Economic and political turmoil defines California today. The state’s fragile economy, high unemployment rates, and fiscal quagmire jeopardize our quality of life. The inability of elected leaders to solve problems gives rise to even greater public distrust of government. But this challenging time – and the tradeoffs that will be required if we are to move forward – requires hard work to encourage civic engagement and build consensus around a new vision of California.

That’s where PPIC comes in. Our ability to deliver reliable, accessible analysis – free of partisanship and ideological bias – puts us in a unique position to help the state find systemic and sustainable solutions to its major problems. Through briefings, events, and social media outreach, we bring essential information to an ever-wider audience and encourage dialogue on tough issues – from tax policy to water management to school finance.

To help us improve our effectiveness and prioritize our efforts, PPIC recently engaged in an innovative strategic planning process involving our staff, board of directors, and a diverse group of leaders from across the state. I am pleased that the process resulted in a compelling framework for PPIC’s research and engagement activities in three core areas:

• Understanding the Drivers of Change. PPIC will provide timely web-based data and analysis of key economic, demographic, and political trends that shape various policy issues.
• Improving Policy Responses. PPIC will focus on the major state budget categories that together account for 90 percent of California’s general fund expenditures: K-12 and higher education, health and human services, and corrections and rehabilitation. In-depth projects in these areas will provide guidance to decisionmakers and help them evaluate specific programs and policies.
• Planning for the Future. PPIC will continue to raise awareness about California’s long-term challenges. Our research and engagement activities will inform and inspire critical decisions about water and energy policy, climate change, and fiscal and governance reform.

Our website reflects PPIC’s new strategic direction and features initiatives on the state-local fiscal relationship and California 2025: Planning for a Better Future. In the coming months, you will find tools and analysis focused on the key trends driving change in California, as well as timely information on education, water policy, corrections, and the state budget.

We hope you will sign up for our monthly e-bulletin to stay up to date with our work. PPIC’s expanded video offerings bring our events—such as the 2011 Speaker Series on California’s Future—to you. And as always, all our publications are available free for downloading.

We welcome your questions, comments, and suggestions.

Sincerely,