State’s Economy

Joel Kotkin’s piece “Leading Our Economic Revival With a White Flag” (Opinion, Jan. 19) contained a number of positive observations about California’s economy. We at the California Chamber are also stressing “What’s Right With California” to give a more balanced perspective than the gloom and doom of the national media. When we do suggest reforms in our workers’ compensation programs, litigation climate and the bureaucracy, we are trying to retain jobs in California in the face of an onslaught of recruiting activities from other states. There is no evil plot by business to manufacture false complaints to escape tax and regulatory burdens. The complaints are based on painful reality.

Kotkin takes umbrage that Wilford Godbold, president and CEO of Zero Corp., speaks out on job retention issues because Zero moved two of its nine divisions to Salt Lake City. What Kotkin neglects to point out is that Godbold consistently points out he wants to retain Zero’s seven businesses in California as he believes that California’s competitive environment can be improved.

Not discussing the problem of job flight or pretending it’s only a minor factor is a prescription for disaster. California is ill-served by a “business as usual” attitude. We will continue to stress both California’s many and varied strengths as well as criticize policies and conditions that are costing us jobs.

KIRK WEST, President, California Chamber of Commerce, Sacramento