblems?
Jul 1 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Northern California megaregion is one of the largest and fastest-growing in the United States, but the rapid speed and scale at which it is tak...

New Report: As Northern California Megaregion Takes Shape, Megaproblems Intensify
Jun 30 2016
Posted In: Economy, Education, Government Relations,
The Northern California megaregion is one of the largest and fastest-growing in the United States, but the rapid speed and scale at which it is tak...

Council Cramming for Legislative Finals Ahead of Summer Recess
Jun 24 2016
Posted In: Economy, Education, Government Relations,
With the Legislature’s summer recess looming, the Bay Area Council is cramming to get strong grades on its legislative agenda. So far, so good. K...

How Brexit May Impact Bay Area Economically
Jun 24 2016
Posted In: Economy,
(Bay Area Council Economic Institute Senior Director Sean Randolph offers initial analysis of the historic vote in Britain to exit the European ...

Addressing Real Estate Professionals on Housing Crisis
Jun 24 2016
Posted In: Events, Housing,
California’s epic housing shortage was among the topics that Bay Area Council Senior Vice President Matt Regan covered during remarks at the rece...

Council Works to Attract Foreign Investment to CA, Bay Area
Jun 24 2016
Posted In: China, Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council joined a statewide delegation of leading business and economic development executives that traveled to Washington, D.C. this w...

Obama Senior Advisor Jarrett Meets with Council Executives
Jun 24 2016
Posted In: Economy, Gender Equity, Government Relations,
Valerie Jarrett, Senior Advisor to President Obama, met with Bay Area Council members this week (June 20) and briefed them on some of the issues on...

Bold NYC Plan Offers Inspiration for Expanding Bay Area Ferry Service
Jun 17 2016
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area isn’t alone in its push to expand ferry service. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio this week (June 15) announced a massive $325 mil...

Progress on Governor’s Affordable Housing Reforms
Jun 17 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing, News,
The real work now begins in the Bay Area Council’s campaign to pass landmark reforms speeding approval of new affordable housing statewide that G...

Economic Institute Study Lays Foundation for UC Campus Expansion
Jun 17 2016
Posted In: Education, Science and Innovation,
A 2010 study by the Bay Area Council Economic Institute helped lay the groundwork for a decision this week by the University of California at Merce...

Upcoming Report Examines Emerging Megaregion
Jun 17 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events, Housing,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute is gearing up to release a major new report – Northern California Megaregion: Innovative, Connected and G...

Council’s Housing Advocacy Rewarded; More Work to Do
Jun 10 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
An intensive advocacy effort led by the Bay Area Council was rewarded late Thursday (June 9) when legislative leaders and Governor Jerry Brown anno...

Council Cheers Historic Regional Measure AA Win
Jun 10 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Storm & Flood Protection,
Bay Area voters made history on Tuesday (June 7) by passing Measure AA, the region’s first ever nine-county ballot measure. The measure will rais...

Council Ready to Lead BART Bond Measure to Victory
Jun 10 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council is swinging into action with the unanimous vote Thursday (June 9) by the BART Board of Directors to place a $3.5 billion bond ...

Council Energy Committee Welcomes New Co-Chair from Apple
Jun 10 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council Energy Committee on Thursday (June 9) welcomed new Co-Chair Mike Petouhoff, Global Energy Team Leader at Apple. He joins Co-Ch...

Creating Employment Opportunities for Boys and Men of Color
Jun 10 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, News,
Bay Area Council Workforce of the Future Co-Chair Glenn Shannon of Shorenstein Properties on Thursday (June 9) kicked off a fantastic employer conv...

New BACEI Report Measures Medi-Cal Impact on CA Economy
Jun 10 2016
Posted In: Healthcare, News,
Last Friday (June 3), the Bay Area Council Economic Institute released a major report at an event hosted by Blue Shield of California that document...

Gingrich Talks Presidential Politics with Jim Wunderman
Jun 10 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Membership, News,
Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, now a Senior Advisor to Bay Area Council member Dentons law firm, sat down with business leaders on Tues...

Member Spotlight: KPMG
Jun 10 2016
Posted In: Gender Equity, Membership,
Debbie Messemer, KPMG’s Market Managing Partner for the Bay Area and member of the Bay Area Council’s Executive Committee, has been named “20...

Council, Strategic Partners Cheer Regional Measure AA Win
Jun 10 2016
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations, News,
Bay Area voters made history on Tuesday by passing Measure AA, the region’s first ever nine-county ballot measure. The measure will raise $500 mi...

COUNCIL HOSTS GLOBAL CLEAN ENERGY MINISTERIAL
Jun 6 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
They’ll always have Paris, but San Francisco is where the world’s top energy ministers really got down to business this week in developing plan...

COUNCIL MOBILIZING SUPPORT FOR GOVERNOR’S HOUSING BILL
Jun 6 2016
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
Behind an all-out advocacy blitz led by the Bay Area Council, support is growing rapidly for Gov. Jerry Brown’s plan to fast-track local approval...

Council Mobilizing Support for Governor’s Landmark Housing Bill
Jun 3 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
Behind an all-out advocacy blitz led by the Bay Area Council, support is growing rapidly for Gov. Jerry Brown’s plan to fast-track local approval...

Council-sponsored Water Data Bill Advances
Jun 3 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Water,
The Bay Area Council on Monday (May 31) cheered the state Assembly’s passage of AB 1755, which require the Department of Water Resources to creat...

Member Spotlight: Burr Pilger & Mayer
Jun 3 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Gender Equity, Membership,
As Bay Area Council member Burr Pilger & Mayer (BPM) ente...

Council Ramps Up Advocacy on Governor’s Affordable Housing Bill
May 27 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council is stepping up its advocacy of Governor Jerry Brown’s legislation to fast track approval of affordable housing. In a letter ...

Council Leads High-Level Executive Delegation to D.C.
May 27 2016
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Events, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council this week (May 24-26) led a high-level business delegation to Washington, D.C. for meetings with top White House and legislati...

Council Prepares to Host World’s Top Energy Ministers
May 27 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council this week was in the final stages of preparations for welcoming 23 of the world’s top energy ministers, including U.S. Energ...

Leveraging Data to Solve California’s Drought
May 27 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Water,
California might be the home of technological innovation, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at the state’s antiquated water data system. With...

Member Spotlight: San Jose Earthquakes
May 27 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Membership,
In true team spirit, the San Jose Earthquakes, the City of San Jose and the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy have agreed to a new partnership to de...

Council Moving the Dial on Housing in Capitol
May 20 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing, News,
The Bay Area Council’s unrelenting advocacy for removing barriers to creating badly needed housing is making an impact. On Monday (May 16) the Co...

Outlook Conference Goes Bigger Better Bolder
May 20 2016
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Economy, Education,
Hundreds of business, government and academic leaders gathered Tuesday, May 17 at the Bay Area Council’s 2016 Outlook Conference presented by Wel...

Council Joins Rally for CA Transportation Funding
May 20 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council on Thursday (May 19) joined a statewide coalition of transportation advocates for a Fix Our Roads rally at the state Capitol t...

Council Joins Computer Science Education Coalition
May 20 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, News,
The Bay Area Council is proud to announce that it has joined the Computer Science Education Coalition, a nonprofit organization comprised of busine...

Jobs Watch: CA Captures One-Third of U.S. Job Growth
May 20 2016
Posted In: Economy, News, Workforce of the Future,
The regional and state employment survey released this morning (May 20) by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showed California leading the nation...

Member Spotlight: U.S. Bank
May 20 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Membership, Workforce of the Future,
Earlier this year, U.S. Bank’s CEO Richard Davis announced the company’s new corporate giving and volunteering platform,

Council Applauds Governor’s Housing Proposals
May 16 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council today (May 16)  issued the following statement on proposals made by Gov. Jerry Brown in his May budget revision that would he...

Building Connections Among Universities and Employers
May 13 2016
Posted In: Economy, Education, Workforce of the Future,
The colleges and universities of the San Francisco Bay Area helped create Silicon Valley, the economic phenomenon that’s made the region the envy...

Promoting Medical Devices Opportunities in China
May 13 2016
Posted In: China, Healthcare,
The Bay Area Council recently cohosted a medical device reception at the Westin-Shanghai’s Crown Hall in cooperation with the California Center ...

Member Spotlight: Intel
May 13 2016
Posted In: Membership,
Intel has approximately 13,000 employees in California at its two major sites in Folsom and Santa Clara. During the past five years in those two re...

2016 Bay Area Council Poll Reinforce Council’s Priorities
May 6 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The results of the 2016 Bay Area Council Poll this week (May 2) reinforced the work we’re leading to grow the region’s housing supply, boost in...

Council Names Assemblymember Evan Low Regionalist of the Year
May 6 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council on Monday (May 2) announced Silicon Valley Assemblymember Evan Low its 2016 Regionalist of the Year. Low has been a stalwart i...

Top-Level Meetings Highlight Council’s Sacramento Day
May 6 2016
Posted In: Education, Government Relations, Housing,
Building more housing, fixing the region’s unbearable traffic congestion, securing a stable water supply and preparing a strong workforce of the ...

Keeping up the Fight for Equal Pay
May 6 2016
Posted In: Economy, Gender Equity,
More than 50 years after John F. Kennedy signed the Equal Pay Act to abolish wage discrimination based on gender, women in the United States still ...

Council Works to Keep Caltrain Modernization on Track
May 6 2016
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council is working with regional transportation officials to close an estimated $600 million funding gap for the Caltrain Modernizatio...

Progress in Realizing Regional Water Transit Vision
May 6 2016
Posted In: Transportation,
Today (May 5), the Bay Area Council Water Transit Subcommittee hosted the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) and heard a presentation ...

Member Spotlight: The Chertoff Group
May 6 2016
Posted In: Membership,
The Chertoff Group, a premier global advisory firm focused on security and risk management, helps clients grow and secure their enterprise through ...

Council Unveils New Regional Water Supply Prioritization
May 5 2016
Posted In: News, Press Releases, Storm & Flood Protection,
The Bay Area Council today (May 5) released a first-of-its-kind prioritization of regional water infrastructure projects that, if completed, could ...

Bay Area Residents Narrowly Support Legalizing Marijuana
May 4 2016
Posted In: Economy, News, Press Releases,
A California initiative to legalize the recreational use of marijuana that appears headed for the November 2016 ballot would have the support of a ...

BACPoll: Economic Confidence Softening
May 3 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
Bay Area residents agree the regional economy is humming right along, according to results of the 2016 Bay Area Council Poll released today, but a ...

COUNCIL CHEERS COURT RULING STAMPING OUT HETCH HETCHY THREAT
May 2 2016
Posted In: News,
A misguided lawsuit seeking to dismantle one of the Bay Area’s most important water storage and clean energy supplies was dismissed Thursday in a...

2016 BAY AREA COUNCIL POLL: HOUSING, TRAFFIC ISSUES DOMINATE
May 2 2016
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
 

BACPoll: One Third of Residents Ponder Leaving Bay Area
May 2 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
Soaring housing costs stemming from a chronic shortage combined with an overwhelmed transportation system and grinding traffic are taking a heavy t...

Court Tosses Commuter Shuttles Challenge
Apr 29 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council hailed a ruling on Thursday (April 28) dismissing a lawsuit against the San Francisco commuter shuttles program that we played...

UC Grad Slam Showcases Research Talent
Apr 29 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Science and Innovation,
In partnership with the Bay Area Council and LinkedIn, the University of California on April 22 held its second annual Grad Slam competition showca...

Member Spotlight: San Francisco International Airport
Apr 29 2016
Posted In: Membership, Transportation,
Lots of news took flight at San Francisco International Airport this week (April 25), with Mayor Ed Lee naming a successor to Director and Council ...

Key Housing, Water Data Bills Move Forward
Apr 22 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing, Water,
Two bills the Bay Area Council is sponsoring to remove barriers to an untapped source of affordable housing and improve how California uses data to...

World’s Top Energy Ministers Converge on Bay Area
Apr 22 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Leaders from around the globe have gathered in New York today to sign an historic climate agreement negotiated at United Nations climate change tal...

Winning the Clean Energy Transformation
Apr 22 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Energy and Climate Change, Science and Innovation,
With passage of its new federal energy bill, the U.S. Senate has acknowledged what the Bay Area Council’s

Member Spotlight: Reed Smith LLP
Apr 22 2016
Posted In: Membership,
One of the largest law firms in the world, Reed Smith LLP rec...

OUTLOOK CONFERENCE SELLING OUT, INDIVIDUAL TICKETS AVAILABLE
Apr 19 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events,
Demand for the Bay Area Council’s 2016 Outlook Conference: Bigger Better Bolder presented by Wells Fargo on May 17 has been robust with full tabl...

Rising Tide for Expanding Regional Ferry Service
Apr 15 2016
Posted In: Transportation,
There’s a rising tide for efforts to expand regional water transit service, which is among the Bay Area Council’s leading policy priorities. Th...

BART Takes Positive Step Toward November Bond Measure
Apr 15 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
Bay Area commuters got some encouraging news this week (April 11) when BART announced a tentative agreement that for five years would effectively a...

Exciting News for Regional Water Transit Service
Apr 8 2016
Posted In: Transportation,
Efforts to grow regional water transit service, a top policy priority for the Bay Area Council, got a big boost Thursday (April 7) when the San Fra...

New Study: CA Leading Manufacturing Transformation
Apr 8 2016
Posted In: Economy, Science and Innovation, Workforce of the Future,
California is poised to lead an emerging transformation in global manufacturing as technological advances like 3D printing and robots and changin...

Council’s Early Ed Campaign Honored
Apr 8 2016
Posted In: Early Childhood Education, Healthcare, News,
The ground-breaking Talk Read Sign program that the Bay Area Council developed to promote early childhood education has been recognized with a pres...

Landmark SF Parental Paid Leave Policy Passes
Apr 8 2016
Posted In: Early Childhood Education, Gender Equity, Government Relations,
San Francisco on Tuesday (April 5) became the first city in the nation to ensure that nearly all employees will have access to fully paid parental ...

Member Spotlight: Coblentz Patch Duffy & Bass
Apr 8 2016
Posted In: Membership,
San Francisco-based law firm Coblentz Patch Duffy & Bass announced this week (April 4) they have opened new offices in

COUNCIL ANNOUNCES IT’S MOVING TO TEXAS, UNVEILS NEW HORN LOGO
Apr 1 2016
Posted In: News,
After 70 years in the Bay Area, the Bay Area Council today (April 1) announced it is pulling up stakes and moving to Texas. “Our work here is don...

Council Endorses Landmark Paid Family Leave Law
Mar 29 2016
Posted In: Economy, Gender Equity, News,
There are numerous causes of gender inequity in the Bay Area economy, and almost none can be corrected without change, and sometimes without new, s...

Council Readies Ambitious Water Plan
Mar 29 2016
Posted In: News, Newsroom, Storm & Flood Protection,
El Nino has come and gone, but it hasn’t quenched California’s thirst for robust debate over how to manage our water resources. And the Bay Are...

BART BREAKDOWNS HIGHLIGHT URGENT NEED FOR INVESTMENT
Mar 18 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
There wasn’t a lot rapid in BART this week (March 14) as the region’s largest mass transit system suffered through a series of crippling mechan...

Wells Fargo CEO Headlines Powerful Outlook Conference Speaker Lineup
Mar 18 2016
Posted In: Events, Membership, News,
Bigger, Bolder, Better. That’s the theme of the Bay Area Council’s 2016 Outlook Conference on May 17 in San Francisco and the exciting lineup o...

Member Spotlight: Johnson Controls
Mar 18 2016
Posted In: Membership,
Bay Area Council Board Member Johnson Controls has been recognized for the 10th consecutive year as a 2016 World's Most Ethical Company by the Ethi...

Council Pursues New Approach to Ease Housing Crisis
Mar 11 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
Bay Area Council Senior Vice President Matt Regan on March 9 championed the benefits of second or accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to the Senate Com...

Water Transit Agency Unveils New Emergency Response Plan
Mar 11 2016
Posted In: Storm & Flood Protection, Transportation,
When the Loma Prieta earthquake knocked out the Bay Bridge in 1989, ferries motored to the rescue. As the Bay Area’s designated agency in charge ...

COUNCIL PUSHES STATE, LOCAL SOLUTIONS TO SHRINKING TRANSPORTATION DOLLARS
Mar 11 2016
Posted In: Transportation,
Record low gas prices may be a boon to drivers’ wallets, but they are a disaster for funding highway and transit improvements.  State gas tax re...

Innovative Workforce Lab Tackles Middle-Skills Gap
Mar 4 2016
Posted In: Economy, Education, News,
Over the past year, the Bay Area Council’s Workforce of the Future committee, co-chaired by Teresa Briggs, Vice Chair and West Region Managing Pa...

Water, Taxes Highlight Gov. Relations Committee Agenda
Mar 4 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Membership, Water,
The Government Relations Committee under the leadership of Co-Chairs Andrew Giacomini of Hanson Bridgett and Peter Brightbill of Wells Fargo on Thu...

Member Spotlight: University of the Pacific
Mar 4 2016
Posted In: Education, Membership, Workforce of the Future,
Established in 1851 as the first chartered institution of higher education in California,

Lucas Museum: From Buzz to Action
Feb 26 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
Buzz is growing about the possibility of the Bay Area being reconsidered as a site for the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art as the project hit new pol...

Precision Medicine Summit Zeroes in on Cost, Quality
Feb 26 2016
Posted In: Healthcare,
Top leaders in the emerging field of precision medicine gathered Thursday (Feb. 25) for a day-long summit convened by the Bay Area Council and host...

New Report Highlights Potential of Impact Investing
Feb 26 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, News,
Impact investing has garnered tremendous interest from the White House and the World Economic Forum all the way to individual investors. But the mo...

Bay Restoration Campaign Gets a Big Boost
Feb 25 2016
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations, News,
A regional ballot measure campaign that the Bay Area Council is helping lead to raise funding for San Francisco Bay restoration got a major boost t...

Bay Area Council Brokers Agreement with SF Supervisors to Keep Commuter Shuttles Moving
Feb 24 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Feb. 23) announced an agreement that will ensure the continuing operation of commuter shuttles in San Francisco that re...

Council Urges Action on State Road Repair Funding
Feb 19 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Transportation,
Commutes are only going to get worse and potholes bigger until the State of California gets serious about its responsibility to fund transportation...

Council’s Work Lays Track for Bullet Train Switch
Feb 19 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Transportation,
The Bay Area would get bigger and smaller at the same time under a major change announced this week by the California High Speed Rail Authority (CH...

Sen. Feinstein Announced as Co-Chair of Bay Restoration Campaign
Feb 19 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The regional campaign (Yes on Measure AA) that the Bay Area Council is helping lead to protect and restore San Francisco Bay got a significant boos...

Member Spotlight: Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco
Feb 19 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Membership,
The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, a longtime BAC Executive Committee member, has an admirable mission:  to...

Study: 2nd Transbay Rail Crossing Offers Major Economic Benefits
Feb 12 2016
Posted In: News,
Building a second transbay rail crossing would have enormous economic benefits for the Bay Area, according to a new report the Bay Area Council Eco...

Council Works to Tap New Source of Affordable Housing
Feb 12 2016
Posted In: Economy, Housing,
Simple policy changes by cities around the Bay Area to ease permitting of secondary units could produce a tsunami of affordable housing. That was ...

Super Bowl 50 Reflects Power of Regional Collaboration
Feb 12 2016
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
Years of planning and hard work across the entire region paid off last Sunday (Feb. 6) when the Super Bowl marked its golden 50th editi...

Report: Building Market Rate Housing Benefits Lower-Income Households
Feb 12 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
Even more evidence surfaced this week that solving the Bay Area’s housing shortage and reducing its impact on lower-income households can be acco...

Council Welcomes Year of the Monkey
Feb 12 2016
Posted In: China, Government Relations, Membership,
More than 400 close friends gathered Tuesday evening (Feb. 10) as the Bay Area Council celebrated Chinese New Year and ushered in the Year of the M...

Member Spotlight: Sandia National Laboratories
Feb 12 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Membership, Science and Innovation,
Sandia National Laboratories, answers the call for faster-to-market EV fuel cell stations.  Heeding California’s call for Winning the Clean Ener...

Report: Economic Benefits of 2nd Transbay Rail Crossing
Feb 9 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Building a second transbay rail crossing would have enormous economic benefits for the Bay Area, according to a new report the Bay Area Council Eco...

