Detailed statistical reports of most Los Angeles Times Polls since 1992.
Results are the most optimistic in six years and reliance on small businesses is seen as positive.
But there are fears that California has a negative image. For the first time in six years since the Times Poll has been asking, a significantly greater number of Southern Californians said the state is headed in the right direction rather than on the wrong track. Although cities in Los Angeles County have had a history of bidding and battling against each other, leaders of the summit were nonetheless disturbed to learn that Southern Californians overwhelmingly think local governments are just looking out for their own areas. Joe Aro, executive director of the South Bay Economic Partnership, said there is more collaboration than people know. Whether the summit will help them find the door, analysts agree that cooperation by governments and public-private collaboration have become vital as Southern California has emerged from the recession as the capital of small businesses.