McNerney to host economic summit

An economic summit including experts in business, education, transportation, economic development and renewable energy technology will be held on Aug. 22 at the University of the Pacific in Stockton.

Mark Chandler, manager of the Lodi-Woodbridge Winegrape Commission, is one of the experts booked for the summit, chaired by Rep. Jerry McNerney, D-Pleasanton.

The summit is intended to explore tax incentives, a reduction in regulatory burdens, encourage small businesses to locate or expand in San Joaquin County, develop renewable energy businesses, "smart growth," affordable housing and investing in science, math, engineering and technology.

In addition to Chandler, participants will include:

• Hazel Hill, dean of workforce and economic development at San Joaquin Delta College.

• Tim Hunt, former editor and associate publisher of the Tri-Valley Herald.

• Mike Locke, president and CEO of San Joaquin Partnership.

• Stacey Mortensen, executive director of the Altamont Commuter Express.

• Victor Mow of Stockton, chairman of the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors.

• Mark Plovnick, dean and professor of management at Eberhardt School of Business, University of the Pacific.

• Bill Scott, executive vice president of Akeena Solar.

• Jim Walker, vice president of enXco.

Other participants will be added.

The summit will be held at Grace Covell Hall on the Pacific campus in Stockton. It will be a half-day summit beginning in the morning, but the exact time hasn't been determined.

Contact reporter Ross Farrow at rossf@lodinews.com.