Organization and Powers

The WIB is a not-for profit public benefit corporation under the Non-profit Corporation Law of the State of California. The WIB was created in 1983 and has been designated by the City councils of the cities of Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, Downey, Hawaiian Gardens, Lakewood, and Norwalk to administer funds and programs under the Federal Workforce Investment Act, for the State-approved local Workforce Investment Area (“Local Area“) comprised of those seven cities. The WIB is entitled to exercise all of the powers afforded under State law to similar entities, subject to applicable limitations and requirements of the WIA and of the Agreement between the WIB and the Policy Board effective July 1, 2000, including the “MOU“ referenced therein (“Agreement“).

Mission

The mission of the WIB is to foster private-public partnerships to meet the employment-related needs of area residents and the workforce needs of area employers, and thereby to enhance the quality of life throughout the local area and surrounding communities.

Governing Board Composition

he authorized number of Directors is currently 25, subject to change by the WIB and the Policy board acting jointly. A majority of the Directors must be representatives of business and must meet the qualifications of Section 117 of the WIA. There are other Directors as further described below.

Appointment and Representation

The Policy Board appoints Directors, including filling vacancies, as provided by law and the Agreement. Directors are nominated by the organizations specified in WIA. Nominations are forwarded to the Policy Board or the appropriate City Council for action. Of the Directors representing Business, two are appointed by each City. The other Directors represent: organized labor, community-based organizations, educational agencies, vocational rehabilitation agencies, public assistance agencies, economic development agencies and the public employment service.

Term of Office

Each Director’s term of office is two years. Half of the Directors’ terms shall expire in one year and the other half in the next year. A Director appointed to fill a vacancy shall serve the balance of the term being filled. Directors may be re-appointed to successive terms without limitations.

Function

The WIB’s major functions in carrying out its mission include the following:

    1.    Workforce Development. Administer and coordinate WIA-funded and other            programs which prepare the workforce to meet employers’ requirements.
    2.    Community Development. Promote job creation to expand employment            opportunities and improve economic conditions for area residents.
    3.    Partnership Development. Coordinate resources and services with employers,            state and local government agencies, secondary and post-secondary school,            organized labor and community organizations.
    4.    Internal Governance. In consultation with the Policy Board as provided in the            Agreement, establish internal policies, procedures and mechanisms which            promote the WIB’s agenda.