COMMUNITY PERSPECTIVES
Lynnette Zelezny, president, Cal State Bakersfield: “Bakersfield and Kern County is defined by its spirit of collaboration to address community initiatives. I expect B3K to supercharge the mission-driven efforts of community partners to improve inclusive economic prosperity, and that the University will be a principal driver to expand economic opportunities.
“Operationally that means strengthening our relationships with industry partners, building on our strong economic sectors and serving emerging industries through education, training and research. CSUB is here to build the next generation of leaders in business, government, education, social services and the cultural arts.”
Karen Goh, mayor of Bakersfield: “One of my responsibilities as Mayor is promoting the city’s economic development opportunities. Through my championship of initiatives, like the Boundless & Better regional branding initiative, we are writing a new narrative about our region and our opportunities. B3K continues that goal through the development of an inclusive regional economic growth and prosperity strategy.
“My hope is that this process will lead to expanded educational opportunity, quality job creation, and an increased standard of living that is accessible to all residents. Through the development of a solid investment plan our region will be able to garner support from federal, state, and private investors. Finally, by engaging a diverse group of stakeholders, we will build the community infrastructure to address our evolving economic environment.”
Kristen Beall Watson, president and CEO, Kern Community Foundation: “The most important outcome of B3K, from a community perspective, will be the strengthening of our regional infrastructure and internal capacity through multi-sector collaboration. Building on the culture of hard work and perseverance Kern is famous for, B3K brings key stakeholders together to proactively and efficiently align efforts to create quality jobs, regional prosperity and a brighter future for all. Additionally, B3K will produce a host of valuable tools — a market assessment, a detailed roadmap, an operating plan and an investment plan — all of which will be used to guide innovative regional efforts for years to come.”
Jennifer Haley, president and CEO, Kern Oil & Refining Co.: “Having been our company’s home for nearly a century, we are proud of Bakersfield and everything our region has to offer. B3K is an ideal vehicle to champion Bakersfield regionally, in Sacramento, and in Washington, D.C. “This process is already fostering strong partnerships that are critical to our local success. It will reinforce our competitive advantage as a strategically located economic hub with diversified business sectors, which sustain high-wage jobs and great quality of life. B3K will reveal unique opportunities that build upon our regional advantages, especially in renewable fuel diversification, and help lead our region to a brighter future.”
Christian Clegg, city manager of Bakersfield: “I am energized by the B3K initiative, it has already accomplished something the City wanted to do with our enhanced Economic Development efforts: build a coalition around economic growth. B3K will create a shared vision and the partnership commitment to pull off big wins. B3K will also pinpoint growth targets for the City to invest wisely for the biggest returns.
“Ultimately, B3K is about creating greater prosperity. It has to create the right jobs that build wealth for our residents. That doesn’t happen just by exerting more effort. We do that by working smart, looking to the future, and partnering like never before.”