Tapping Data to Solve California’s Drought
Feb 5 2016
Posted In: News, Water,
The Bay Area Council applauded legislation introduced this week (Feb. 2) by Assemblymember Bill Dodd (D-Napa) that would create an open, publicly a...

CAN MODULAR MANUFACTURING BRING DOWN HOUSING COSTS?
Feb 5 2016
Posted In: Housing,
On Friday morning (Feb. 5), Bay Area Council Housing Chairs Denise Pinkston of TMG Partners and Kofi Bonner of Lennar Urban convened regional stake...

NEW UOP STUDY POINTS TO EMERGING MEGA REGION
Feb 5 2016
Posted In: Economy, Transportation,
A new report published by Bay Area Council member University of the Pacific points to the continuing emergence of a growing mega region encompassin...

COUNCIL HONKS ITS CONCERNS ON NEW RULES FOR DRIVERLESS VEHICLES
Feb 5 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
When it comes to exploring the potential of autonomous vehicles in improving safety and reducing traffic, the DMV appears to be stuck in reverse. R...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: TIDELINE MARINE GROUP
Feb 5 2016
Posted In: Membership, Transportation,
Tideline Marine Group is a maritime transportation and logistics company providing commuter water shuttle and water taxi service, as well as mariti...

POLL RESULTS ENCOURAGING FOR BART BOND MEASURE
Jan 29 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
A new poll released this week (Jan. 29) offered very encouraging news for a possible BART bond measure in November, but the results also revealed t...

COUNCIL ENGAGING WITH NEW LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON REGIONAL PLANNING
Jan 29 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
East Bay Assemblymember Tony Thurmond (Richmond) this week was appointed chair of a new Select Committee on Regional Planning in the San Francisco ...

ENERGY SEC. MONIZ ANNOUNCES DETAILS OF CLEAN ENERGY MINISTERIAL IN SF
Jan 29 2016
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Events, News,
U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz this week (Jan. 26) visited San Francisco and announced details of the seventh Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM7), ...

Bay Area’s Connectedness Key in Maintaining Economic Dominance
Jan 29 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events, Housing,
A robust network of connections among top business executives, innovators, entrepreneurs, scientists, academics and investors is a major reason the...

Long-Awaited Win for 75 Howard Residential Development
Jan 29 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing, News,
On Wednesday (Jan. 27), the San Francisco Board of Appeals denied an appeal against 75 Howard Street, a residential ...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: BLAISDELL’S BUSINESS PRODUCTS
Jan 29 2016
Posted In: Membership, News,
Congratulations to new BAC member, Blaisdell’s Business Products!  With 50+ years of experience, Blaisdell’s is the largest, woman-owned, inde...

CA TRANSPORTATION FUNDING TO TAKE A BIG HIT
Jan 22 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
State funding for California’s transportation system is expected to decline by $754 million over the next five years, according to a plan the Cal...

ECONOMIC INSTITUTE LAUNCHES BAY AREA JOBS WATCH
Jan 22 2016
Posted In: Economy, News,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute today (Jan. 22) launched its new Bay Area Jobs Watch. Using monthly state employment data, Job...

NEW STUDY: NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF REGULATION, NIMBYS ON HOUSING
Jan 22 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
Fascinating new research by two UCLA urban planning scientists concludes that stringent and restrictive land use regulations, lengthy public review...

New Poll: Strong Support for Commuter Shuttles
Jan 20 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 20) released results of a new poll that shows strong support among San Francisco voters for commuter shuttles, wit...

MEASURE FOR CLEAN AND HEALTHY BAY SURGES TOWARD JUNE BALLOT
Jan 15 2016
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
As reported on the front page of Thursday’s (Jan. 14) 

IS AN ECONOMIC DOWNTURN ON THE HORIZON?
Jan 15 2016
Posted In: Economy, Events, Membership,
The question of a coming downturn was among the main topics addressed today (Jan. 15) at the Bay Area Council Economic Institute’s 9th Annual Eco...

COUNCIL CALLS FOR MERGER OF REGIONAL PLANNING AGENCIES
Jan 15 2016
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
Well-coordinated regional planning is absolutely critical if we are to address the region’s housing affordability crisis, upgrade its congested t...

GETTING A CHARGE FROM ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Jan 15 2016
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Energy and Climate Change, Transportation,
The electric vehicle has finally gained serious traction with manufacturers and consumers, according to the expert panel that addressed the Council...

COUNCIL’S ADVOCACY HELPING UNLEASH UNTAPPED HOUSING SUPPLY
Jan 8 2016
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing, News,
The Bay Area Council’s advocacy is helping unleash a significant but largely untapped source of affordable housing in the region. On Tuesday (Jan...

COUNCIL PRIORITIES FARE WELL IN PROPOSED STATE BUDGET
Jan 8 2016
Posted In: Economy, Education, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council reacted generally favorably to the proposed 2016-17 state budget that Gov. Jerry Brown unveiled yesterday (Jan. 7). Here is a ...

New Poll Shows Strong Support for Stabilizing Higher Ed Funding
Jan 6 2016
Posted In: Education, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council today (Jan. 7) released results of a statewide poll that shows California voters want to put the brakes on decades of state fu...

HOUSING, TRAFFIC LEAD DISCUSSION WITH LEGISLATORS
Dec 18 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council’s Government Relations Committee, under the leadership of Co-Chairs Andrew Giacomini, Managing Partner with Hanson Bridgett ...

NEW WEBSITE FOR BAY RESTORATION CAMPAIGN
Dec 18 2015
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, News, Storm & Flood Protection,
Defending the Bay Area against extreme weather, flooding and sea level rise just got a bit easier with the launch of a new website to support a Jun...

HETCH HETCHY WATER & POWER SYSTEM MARKS A MILESTONE
Dec 18 2015
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Water,
While much of California is grappling with severe water supply and quality challenges, the Bay Area is extremely fortunate to have one of the pures...

CLIMATE CHANGE ACCORD: NEXT STOP, THE BAY AREA
Dec 11 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
As world leaders reached an historic global climate change accord this week (Dec. 12) in Paris, the Bay Area Council continues its work on regiona...

BART TO OAK LINE A SMASHING SUCCESS
Dec 11 2015
Posted In: Transportation,
The sleek, elevated rail line connecting BART to Oakland International Airport (BART to OAK) recently celebrated its one-year anniversary. And what...

NEW TOOL CALCULATES COST OF PRETERM BIRTHS TO BUSINESS
Dec 11 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Education,
Premature births cost businesses nationwide more than $12 billion annually in excess health care expenses. To address this problem, the Bay Area Co...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: BAYER Marks STEM Leadership Milestone
Dec 10 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Cybersecurity,
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of its award-winning “Making Science Make Sense” program, Bayer and the National PTA announced plans to engage...

COUNCIL EXECUTIVE ACCEPTED TO PRESTIGIOUS PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS PROGRAM
Dec 10 2015
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
Bing Wei, Bay Area Council Senior Vice President for Global Initiatives, has been accepted into the prestigious

COUNCIL’S 2016 POLICY AGENDA TAKES DEAD AIM AT REGION’S TOP CHALLENGES
Dec 4 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
The Bay Area Council is taking dead aim at solving the region’s crisis-level housing and traffic problems with a 2016 policy agenda adopted this ...

COUNCIL MOURNS LOSS OF DOUGLAS SHORENSTEIN
Dec 4 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
Council Chair Michael Covarrubias called for a moment of silence at yesterday’s (Dec. 3) Board of Directors meeting to honor beloved Bay Area bus...

NATIONAL URBAN PLANNING GURU APPLAUDS OUR ROADMAP FOR ECONOMIC RESILIENCE
Dec 4 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute’s Roadmap for Economic Resilience got a nod this week from one of the top urban planning thinkers in the ...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: SFO AND UNITED AIRLINES
Dec 4 2015
Posted In: Economy, Membership, Transportation,
SFO and United Airlines recently unveiled the newly-renovated Terminal 3 East Concourse...

BIG WIN FOR COMMUTER SHUTTLES, COMMUTERS
Nov 23 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Bay Area commuters were the big winners this week in a unanimous decision by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency to make permanent a ...

BAY AREA’S OUTSIZED ROLE IN STATE FISCAL OUTLOOK
Nov 23 2015
Posted In: Economy, Housing, Transportation,
The state’s Legislative Analyst’s Office may want to grab a copy of our Bay Area Council Economic Institute’s recent

Member Spotlight: Cargill
Nov 23 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Membership,
Longtime BAC member Cargill has earned a spot on Fortune’s first ‘Change the World’ list, which recognizes the top 51 companies that have mad...

COUNCIL’S WORK RESULTS IN EXCITING CA-CHINA INNOVATION PARTNERSHIP
Nov 13 2015
Posted In: China, Economy, Education,
The University of California’s Center for Information Technology Research in the Interest of Society (CITRIS) will establish a new global innovat...

ROAD TO ECONOMIC RESILIENCE RUNS THROUGH SACRAMENTO
Nov 13 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
Senior Bay Area legislative staffers this week got a comprehensive briefing on the Bay Area Council Economic Institute’s Roadmap for Economic Res...

AMB. RON KIRK TALKS TRADE & TPP WITH THE COUNCIL
Nov 13 2015
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
Ambassador Ron Kirk, former U.S. Trade Representative under President Obama, was in the Bay Area this week wearing his new hat as Co-Chairman of th...

BOLD NEW VISION FOR REGIONAL ECONOMIC RESILIENCE
Nov 6 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute today unveiled a sweeping (and provocative), new regional economic vision for strengthening the Bay Area’...

NO DROUGHT OF THINKING ON STATE’S WATER WOES
Nov 6 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Storm & Flood Protection, Water,
California’s increasingly volatile climate is the new normal, and Bay Area businesses and water agencies are coming up with innovative ways to ad...

CYBERSECURITY: CONFRONTING THE THREAT OF OUR TIME
Nov 6 2015
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Government Relations, Science and Innovation,
The Bay Area Council convened its annual Town Hall on cybersecurity together with the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) last week. The Town H...

Irish President Higgins Joins Council in Celebrating Benioff, Feeney
Oct 30 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Government Relations,
Salesforce Chairman and CEO Marc Benioff and Duty Free Shoppers Group Founder Chuck Feeney were the guests of honor at the Bay Area Council’s 70t...

A (CAUTIONARY) TALE OF TWO REGIONS
Oct 30 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
We’re number 1. That was one of the conclusions of a commentary that ran this week in the Los Angeles Times comparing the economies of the Bay Ar...

COUNCIL’S VISION FOR MORE COORDINATED REGIONAL PLANNING GETS BOOST
Oct 30 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council has long advocated for greater efficiency and coordination in our regional housing and transportation planning. Following seve...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: ORACLE RAISES THE BAR ON MAKING INVESTMENTS IN EDUCATION
Oct 30 2015
Posted In: Education, Membership, Workforce of the Future,
Oracle CEO Safra Catz this week unveiled the company’s exciting plans to build a first-of-its-kind public high school on its Redwood Shores campu...

HOUSING COMMITTEE READIES SOLUTIONS TO HOUSING SHORTAGE
Oct 23 2015
Posted In: Economy, Housing, Transportation,
The region faces an unprecedented housing crisis that impacts every family, worker and company. Job growth is dramatically outpacing housing produc...

NEW LEADER TO HEAD COUNCIL’S WORKFORCE POLICY INITIATIVE
Oct 23 2015
Posted In: Economy, Membership, News,
The Bay Area Council welcomes Linda Bidrossian as Senior Vice President heading up our important

Jim Wunderman Joins Mark Zuckerberg on San Quentin Tour
Oct 16 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Science and Innovation,
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan this week (Oct. 13) invited Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman in a small group to tour of...

COMMUTER SHUTTLES – FROM “PILOT” TO PERMANENT?
Oct 16 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council heartily supports making the successful commuter shuttles program permanent, as we await the release of the proposed plan by t...

COUNCIL’S SACRAMENTO ADVOCACY PAID OFF IN 2015
Oct 16 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Economy,
As the deadline (Oct. 11) passed for the Governor to sign or veto bills, the Bay Area Council’s advocacy paid off in a big way as the Governor si...

“TALK READ SING” GOING NATIONAL?
Oct 16 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Education,
This week Senior Vice President of Public Policy Matt Regan travelled to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to participate in an early education conference hosted by...

WHERE WILL YOU BE FOR SUPER BOWL 50?
Oct 16 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Membership,
Normally you might be on a couch eating queso at your friend's annual party, but at the end of the 2015 NFL season, Super Bowl 50 is coming to your...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: DIGNITY HEALTH
Oct 16 2015
Posted In: Healthcare, Membership,
Dignity Health, one of the largest health systems in the nation, is underway with a $220 million multi-phase improvement project across its 39-hosp...

COUNCIL HAILS POSITIVE RESULTS OF COMMUTER SHUTTLES PILOT PROGRAM
Oct 9 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council Tuesday (Oct. 6) hailed a new report by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) that found commuter shuttles...

MAYORS CHAMPION REGIONALISM
Oct 9 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
If the Bay Area is to avoid being a victim of its own success, it will increasingly need to pull together and solve problems as a region, not as in...

MENTAL HEALTH-RELATED CONDITIONS COSTING CA $20 BILLION ANNUALLY
Oct 9 2015
Posted In: Economy, Healthcare,
The Bay Area Council Healthcare Committee, under the leadership of Co-Chairs Jim Henry (PwC LLP) and Dr. Kent Bradley (BTN Advisors), met this week...

COUNCIL SHARES GENDER EQUITY BEST PRACTICES AT SENATE HEARING
Oct 9 2015
Posted In: Gender Equity,
Gender equity best practices of Bay Area Council member companies and information about the “business case” for growing gender equity in the wo...

BAY AREA COUNCIL CELEBRATES SINGAPORE’S GOLDEN JUBILEE
Oct 9 2015
Posted In: News,
This past Tuesday Bay Area Council Members in Sacramento were invited to private dinner with Ambassador Ashok Kumar Mirpuri, Ambassador of the Repu...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: PHILLIPS 66
Oct 9 2015
Posted In: Membership,
Built on more than 140 years of experience, Phillips 66 is a diversified energy manufacturing and logistics company. In keeping with its mission of...

COUNCIL EXPLORES WAYS TO FUND EXPANDED FERRY SERVICE
Oct 2 2015
Posted In: Transportation,
There’s plenty of water and plenty of potential riders. But expanding ferry service to help beat Bay Area traffic will also require funding. The ...

THE POWER OF FEMALE MILLENNIALS TO DRIVE GENDER EQUITY
Oct 2 2015
Posted In: Gender Equity,
As equal pay, paid parental leave, and other traditional topics related to gender equity in the office dominate the headlines, the preferences, out...

CYBERCHAT: COUNCIL SITS DOWN WITH ICE
Oct 2 2015
Posted In: Cybersecurity,
In conjunction with its regular meetings with federal agencies, the Bay Area Council presents a series of interviews with U.S. agencies on their ro...

COUNCIL MEETS WITH HIGH-LEVEL UK DELEGATION ON CYBERSECURITY
Oct 2 2015
Posted In: Cybersecurity,
Risk management, a shortage of technical talent, and the complicated distribution of responsibilities between government and the private sector are...

BAY AREA COUNCIL JOINS IN WELCOMING CHINESE PRESIDENT XI JINPING
Sep 25 2015
Posted In: China, Events, Government Relations,
At a Seattle welcome dinner co-hosted this week (Sept. 22) by the Asia Society, Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman represented the Co...

COUNCIL CHEERS IMPORTANT CEQA WIN; MONITORS OTHER KEY CASE
Sep 25 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
The California State Court of Appeals ended one of the most drawn out legal squabbles over the construction of a home in state history. The constru...

BAY HEALTHY STAYS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Sep 25 2015
Posted In: Healthcare,
Bay Healthy continues to gain traction in its push to improve health in the Bay Area. The initiative will be featured at the San Francisc...

COUNCIL PREPARES FOR TRANSPORTATION CONFERENCE COMMITTEE
Sep 25 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council on Wednesday (Sept. 23) held a Joint Government Relations and Transportation Committee meeting with California State Senator B...

COUNCIL-BACKED BILL Seeks COMMUTE RELIEF FOR STATE’S GOLDEN GOOSE: THE 101 CORRIDOR
Sep 18 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council continues progressing on its initiative to bring widespread commute relief to the most economically productive region in the c...

ALL EYES ON THE BAY
Sep 18 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, Storm & Flood Protection,
The San Francisco Bay took the spotlight this week (Sept. 14) at two major events focused on building greater waterfront resilience in the face of ...

CA-CHINA TRADE OFFICE Joins US-CLIMATE LEADER SUMMIT IN LA
Sep 18 2015
Posted In: China, Economy, Government Relations,
As announced by the White House, the California-China Office of Trade and Investment (CTO) stood alongside powerful partners at this week’s (Sept...

KOREAN WAR MEMORIAL SITE UNDERWAY IN THE PRESIDIO
Sep 18 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, News,
The Bay Area Council is pleased to support the Korean War Memorial Foundation (KWMF) as it advances its mission to build a permanent memorial to co...

PRIORITIZING THE REGION’S TOP WATER SUPPLY PROJECTS
Sep 11 2015
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Water,
Under California's seemingly endless drought, what projects are needed to drought-proof the Bay Area’s water supply? That was among the topics th...

BIG QUESTIONS LOOM ABOUT EXPANDING CLEAN ENERGY
Sep 11 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Even as legislation to raise California's renewable energy targets faltered this week, big questions loom about how California is going to incorpor...

DAMNING REPORT ON PROPOSED HOUSING MORATORIUM
Sep 11 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
A damning report released today (Sept. 11) by the San Francisco Office of Economic Analysis put an exclamation point on the Bay Area Council’s op...

GETTING BAY HEALTHY AT HEALTHIEST EMPLOYERS AWARDS
Sep 8 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Events,
Bay Healthy was front and center this week (S...

GRIPPING NEW VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS RISKS OF OVERDUE EXTREME STORM, SEA-LEVEL RISE
Sep 8 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The threat to the Bay Area of an overdue extreme storm comes into sharp, graphic focus in a new video released last week (Aug. 26) by a coalition o...

COUNCIL PUSHING BACK ON HOUSING RESTRICTIONS AND “JOBS TAX”
Sep 8 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area Council is pushing back against efforts to impose restrictions and fees that would further limit housing and job growth. Step with us...

COUNCIL WELCOMES GOVERNOR’S DRAFT TRANSPORTATION FUNDING FRAMEWORK
Sep 8 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council reacted positively to a draft framework unveiled by Gov. Jerry Brown Thursday (Sept. 3) that would generate $3.6 billion annua...

COUNCIL-BACKED SF HOUSING DEVELOPMENT GETS OK
Sep 8 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
A transit-focused residential tower the Bay Area Council Housing Committee recently endorsed that will add badly needed units to San Francisco’s ...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: BUCHALTER NEMER
Sep 8 2015
Posted In: Membership,
The Bay Area Council congratulates member Buchalter Nemer’s Board Chairman Peter Bertrand on being chosen as 2015 Best Lawyers in America! Peter ...

BAY AREA COUNCIL CEO JIM WUNDERMAN NAMED BY GOV. BROWN TO SERVE ON REGIONAL WATER EMERGENCY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
Sep 1 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman today (Aug. 31) was appointed by Gov. Jerry Brown to the Board of Directors of the Water Emergency...

WUNDERMAN NAMED ONE OF CA’S TOP 100 MOST POWERFUL (#51)
Aug 28 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
Bay Area Council CEO Jim Wunderman (who asked that we not run this story - sorry Jim!) on Tuesday (Aug. 25) was named to what has become THE List i...

COUNCIL-BACKED 21ST CENTURY INFRASTRUCTURE BILL HEADS TO THE GOVERNOR’S DESK
Aug 28 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Government Relations,
This week (Aug. 28), both the Senate and the Assembly overwhelmingly passed AB 57 authored by Assemblymember Bill Quirk. This bill provides that a ...

BAY AREA COUNCIL MEMBERS ENGAGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE LEADERS ON CA’s SKILLS GAP
Aug 28 2015
Posted In: Economy, Education, Government Relations,
With 112 campuses, 2.1 million students, and a budget of $7.3 billion, the California Community College System is the largest provider of workforce...

Preparing the Bay Area FOR a COMING MEGA-STORM
Aug 28 2015
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
(Bay Area Council Policy Director Adrian Covert wrote the following piece for the San Francisco Chronicle) California is today learning a...

JOIN THE REGION’S TOP CEOS IN GETTING BAY HEALTHY
Aug 28 2015
Posted In: Education, Events, Healthcare,
Top business and industry leaders continue to join the unprecedented regional health and wellness initiative Bay Healthy. Among the most recent is ...

