Month: August 2013

Time Has Come to Move Forward Innovation Park Task Force Recommendations

Open_Spaceby Rob White

There has been a fair amount of discussion on the Vanguard about where, what and when an Innovation Park might (or should) be in Davis, especially recently. In light of the Bayer CropScience announcement last week to relocate to West Sacramento, the City leadership has had many conversations, internal and external, about what are the next steps and would an Innovation Park have made the difference.

Even more compelling is that this last week the City was informed by more technology companies in Davis that they are experiencing similar growth and making plans for expansion. This is likely due to the Bayer announcement as the timing is too coincidental.

Krovoza with the Early Edge Over Wolk in Money Race

Krovoza-Wolk

The first test of the viability of anyone’s candidacy is the first reporting period, and while there is a long way to go and things will change, one thing is clear from the first filing: Joe Krovoza is a serious and viable challenger for the State Assembly District seat vacated by Mariko Yamada who is termed out after six years.

The Krovoza campaign amassed $118,161.62 in contributions from the January 1 to June 30 period.  Davis Mayor Pro Tem Dan Wolk was second with $49,856.62.  Napa County Planning Commission and District Representative to Noreen Evans, Matt Pope, amassed about $20,000 and neither Bill Dodd nor Anthony Farrington reported any contributions.

Garamendi Reluctantly Voted For Student Loan Compromise

Garamendi2A few weeks after allowing a deadline to pass that would have substantially increased interest rates – from 3.4 percent to 6.8 percent – on July 1 for student loans, a bipartisan bill was introduced that supporters say will reduce the cost of borrowing for millions of students.

The legislation will link student loan interest rates to the financial markets.  That means lower rates for students right now, but higher ones down the road.  The measure passed the house 392-31 and will head for President Barack Obama for his signature.

FamiliesFirst Reduces Staffing in Effort to Remain Viable

Families-First.jpg

EMQ FamiliesFirst announced on Wednesday it would be reducing its Davis campus program and administrative staff by 77 positions effective July 31, 2013.  The Residential Treatment Program is open while they work to resolve licensing and certification issues, a statement from spokesperson Kristine Austin said.

“We are fully committed to children in crisis, their families, and the community of Davis,” said Darrell Evora, president & CEO of the agency. “This has been a very painful time for all involved. I am especially grateful to my colleagues at EMQ FamiliesFirst who have dedicated their careers to working with vulnerable young people, and to all those in Davis and Yolo County who support our mission.”