The first panel will describe California's regions, detailing the differences between and relationships among them and focusing on how each is transforming itself in response to the globalizing 21st century economy. The speakers will assess how well California's data collection and state agencies serve the needs of policy makers, both in the State Capitol and within the regions themselves.

• Jed Kolko
  Research Fellow, Public Policy Institute of California
• Ed Kawahara (PowerPoint Presentation, PDF, 15 pps.)
  Chief Consultant, Economic Strategy Panel, State of California

The second panel session will highlight regional initiatives in California, assess their effectiveness in dealing with economic development and environmental protection, and offer ideas to help them carry forward their visions for the future of regional development in California.

• Sunne Wright McPeak
  President, California Emerging Technology Fund
• Mike McKeever
  Executive Director, Sacramento Area Council of Governments
• Ashley Swearengin
  Mayor-Elect, City of Fresno
  California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley

The third panel session will outline a series of bold policy reforms aimed at improving representation in the Legislature while simultaneously updating our state government system to increase our capacity to effectively address issues of regional development and coordination.

• Micah Weinberg
  Research Fellow, New America Foundation
• Mark Paul
  Deputy Director, California Program, New America Foundation