BAY AREA COMMUTE STRESS IS SECOND WORST IN U.S.
Aug 28 2015
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council’s initiative to improve Bay Area commutes got an endorsement—in a manner of speaking—from Wednesday’s (Aug. 26) releas...

JIM WUNDERMAN JOINS GOV. BROWN, SPEAKER ATKINS IN CALLING FOR CA ROAD FUNDING
Aug 21 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council this week (Aug. 19) weighed in on the Legislature’s Special Session to address California’s massive road repair problem. I...

SAN JOSE MAYOR HOSTS ECONOMIC INSTITUTE BOARD
Aug 21 2015
Posted In: Economy, Events,
San Jose's economy has quietly had a great year and is poised for even more growth. That was the message from Mayor Sam Liccardo as he met with the...

UNSNARLING GROWING RICHMOND-SR BRIDGE TRAFFIC
Aug 21 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Press Releases, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council on Tuesday (Aug. 18) applauded San Rafael Assemblymember Marc Levine for introducing new legislation (AB 9-1X) that would help...

COUNCIL’S HOUSING COMMITTEE ENDORSES 133-UNIT, TRANSIT-ORIENTED SF HOUSING PROJECT
Aug 21 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing, News,
A hulking, eight-story concrete parking garage near San Francisco’s iconic waterfront would be replaced by badly needed housing under a plan the ...

DROUGHT IS GIVING CAlifornia A SINKING FEELING
Aug 21 2015
Posted In: Water,
Two new reports this week (Aug. 10) pointed to the need for urgency in solving California’s perennial water crisis and helped highlight the Bay A...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: HANSON BRIDGETT
Aug 21 2015
Posted In: Membership,
Hanson Bridgett was named one of the "50 Best Law Firms for Women" by Working Mother and Flex-Time Lawyers for the sixth consecutive year. The firm...

COUNCIL IGNITING ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY IN CHINA
Aug 14 2015
Posted In: China,
On August 20th the Bay Area Council’s Nanjing office launched the first of a continuing series of entrepreneur forums titled Ignition. The event ...

COUNCIL’S SWIFT ACTION ON CALTRAIN PAYING OFF
Aug 14 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council’s dogged work to increase the speed and capacity of the Caltrain commuter rail service along one of the region’s most econ...

COUNCIL READY AS LEGISLATURE RETURNS FOR FINAL SESSION
Aug 14 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, News,
As the Legislature prepares to reconvene Monday (Aug. 17) for its final session of 2015, the Council is poised to continue its advocacy in Sacramen...

NEW CHAIRS CONVENE COUNCIL’S HOUSING COMMITTEE
Aug 14 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
Under the leadership of new Chairs Kofi Bonner of Lennar Urban and Denise Pinkston of TMG Partners, the Bay Area Council Housing Committee met this...

2015 COUNCIL POLL PRESENTED TO LEGISLATIVE STAFF IN SACRAMENTO
Aug 14 2015
Posted In: Government Relations,
Today (Aug. 14) in Sacramento, the Bay Area Council provided an exclusive lunch briefing on its 2015 Poll to legislative staff, including committee...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: AIRBNB
Aug 14 2015
Posted In: Membership,
Founded in August 2008 and based in San Francisco, Airbnb is a trusted communi...

COUNCIL HELPS OPEN DOORS FOR UC DAVIS IN CHINA
Aug 10 2015
Posted In: China, Healthcare, News,
Helping companies and organizations build new partnerships and grow their business in China is among the top priorities of the Bay Area Council’s...

CA-CHINA TRADE OFFICE AND VISA WELCOME TOP CHINESE BANKING OFFICIALS
Aug 10 2015
Posted In: China, Economy, Events,
The California-China Office of Trade and Investment hosted California Board of Equalization member Fiona Ma and Assemblymembers Phil Ting and Kanse...

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: WHITE HOUSE RECOGNIZES CLOROX FOR ‘BEST IN CLASS’ RETIREMENT PLAN
Aug 10 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Membership,
The Clorox Company was recognized July 13 at the 2015 White House Conference on Aging as one of four companies with a “best in class” retiremen...

A way to build roads, bridges on time, on budget
Aug 6 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Government Relations, News,
(Bay Area Council Economic Institute Senior Director Sean Randolph wrote the following piece for the San Francisco Chronicle) Bay Area re...

COUNCIL’S D.C. DELEGATION RECEIVES GOOD NEWS ON KEY ISSUES
Jul 31 2015
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Government Relations, News,
Timing is everything. The Bay Area Council this week (July 28-30) arrived in Washington, D.C., as key developments were unfolding on transportation...

FIXING CEQA KEY TO ACHIEVING GOVERNOR’S GREENHOUSE GAS TARGETS
Jul 24 2015
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
Gov. Jerry Brown this week traveled to the Vatican City to talk with the Pope about climate change and his aggressive new targets for reducing Cali...

REPAIRING CALIFORNIA’S LOUSY ROADS: YOU CAN PAY NOW OR YOU CAN PAY NOW
Jul 24 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council is closely watching a special Legislative session that Gov. Jerry Brown has called to identify up to $6 billion in annual fund...

WATER, TRANSPORTATION, CYBER AND TRADE LEAD COUNCIL AGENDA ON D.C. TRIP
Jul 24 2015
Posted In: China, Cybersecurity, Events,
Just hours after Bay Area Council CEO @JimWunderman on Wednesday (July 22) tweeted t...

SAVE OUR WATER AND BAY AREA COUNCIL PARTNER TO RELEASE PSA WITH SERGIO ROMO
Jul 21 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council in partnership with Save Our Water – California’s official statewide conservation education program – has released a new...

Bay Area Council Unveils Major Regional Health and Wellness Campaign Targeted at Employers
Jul 20 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Healthcare,
The corporate health responsibility movement received a big boost today (July 20) with the launch of Bay Healthy, an unprecedented regional initiat...

DAVID CUSH PASSES GAVEL AS BAY AREA COUNCIL CHAIR TO MICHAEL COVARRUBIAS
Jul 17 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
The Bay Area Council Executive Committee and Board of Directors on Thursday (July 17) applauded Virgin America CEO David Cush for his two years of ...

SENATE PANEL PASSES LEGISLATION TO EXPEDITE DEVELOPMENT OF 21ST CENTURY INFRASTRUCTURE
Jul 17 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Government Relations,
On Wednesday (July 16), the Senate Governance and Finance gave its nod to AB 57, authored by Assemblyman Bill Quirk and supported by the Bay Area C...

COUNCIL SCORES BIG WINS IN THE STATE CAPITOL
Jul 10 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
As the Legislature begins its month long summer recess today (July 17) several Bay Area Council-supported bills were passed by legislative policy c...

STATE AND FED OFFICIALS UNVEIL DETAILS OF NEW DELTA WATER PLAN
Jul 10 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Water,
Against the backdrop of historic drought, the Brown Administration and Federal Officials on Thursday (July 9) released the revised environmental im...

Council preparing recommendations for special Legislative session on transportation funding
Jul 10 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Transportation,
As California faces a $59 billion backlog in state highway and road repairs, the Governor has called for a special “extraordinary” legislative ...

Performance, not promises should inform regional housing incentives
Jul 10 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
While the Bay Area continues to suffer from a severe housing shortage and a congested transportation system, the Metropolitan Transportation Commis...

ASSEMBLYMEMBER CATHARINE BAKER TALKS WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, TRANSPORTATION AND SPENDING CONTROL WITH MEMBERS
Jul 10 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Transportation,
Assemblymember Catharine Baker (R-Dublin) this week (July 9) engaged members of the Government Relations Committee in a robust discussion focused o...

PARCEL TAX FOR FLOOD PROTECTION AND WETLAND RESTORATION MAY FLOAT TO 2016 BALLOT
Jul 2 2015
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations, News,
The San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority took a major step last week (June 29) toward placing a regional parcel tax measure on the June 2016 bal...

BAY AREA COUNCIL POLL CAPTURES RESIDENTS’ THOUGHTS ON Economy, DROUGHT, HOUSING AND TRANSPORTATION
Jun 26 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
The Bay Area Council this week (June 23) released results of our region-wide 2015 Bay Area Council Poll, the only survey of its kind that provides ...

SPEEDING AHEAD ON COMMUTE RELIEF
Jun 26 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Transportation,
This week (June 22) the Bay Area Council took a crucial step forward on its initiative to bring widespread commute relief to the most economically ...

GENDER EQUITY COMMITTEE HIGHLIGHTS CHALLENGES, BEST PRACTICES
Jun 26 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
Lack of paid parental leave, differences in how men and women are mentored, and other challenges to achieving gender equity in the workplace were a...

70 YEARS LATER, COUNCIL COMMEMORATES ANNIVERSARY OF UN CHARTER SIGNING
Jun 26 2015
Posted In: Events, Government Relations, News,
In 1945 shortly after the Bay Area Council was first convened by then Gov. Earl Warren, one of the organization’s first acts was to attract and w...

Member Spotlight: Google
Jun 25 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Membership,
This month Google announced the 2015 Google Impact Challenge in th...

2015 Bay Area Council Poll: Residents Say Soaring Economy May Be Plateauing; Drought, Housing and Crime Surface as Top Issues
Jun 23 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
Bay Area residents think the region’s super-heated economy may be reaching a plateau, according to results of the 2015 Bay Area Council Poll rele...

COUNCIL’S ADVOCACY PAYS OFF FOR CA’S YOUNGEST LEARNERS
Jun 19 2015
Posted In: Early Childhood Education, Education,
California will make an important investment in its economic future under a $115.4 billion budget that includes significant funding to expand acces...

GOOD NEWS FOR REGIONAL HOUSING
Jun 19 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing, News,
The Bay Area Council this week (June 16) applauded the Alameda City Council’s unanimous approval of a project that will help address the region...

SEEKING TRAFFIC RELIEF ON CRUCIAL HIGHWAY 101 CORRIDOR
Jun 19 2015
Posted In: Transportation,
Next week is a big week for transportation. The Bay Area Council is driving ahead with its combination of strategies to deliver quick commute impro...

Diplomacy and climate change converge at the Council
Jun 19 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Government Relations,
As politicians, negotiators and diplomats work on a new climate change agreement to be adopted in Paris in December 2015, on Wednesday (June 17) th...

HOUSING COMMITTEE MAKES KEY ENDORSEMENTS
Jun 12 2015
Posted In: Housing, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council Housing and Sustainable Development Committee on Tuesday (June 10) made key endorsements on two major projects in San Francisc...

COUNCIL VISIT HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF MANUFACTURING IN CALIFORNIA
Jun 12 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Transportation,
On Friday, June 5, Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman and senior staff were treated to a tour of the Siemens Mobility Division’s ma...

KEEPING A CLOSE EYE ON REGIONAL HOUSING PLANNING
Jun 5 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Housing,
With the Bay Area confronting a major housing crisis, giving local communities a reason not to build housing would seem to be ill-advised. But a pr...

A CAPITOL VIEW: COUNCIL SCORES LEGISLATIVE WINS
Jun 5 2015
Posted In: Early Childhood Education, Economy, Education,
The Bay Area Council’s advocacy this week (June 1) helped kill a bill that had been identified as a job killer and win Assembly approval of anoth...

GIANTS ACE SERGIO ROMO PITCHES DROUGHT MESSAGE; WATER COMMITTEE MULLS NEW APPROACH
Jun 5 2015
Posted In: News, Water,
The Bay Area Council helped pull together the San Francisco Giants and the state’s Save Our Water campaign to shoot a new drought awareness publi...

TIME TO GET BAY HEALTHY!
Jun 5 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Healthcare,
The Bay Area Council is gearing up for next month’s launch of Bay Healthy, a new campaign created in partnership with the San Francisco Business ...

NEW STATEWIDE PUSH FOR PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PENSION REFORM
Jun 5 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations,
California’s growing economy is pouring billions of new tax revenue into state budget coffers, but it may also be obscuring attention from seriou...

NO JOKE: DROUGHT PSAS USE HUMOR TO PROMOTE SAVING WATER
May 30 2015
Posted In: News, Press Releases, Water,
The Bay Area Council this week (May 25) announced that member company Comcast will begin airing a series of drought-related public service announce...

COUNCIL’S ADVOCACY HELPS MOVE CHILD CARE LEGISLATION
May 30 2015
Posted In: Early Childhood Education, Education, Government Relations,
Following testimony this week (May 25) by the Bay Area Council in support of important child care legislation, the Senate Appropriations Committee ...

CA-CHINA TRADE OFFICE CONCLUDES HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL INVESTMENT TOUR
May 29 2015
Posted In: China, Economy,
The California-China Office of Trade of and Investment (CTO) this week (May 25) wrapped up a highly productive two-week investment promotion tour t...

SEN. FEINSTEIN’S LEG DIRECTOR SHARES INSIGHTS ON FEDERAL WATER POLICY
May 29 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Water,
A packed room of Bay Area Council Water Committee members were treated to a lengthy discussion today (May 28) on the politics and policy driving fe...

A GOVERNOR, THREE MAYORS AND A SECRETARY OF STATE WALKED INTO A CONFERENCE…
May 22 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
With Sacramento awash in tax revenue, Gov. Jerry Brown told a full house of 600 Bay Area business leaders at the 2015 Outlook Conference on Thursda...

SACRAMENTO “GRINDS TO HALT” AS COUNCIL DELEGATION TAKES OVER
May 22 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, News,
Creating more housing, alleviating our region’s dreadful traffic congestion, ensuring that we establish robust 21st century infrastructure networ...

BUSINESS WAS NOT IN PLAN BAY AREA 1.0, BUT WILL BE IN 2.0
May 15 2015
Posted In: Economy, Housing, Transportation,
As Bay Area housing prices continue to rise and transportation networks operate near capacity, regional planners have begun to prepare for the futu...

DISSECTING THE MAY BUDGET REVISE: NOT OUT OF THE WOODS, YET
May 15 2015
Posted In: Economy, Education, Energy and Climate Change,
Education scored big in the May Budget Revise unveiled Thursday (May 15) by Gov. Jerry Brown. The bulk of $6.7 billion in unexpected revenue genera...

WORKFORCE COMMITTEE SURFACES SERIOUS ISSUES ON REGIONAL TALENT
May 15 2015
Posted In: Economy,
What if 30 percent of the workforce of your company was eligible to retire today and was “one bad day away from walking out”? That scary proble...

COVERED CA CHALLENGES REQUIRE STRONG BUSINESS LEADERSHIP
May 15 2015
Posted In: Healthcare,
The numbers for year two of Obamacare in California are in and they’re not very good. Covered California appears to be falling short of expectati...

COUNCIL CELEBRATES IMPORTANT NEW PENINSULA MIXED-USE VILLAGE
May 15 2015
Posted In: Housing, Transportation,
Bay Meadows, the pioneering transit-oriented development underway in San Mateo, broke ground t...

COUNCIL’S WUNDERMAN APPOINTED TO STATE TRADE ADVISORY BOARD
May 15 2015
Posted In: China, Economy, Government Relations,
Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman was honored to be appointed by Gov. Jerry Brown to serve on the California International Trade and...

BAY AREA: CALIFORNIA’S GOLDEN GOOSE
May 8 2015
Posted In: Economy, Housing, Transportation,
The resounding success of the Bay Area economy was highlighted this week as the Franchise Tax Board released data that starkly demonstrates how our...

COUNCIL BRIEFS LEGISLATIVE STAFF ON ENERGY, COMMUNICATIONS REPORT
May 8 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Today (May 8), at the Council’s Sacramento office, researchers from the Bay Area Council Economic Institute briefed Bay Area Caucus legislative s...

COUNCIL-BACKED HEALTHCARE BILL PASSES CALIFORNIA SENATE
May 8 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Healthcare, News,
This week (May 4), the bill that would give nurse practitioners the ability to serve the California healthcare system to the full extent of their t...

TOP STATE DEPARTMENT LEADER MEETS WITH COUNCIL MEMBERS
May 8 2015
Posted In: Economy, Events,
Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment Catherine Novelli met with leaders of the Bay Area Council this week (May ...

CREATION OF A NEW SCHOOL ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM IS IN MOTION
May 8 2015
Posted In: News,
Between now and September the State Board of Education will take important steps toward reinventing California’s accountability system for K-12 s...

Surveying Members on Drought Response Measures
May 8 2015
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Water,
The state water board on Tuesday (May 5) approved the first-ever mandatory urban water use restrictions in California history. Beginning June 1, wa...

COUNCIL WORKING ON SOLUTIONS TO REGIONAL HOUSING CRISIS
May 1 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
The Bay Area must create more workforce housing if we are to sustain healthy economic growth, continue to attract and retain top talent and address...

COUNCIL RESPONDS TO GOVERNOR’S NEW GHG TARGETS
May 1 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
Gov. Jerry Brown on Tuesday (April 28) announced an Executive Order setting new greenhouse gas reduction goals for the state of 40 percent below 19...

CONTINUING PROGRESS ON EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION ISSUES
May 1 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council is continuing its strong leadership on early childhood education, developing new partnerships and advocating for increased res...

Bay Area Council Derides Hetch Hetchy Lawsuit
May 1 2015
Posted In: News, Newsroom, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council took strong exception to a lawsuit filed by the group Restore Hetch Hetchy that seeks to tear down the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir ...

Bay Area Council Statement on Gov. Brown’s New Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets
Apr 29 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council today (April 29) issued the following statement in response to Gov. Jerry Brown’s announcement of an Executive Order setting...

ECONOMIC INSTITUTE’S TRACEY GROSE TO CHAIR STATE CONTROLLER’S NEW COUNCIL OF ECONOMIC ADVISORS
Apr 27 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Bay Area Council Economic Institute Vice President Tracey Grose has been appointed by state Controller Betty T. Yee to chair her new Council of Eco...

COUNCIL’S ADVOCACY HELPS MOVE HEALTHCARE COST REDUCTION BILL
Apr 27 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, Healthcare, News,
Important healthcare legislation the Bay Area Council has worked for the past year to pass cleared an important hurdle this week in the state Senat...

COUNCIL’S WORKFORCE COMMITTEE CO-CHAIR ATTENDS WHITE HOUSE SUMMIT
Apr 27 2015
Posted In: Economy, Education, Science and Innovation,
The Bay Area Council’s focus on building the Workforce of the Future got a strong boost today (April 24) when Executive Committee member and Delo...

EXPANDING FERRY SERVICE CAN HELP EASE BAY AREA GRIDLOCK
Apr 27 2015
Posted In: Transportation,
The Bay Area Council’s Water Transit Subcommittee met April 24 to explore opportunities for accelerating the expansion of ferry service on the ba...

COUNCIL CONVENES TOP CYBERSECURITY LEADERS DURING RSA WEEK
Apr 27 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Economy,
RSA Week draws the world’s top cybersecurity leaders to the Bay Area each year, and this year was no exception. RSA Week took place this week in ...

NEW REPORT PUTS DAMAGE TOLL FROM OVERDUE MEGA STORM AT $10.4 BILLION
Apr 20 2015
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, News,
From drought to deluge, California and the Bay Area can expect increasingly dramatic weather swings as the effects of climate change become more pr...

NEW REPORT EXAMINES CA’S READINESS FOR ADVANCED COMMUNICATIONS, ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES
Apr 20 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Since 1995, monthly Internet traffic has increased by a factor of 450,000. By 2018, there will be 2 billion connected devices, from wearable techno...

CALTRAIN MODERNIZATION KEY TO COUNCIL’S COMMUTE RELIEF GOALS
Apr 20 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Transportation,
Continuing its push for commute relief in the booming Silicon Valley-San Francisco corridor, the Bay Area Council in partnership with the Silicon V...

SUMMIT EXPLORES INTERSECTION OF HEALTHCARE INNOVATION, VALUE
Apr 20 2015
Posted In: Economy, Events, Healthcare,
The Bay Area is a global center for healthcare innovation, rapidly developing technologies that are revolutionizing the way we access, provide, and...

NEW URGENCY GATHERING ON BART’S FUTURE
Apr 20 2015
Posted In: Economy, Transportation,
New urgency is gathering around the future of the Bay Area’s largest and most important mass transit system. A report this week by the San Franci...

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR GROWS BAC CHINA TEAM
Apr 20 2015
Posted In: China, News,
Furthering our mission of building bridges with business communities around the world and keeping the Bay Area competitive, we are pleased to annou...

