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Press Release
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Marin IJ Editorial: Economic forum’s new chief reflects focus  July 18, 2016 - The naming of the Marin Economic Forum’s new chief not only opens a new chapter for this important public/private partnership, but it also reinforces the Marin economy’s focus on building the county’s position as a center for the growing bio-sciences industry. Jim Cordeiro recently took over as the forum’s chief executive officer, leading an organization the mission of which has been making sure that the economic health of our county is not left out of our decision-making process. In recent years, the organization has been commissioned to do reports on the economic impact of Marin General Hospital, the economic benefits of the Marin Center complex, Novato’s role and position in the growing bio-sciences industry, Sausalito’s economic issues and the costs of homelessness in Marin. These reports put important facts and figures on the table as local officials shaped plans for proposed buildings as well as long-term community planning goals. Some of the group’s reports get a lot of public traction — discussion and debate. Others have a lesser profile. The forum needs to do a better job of promoting its work to the community. The nonprofit MEF was established with funding from the county and major employers to provide a look at the local economy and to help Marin agencies pull together the facts and figures and understanding of possible economic ramifications on decisions they face. The group has also promoted bolstering Marin’s standing as a bio-science center. Fast-growing Bio-Marin and the important work of the Buck Institute for Aging Research are terrific cornerstones for building a center for an industry that likely won’t grow out of date. Cordeiro, a scientist who had founded his own bio-tech company and has been active in the entrepreneurial community, should for a solid fit for the commission. The forum is also part of the North Bay Life Science Alliance, a partnership promoting growth of the life-sciences industry in Marin, Sonoma, Napa and Solano counties. The industry already accounts for 10,000 jobs across the four counties. The Marin Economic Forum plays an important role in our county. It is not unusual for local boards and councils to wonder about the economic ramifications of some of the decisions they face. By turning to the forum and its ability to perform credible and affordable research, information is provided to help foster smarter decisions. |