Opportunity Zone Magazine Opportunity Zone Magazine Volume 1, Issue 1 | Page 16

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OPPORTUNITY ZONE MAGAZINE | VOLUME 1
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ISSUE 1
As a CPA with a master's in taxation, what are your
thoughts about the proposed Oppor tunit y Zone
regulations?
While the federal regulations are a work in progress, I can
appreciate the spirit behind the effort. We must be responsible
stewards of the taxpayers’ money, but in moments of crisis
government must provide more tools to help communities and
attract private sector investments.
We must be responsible
stewards of the taxpayers’
money, but in moments
of crisis government must
provide more tools to help
communities and attract
private sector investments.
Why do you want to serve as treasurer and what do you
hope to accomplish?
I want to effectively manage the financial health of our
state as it maintains its place as the 5th largest economy in
the world. Through this process, I hope to promote social
equity and lift underserved communities. Additionally, I’d
like to strengthen the small-to medium-sized businesses that
constitute the backbone of our state’s economy.
What have you done previously in your career to
stimulate economic development?
I started my career in public service advocacy in 1994 when
I was elected president of a small business association. As
a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, I
authored the landmark Local Business Enterprise ordinance
on behalf of women and minority business owners. As the
elected member of the California State Board of Equalization,
I traveled up and down my 23-county district speaking to
small businesses and nonprofit organizations and organizing
resource seminars to support these entities’ compliance with
state tax regulations in an effort to promote their effectiveness
within our economy.
What’s next for Fiona Ma? Do you see yourself running
for governor or president?
I love California and the people of this state. I want to do
what’s right for people irrespective of party affiliation, race,
religion, sexual orientation or age. I am honored to get elected
to my fourth public office, but my focus right now is to be a
great treasurer.
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