HOUSING DROUGHT REACHING CRISIS PROPORTIONS
Apr 20 2015
Posted In: Economy, Housing,
It seems to be an almost daily occurrence in recent months when another report or study is released confirming what we have known for a long time: ...

BAY AREA COUNCIL LAUNCHES NEW CYBER SECURITY ACADEMY
Apr 20 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Cybersecurity,
The Bay Area Council today (April 3) announced the launch of its new cyber security continuing education platform, the Bay Area Council Cyber Acade...

RESOURCES FOR HOW YOUR BUSINESS CAN CONSERVE WATER
Apr 20 2015
Posted In: Economy, Water,
Governor Brown signed an unprecedented executive order on Wednesday, requiring water agencies across California to reduce water use by 25 percent o...

TALKING NATIONAL DEFENSE WITH FORMER #3 AT DOD
Apr 20 2015
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Government Relations, News,
Amidst dramatic nuclear talks with Iran, ongoing turmoil in Europe and the Middle East and recent cyber attacks on major U.S. companies, the Bay Ar...

New Report Examines CA’s Readiness for Tsunami of Energy, Communications Technologies
Apr 14 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
California’s infrastructure has allowed some of the world’s most innovative technology companies to thrive here. But for that infrastructure to...

STATE ASSEMBLY APPROVES MEASURE TO REDUCE TRAFFIC CONGESTION
Mar 30 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council’s advocacy efforts paid off this week (March 23) as the California Assembly and its Transportation Committee overwhelmingly ...

JOBS, POPULATION GROWTH HIGHLIGHT BAY AREA’S HOUSING CRISIS
Mar 30 2015
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
Fresh on the heels of a blunt report by the Legis...

KEEPING CALIFORNIA CONNECTED, POWERED AND COMPETITIVE
Mar 30 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
A few stories in the news this week highlighted the growing urgency for ensuring California’s energy and communications systems can keep pace wit...

FASCINATING BUSINESS INSIGHTS FROM EDELMAN TRUST BAROMETER
Mar 30 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
For 15 years, Edelman has conducted its annual study on trust – the Edelman Trust Barometer – which in total surveys 33,000 respondents in 27 c...

DAMNING REPORT FROM LEGISLATURE ADMITS CEQA STOPS HOUSING
Mar 30 2015
Posted In: Economy, Housing, News,
California’s soaring housing costs are the primary reason the state’s poverty rate (23 percent) is the highest in the nation and why the state ...

California Dryin’
Mar 30 2015
Posted In: Economy, Water,
With California’s snowpack at 17 percent of average, 2015 is on track to be the driest ever recorded in the Sierra Nevada mountains, prompting a ...

KEY THUMBS UP FOR COUNCIL’S WORK TO BUST HIGHWAY 101 GRIDLOCK
Mar 30 2015
Posted In: Economy, Transportation,
The Bay Area Council’s Highway 101 initiative is picking up steam and supporters, including a welcome endorsement from new California Transportat...

TRANSPORTATION TECH-CONGRESS COLLIDE AT COUNCIL MEETING
Mar 16 2015
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Transportation,
The Bay Area is a global center for transportation technology innovation, rapidly developing technologies that are pushing the conventional boundar...

SALESFORCE CEO BENIOFF GIVES BOOST TO COUNCIL’S EARLY ED INITIATIVE
Mar 16 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, News,
The innovative early childhood education program that the Bay Area Council is helping lead in Oakland got some good news this week when Salesforce ...

FORMER U.S. AMB. JOHN BOLTON GIVES PRIVATE BRIEFING FOR COUNCIL MEMBERS
Mar 16 2015
Posted In: China, Events, News,
The U.S. risks undermining its global economic interests by failing to project stronger, more assertive leadership in key strategic conflicts aroun...

COUNCIL READIES RECOMMENDATIONS ON DROUGHT RESPONSE
Mar 11 2015
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
The Sierra snowpack as of Feb. 26 stood at a measly 19 percent of average, matching the previous low set during the infamous 1976-77 drought. What...

PITCHING A LOCAL ALTERNATIVE FOR LUCAS MUSEUM
Mar 11 2015
Posted In: News, Newsroom, Press Releases,
Facing headwinds in Chicago over plans to build his Museum of Narrative Art, Star Wars Director and Bay Area Business Hall of Fame inductee George ...

UPCOMING STUDIES EXPLORE CRITICAL CA, BAY AREA ISSUES
Mar 11 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
What does California need to do to ensure it has the energy and communications infrastructure necessary to compete globally? Is the Bay Area prepar...

Council Convenes Lively Debate on Housing Moratoria
Mar 2 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
A standing room-only crowd at the Bay Area Council Conference Center was treated to a lively discussion on Thursday (Feb. 26) about the roots of th...

Chinese New Year Fete Welcomes the Year of the Ram
Mar 2 2015
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Events,
More than 300 close friends gathered Thursday evening (Feb. 26)  as the Bay Area Council celebrated Chinese New Year and ushered in the Year of th...

PENINSULA’S HIGHWAY 101 TRAFFIC CRISIS DESERVES AND GETS ACTION
Feb 23 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council’s work over the past year to speed traffic relief on the badly congested Highway 101 corridor between San Francisco and San ...

PROPOSED HOUSING MORATORIUMS: GREAT IDEA OR MADNESS?
Feb 23 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council is responding quickly to a troubling move by several Bay Area cities to impose moratoriums on new housing. After the Council v...

COUNCIL JOINS TOP LEADERS TO DISCUSS CALIFORNIA’S WATER FUTURE
Feb 23 2015
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Events,
With a record dry January leading California into its 4th year of drought, Capitol Weekly and the University of California on Thursday held their a...

COUNCIL CONVENES HIGH-LEVEL DISCUSSION ON CYBERSECURITY ISSUES
Feb 23 2015
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Events, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council’s Cybersecurity Committee met this week (Feb. 19) in Sacramento to discuss with top state officials the key issues at the ce...

TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE CELEBRATES MICHAEL SCANLON
Feb 23 2015
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
Michael Scanlon, the retiring General Manager of the San Mateo County Transit District, was the featured guest and speaker at the Bay Area Council ...

FORUM HIGHLIGHTS OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES FOR TRI-VALLEY REGION
Feb 23 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
The Tri-Valley is fast emerging as a new, white-hot technology and innovation powerhouse for the Bay Area, according to a report by the Bay Area Co...

ADVOCACY PAYS OFF FOR EASING NORTH BAY CONGESTION
Feb 17 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, News, Newsroom,
Just days after the Bay Area Council convened top leaders to rally support for fast-tracking the re-opening of a third lane on the Richmond-San Raf...

COUNCIL OPPOSES EMERYVILLE HOUSING MORATORIUM
Feb 17 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Housing,
UPDATE (2/17): The Emeryville City Council on Friday, Feb. 13 narrowly rejected a proposed moratorium on residential construction. Placing a morat...

DAMAGING PORT SHUTDOWN MUST END
Feb 17 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council this week (Feb. 13) publicly called for an end to the more than nine-month labor dispute that has brought the Port of Oakland ...

BAY AREA COUNCIL CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE END TO DAMAGING WEST COAST PORTS LABOR DISPUTE
Feb 9 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Following the weekend (Feb. 7-8) closure of the Port of Oakland and 28 other West Coast ports over a long-running contract dispute, the Bay Area Co...

ASSEMBLY HEALTHCARE LEADER ROB BONTA SHARES 2015 PRIORITIES
Feb 9 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, Healthcare,
The Bay Area Council Healthcare Committee today (Feb. 6) met with Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland), the new Chair of the Assembly Health Commit...

GOOD WEEK FOR HIGHLIGHTING DIRE TRANSPORTATION NEEDS
Feb 9 2015
Posted In: Economy, News, Newsroom,
It was a good week for transportation investment, a topic near and dear to our hearts – it’s one of the Bay Area Council’s lead policy priori...

COUNCIL LEADS BUS TOUR OF OAKLAND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Feb 4 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
With new leadership and increasing signs Oakland is on the cusp of a sustained economic upswing, the Bay Area Council this week (Jan. 29) convened ...

TRANSFORMING WORKPLACE CULTURE: THE 2015 GENDER EQUALITY PRACTICES
Feb 4 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, News,
For a second year, the Bay Area Council was pleased to partner with the San Francisco Department on the Status of Women on its annual program featu...

MEETING FUTURE WORKFORCE NEEDS AND GROWING MIDDLE-INCOME JOBS
Feb 4 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, News,
Whether you’re flipping through a newspaper or clicking on a news website, it’s hard not encounter a story these days about the demise of the m...

COUNCIL WORKS TO EASE NORTH BAY COMMUTE TRAFFIC
Feb 4 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Government Relations,
There aren’t many instances where adding a lane to a congested highway can happen quickly, easily and inexpensively. Just such an opportunity exi...

WHEN URBAN PLANNING MANDATES FAIL TO CONSIDER CHANGING TECHNOLOGIES
Feb 4 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
When SB375 was approved in 2008, one of its main objectives was to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles by reducing the miles they trav...

8th Annual Economic Forecast
Feb 3 2015
Posted In: Economy, Events, News,
It’s boom time for the Bay Area, according to top economists. This morning (Jan. 16) over 100 of the region’s top private and public sector lea...

COUNCIL HOSTS UNVEILING OF MILKEN INSTITUTE BEST-PERFORMING CITIES RANKING
Jan 30 2015
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
The Bay Area confirmed its place as the nation’s hottest tech and job creation center with the release Thursday (Jan. 8) by the Milken Institute ...

LEADERSHIP CHANGE AT ECONOMIC INSTITUTE ANNOUNCED
Jan 30 2015
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute this week announced that effective February 1, 2015 Dr. Micah Weinberg will become President, succeeding lo...

CALTRAIN ELECTRIFICATION CLEARS MAJOR PLANNING HURDLE
Jan 30 2015
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
A major milestone in improving Caltrain service was reached this week (Jan. 5) as the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board certified the Final Env...

NEW HEAD OF CA-CHINA TRADE OFFICE ANNOUNCED
Jan 30 2015
Posted In: China, Economy, Government Relations,
Positioning California to attract a growing share of China’s massive foreign investment pool and bolstering California-China trade, the Bay Area ...

Drone Technologies Rapidly Advancing; Policies to Allow Them, Not So Much
Dec 19 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Economy,
With interest in the use of drones for commercial purposes taking flight, the Bay Area Council recently convened a policy roundtable with national ...

BAY AREA COUNCIL UNVEILS 2015 POLICY PRIORITIES
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
The Bay Area Council this week (Dec. 10) doubled down on its efforts to tackle the region’s most pressing challenges, unveiling a bold policy age...

UCSF CHANCELLOR AND OAKLAND MAYOR-ELECT HEADLINE COUNCIL BOARD MEETING
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
Oakland Mayor-Elect Libby Schaff received warm applause from the Council’s Board of Directors on Wednesday (Dec. 10) when she said she is committ...

COUNCIL UPDATES LEGISLATIVE STAFF ON 2024 OLYMPIC BID
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
With a decision expected next week (Dec. 16) on a possible U.S. bid for the 2024 Olympics, the Bay Area Council today (Dec. 12) briefed Bay Area le...

BAY AREA COUNCIL WELCOMES TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: Education, News, Science and Innovation,
Extreme weather could not hold back Oakland Mayor-Elect Libby Schaaf, Chinese Consulate Economic Counselor Xia Xiang, Bay Area Council President an...

NEW ECONOMIC INSTITUTE STUDY CALLS FOR MAJOR OVERHAUL OF CA HIGHER EDUCATION
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
California’s once-visionary Master Plan for Higher Education has not kept pace with tectonic changes rumbling across the Golden State, according ...

OAKLAND POISED FOR HOUSING BOOM
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: Economy, News, Transportation,
With housing costs (and demand) soaring in San Francisco and elsewhere in the region, Oakland is poised to see a major surge in new residential rea...

WATER COMMITTEE SETS 2015 PRIORITIES, GETS SNEAK PEEK AT EXTREME WEATHER STUDY
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, News,
A record turnout braved the Bay Area’s biggest storm in years to attend this Tuesday’s (Dec. 2) meeting of the Bay Area Council Water Committee...

Big Step in Caltrain Modernization, Electrification
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: Economy, News, Transportation,
The electrification and modernization of one of the region’s critical mass transit systems, which has been among the Bay Area Council’s signatu...

Bay Area Council Announces First India Trade Mission
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
The Bay Area Council is excited to announce its first official trade and investment mission to India that will include high-level California execut...

BART CUTS RIBBON ON OAKLAND AIRPORT CONNECTOR
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
BART today (Nov. 21) cut the ribbon on its new Oakland Airport Connector (OAC), with hundreds of elected, business, government and community leader...

RESURGENCE OF THE CITY AS DRIVER OF POLICY AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Economy,
Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman joined an august panel of business and policy leaders this week (Nov. 20) at the Milken Institute ...

Plans taking shape for UC Berkeley’s new Global Campus in Richmond
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Education,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute this week (Nov. 19) hosted a presentation on UC Berkeley’s plans for the Berkeley Global Campus, a new in...

Growing Concern about Data Breaches
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Economy,
U.S. Postal Service, Department of State! Who’s next? The recent string of hacks into U.S. federal agencies laid bare the clear and present dange...

BAY AREA Enjoys Growing ECONOMIC Linkages with NORTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: Economy, News, Transportation,
In contrast to the rest of the Central Valley, the development of San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced counties is being driven more by the growth of...

New WETA Chief Outlines Regional Ferry Vision
Dec 15 2014
Posted In: News, Transportation, Water,
On Thursday (Nov. 13), the Bay Area Council hosted a special discussion with Vice Admiral Jody Breckenridge (USCG Retired), Governor Jerry Brown’...

CLEAN SWEEP FOR BAY AREA COUNCIL IN NOV. 4 ELECTION
Nov 10 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Healthcare,
Voters may not have turned out in force on Nov. 4, but those that did overwhelmingly agreed with the Bay Area Council on a handful of state and loc...

800 Celebrate Giants Win, Business Leadership at 2014 Annual Dinner
Nov 3 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, China, Community Engagement,
About 800 of our closest friends gathered Wednesday (Oct. 29) for the Bay Area Council’s 69th Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame at the Fair...

BAY AREA COUNCIL LAUNCHES CALTRAIN COMMUTER COALITION
Nov 3 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
As Caltrain marked the 10th anniversary of its Baby Bullet service on Monday (Oct. 27), Bay Area Council President & CEO Jim Wunderman joined t...

BUSINESS-EDUCATION PARTNERSHIPS KEY TO STEM SUCCESS
Nov 3 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Economy,
Speaking passionately about the importance of business-education partnerships, Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman addressed a capacit...

Council’s “Talk Read Sing” Initiative Takes Center Stage at Saleforce’s Dreamforce
Oct 20 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Events,
The Talking is Teaching: Talk Read Sing early childhood education campaign that the Bay Area Council developed in partnership with Too Sma...

TALKINg BUSINESS, ECONOMIC PRIORITIES WITH ASSEMBLYMEMBER SUSAN BONILLA
Oct 20 2014
Posted In: Government Relations, News,
Elevating business and economic priorities in the state Legislature was among the topics the Bay Area Council’s Government Relations Committee di...

Protecting Your BUSINESS from CYBER CRIME
Oct 20 2014
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Economy, Events,
Cyber crime can affect any business in any industry. Whether criminals target financial information, customer information, intellectual property or...

NEW REPORT: TRI-VALLEY A RISING BAY AREA TECH/INNOVATION POWERHOUSE
Oct 10 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Tri-Valley is fast emerging as a new technology and innovation powerhouse for the Bay Area, according to a report released Thursday (Oct. 10) b...

BAY AREA COUNCIL HOSTS FOUR ASEAN AMBASSADORS
Oct 10 2014
Posted In: China, Economy, Events,
When it comes to Bay Area trade and investment opportunities, China rightly gets much of the attention. But China isn’t the only player on the ot...

BAY AREA LOSING OUT ON MILLIONS IN CAP AND TRADE FUNDING
Oct 6 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
The Bay Area is losing out on its fair share of $250 million in state cap and trade money to help disadvantaged communities combat serious environm...

COUNCIL GETS BRIEFING ON TRANSBAY TRANSIT CENTER PROGRESS
Oct 6 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Phase 1 of the massive Transbay Transit Center in San Francisco, which has been dubbed the “Grand Central Station of the West,” is on schedule ...

COUNCIL BEATS BACK ANTI-BUSINESS ATTACKS ON REGIONAL HOUSING, TRANSPORTATION PLANNING
Sep 30 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council this week (Sept. 22, 2014)  beat back an effort by anti-business groups to shape critical regional transportation and housing...

TECHNET EXECUTIVE JOINS BAY AREA COUNCIL AS CHIEF OF MEMBERSHIP
Sep 30 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council is pleased to announce that tech industry veteran Kirsten Vernon has joined the organization as Chief of Membership and Develo...

Ambassador Stephens Says Time is Ripe for Growing Economic Ties with India
Sep 19 2014
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
To help Bay Area Council members and regional business leaders gain first-hand insight into India, the Bay Area Council on Sept. 19, 2014 convened ...

Bay Area Council Lauds Historic Groundwater Management Legislation
Sep 16 2014
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
Bay Area Council President and CEO Jim Wunderman today joined Gov. Jerry Brown and a group of elected, business and environmental leaders as the Go...

Getting More Renewable Energy into the State Grid
Sep 14 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council on Thursday (Sept. 11, 2014) was pleased to host California Public Utilities Commissioner Carla Peterman in conversation with ...

Bay Area Council Positions on Select Ballot Measures
Sep 13 2014
Posted In: Government Relations, Healthcare, News,
The Bay Area Council Executive Committee this week (Sept. 8, 2014) voted to endorse Proposition 1, the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Im...

Bringing Tech to Bear Against Traffic
Sep 12 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
In the face of rapidly worsening commute congestion, the Bay Area Council’s Transportation Committee, under the leadership Chair and Arup Princip...

Disappointed, Not Surprised by Gigafactory Decision
Sep 3 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council responds to news reports today that Tesla has chosen Reno, Nevada, to build its battery Gigafactory: “While we were hoping ...

Groundwater Management Urgently Needed
Aug 28 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
In an

Responding to Open Letter on Tesla Gigafactory
Aug 27 2014
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
An “open letter” penned this week by the California Budget Project and other so-called “budget watchdogs” from states competing to secure t...

State Pension Board Undermines 2012 Reforms
Aug 22 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
You might be surprised to learn that simply doing the job you were hired to do entitles you to extra pay. That is, unless you’re on the board of ...

Getting the Word Out on the Dangers of Proposition 45
Aug 22 2014
Posted In: Government Relations, Healthcare, News,
Earlier this week, the respected Field Poll put out a survey that showed that 69 percent of registered voters in the state support Proposition 45, ...

21st Century Infrastructure Coming to Cupertino
Aug 22 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Energy and Climate Change, News,
Residents and businesses in Cupertino in the heart of Silicon Valley will be among the first in California – and among the first in the nation --...

Register: Energy & Water Nexus Summit 3 Coming Sept. 5
Aug 22 2014
Posted In: Events, Water,
The Bay Area Council and Bay Planning Coalition invite you to join us for an important forum on Northern California’s two most valuable resources...

TESLA GIGA PLANT IS WORTH THE FIGHT
Aug 18 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council has been advocating over the past several months for California to step up its game in competing for Tesla's proposed Giga...

Water Bond Flows to November Ballot
Aug 18 2014
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Newsroom,
It’s official: Amidst record drought, California voters this November will get a chance to approve a revamped, bipartisan $7.5 billion water bond...

Deadline Approaching for Commuter Benefits Program
Aug 18 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, News,
With near crisis traffic congestion and compounding commute challenges, the Bay Area Council is getting behind a new program that provides employee...

Council Weighs in on Bay Delta Conservation Plan
Aug 11 2014
Posted In: Water,
The Bay Area Council has weighed in with its general support for the environmental review of the proposed Bay Delta Conservation Plan, the historic...

Bay Area Council Convenes Legislators for Tesla Factory Tour
Aug 11 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council’s 21st Century Infrastructure Task Force today (Aug. 8) convened a group of state legislators and California Energy Commissi...

SHUTTLE PILOT PROGRAM LAUNCHES IN SAN FRANCISCO
Aug 4 2014
Posted In: Economy, News, Newsroom,
The Bay Area Council today (Aug. 1) hailed the launch of the 18-month Commuter Shuttles Pilot Program that will keep thousands of cars off already ...

