Policy and equity committee applications due Sept. 30

By Meghan McKelvey, senior member services manager, and Meg Desmond, legislative operations manager

Are you looking to get more involved, connect with peers, or influence statewide legislation? Cal Cities offers a variety of volunteer leadership and committee roles for passionate and committed members. Applications are currently being accepted for seven policy committees and the Advancing Equity Advisory Committee. 

Shape statewide legislation by joining a policy committee

Developing Cal Cities policy is a dynamic process that depends on the active involvement and expertise of city officials from all over the state. Cal Cities’ seven policy committees meet regularly to review and recommend positions for bills and regulatory proposals. Each committee meets at least three times annually — January, March, and June.

For 2027, the January and March meetings will be in person. The June meeting will be held virtually. Cal Cities does not reimburse committee members for travel expenses associated with attending policy committee meetings. Each appointment serves a one-year term.

City officials can apply for a division, department, caucus, or presidential appointment online. Approximately 60 city officials serve on each committee. Applicants will be asked to briefly share information about their professional experience and policy knowledge when applying.

For questions, contact Meg Desmond. Applications are due by Sept. 30.

Create more equitable communities through Cal Cities' equity committee

The Advancing Equity Advisory Committee helps cities strengthen their capacity to eliminate racial disparities, heal racial divisions, and build more equitable communities while also turning Cal Cities’ organizational diversity goals into intentional and consistent practices at all levels of the organization.

The committee is made up of 40 members, representing caucuses, divisions, and departments. Five members are at-large members. Each member serves a one-year term. Next year’s meetings are tentatively scheduled for: Jan. 29, April 2, June TBD, and Aug. 27, from 10 a.m. to noon on Zoom. The committee will hold a virtual orientation on Dec. 9 at 9 a.m.

Applications for the Advancing Equity Advisory Committee close on Sept. 30. Applicants will be asked about their lived and professional experiences/qualifications. For questions, contact Meghan McKelvey.