Wolk urges stem cell research facility in Sacramento

Sends letter to Institute Chair citing regional benefits

“Sacramento is the place where citizens from our state and beyond come to be heard on the public’s business,” wrote Wolk in her letter to Bob Klein, Chair of the Institute. “It will provide the public access to the Institute and the Institute unparalleled access to both the executive and legislative branches of state government. California’s voters have wisely demonstrated their commitment to this important thrust into a healthier future.”

“The Sacramento location also maximizes interaction with the University of California at Davis, one of the world’s premier life science research institutions; and locates the office in the center of California’s fastest-growing high tech center,” wrote Wolk. “This growth rate is largely caused by the relatively low cost of living and the infrastructure the region offers.”

Proposition 71 provided $3 billion in funding over 10 years, to be generated through the sale of bonds. With the money, the newly created Institute –a state agency -- will make grants and provide loans for embryonic stem cell research. Sacramento is one of four finalist cities vying for the prestigious facility, along with San Francisco, San Diego and Emeryville.

“Locating the Institute’s headquarters in Sacramento would be a huge economic boost to this region,” said Wolk. “This is the kind of cutting-edge, clean technology that will provide a wonderful foundation for other such enterprises to follow in their footsteps. This is a great opportunity that we can’t let pass us by.”