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE DISCUSSES CA BUSINESS CLIMATE
Aug 4 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council’s Government Relations Committee met last week (June 30) and focused its attention on California’s often-maligned business...

BAY AREA COUNCIL ADVOCATES FOR CYBER SECURITY LEGISLATION
Aug 4 2014
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Government Relations,
At the request of its Cyber Security Committee, the Bay Area Council endorsed Assembly Bill 2200 authored by Assemblyman John Perez. This bill esta...

Executive Committee, Board Focus on Policy Priorities at July Meeting
Jul 29 2014
Posted In: Events, Government Relations, Healthcare,
The Bay Area Council’s lead policy priorities took center stage at the July 25 meeting of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors, chaired...

Giant Step Forward for Council’s Early Childhood Work
Jul 29 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Education,
The Bay Area Council’s ground-breaking work on early childhood development took a giant step forward last week with the announcement of a new par...

HEALTHCARE EMERGING AS MAJOR OPPORTUNITY IN CHINA
Jul 25 2014
Posted In: China, Economy, Healthcare,
China's growing wave of seniors, along with other massive demographic changes, is creating tremendous new opportunities for healthcare companies as...

Council’s Matt Regan Talks Early Brain Development on ABC 7’s Beyond the Headlines
Jul 2 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Education,
Bay Area Council Vice President of Public Policy Matt Regan on June 28 appeared on ABC7's Emmy award-winning public affairs show “Beyond the Head...

HELPING OUR NATION’S VETERANS FIND JOBS IN TECH INDUSTRY
Jul 2 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, News,
Over the next five years, more than one million highly skilled U.S. military veterans will enter the civilian workforce. The Bay Area Council and m...

GOOD NEWS IN STATE BUDGET FOR BAY AREA COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Jul 2 2014
Posted In: Early Childhood Education, Economy, Education,
Gov. Jerry Brown traveled south on June 20 to sign a state budget that acknowledges several of the Bay Area Council’s top policy priorities. The ...

Program Council Backed Awards First Round of Job-Creating Tax Credits
Jul 2 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The first round of a series of job-creating tax credits the Bay Area Council advocated for last year were awarded on June 19 to 29 companies around...

Bay Area Council Congratulates New House Leader Kevin McCarthy
Jun 19 2014
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Newsroom,
The Bay Area Council today (June 19) released the following statement congratulating Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s selection as House Majority Leader: ...

Bay Area Council Supports 2024 Olympic Bid
Jun 13 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council today applauded the announcement that San Francisco is being considered as a possible bid city by the United States Olympic Co...

COUNCIL’S KEN REGALIA HONORED AS BAY AREA CFO OF THE YEAR FINALIST
Jun 12 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, News,
Bay Area Council Chief Financial Officer Ken Regalia was honored June 5 as a finalist in the prestigious CFO of the Year awards presented by member...

CSU CHANCELLOR TALKS WITH BUSINESS LEADERS ABOUT CLOSING THE SKILLS GAP
Jun 12 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Events,
At a packed forum hosted by the Bay Area Council and the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, California State University Chancellor Timothy White on...

TAKING IMMEDIATE ACTION FOR REGIONAL TRAFFIC RELIEF
Jun 12 2014
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council has stepped up its efforts to implement a range of solutions that can be enacted in relatively short order to address the regi...

PROMOTING CA CLEAN TECH TRADE WITH CHINA
Jun 12 2014
Posted In: China, News,
The California-China Office of Trade and Investment (CTO) can play an important role in connecting California clean technology companies with busin...

Bay Area Council Poll: Region Far Surpasses State, Nation in Employer-Based Health Insurance
Jun 2 2014
Posted In: Economy, Healthcare, News,
The Bay Area blows away the rest of California and the nation when it comes to healthcare insurance coverage, according to the 2014 Bay Area Counci...

Bay Area Council Poll: Strong Backing for Investing in Early Childhood Development
May 30 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Economy,
With early childhood education emerging as hot political topic in the current state budget debate, and one that could figure significantly in the 2...

Bay Area Council Poll: Resounding Support for Upgrading Key Communications, Energy Networks
May 30 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Economy,
As more and more people come to rely heavily on mobile and broadband technologies for a wide range of everyday needs – from banking to healthcare...

Bay Area Council Poll: Housing, Traffic Reach Crisis Stage
May 30 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
As home prices in the Bay Area soar to heights not seen since before the Great Recession, 79 percent of residents in the 2014 Bay Area Council Poll...

Cost of Living, Housing Costs Top Concerns from 2014 Bay Area Council Poll
May 27 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area’s notoriously high cost of living tops the list of the region’s most serious problems, according to results of the 2014 Bay Area C...

CEQA LAWSUIT SEEKS TO BLOCK EMPLOYEE SHUTTLE PROGRAM
May 6 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council called “misguided and misdirected” a lawsuit filed May 1 seeking to block an employee shuttle pilot program that the San F...

BALANCING ACT: BIG DATA, PRIVACY AND SECURITY
May 6 2014
Posted In: 21st Century Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Government Relations,
As the Bay Area Council prepares for its May 19 advocacy trip to D.C. that will focus in large part on cyber security and related issues, the Obama...

New Study Finds Expanding Scope of Nurse Practitioners Would Save CA $1.8 Billion
Apr 30 2014
Posted In: Government Relations, Healthcare, News,
Expanding the patient services that licensed nurse practitioners can provide would help California address a serious and growing shortage of primar...

New Study Maps Dominant EU-Bay Area Economic, Investment Ties
Apr 14 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
Don’t forget Europe. When it comes to the Bay Area’s and Silicon Valley’s economic ties to the world, Asia and fast-growing China get much of...

Meeting with Sec. Hillary Clinton Cements Partnership on Early Childhood Education
Apr 11 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Economy,
The Bay Area Council was honored this week to meet with Sec. Hillary Rodham Clinton and cement our partnership with Too Small to Fail and The Clint...

MEETING WITH TOP U.S. TRADE OFFICIAL COINCIDES WITH NEW EU-BAY AREA ECONOMIC REPORT
Apr 11 2014
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
With a new round of negotiations beginning last month on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (T-TIP), the timing was perfect for a m...

BART BUILDING BRIDGES TO BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Apr 11 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, News, Newsroom,
Taking the initiative to forge a stronger partnership with business leaders, BART General Manager Grace Crunican and Board members Tom Radulovich a...

BAY AREA COUNCIL HAILS DECISION ON SF COMMUTER SHUTTLES
Apr 2 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council hailed the decision by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors on April 1 that allows an innovative commuter shuttle pilot prog...

BAY AREA COUNCIL JOINS LEADER PELOSI IN CALLING FOR COMPREHENSIVE IMMIGRATION REFORM
Apr 1 2014
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council on March 28 joined Leader Nancy Pelosi and other community leaders to call for comprehensive immigration reform this year. Exe...

CRITICAL CALTRAIN UPGRADE PROJECT APPEARS ON TRACK
Mar 27 2014
Posted In: Economy, News, Transportation,
With soaring mass transit ridership and growing traffic along the San Francisco-Silicon Valley corridor, the project to electrify and modernize the...

NEW POLL: VAST MAJORITY OF SF VOTERS SUPPORT COMMUTER SHUTTLES AND BENEFITS THEY PROVIDE
Mar 25 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
Recent protests of employee commute shuttles that have captured headlines around the globe do not appear to reflect the views of a large majority o...

BAY AREA COUNCIL CONVENES MALE, FEMALE LEADERS TO ADVANCE GENDER EQUITY
Mar 25 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
Seeking to create a new model for advancing gender equity, the Bay Area Council on March 18 convened top men and women leaders to focus on the acti...

AT&T, FCC TO TEST ALL-IP NETWORKS AS PART OF 21ST CENTURY INFRASTRUCTURE Initiative
Feb 28 2014
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, News, Newsroom,
Decades ago, Silicon Valley overtook Route 128 in Massachusetts as the technology hub of the nation because California’s culture of innovation wa...

UC President Janet Napolitano briefs members on top issues
Feb 28 2014
Posted In: Education, Government Relations, Newsroom,
Janet Napolitano, President of the University of California and former Secretary of Homeland Security, met this week with Bay Area Council members ...

FEDS SEEK BAY AREA COUNCIL INPUT ON CYBERSECURITY
Feb 28 2014
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Economy, Events,
Coinciding with the annual RSA Conference in San Francisco, the Bay Area Council convened two member roundtables with federal officials this week o...

Council Applauds Google’s $6.8 Million Gift for SF MUNI Kids Program
Feb 27 2014
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council today (Feb. 27, 2014) applauded an announcement  by San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee that Google will provide $6.8 million to fund ...

EXPLORING PARTNERSHIPS WITH ONE OF CHINA’S TOP UNIVERSITIES
Jan 27 2014
Posted In: China, Economy, Education,
Advancing the Bay Area Council’s lead policy priority to expand bi-lateral trade and investment with China, Bay Area Council President and CEO Ji...

4th Graders Learn About Business Through BAC Holiday Art Competition
Dec 20 2013
Posted In: News,
It’s not always easy to get a product to market. One of the Council's annual traditions is our Holiday Art/Marketing competition, where 4th grade...

Ambitious Bay Delta Plan Unveiled for Public Review
Dec 13 2013
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
Following seven years of planning and one of the driest years ever recorded, state and federal agencies this week released the public draft of the ...

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE SETS 2014 POLICY AGENDA
Dec 10 2013
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Cybersecurity,
Sustaining the Bay Area’s economic growth, broadening it and positioning the region and the state for future prosperity were central to the polic...

Statement on Release of Draft Bay Delta Conservation Plan
Dec 10 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Following seven years of planning and one of the driest years ever recorded, state and federal agencies this week released the public draft of the ...

HOSTING 34TH AMERICA’S CUP GENERATES $550 MILLION IN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY, CREATES MORE THAN 3,800 JOBS
Dec 10 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The thrilling comeback by Oracle Team USA in the 34th America’s Cup capped an historic event that generated $550 million in economic activity, cr...

Bay Area Council Economic Institute Embarks on Sea-Level Rise Study
Nov 22 2013
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The unfolding tragedy in the Philippines is an unsettling reminder of a global trend towards more frequent extreme weather events. Following recent...

Strong Accountability in CA School Funding Reform Key to Maximizing Student Achievement
Nov 4 2013
Posted In: Education, Newsroom,
(The following OpEd appeared in EdSource) By Jim Wunderman Many of us in the business community supported Governor Jerry Brown’s proposal to ove...

TOP WHITE HOUSE OFFICIAL HEADLINES BAY AREA COUNCIL CYBERSECURITY CONFERENCE
Nov 1 2013
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Events,
A veritable Who’s Who of cyber security heavyweights, including White House Senior Director for Cybersecurity Andy Ozment, joined the Bay Area Co...

CA-China Trade and Investment Office Hires Diane Long as Executive Director
Oct 17 2013
Posted In: China, News, Newsroom,
Positioning California to attract a growing share of China’s massive foreign investment pool and bolstering California-China trade, Governor Edmu...

Bay Area Council Poll Shows Resounding Opposition to BART Strike
Aug 2 2013
Posted In: Newsroom, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today (August 2) released results of a poll showing overwhelming opposition to a BART worker strike, with a strong majority sa...

Virgin America CEO David Cush Takes Over as Chair of Bay Area Council
Jul 26 2013
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, News,
With the ceremonial passing of an oversized gavel, Virgin America President and CEO David Cush on July 18 became the 36th Chair of the Bay Area Cou...

Here’s an Idea: No BART Strike
Jul 26 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
News stories began appearing late this week about contingency planning for a second BART strike, which could come on Monday, August 4. Of course, t...

Ellison, Jobs to be Inducted to Bay Area Business Hall of Fame
Jul 26 2013
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, News,
The Bay Area Council this week announced Oracle CEO Larry Ellison and Apple Founder Steve Jobs (posthumously) will be 2013 inductees to the Bay Are...

BAY AREA COUNCIL LEADS TECH COALITION ON PRIVATE EMPLOYER SHUTTLE ISSUE
Jul 19 2013
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council is leading a coalition of tech and other companies that is working with the San Francisco Metropolitan Transportation Authorit...

BART STRIKE HAVING COSTLY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ON BAY AREA
Jul 2 2013
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Government Relations,
The strike by BART union workers is having a costly environmental impact on the Bay Area, according to data assembled by the Bay Area Council that ...

BAY AREA COUNCIL ECONOMIC INSTITUTE PUTS ECONOMIC COST OF BART STRIKE AT $73 MILLION A DAY
Jul 2 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute conservatively put the daily economic cost to the Bay Area of the BART union strike at $73 million a day, a...

Optimism for Obama, Xi Summit
Jun 6 2013
Posted In: China, Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council looks forward to open and productive talks between President Barack Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping when they meet tomo...

2013 Outlook Conference Talks Now on YouTube, Flickr
Jun 3 2013
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
Former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta talks about past presidents and the operation to capture Osama bin Laden. Gov. Jerry Brown argues for more eq...

KAISER PERMANENTE’S GEORGE HALVORSON NAMED TO FIRST 5 COMMISSION
Jun 3 2013
Posted In: Education, Government Relations, Healthcare,
California’s youngest learners got some good news with Governor Jerry Brown’s appointment on May 30 of Kaiser Permanente Chairman and CEO Georg...

Leon Panetta, Gov. Brown & Execs Wow Outlook Audience
May 24 2013
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, News,
Former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta seemed to confirm during discussion yesterday at the 2013 Outlook Conference that mysterious Area 51 in th...

Promising News on Immigration Reform
May 24 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Immigration reform that the Bay Area Council has been pressing for several years took a promising step forward this week when a bipartisan bill cle...

Big Legislative Wins on Healthcare
May 24 2013
Posted In: Community Engagement, Government Relations, Healthcare,
California this week took a big leap forward in advancing healthcare reform and creating a high-value health system, among the Bay Area Council’s...

Supporting Governor’s School Funding Plan
May 24 2013
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council on May 22 announced that it is supporting the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) proposed by Governor Jerry Brown in his May...

Progress on Bills Related to CEQA, Taxes and Healthcare
May 4 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Healthcare,
The Bay Area Council scored several legislative victories this week related to our focus policy work. We gave lead testimony before the Committee o...

Member Spotlight: The Clorox Company Celebrates 100th
May 4 2013
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Government Relations,
Today (May 3) The Clorox Company – a founding member of the Bay Area Council – celebrates its 100th anniversary. It all began on May...

Members Engage with Governor, Legislative Leaders at Sacramento Day
May 3 2013
Posted In: Events, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council’s Sacramento office wrapped up a very busy week today (May 3), coming off Monday’s annual Sacramento Day and a host of key...
California, Bay Area Council Partner to Open China Trade Office image

California, Bay Area Council Partner to Open China Trade Office
Apr 12 2013
Posted In: China,
Positioning California to attract a growing share of China’s massive foreign investment pool and bolstering California-C...

HEALTHCARE WEBSITE LAUNCHES, BUT CHALLENGES REMAIN AS DEADLINES APPROACH
Feb 19 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Healthcare,
California’s new health insurance marketplace -- Covered Califo...

NATURAL RESOURCES SEC. LAIRD BRIEFS MEMBERS ON KEY WATER ISSUES
Feb 19 2013
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
Members of the Bay Area Council Water Committee were briefed last week by state Natural Resources Secretary John Laird on the latest details of the...

CEQA COMMITTEE ENDORSES SF SUPERVISOR SCOTT WIENER’S LOCAL REFORM LEGISLATION
Feb 19 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Legislation introduced by San Francisco Supervisor Scott Wiener won the unanimous endorsement of the Bay Area Council’s CEQA Reform Committee und...

Speaker Boehner Visits the Bay Area
Feb 2 2013
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
Immigration reform was among the topics that House Speaker John Boehner discussed Thursday in San Francisco with a small group of business, politic...

Bay Area Council Leading the Fight to Restore CA Start-Up Incentive
Feb 2 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
As news of the retroactive entr...

Promising Movement on Immigration Reform
Feb 2 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Good things may come to those who wait… but more often good things come to those who work hard and push year after year for change. That appears ...

Momentum Gathering for Modernizing CEQA
Feb 1 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Momentum is gathering for modernizing the California Environmental Quality Act. The state’s landmark environmental protection law hasn’t been u...

Learning from Our Neighbors on Regional Economic Strategy
Feb 1 2013
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
You might think that a region as globally powerful as the Bay Area would have a coordinated and deliberate strategy for growing our economy and cre...

HARMFUL DECISION FOR CALIFORNIA ENTREPRENEURS, JOB CREATION
Jan 25 2013
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
A surprising and potentially very damaging decision by the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) may challenge that California is still a great plac...

RESTORING THE LUSTER TO CALIFORNIA’S HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM
Jan 23 2013
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
There has been considerable buzz in recent weeks about the potential for online education to play a role in addressing some of the growing challeng...

Annual Dinner and Business Hall of Fame Gala Honors Charles B. Johnson and Lorry Lokey
Dec 21 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Government Relations,
More than 700 CEOs, top executives and other community and elected leaders joined the Bay Area Council for our Annual Dinner and Business Hall of F...

Holiday Greetings from the Bay Area Council and 4th Graders at Oakland’s Achieve Academy
Dec 21 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Events,
The Bay Area Council wishes you all a very happy holidays. And we look forward to another exciting year working with you to make our region and the...

FISCAL CLIFF CONCERNS CAUSING SOME CEOs TO DELAY BUSINESS INVESTMENTS, NEW BAY AREA COUNCIL SURVEY FINDS
Dec 20 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
Many Bay Area companies are holding off on business investments as they wait to see if the U.S. will plunge off the fiscal cliff, according to a Ba...

GOV. BROWN ENGAGES WITH BAY AREA COUNCIL LEADERSHIP ON 2013 AGENDA
Dec 10 2012
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
Clearly energized from his Proposition 30 victory, and preparing next year's budget and his State of the State speech, Governor Jerry Brown sat dow...

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ADOPTS 2013 BAY AREA COUNCIL POLICY PLATFORM
Dec 10 2012
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Cybersecurity,
With victories and major progress in 2012 on all of the Bay Area Council’s top policy priorities, the Executive Committee this week adopted its 2...

New Study: For Every New High-Tech Job, Four More Created
Dec 10 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
When it comes to creating jobs in California across a wide range of income levels and employment sectors, a new report by the Bay Area Council Econ...

LEADING ECONOMISTS OFFER FORECASTS ON REGIONAL, STATE AND GLOBAL PROSPECTS
Nov 12 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
The outlook for continuing jobs and economic growth in the Bay Area are strong, according to data presented by Bay Area Council Chief Economist Jon...

VIEW FROM SACRAMENTO: ELECTION ANALYSIS
Nov 12 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
There is plenty of anxious hand-wringing among business groups and fiscal conservatives statewide – and perhaps even among those that aren’t ne...

Q3 BUSINESS CONFIDENCE SURVEY SHOWS CEOS STILL HOLDING PAT ON NEW HIRING
Oct 29 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council on October 26 released the third quarter results of Business Confidence Survey, with more employers saying they’ll ...

VIEW FROM SACRAMENTO: MEETING WITH LEG DIRECTORS SETS TONE FOR 2013 AGENDA
Oct 29 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, Government Relations,
Legislative directors for many of the region’s state Senators and Assembly members gathered at the Bay Area Council’s Sacramento office this we...

Bay Area Council Joins Gov. Brown to Say YES to Prop. 30
Oct 29 2012
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
Governor Jerry Brown on October 25 visited the Bay Area Council to brief our members on the status of Proposition 30. During the one-hour lunchtime...

BAY AREA’S ECONOMIC HOMOGENEITY SUGGESTS NEED FOR REGIONAL STRATEGY
Oct 19 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
While economic development planning done at local levels within the Bay Area is important, it may not be as productive or effective in maximizing g...

BAY AREA COUNCIL JOINS SAN FRANCISCO BID FOR 2016 SUPER BOWL
Oct 19 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
With a tweet and a song, San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee on Thursday kicked off a bid to bring Super Bowl L (50) to the Bay Area in 2016. Standing with ...

Proponents of SF Measure to Drain Hetch Hetchy Resort to Mud-Slinging
Oct 19 2012
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council has labeled as “irresponsible and desperate” statements by proponents of a San Francisco ballot measure to dismantle the H...

BAY AREA COUNCIL TO PLAY KEY ROLE IN SPECIAL LEGISLATIVE SESSION ON HEALTHCARE
Oct 15 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
With healthcare set as the topic for a year-end special legislative session called by Governor Brown, the Bay Area Council is actively preparing a ...

INNOVATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM CHAMPIONED BY THE BAY AREA COUNCIL SHOWING RESULTS
Oct 15 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, News,
A game-changing pilot project to increase student achievement that the Bay Area Council helped introduce at a Marin County school district and hope...

NEW AGREEMENTS TO EXPAND CHINA TRADE OPPORTUNITIES
Oct 3 2012
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
While the political rhetoric over the United States’ economic relationship with China is heating up ahead of the Presidential election, the Bay A...

PROMISE MADE, PROMISE KEPT: FIRST FUNDING FLOWS FOR MODERNIZING CALTRAIN
Oct 3 2012
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council joined elected leaders, including Rep. Jackie Speier, state Sen. Leland Yee, Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, Assemblyman Jerry Hill an...

BAY AREA COUNCIL ADVOCACY PROPELS IMPORTANT EDUCATION LEGISLATION
Oct 3 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council’s advocacy of legislation to improve the college readiness of California high school students got results this week when Gov...

Governor, Speaker Join Bay Area Council to Reopen State’s Trade Offices
Sep 12 2012
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
Sometimes quiet persistence pays off.  Capping months of work - and proving you can indeed get important things done in a transparent fashion in t...

Momentum Building to Save Hetch Hetchy
Sep 7 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Senator Dianne Feinstein generously opened her home last Friday for a gathering convened by the Bay Area Council to raise support for the campaign ...

Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. Headlines Bay Area Council U.S.-China Collaboration Symposium on Smart Cities
Sep 7 2012
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
Some of the world’s leading companies and foremost experts in designing and building the “smart cities’ of the future will be gathering for t...

High-Level Chinese Banking Delegation Visits
Sep 7 2012
Posted In: China, Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council on Wednesday hosted a high-level business delegation from China, providing our members a unique opportunity to meet with top d...

Governor Announces Action on Pension Reform
Aug 28 2012
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The Bay Area Council and Silicon Valley Leadership Group welcomed Governor Jerry Brown’s announcement today of a plan that takes a first step in ...

BAY AREA COUNCIL MAKES HISTORIC EXPANSION TO SACRAMENTO OFFICE
Aug 20 2012
Posted In: Events, Government Relations, News,
Highlighting the need for bold action on the many urgent and serious issues confronting California’s economic future, the Bay Area Council is ope...

KEEPING VIGILANT AGAINST WATERED DOWN PENSION REFORM
Aug 10 2012
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
As the state Legislature enters the final weeks of the 2012 session, the eyes of the state’s leading business associations are firmly on Sacramen...

WHITE HOUSE TURNS TO THE BAY AREA COUNCIL FOR CYBER INPUT
Aug 10 2012
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Economy, News,
At the request of the White House, the Bay Area Council on August 9 convened top technology executives from companies around the region to meet wit...

WINNING A WAR OF WORDS ON HETCH HETCHY BALLOT MEASURE
Aug 10 2012
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council and other opponents of a costly and dangerous plan to dismantle the Hetch Hetchy Water and Power System scored a significant v...

High Speed Rail Decision a Big Win For California, the Bay Area and the Bay Area Council
Jul 10 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
California and the Bay Area took a gigantic leap forward with the state Senate's approval on July 6 of funding to begin construction on the initial...

Sacramento Here We Come
Jul 10 2012
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Events,
Anyone familiar with how decisions get made in Sacramento knows how important it is to have a physical presence in the state capital. That’s why ...

NEW STUDY ASSESSES THE BAY AREA’S POWERFUL INNOVATION SYSTEM AND THE CHALLENGES IT FACES
Jul 3 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Education,
Stagnating federal investment in basic research, declining state funding for higher education and immigration policies that limit access to global ...

SUPREME COURT RULING RETURNS FOCUS TO CONTROLLING COSTS AND IMPROVING HEALTH
Jun 28 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
In a statement today on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding the federal Affordable Care Act, Bay Area Council President Jim Wunderman said: “...

Spring Business Confidence Survey Signals Optimism About Economy, Caution About Hiring
Jun 26 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council today released its spring Business Confidence Survey, with employers signaling caution about hiring, expressing modes...

Council Members Bring Their Agenda to New APEC Ambassador
Jun 25 2012
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Economy,
Last year, the Bay Area Council was proud to partner with San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee to host the gathering of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (AP...

Great News for Port of Oakland, Regional Trade and Employment
Jun 25 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
One of the Council's lead priorities got a big boost that will spur new jobs and support the region’s valuable trade industry. The Port of Oakla...

Rep. Anna Eshoo Joins Council in Releasing Study on Economic Benefits of Modernizing Caltrain
Jun 12 2012
Posted In: Economy, Events, Government Relations,
Modernizing the Caltrain commuter service would create the equivalent of almost 9,600 jobs, increase property values and generate overall economic ...

Growing Coalition of Bay Area Businesses Supports Caltrain Electrification
Jun 5 2012
Posted In: Uncategorized,
For over a decade, an electrified Caltrain has existed only as an unfunded ambition of Peninsula employees, employers, and transit supporters. Toda...

Make Your Voice Heard: Vote on June 5!
Jun 1 2012
Posted In: Government Relations, News, Press Releases,
The Council encourages you to exercise your right to vote on Tuesday, June 5. Two measures we are watching with particular interest align with our ...

Council Welcomes New Members Wyse Technology, Federal Reserve Bank of SF and Caruso Affiliated
Jun 1 2012
Posted In: News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council is pleased to welcome new members Wyse Technology, the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco and Caruso Affiliated. Wyse Techn...

Group Seeking to Tear Down Hetch Hetchy Launches Petition Drive for November Ballot
Jun 1 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The threat of losing the Hetch Hetchy clean water and power system that serves 2.5 million Bay Area residents and businesses took a dangerous step ...

First New Commuter Ferry Route in 20 Years Ready to Set Sail
Jun 1 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
The San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA), whose formation the Bay Area Council supported, is preparing to launch ...

Affordable Care Act Creates Almost 100K Jobs, Boosts Economic Activity in California by $4.4 Billion
May 21 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
A new study by the Bay Area Council Economic Institute suggests that if the Supreme Court strikes down the Affordable Care Act, it may have a negat...

Clinton, Rice, Brown and CEOs Wow Packed Outlook Conference
May 7 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
California will come “roaring back,” but it “will happen much faster if we work together.” That was among the messages President Bill Clint...

Cybersecurity Bill Advances with Council Support
May 7 2012
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Government Relations, News,
Bay Area businesses struggling with the challenges of protecting consumer data, intellectual property, and internal information systems against gro...

Council Members Take Priority Issues Straight to the Governor’s Office
Apr 13 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
Delegates on the Bay Area Council’s annual Sacramento Advocacy Day trip on Wednesday got the ear of the Governor and top Legislative leaders duri...

Photos from the Council’s Sacramento Advocacy Day
Apr 13 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,

Council Announces Positions on Ballot Measures
Apr 6 2012
Posted In: Economy, Education, Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council Executive Committee has taken positions on a number of statewide measures and one local measure appearing on the June and Nove...

COUNCIL MEMBERS WEIGH IN ON PRESIDENT’S JOBS AGENDA
Mar 9 2012
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
The White House this week sought input from Bay Area Council members on President Obama’s jobs and economic agenda. Don Graves, Executive Directo...

MORE PROGRESS ON CALTRAIN MODERNIZATION
Feb 27 2012
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Regional transportation officials are making progress in staking a claim for early investment by the California High Speed Rail Authority in electr...

NEW LIFE FOR PENSION REFORM THIS YEAR?
Feb 27 2012
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
In a surprise move, state GOP leaders last week introduced a series of bills that mirror Governor Brown’s 12-point pension reform plan, which had...

Council Welcomes New Foundation Director
Feb 27 2012
Posted In: Community Engagement, News,
The Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Erin Hafkenschiel as Director of the Bay Area Council Foundation, the charitable organization...

Council Partners on First-of-Its-Kind Website to Educate Businesses About Health Care Reform
Feb 8 2012
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, Healthcare,
The Bay Area Council joined with California’s leading business organizations today to launch the Health Law Guide for Business, a first-its-kind,...

Improving Business Climate Tops Council’s 2012 Priorities
Feb 3 2012
Posted In: China, Community Engagement, Cybersecurity,
Revving up the Bay Area and state economies will lead the Bay Area Council’s top priorities for 2012, with specific focus on reforming the Califo...

Public Private Partnerships Can Create Millions of CA Jobs, Fix Infrastructure
Jan 27 2012
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Ramping up California's use of public-private partnerships to help fund and construct major infrastructure projects could create millions of jobs, ...

Business Confidence, Hiring Outlook on the Rise
Jan 11 2012
Posted In: Economy, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council has released its latest Business Confidence Survey, with CEOs and executives sounding increased optimism for the Bay ...

Finalists in Bay Area Council Holiday Art Competition
Dec 22 2011
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events,
Thank you to all the 4th graders from the Oakland Achieve Academy who participated in our 3rd Annual Holiday Art Competition. The top three final...

Council Releases New Economic Forecast with UCLA Anderson
Dec 16 2011
Posted In: Economy, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute today released its first two-year regional economic forecast as part of a new partnership with the respecte...

Council Mounts Effort to Protect Vital Regional Water Supply
Dec 16 2011
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
A campaign to dismantle the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir -- the source of clean, reliable and affordable drinking water for 2.5 million residents and bus...

California Early Learning Scores Major Federal Grant
Dec 16 2011
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education, Government Relations,
Youngsters and families throughout the Bay Area and California got welcome news this week with the announcement by the White House that the Golden ...

Using Innovation to Control Healthcare Costs
Dec 2 2011
Posted In: Healthcare, News,
With the goal of creating a cost-effective, high-quality healthcare system in California among our top priorities for 2012, the Council’s Healthc...

Mayor Ed Lee Updates the Council Board on SF Economy
Dec 2 2011
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Events,
Fresh from his election victory, San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee spoke enthusiastically at the Council’s Board of Directors meeting on Thursday about ...

Council Helps Secure $5 Million Regional Planning Grant
Nov 18 2011
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Government Relations,
In a big win for the Bay Area, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on Thursday awarded a $5 million grant to a group of public age...

Council Signs Agreement Expanding Economic Cooperation in China
Nov 9 2011
Posted In: China, Economy, News,
The Bay Area Council this week embarked on five-day trade mission to China that opened with the signing of a new economic cooperation agreement wit...

Annual Dinner a Resounding Success
Nov 4 2011
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events, News,
Under the artful direction of Master of Ceremonies the Honorable Willie L. Brown Jr., the Bay Area Council treated almost 750 guests to an evening ...

Bay Area Council Co-Sponsors Federal STEM Education Innovation Act
Nov 4 2011
Posted In: Education,
The Bay Area Council, along with Intel, Agilent, and Synopsys co-sponsored a bill introduced today by Congressman Mike Honda that would help develo...

Council Leads High Speed Rail Discussion Ahead of Business Plan Release
Oct 21 2011
Posted In: News,
Council President Jim Wunderman convened a  powerful gathering of high speed rail supporters this week to discuss our  progress in building regio...

LA Times Praises Council for Leadership on Controlling Healthcare Costs
Oct 21 2011
Posted In: Economy, Healthcare, News,
The Bay Area Council’s campaign to control skyrocketing healthcare costs earned an enthusiastic endorsement this week from the Los Angeles Times,...

Council Unveils Roadmap for Creating a High-Value Healthcare System
Oct 19 2011
Posted In: Economy, Healthcare, News,
The Bay Area Council today released its “Roadmap to a High-Va...

Council’s China Trade Mission Promises Packed Agenda
Oct 14 2011
Posted In: China, Events,
Transportation, health care and investment are among the key topics headlining the Council’s upcoming trade mission to Shanghai and Beijing from ...

Council’s Free Trade Advocacy Reaps Reward
Oct 14 2011
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations, News,
Sure we are just one region in a big country, but the Bay Area Council justifiably celebrated its contributions pushing the rock up the hill to sec...

Business Confidence Plummets
Oct 13 2011
Posted In: Economy, News, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today released its latest Business Confidence Survey, with Bay Area CEOs and executives expressing strong disappointm...

Council’s Clout on Display in D.C.
Oct 7 2011
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Economy, Government Relations,
"Californians have never been dissuaded by naysayers. From the Golden Gate Bridge to the Internet, California’s investments in infrastructure ha...

Council Hosts US Ambassadors Visiting to Promote Latin America Trade
Sep 30 2011
Posted In: Economy, Events, News,
The Bay Area Council played host this week to top U.S. Embassy officials from Brazil, Chile and Peru who were completing a five-day national tour t...

Annual Members Meeting a Giant(s) Success
Sep 30 2011
Posted In: Events, News,
The Bay Area Council this week held its Annual Members meeting, which was attended by more 70 members and was generously hosted by the San Francisc...

Council Getting Busy on High Speed Rail
Sep 26 2011
Posted In: Economy, News,
The Bay Area Council has been busy these past two weeks firming up support for high speed rail, as a deadline looms for the release of a much-antic...

Dialogue and Diplomacy to Lead to Transformative Policies for Women Around the World
Sep 16 2011
Posted In: Events, Press Releases,
Jim Wunderman, president and CEO of the Bay Area Council, released the following statement about the second day of the APEC Women and the Economy S...

Powerhouse Lineup Opens Women in the Economy Summit
Sep 15 2011
Posted In: Events, Press Releases,
Jim Wunderman, president and CEO of the Bay Area Council, released the following statement about the Opening Program of the APEC Women and the Econ...

Press Release: Council Hosts US Cabinet Secretaries, World Leaders
Sep 9 2011
Posted In: Events, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council, the business group that represents the largest employers in the San Francisco-Silicon Valley-Oakland Bay Area, next week will...

COUNCIL DELEGATION IN A SACRAMENTO STATE OF MIND
Sep 2 2011
Posted In: Events, Government Relations,
Jobs, high speed rail and CEQA reform were among the hot topics during the Bay Area Council’s successful Sacramento Day visit this past Monday. T...

Press Release: Bay Area Council Hires Rufus Jeffris as Vice President of Communications
Aug 22 2011
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today announced that Rufus Jeffris has been hired as Vice President of Communications, bringing with him more than 25 years of...

BAC APPLAUDS APPOINTMENT OF NEW JOBS CZAR
Aug 22 2011
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council heartily applauded Governor Jerry B...

SEA LEVEL RISE POLICY FLOATS TO TOP OF AGENDA
Aug 22 2011
Posted In: Uncategorized,
The business community must take a more active role in guiding future policy related to the impact of sea level rise in the Bay Area. That was the ...

GOOGLE’S MARISSA MAYER SHARES LEADERSHIP INSIGHTS
Aug 22 2011
Posted In: Events,
Earlier this month, the Bay Area Council welcomed Google's first woman engineer and self-proclaimed geek, Marissa Mayer, as featured speaker at a m...

AS CYBERSECURITY MOVES THROUGH D.C., THE COUNCIL IS THERE
Aug 8 2011
Posted In: Cybersecurity,
Once the purview of science fiction movies and a few obvious member companies in Silicon Valley, cybersecurity has now become a burning concern for...

Learning from California’s Experience to Build Successful Health Insurance Marketplaces
Aug 3 2011
Posted In: Healthcare,
By Micah Weinberg For the transformation of our healthcare system ...

JANET LAMKIN BECOMES COUNCIL’S FIRST WOMAN CHAIR
Jul 29 2011
Posted In: Events,
We are very happy to report that Janet Lamkin, President of Bank of America California was unanimously elected by the Executive Committee to serve ...

“END OF THE BAD TIMES” FOR HIGH-SPEED RAIL IN BAY AREA?
Jul 22 2011
Posted In: Uncategorized,
In a move widely hailed as a potential savior for the high-speed rail project in the Bay Area, the Bay Area Council is working to bring the Metropo...

Press Release: Bay Area Council Proposes Path Forward to End High-Speed Rail Impasse on the Peninsula
Jul 20 2011
Posted In: Press Releases,
Today, the Bay Area Council sent a letter to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) urging the Commission to take a leadership role in th...

KAISER CEO, GEORGE HALVORSON, RECORDS EARLY EDUCATION VIDEO
Jul 15 2011
Posted In: Education,
The Council believes that the most cost-effective way to address the achievement gap in California education is to act early. Backed by hard data, ...

GREEN JOBS ACTUALLY ARE SPROUTING IN BAY AREA
Jul 15 2011
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Chalk this up as one business attraction policy the state got right.  According to a report released by the Brookings Institution, in partnership ...

CEQA REFORM COMING? IT JUST MIGHT BE…
Jul 8 2011
Posted In: Events, Government Relations,
Four little letters, so much headache.  CEQA, or the California Environmental Quality Act, has been on the Bay Area Council's wish list for reform...

CYBERSECURITY LEGISLATION MOVING. COUNCIL GEARS UP TO ACT
Jul 8 2011
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Events,
With strong signals coming from the House, the Senate and the White House, real cybersecurity legislation seems destined to become law in late fall...

HAPPINESS, CHALLENGES SURROUND STATE BUDGET PASSAGE AND SIGNING
Jul 1 2011
Posted In: Education, Government Relations,
This week, despite the mixed results of the state budget, the Council celebrated some big victories when funds for the statewide education data sys...

Press Release: Despite Worsening National Economic Outlook, Small and Medium Bay Area Businesses Still Looking to Hire, according to New Business Confidence Survey
Jun 24 2011
Posted In: Economy, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today released its spring Business Confidence Survey, and the results show that despite the worsening economic outloo...

Press Release: Bay Area Council Announces Staff Promotions
Jun 15 2011
Posted In: Press Releases,
Today, the Bay Area Council announced several internal staff promotions.  John Grubb has been named Chief of Staff, Del Christensen has been named...

Press Release: Bay Area Council and State Education Leaders Ask for Reinstatement of Funds for Statewide Education Data System in State Budget
Jun 6 2011
Posted In: Education, Press Releases,
This morning, the Bay Area Council, along with California State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) and Long Beach Superintendent Chris Steinhauser ...

Media Advisory: Bay Area Council and State Education Leaders to Hold Press Phone Briefing to Ask for Reinstatement of Funds for Statewide Education Data System in State Budget
Jun 6 2011
Posted In: Education, Press Releases,
Bay Area Council President & CEO Jim Wunderman, California State Senator Joe Simitian and Long Beach Superintendent Chris Steinhauser will hold...

ED DATA SYSTEM FIGHT COMES TO A HEAD
Jun 3 2011
Posted In: Education,
This week, the Council’s efforts to reinstate funds for a statewide student data system received another boost when the Assembly and Senate voted...

Bay Area Council Awarded $120,000 Grant for Healthcare Reform Implementation
May 27 2011
Posted In: Healthcare,
We are delighted to announce a partnership with the California Endowment to lead best practices for healthcare reform implementation in California....

Statement: Bay Area Council Calls on State Leaders to Reinstate Funds for Statewide Student and Teacher Data Systems
May 24 2011
Posted In: Education, Press Releases,
Last week, the first draft of the “May Revise” budget suspended funds and development of the California Longitudinal Pupil Achievement Data Sys...

Bay Area Council Leadership Forum Speaker Series: Senator Mark Leno visits the Bay Area Council to talk budget options
May 23 2011
Posted In: Government Relations,
Senator Mark Leno, Chair of the Senate Budget Committee visited the Bay Area Council on Friday to talk about the current status of budget negotiati...

Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla credits the Bay Area Council for her interest in early childhood education
May 23 2011
Posted In: Education,
Assemblywoman Susan Bonilla, who currently Chairs an Assembly Select Committee on High Quality Early Education, credited the Bay Area Council’s 2...

COUNCIL GEARS UP FOR TWO BIG FIGHTS – DATA SYSTEM AND DEVELOPMENT
May 20 2011
Posted In: Education,
With Governor Jerry Brown’s May Revise of the state budget ...

COUNCIL PARTNERS WITH YANGPU DISTRICT TO DEVELOP BAY AREA SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PARK
May 20 2011
Posted In: China,
Yangpu Vice Mayor Haidong Tang, Bay Area Council President & CEO Jim Wunderman and Shui On Land

Bay Area Council Sends Letter to State Leaders Pleading for Education Data Systems to Be Saved
May 20 2011
Posted In: Education, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today sent a letter to Governor Jerry Brown and the Legislature requesting that two programs be spared as part of his May revi...

Bay Area Council and Coalition of Business Groups Call on Governor to Adopt Five-Point Financial Workout Plan
May 12 2011
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Bay Area Council and a coalition of business groups from around the state have sent a letter to Governor Jerry Brown, urging him to re-start ne...

Media Advisory: U.S. State Department, City and County of San Francisco and Bay Area Council to Host Briefing on September APEC Meetings and Women and Economy Summit
May 10 2011
Posted In: Press Releases,
San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee, the U.S. State Department and the Bay Area Council will host a briefing on Thursday, May 12th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 ...

COUNCIL PARTNERS WITH STATE DEPARTMENT TO HOLD SEC. CLINTON’S WOMEN AND THE ECONOMY SUMMIT
May 9 2011
Posted In: Events, Government Relations,
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has said that "in too many instances, the march to globalization has also meant the marginalization of wo...

SENATOR MARK LENO DISCUSSES POSSIBLE BUDGET SOLUTIONS
May 4 2011
Posted In: Events, Government Relations,

Bay Area Council Gas Tax Poll
May 1 2011
Posted In: News,

BAC CYBER SECURITY COMMITTEE GOES TO WASHINGTON
Apr 29 2011
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Government Relations,
In unseasonably summer-like heat and humidity, members of the Council's "Cyber Squad" went covert at Secret Service HQ and stormed Capitol Hill thi...

BAC HOSTS DELEGATIONS TO CHINA ON HEALTHCARE AND CLOUD COMPUTING
Apr 29 2011
Posted In: China, Healthcare,

Press Release: 71% of Americans Believe Safety of our Information Systems is a National Security Issue, according to New Nationwide Poll on Cyber Security
Apr 25 2011
Posted In: Cybersecurity, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today released a new poll on cyber security and internet use, and the results show that 71% of Americans believe the safety of...

BAC HOSTS VINCENT LO TO DISCUSS CHINA’S NEXT FIVE YEAR PLAN
Apr 22 2011
Posted In: China,
This morning, more than 125 people squeezed together for breakfast with Vincent Lo, architect of the Bay Area Council’s China efforts, and the Ch...

SAVING CALTRAIN IS KEY TO BRINGING HIGH-SPEED RAIL UP THE PENINSULA
Apr 22 2011
Posted In: Uncategorized,
This week, three Peninsula legislators, Congresswoman Anna Eshoo, State Senator Joe Simitian and Assemblyman Rich Gordon, held a press conference t...

DA MAYOR REVIEWS 2011 OUTLOOK CONFERENCE
Apr 22 2011
Posted In: Events,
Many thanks to former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown for his glowing review of the Outlook Conference in

GOVERNOR BROWN MAKES 2011 OUTLOOK CONFERENCE A DAY TO REMEMBER
Apr 15 2011
Posted In: Events,
This week, we held our 2011 Outlook Conference, and what a day it was!  ...

Breakfast Discussion with Vincent Lo: A Firsthand Account of China’s 12th Five Year Plan
Apr 7 2011
Posted In: China, Events,

Press Release: Business Council on Climate Change and Bay Area Council Release Electric Vehicle Guide for Businesses
Apr 6 2011
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Press Releases,
Today, the Business Council on Climate Change (BC3) and Bay Area Council jointly announced and released the new guide, Electri...

Press Release: Bay Area Council’s 2011 Outlook Conference to Feature Governor Jerry Brown
Apr 6 2011
Posted In: Events, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today announced the lineup for its 2011 Outlook Conference, the region’s premier discussion on the economy, business and pol...

COUNCIL TALKS STATE BUDGET, REDEVELOPMENT AT SOLANO EDC
Apr 2 2011
Posted In: Uncategorized,
On Wednesday, the day after Governor Brown called off negotiations with Republicans, Bay Area Council President & CEO Jim Wunderman

Press Release: Kaiser Permanente CEO George Halvorson to Chair Bay Area Council’s Early Childhood Education Committee
Apr 1 2011
Posted In: Education, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today announced that George Halvorson, Chairman and CEO of Kaiser Permanente, has been appointed Chair of the Bay Area Council...

COUNCIL BOARD MEMBER DR. MOHAMMAD QAYOUMI NAMED PRESIDENT OF SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY
Mar 25 2011
Posted In: Education,
Congratulations to Bay Area Council board member Dr. Mohammad Qayoumi, who has been

Press Release: Small and Medium Sized Bay Area Businesses Expect to Increase their Workforce over the Next Six Months, according to New Business Confidence Survey
Mar 24 2011
Posted In: Economy, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today released its winter Business Confidence Survey, and the results show that Bay Area CEO’s and executives are c...

Governor Jerry Brown to Speak at Outlook Conference April 12
Mar 15 2011
Posted In: Events,
We got word yesterday that Governor Jerry Brown will be speaking at our 2011 Outlook Conference on April 12. We are excited to hear from Governor B...

Demonize data on teaching at our state’s peril
Mar 14 2011
Posted In: Education,
The following Op-Ed by Jim Wunderman, Bay Area Council President & CEO, appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle on March 13th. The article ...

Press Release: Bay Area Council Urges California Legislature to Embrace the Spirit of Compromise
Mar 11 2011
Posted In: Government Relations, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today urged the California Legislature to embrace the spirit of compromise to close the state’s $26.6 billion budget deficit...

WATCH A LIVE WEBCAST OF CALIFORNIA’S MOST IMPORTANT PENSION REFORM DEBATE THIS YEAR
Mar 8 2011
Posted In: Events, Government Relations,
UPDATE: Thanks to everyone who tuned in and participated in our public pension forum yesterday. Check out the links below for video and photos from...

Press Release: Bay Area Council Endorses Governor Brown’s Budget Proposal
Mar 4 2011
Posted In: Government Relations, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today announced its support for Governor Brown’s proposed budget package designed to close the state’s $26.6 billion budge...

Media Advisory: Bay Area Council to Meet with Governor Jerry Brown
Mar 4 2011
Posted In: Government Relations, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council’s Executive Committee will meet with Governor Jerry Brown tomorrow in San Francisco. When: Friday, March 4...

Media Advisory: Bay Area Council to Hold Forum on California’s Unfunded Public Pension System
Mar 4 2011
Posted In: Government Relations, Press Releases,
With tensions flaring all across the country over public pensions, tomorrow, March 9th at 8:30a.m., the Bay Area Council will bring together a pane...

Global Green Cities Conference Streaming Live
Feb 23 2011
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Starting tonight, the Bay Area Council Economic Institute will hold Global Green Cities of the 21st Cen...

MEDIA ADVISORY: BAY AREA COUNCIL TO HOST BRIEFING ON UPCOMING ASIA PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERATION (APEC) SUMMIT
Feb 22 2011
Posted In: Economy, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council will host a briefing today on the upcoming Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit from 5:30pm – 6:30pm.  The U.S. ...

San Francisco Chronicle: Time for World Expo encore in Bay Area in 2020?
Feb 14 2011
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area is well positioned to compete to host World Expo 2020 at Moffett Field. But first, a little housekeeping: The United States needs to p...

Lisa & Douglas Goldman Fund Awards Economic Institute $15,000
Feb 11 2011
Posted In: Community Engagement, Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute is pleased to announce its second year of partnership with the...

Press Release: Symposium on Global Green Cities of the 21st Century to Be Held in San Francisco
Feb 10 2011
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change, Press Releases,
Organizers and sponsors of the Global Green Cities of the 21st Century: Evolving Models for Sustainable...

Bay Area Council Board Member Featured in New York Times
Feb 9 2011
Posted In: China,
Bay Area Council Board Member Featured in New York Times Bay Area Council Board member and President of Heller Manus Architects, Jeff Hell...

Press Release: World Expo in Silicon Valley Would Generate $5.6 Billion in Economic Activity for Bay Area, According to New Report
Feb 8 2011
Posted In: Economy, Press Releases,
Today, the Bay Area Council Economic Institute and Beacon Economics released a study outlining the economic impacts if Silicon Valley were to host ...

CBS-5: Bay Area To Bid On 2020 World’s Expo
Feb 8 2011
Posted In: News,
Check out the World Expo economic impact report featured on KCBS last night, including an explanation of the proposed site at Moffett Field.

Updates from the Bay Area Council China Office
Feb 8 2011
Posted In: China,
After several years of trans-Pacific collaboration between the Bay Area Council and business and government leaders in the Yangtze River Delta regi...

Press Release: Bay Area Council to Hold Forum on California’s Unfunded Public Pension Liability
Feb 4 2011
Posted In: Events, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today announced that they are hosting a forum on the current state of California’s public pension system.  The event, entit...

IS CALIFORNIA HEADED FOR A SUPER STORM OF UNFUNDED PENSION LIABILITIES?
Jan 28 2011
Posted In: Events,
Join Us for a Frank Conversation on the Current State of California's Public Pension System Estimates vary wildly on just how la...

Bay Area Council Response to State of the Union Featured on White House Blog
Jan 26 2011
Posted In: Government Relations,
Check out Jim Wunderman’s response to the State of the Union, along with governors, mayors and national business group leaders, on the White Hous...

KTVU: Bay Area Democrats Generally Happy With State Of Union Speech
Jan 26 2011
Posted In: Government Relations,
Bay Area Democratic legislators were generally pleased with President Obama's State of the Union address Tuesday night, while the business communit...

Statement: BAY AREA COUNCIL’S STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA’S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS
Jan 25 2011
Posted In: Government Relations, Press Releases,
Bay Area Council President & CEO Jim Wunderman released the following statement tonight in response to President Obama's State of the Union Add...

COUNCIL HOSTS SENATOR WARNER FOR CANDID DISCUSSION ON INNOVATION, JOBS
Jan 24 2011
Posted In: Events, Government Relations,
[caption id="" align="alignright" width="179" caption="Senator Mark Warner speaking with members of the Bay Area Council"]

COUNCIL NAMES SPRING XING DIRECTOR OF SHANGHAI OFFICE
Jan 21 2011
Posted In: China,
[caption id="" align="alignright" width="146" caption="Spring Xing, Director of BAC's Shanghai Office"]

Media Advisory: BAY AREA COUNCIL TO HOST U.S. SENATOR MARK WARNER OF VIRGINIA FOR DISCUSSION ON JOBS, ECONOMY
Jan 19 2011
Posted In: Events, Government Relations, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today announced that they will host U.S. Senator Mark Warner of Virginia for a discussion on innovation, global competitivenes...

KCBS: Bay Area Council Response to Governor Brown’s Proposed Budget
Jan 12 2011
Posted In: News,
Check out the interview below with Jim Wunderman on KCBS discussing the release of Governor Brown's proposed budget.

San Francisco Chronicle: Jerry Brown’s budget earns business leaders’ raves
Jan 12 2011
Posted In: Government Relations,
They like it, they really like it. That's the early reaction to Gov. Jerry Brown's budget from Bay Area business leaders, economi...

Statement: BAY AREA COUNCIL’S STATEMENT ON GOVERNOR BROWN’S PROPOSED STATE BUDGET
Jan 11 2011
Posted In: Press Releases,
Bay Area Council President & CEO Jim Wunderman released the following statement today in response to Governor Brown’s proposed state budget: ...

Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal: International trade showing recovery
Jan 6 2011
Posted In: Economy,
International trade -- which declined with the global economy in 2009 -- is recovering, according to a report released Thursday by the Bay Area Cou...

Press Release: International Trade Showing Signs of Recovery After 2009 Decline, According to New Bay Area Council Economic Institute Report
Jan 6 2011
Posted In: Economy, Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute (BACEI) today released a new report, International Trade and the Bay Area Economy: Regional Interests a...

New CA Supt. of Public Instruction Taps Council VP for Transition Team
Jan 4 2011
Posted In: Education,
Our schools need help.  California’s students rank 48th or 49th in the country in reading, science and math.  Compared globally, the situation ...

KCBS: Proposed San Francisco Hiring Plan Angers Neighboring Counties
Dec 23 2010
Posted In: News,
Unemployed union workers are demanding that San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom sign a measure requiring the city to hire more local employees for ...

Statement: BAY AREA COUNCIL ANNOUNCES OPPOSITION TO SAN FRANCISCO’S PROPOSED LOCAL HIRE ORDINANCE
Dec 21 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today announced its opposition to a plan by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors to mandate that San Franciscans make up at ...

Contra Costa Times: People must be made to understand high-speed rail strategy
Dec 20 2010
Posted In: Uncategorized,
By Jim Wunderman and

San Francisco Chronicle: California poised to enter carbon-trading market
Dec 16 2010
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
Today could be seen as the biggest day yet for California's climate change law, assuming, as expected, the state Air Resources Board signs off on t...

Sacramento Business Journal: California’s clean-tech industry faces increasing competition
Dec 15 2010
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
Should California fail to produce clean-tech companies that aggressively compete in domestic and global markets, other nations that are adopting po...

Press Release: NEW ECONOMIC ANALYSIS SAYS CALIFORNIA’S CLEAN TECH LEADERSHIP AT RISK
Dec 15 2010
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
California continues to hold an edge over China and other countries as the world's innovation leader for clean energy technology, but will fall beh...

Finalists in the Bay Area Council’s Holiday Art Competition
Dec 15 2010
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events,
Thank you to all the 4th graders from the Oakland Achieve Academy who participated in our 2nd Annual Holiday Art Competition. The top three finalis...

Sacramento Bee: Effort to overhaul California governance at a crossroads
Dec 13 2010
Posted In: Government Relations,
From voters to top policymakers, almost everyone believes California's government isn't working. What's less clear is how to make the system whole ...

KGO: Jim Wunderman on the Bay Area Council Business Confidence Survey
Dec 13 2010
Posted In: Economy,
Check out the interview below with Jim Wunderman on KGO discussing the results of the latest Business Confidence Survey.

Press Release: AFTER SLIGHT DIP OVER THE SUMMER, BAY AREA BUSINESS CONFIDENCE TRENDS UPWARD AGAIN
Dec 10 2010
Posted In: Economy, Press Releases,
SAN FRANCISCO, CA — The Bay Area Council today released its fall Business Confidence Survey, and the results show that ...

San Francisco Chronicle: Business must help Jerry Brown succeed
Dec 10 2010
Posted In: News,
By Jim Wunderman Jer...

Statement: BAY AREA COUNCIL APPLAUDS OBAMA ADMINISTRATION FOR REDIRECTING HIGH SPEED RAIL FUNDS TO CALIFORNIA
Dec 9 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
SAN FRANCISCO, CA — The U.S. Department of Transportation today redirected $1.2 billion in high-speed rail funds from Ohio and W...

Press Release: BAY AREA COUNCIL AND USC TO HOLD REAL ESTATE CASE COMPETITION FOR DALY CITY’S MIDWAY VILLAGE
Dec 9 2010
Posted In: Community Engagement, Press Releases,
SAN FRANCISCO, CA — The 2010 USC Ross Program in Real Estate, presented by the Bay Area Council, will hold a case competition an...

Doyle Drive Public-Private Partnership Prompts Lawsuit From State Public Engineers Union
Dec 2 2010
Posted In: Economy,
The state engineers union is suing t...

Article of the Week
Dec 2 2010
Posted In: Economy, News,
The Brookings Institution has released a new report highli...

Santa Rosa Press Democrat: China strengthens ties to Zap electric carmaker
Nov 24 2010
Posted In: China,
Santa Rosa’s electric vehicle retailer Zap has signed a memorandum of understanding with Chinese officials to promote electric cars on the...

BAC, CLIMATE ADAPTATION TASK FORCE KEEPING CALIFORNIA ABOVE WATER
Nov 24 2010
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
On Monday, Council President & CEO Jim Wunderman joined other members of the

San Francisco Chronicle: Zap charging its way in to China’s EV market
Nov 23 2010
Posted In: China,
Chalk up another one for Zap in the race to enter China's electric car market. The small Santa Rosa EV maker has just signed a de...

Lockheed Martin Hosts BAC Board Meeting, No Space Suit Required
Nov 19 2010
Posted In: China, Events,
Yesterday, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company Vice President of Operations and Bay Area Council Executive Committee member, S.K. Gupta hosted fa...

Council Members Perfect Their Free Throws with Stephen Curry
Nov 19 2010
Posted In: Events,
On Tuesday night, the Council and Octagon teamed up to host a...

ARTICLE OF THE WEEK
Nov 19 2010
Posted In: China, News,
The New York Times featured an interesting article this week...

San Francisco Chronicle: Come, let us brainstorm together
Nov 17 2010
Posted In: Science and Innovation,
You're a science or high-tech professional, and you're looking for an online forum to kick around some ideas with your peers and find ...

San Francisco Examiner: Bay Area Council launches online innovation hub
Nov 16 2010
Posted In: Science and Innovation,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute’s Science and Innovation Consortium launched another tool to help leaders in the science and...

Press Release: BAY AREA SCIENCE AND INNOVATION CONSORTIUM (BASIC) LAUNCHES NEW ONLINE INNOVATION HUB
Nov 15 2010
Posted In: Press Releases, Science and Innovation,
The Bay Area Science and Innovation Consortium (BASIC) today announced the launch of its new science and technology online innovation hub:

MEDIA ADVISORY: BAY AREA COUNCIL TO HOST “GOLD MEDAL” RECEPTION FOR GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS STAR STEPHEN CURRY
Nov 15 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council plans to hold a “Gold Medal” reception in honor of Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, tomorrow, Tuesday, November 1...

Wall Street Journal: Taking a Stand for Bay Area Business
Nov 11 2010
Posted In: News,
When there is high-stakes action involving the Bay Area, Jim Wunderman is often among the first to get involved. Jim Wunderman says the freedom to...

Ross Program in Real Estate Awarded $10,000 by The Counselors of Real Estate
Nov 9 2010
Posted In: Community Engagement,
By Chandra Alexandre

The Packard Foundation Renews Commitment with $100,000 Grant
Nov 5 2010
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education,
By Chandra Alexandre By many measures of progress, the United Sta...

San Francisco Chronicle – Nancy Pelosi’s clout for Bay Area will be missed
Nov 3 2010
Posted In: Government Relations,
Nowhere will Nancy Pelosi's loss of the House speakership be felt more acutely than here in the Bay Area, where her power - and th...

The Bay Citizen – Pelosi Fall Will Hit Bay Area Hard
Nov 3 2010
Posted In: Government Relations,
The Republican Party’s takeover of the U.S. House of Representatives could have far-reaching implications for the Bay Area. The Republican's big...

Congratulations to the San Francisco Giants!
Nov 2 2010
Posted In: News,
Congratulations to World Series Champions, the San Francisco Giants! And also a big congrats to Bay Area Council Execu...

San Jose Mercury News – Silicon Valley economy expected to bounce back
Nov 1 2010
Posted In: Economy,
Silicon Valley's economy should rebound from the recession before the rest of the state and Bay Area, thanks to an infusion of venture capital and ...

MTC Awards $6 Million for Electric Vehicle Taxi Implementation
Oct 28 2010
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
A world class electric vehicle network for the region, supported by the Bay Area Council, moved one step closer to f...

Bay Area Council’s Positions for November 2010 Ballot
Oct 19 2010
Posted In: Government Relations,
With campaign ads and mailers popping up on your television and in your mailbox, it’s clear that

San Francisco Business Times – Power grab threatens development
Oct 19 2010
Posted In: News,
A contentious plan to confront rising sea levels in the Bay Area is creating a political storm as developers and planning officials say the proposa...

2010 Regional Economic Forecast Conference Series: An Uncertain Recovery
Oct 18 2010
Posted In: Economy, Events,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute, in partnership with Beacon Economics, is pleased to present its 2010 series of regional economic forecas...

NEW BCDC AMENDMENTS TO DRAMATICALLY AFFECT SMART DEVELOPMENT
Oct 18 2010
Posted In: Uncategorized,
By Scott Zengel The San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development C...

New Bay Area Council Logo Goes Up In Conference Room
Oct 12 2010
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council celebrated another important milestone last week when our new logo was put up on our conference room wall. The event was met w...

California State Budget Passed… Finally
Oct 11 2010
Posted In: Government Relations,
The California legislature pulle...

Council Honors Three Business Legends and Launches New Brand and Logo
Oct 7 2010
Posted In: Events, News,
By Joe Arellano Last night, we held our 65th Annual Din...

San Francisco Business Times – Angel Conway: ‘Take back’ San Francisco
Oct 7 2010
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area Council’s 65th annual dinner Wednesday night was full of surprises. Warren Hellman delivered the biggest surprise....

KGO TV – Survey shows drop in confidence about recovery
Sep 27 2010
Posted In: News,
The number of Bay Area executives who think the economy is better now than it was six months ago has decreased by 17 percent since May, according t...

The Bay Citizen – Bay Area Biz Still Pessimistic
Sep 27 2010
Posted In: News,
The Bay Area business sector is not ready to sing "Happy Days Are Here Again." A new quarterly survey just released by the Bay Area Council finds ...

San Francisco Chronicle – Bay Area execs’ confidence slips a bit
Sep 24 2010
Posted In: News,
Still positive, only less so. That's the message from the Bay Area Council's latest survey of business confidence in these parts. Of the 500 CEOs...

San Francisco Business Times – Local CEOs nervous, but some still hiring
Sep 23 2010
Posted In: News,
Bay Area CEOs are nervous about the future, but remain optimistic about the region as a whole -- and some are still in hiring mode. T...

Press Release: Business Confidence Drops Due to Slowing Economy, According to Bay Area Council Survey
Sep 23 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council today released the results of the Summer 2010 Business Confidence Survey. It shows a slight downturn in business confidence an...

Press Release: Bay Area Council To Hold “Battle Of The Pundits” Discussion On November Elections With Garry South and Jon Fleischman
Sep 21 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council is holding a discussion on the November elections this Thursday, September 23, 2010, with widely respected Democratic politica...

Press Release: Bay Area Council Economic Institute Announces Host Committee for 21-Economy Asia-Pacific Pre-Summit in San Francisco Next Year
Sep 16 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council Economic Institute today announced that its public-private CalAPEC Organizing Committee, which was responsible for organizing ...

Ross Program in Real Estate Info Session September 21
Sep 15 2010
Posted In: Community Engagement, Events,
Please join us for the next info session for the USC Ross Program in Real Estate, presented by the Ba...

AP – Calif. expo advocates would use old Navy air base
Sep 13 2010
Posted In: News,
Advocates for a bid to host California's first World Expo since 1940 see its potential placement at a former military air base in the Silicon Valle...

Governor Schwarzenegger, Bay Area Council, Announce Bid for 2020 World Expo
Sep 13 2010
Posted In: News,
On Sunday, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger joined Bay Area Council President & CEO Jim Wunderman to announce that California will bid to host th...

White House Adviser Nancy Sutley Visits Bay Area Council
Sep 13 2010
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Events, Government Relations,
By Andrew Michael

Press Release: Governor Schwarzenegger, Bay Area Council, Announce Bid for 2020 World Expo
Sep 12 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today joined Bay Area Council President & CEO Jim Wunderman to announce that California will bid to host the 202...

San Jose Mercury News – Plans unveiled for bid to put World Expo 2020 at Moffett Field
Sep 12 2010
Posted In: News,
While still barely a gleam in the governor's eye, plans to try to bring the World Expo 2020 to Silicon Valley inched forward Saturday, as Gov. Arno...

San Francisco Chronicle – Schwarzenegger to pitch Bay Area World Expo
Sep 8 2010
Posted In: News,
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger will make a pitch for the Bay Area to host the world's fair in 2020 when he visits the Shanghai World Expo later this we...

San Jose Mercury News – California preparing bid to host 2020 World Expo in Silicon Valley
Sep 8 2010
Posted In: News,
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger held a news conference Wednesday morning at the Santa Clara offices of chip maker Marvell Technology Group, a public pep...

KTVU – Governor to Lobby for Another World Expo in Bay Area
Sep 8 2010
Posted In: News,
The Palace of Fine Arts is the iconic landmark leftover from the World’s Fair in 1915. If the Governor has his way, the Bay Area will host anothe...

San Francisco Chronicle – Schwarzenegger bound for Asia on trade mission
Sep 7 2010
Posted In: News,
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is leading a trade mission to Asia this week to promote California products and to help secure what he said could amount...

September 2010 Trade Mission to China with Governor Schwarzenegger
Sep 7 2010
Posted In: China,
We would like invite you on an important trip to Shanghai and Hangzhou, China with Governor Schwarzenegger, September 8-13. The Bay Area Council h...

Trip to Open the Bay Area Business Community’s China Landing Pad
Sep 6 2010
Posted In: China,
There are many reasons why Bay Area companies have decided now is the time to expand in China. With China’s stunning economic growth, its rapidly...

Bring World Expo to Silicon Valley in 2020
Aug 30 2010
Posted In: News,
Over the weekend, I had an Op-Ed in the San Jose Mercury News that is essentially the tip of the spear of one o...

What businesses need to get moving
Aug 25 2010
Posted In: Economy, News,
By Jim Wunderman For those who didn’t catch this last week, her...

Press Release: Bay Area Council To Hold Awards Reception For Scholarship Program
Aug 17 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council will be holding its annual Creating Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship Program awards reception this evening at the off...

2010 Bay Area Council Scholars Announced
Aug 17 2010
Posted In: Community Engagement,
Congratulations to the 2010 Bay Area Council Scholars! The Creating Tomorrow's Leaders program has had the benefit of receiving incredible and dive...

Governor Schwarzenegger, Bay Area Council, Announce Bid for 2020 World Expo
Aug 15 2010
Posted In: Economy, News,
On Sunday, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger joined Bay Area Council President & CEO Jim Wunderman to announce that California will bid to host th...

Press Release: Bay Area Council Statement On Tour Of Peninsula High-Speed Rail Route
Aug 13 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
Today, representatives of the Bay Area Council joined stakeholders and elected officials from Peninsula cities to tour the Peninsula rail corridor ...

After Tour of Peninsula Rail Corridor, Council Calls on Menlo Park and Atherton to Stop High-Speed Rail Lawsuit
Aug 13 2010
Posted In: Uncategorized,
By Joe Arellano Today, I joined stakeholders and elected officials...

Press Release: Bay Area Council and USC Announce 2010 Ross Program in Real Estate
Aug 10 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
Today, the Bay Area Council and the University of Southern California (USC) announced the launch of the 2010 Ross Program in Real Estate.  The Ros...

BAC Sends Pointed Letter to Peninsula Cities Consortium (PCC) About High Speed Rail
Aug 2 2010
Posted In: Transportation,
By Jim Wunderman Last Friday, I sent a sharply-worded le...

BAC and Alliance of CEOs Join Forces to Discuss Investment in China
Jul 26 2010
Posted In: China, Events,
By Jim Wunderman Last week, the Bay Area Council and the

Press Release: Bay Area Council to Hold Forum on AB32 this Afternoon
Jul 22 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
The Bay Area Council is conducting a forum on AB 32, California’s Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, today, Thursday, July 22 at 4pm.  Suppor...

Bay Area Council to Hold Forum on AB 32
Jul 21 2010
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Events,
The Bay Area Council is conducting a forum on AB 32, California’s Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, tomorrow, Thursday, July 22.  Supporters...

Press Release: Bay Area Council Economic Institute Releases America’s Cup Economic Impact Study
Jul 19 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
Today, the Bay Area Council Economic Institute (BACEI) and Beacon Economics released a study outlining the economic impacts if San Francisco is nam...

The America’s Cup: Economic Impacts of a Match on San Francisco Bay
Jul 19 2010
Posted In: Economy, News,
Today, the Bay Area Council Economic Institute released "The America's Cup: Economic Impacts of a Match on San Francisco Bay." The report can be ac...

Why the Council’s Focus on China? It’s the Economy…
Jul 12 2010
Posted In: China,
By John Grubb At the end of 2006, recognizing that most of the Council’s members have operations ...

Press Release: Bay Area Council Statement on the Federal Government’s New “Perfect Citizen” Cyber Security Program
Jul 7 2010
Posted In: Press Releases,
Last week, the federal government announced that it is launching an expansive program dubbed "Perfect Citizen" to detect cyber assaults on private ...

BAC Convenes Leading Superintendents to Strategize Improving Student Achievement
Jun 28 2010
Posted In: Education, Events,
By Linda Galliher The magnitude and complexity of the challenges f...

Governor Schwarzenegger Congratulates Bay Area Council on Shanghai Office Opening
Jun 18 2010
Posted In: China, Government Relations,
This week, Governor Schwarzenegger was generous enough to send a video message to the Bay Area Council delegation in Shanghai for the opening of ou...

BAC Leads Delegation to Promote Early Childhood Education
May 17 2010
Posted In: Education, Government Relations,
By Matt Regan California’s education system is broken to the point ...

U.S. Bank Awards $10,000 for Council’s Creating Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship Program
May 14 2010
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education,
By Chandra Alexandre The Creating Tomorrow’s Leaders Program is...

BAC Economic Institute’s Report Calls for Economic Reset
May 10 2010
Posted In: Economy,
This week the Bay Area Council Economic Institute, with the help of McKinsey & Co., released the seventh biannual

Council’s New Cyber Security Initiative Profiled by Business Week
Apr 12 2010
Posted In: Cybersecurity, News,
By Jim Wunderman Here is a recent interview I did for Business We...

Bay Area Council Solidifies Support of AB 32
Apr 8 2010
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
By Jim Wunderman Today, the Bay Area Council announced that its E...

Bay Area Council Takes Positions on June Ballot Measures
Apr 7 2010
Posted In: Government Relations,
By Matt Regan With campaign spending records falling every day it...

Bay Area Agencies Must Work Together to Improve Transit System
Apr 6 2010
Posted In: News,
By Jim Wunderman As published in

San Francisco Foundation Awards $50K Grant for Climate Bay Area
Apr 1 2010
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
By Chandra Alexandre The Bay Area Council Economic Institute (BAC...

Governor Signs Green Tech Jobs Bill
Mar 24 2010
Posted In: Economy, Energy and Climate Change,
By Jim Wunderman Today Governor Schwarzenegger signed

California Misses Out On First Round of Race to the Top
Mar 8 2010
Posted In: Education,
By Linda Galliher The U.S. Department of Education announced the l...

Bay Area’s Job Market Showing Signs of Life
Mar 3 2010
Posted In: Economy,
By Jim Wunderman The Bay Area Council today announced that for th...

Job Creation Measure held up in Senate Environmental Quality Committee
Mar 1 2010
Posted In: Uncategorized,
By Matt Regan SBX8 42 a bipartisan bill co-authored by Senator Lou Co...

Bay Area Transportation Projects Get $76 Million
Feb 19 2010
Posted In: Transportation,
By Michael Cunningham This week the last chunk of transportation...

Council Delegation hits Washington on Jobs Agenda
Feb 8 2010
Posted In: Government Relations,
By George Broder The day after the President released his first budg...

After Copenhagen: Climate Action Goes Local
Feb 1 2010
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
After Copenhagen: Climate Action Goes Local Developing economies are some of the world leaders in clean technology By

Must act decisively and fast to save California
Jan 2 2010
Posted In: Economy, News,
Opinion Editorial by Jim Wunderman Published in the

Constitutional Convention effort starts 2010 with a bang
Jan 2 2010
Posted In: Government Relations,
On the same day, the San Francisco Chronicle ran an extensive Opinion Editorial,

Must act decisively and fast to save California
Jan 2 2010
Posted In: Government Relations,
AS 2009 closes, the opinion of most Californians is "good riddance." The year ends with record unemployment figures of 12.5 percent, 25 percent hig...

Critical Bay Area Transportation Projects Moving Ahead
Dec 11 2009
Posted In: Transportation,
By Michael Cunningham Oakland Airport Connector Clears F...

Business Confidence Creeps into Positive Territory
Dec 3 2009
Posted In: Economy,
By Jim Wunderman This week the Bay Area Council released its quar...

Berkeley City Council Gets On Board Ferry
Nov 23 2009
Posted In: Transportation,
By George Broder The Berkeley City Council

Institute Report Shows Strong Ties with India
Nov 20 2009
Posted In: Economy,
By Sean Randolph This week the Bay Area Council Economic Institute...

Meeting Discusses Business Case for Healthcare Reform
Nov 13 2009
Posted In: Healthcare,
By Linda Galliher Public option? Individual mandate? Universal cov...

Persistence, Persuasion Pay Off with NOL
Nov 6 2009
Posted In: Economy, Government Relations,
By George Broder This week Congress passed – and this morning Pres...

Major Deal Overhauling State’s Water System Reached
Nov 4 2009
Posted In: Water,
By Andrew Michael Today, after many days and a long night of debate...

Important Victory for Education! – SB 19 Signed into Law
Oct 19 2009
Posted In: Education,
By Linda Galliher California’s cash strapped and underperforming...

BAC Trip Initiates Sustainable Development Dialogue with D.C.
Oct 7 2009
Posted In: Government Relations,
By Matt Regan A delegation of California’s leading infill developers, architects and land u...

2009 Bay Area Council Scholars Announced
Sep 1 2009
Posted In: Community Engagement,
Congratulations to the 2009 Bay Area Council Scholars! The Bay Area Council Scholarship Program has had the benefit of receiving incredible and div...

Who will represent the East Bay in Congress?
Aug 10 2009
Posted In: Government Relations,
By Matt Regan The ballroom of the Concord Crowne Plaza was filled to ...

There is Hope in Education Reform
Jul 28 2009
Posted In: Education,
By Linda Galliher The Bay Area Council Education Committee recentl...

Constitutional Convention Town Halls Coming to the Bay Area
Jul 27 2009
Posted In: Government Relations,
By Melanie de La Grange For the past year, the Bay Area Council has led the charge to systematically reform our State through a Constitutional Con...

Bay Area Council Strengthens National ECE Effort
Jun 18 2009
Posted In: Education,
By Matt Regan The Bay Area Council is pleased to share our strengthen...

Senate Leader Dean Florez visits the Bay Area Council
Jun 12 2009
Posted In: Events, Government Relations,
By Matt Regan Senate Leader Dean Florez (D) Shafter, visited the Bay ...

BART needs to get contract talks done by July 1
Jun 8 2009
Posted In: Uncategorized,
By Jim Wunderman With a June 30 contract deadline approaching, no...

Bay Area Council Tackles Early Childhood Education Issue
May 22 2009
Posted In: Education,
By Matt Regan This week the Bay Area Council

Affordable Housing Week Kicks-off May 15
May 12 2009
Posted In: Community Engagement,
By Scott Zengel The Bay Area Council’s Bay Area Ross Program i...

The Council’s Whirlwind Trip to Washington, D.C.
May 11 2009
Posted In: Government Relations,
By Melanie de La Grange The Bay Area Council Delegation got a true taste of Washington D.C. last week – from high powered meetings on Capitol Hi...

Hewlett Foundation Awards $900,000 Grant for Education Reform
Apr 17 2009
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education,
By Chandra Alexandre Last Week, the Education Reform team at the ...

BAC Economic Institute Prepares Economic Recovery Workplan
Mar 26 2009
Posted In: Economy,
By Sean Randolph The California Business Housing and Transportatio...

Scaling Up: From Green Buildings to Green Cities in the US and China | May 1, 2009
Mar 13 2009
Posted In: China, Energy and Climate Change,
By Kristen Durham Amidst a worldwide recession, efficient use of res...

Effective data can save money and kids
Mar 12 2009
Posted In: Education,
By Linda Galliher President Obama has said that his administration...

Best Practices in Early Childhood Education
Mar 6 2009
Posted In: Education,
By Matt Regan There is a growing body of research and evidence that i...

GreenBiz Index Released
Feb 9 2009
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
By Andrew Michael At the State of Green Business 2009 meeting the G...

Post from the Inauguration – The Golden Tickets
Jan 19 2009
Posted In: Government Relations,
By Andrew Giacomini, Chair, Bay Area Council Government Relations Committee January 19, 2009 - MLK Day -Washington DC Remember that movie "Willie...

BASIC Board of Director Steven Chu Selected as U.S. Secretary of Energy
Jan 8 2009
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change, Science and Innovation,
COUP FOR NATION, FOR REGION, FOR BASIC AND FOR THE BAY AREA COUNCIL The scientific community has expressed impressive and enthusiastic support for...

Bank of America Deepens Partnership with the Bay Area Council
Dec 12 2008
Posted In: Community Engagement,
Helping to drive the Bay Area economy and quality of life have been priorities of both the Council and Bank of America for decades. Recently, the B...

San Francisco Eastern Neighborhoods Plan passes – finally
Dec 11 2008
Posted In: Uncategorized,
By Matt Regan There is an old military adage, “the first casualty o...

Economic Institute Seeks Data and Support for Globalization Index
Dec 2 2008
Posted In: Economy,
Signs of the Bay Area’s globalized economy appear every day, indeed our global connections have propped our economy up, when so many others acros...

Mark Your Calendar for DC in ’09
Dec 1 2008
Posted In: Government Relations,
By George Broder Mark your calendar and set your schedule to partici...

Request for Proposal: 50K Fellowship Program
Nov 14 2008
Posted In: Science and Innovation,
Bay Area Science and Innovation Consortium (BASIC) has created its first Fellowship Program to benefit region’s future leaders in science and tec...

Bay Area Business Leadership Shaping Climate Change Agenda
Nov 10 2008
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
By Andrew Michael Climate Change initiatives at the global level an...

Reform and the Rails Ride to Victory with Council Support
Nov 7 2008
Posted In: Government Relations,
By George Broder Election Day was historic and a success for most of...

Bay Area Council Positions on Ballot Measures
Oct 13 2008
Posted In: Government Relations,
By Matt Regan After months of analyzing the issues and meeting with p...

2008 Bay Area Council Scholars Announced
Sep 1 2008
Posted In: Community Engagement,
Congratulations to the 2008 Bay Area Council Scholars! The Bay Area Council Scholarship Program has had the benefit of receiving incredible and div...

Bay Area Council Calls for Constitutional Convention
Aug 22 2008
Posted In: Government Relations,
By Jim Wunderman We must admit we were surprised by the tidal wav...

Bay Area CEOs Plan Layoffs-Say Recovery Won’t Start for 12 Months
Aug 15 2008
Posted In: Economy,
The surveyed executives also say we have 12 months of things getting worse before the local economy starts to get better.

Bay Area Council Foundation Awarded $125,000 Grant for Preschool Initiative
Jul 25 2008
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education,
By Chandra Alexandre We have just received word of a grant award ...

State Senator Abel Maldonado to discuss Budget, other issues, with Bay Area Council
Jul 14 2008
Posted In: Events, Government Relations,
By Matt Regan Senator Abel Maldonado, who represents the 15th Senate ...

Big Step in Fight for “Cap and Trade”
Jun 27 2008
Posted In: Energy and Climate Change,
Yesterday, the California Air Resources Board released the long anticipated draft Scoping Plan for the Global Warming Solutions Act, also known as ...

June 3rd Elections Give Smart Growth a Boost
Jun 20 2008
Posted In: Government Relations,
By Matt Regan Now that the election waters have cleared somewhat and ...

Bay Area Council Helps Shape Regional Transportation Plan
Jun 6 2008
Posted In: Uncategorized,
Today the Bay Area Council Transportation Committee submitted recommendations to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission for their T2035 Plan. T...

Andy Ball, CEO of Webcor, Op Ed Draws Statewide Attention
May 8 2008
Posted In: Education,
The Chair of the Council’s Education Committee wrote an op ed published in the San Francisco Examiner about education reform that is being fired ...

Incoming Senate President Pro Tem Breaks Bread with Council
Apr 4 2008
Posted In: Events, Government Relations,
By Matt Regan On Friday April 4, Bay Area Council member Hanson Bridg...

Biannual Bay Area Economic Profile
Apr 2 2008
Posted In: Economy,
Today, we released the biannual Bay Area Economic Profile, which analyzes the Bay Area’s changing economy and benchmarks its performance...

Today is the last day to apply for the Bay Area Council Scholarship Program!
Mar 24 2008
Posted In: Community Engagement, Education,
We are wrapping-up our search for the next class of Bay Area Council Scholars – the application deadline is today -

Major Development Goes South
Mar 19 2008
Posted In: Uncategorized,
By Matt Regan After many years and many millions of dollars invested ...

NorCal Coalition Doing Well on Goods Movement
Mar 11 2008
Posted In: Uncategorized,
By Michael Cunningham A coalition the Council has helped lead he...

“Out of the Box” ideas that could happen with private partnerships
Mar 10 2008
Posted In: Uncategorized,
By Jim Wunderman I had the honor of meeting today with the Govern...

BART, the Council, The Governor – Time for a Press Conference
Mar 7 2008
Posted In: Uncategorized,
This morning Jim participated in a press conference with the Governo...

2007 Bay Area Council Scholars Announced
Sep 1 2007
Posted In: Community Engagement,
Congratulations to the 2007 Bay Area Council Scholars! In addition to recognition from the Bay Area Council, each of our scholarship recipients hav...

2006 Bay Area Council Scholars Announced
Sep 1 2006
Posted In: Community Engagement,
Congratulations to our first class of Bay Area Council Scholars! In addition to recognition from the Bay Area Council, each of our scholarship reci...

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