Former Cal Cities President Jim Madaffer honored with the prestigious League of California Cities Lifetime Achievement Award

Contact: Karina Rodriguez, (916) 658-8223, krodriguez@calcities.org

Anaheim — The League of California Cities Past Presidents Council today announced former Cal Cities President Jim Madaffer as the recipient of the 2026 Past Presidents’ Lifetime Achievement Award.

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from an organization that has played such an important role in my public service journey,” said Jim Madaffer. “Throughout my career I’ve always believed that strong cities are the foundation of a strong state. This award reflects the work of countless local leaders, colleagues, and community members who have shared that commitment to improving the lives of the people we serve.”

Madaffer’s commitment to public service spans more than four decades. A successful entrepreneur who launched his first manufacturing business at age 20, he began his public service career in the mid-1980s and went on to serve two terms on the San Diego City Council, including as Council President Pro Tem. During his tenure, he helped advance major community investments, including Petco Park, transportation improvements, expanded library services, the renovation of Torrey Pines Golf Course, and the preservation of Mission Trails Regional Park.

His leadership extended beyond San Diego through service as chair of the San Diego Association of Governments Transportation Committee and as a member of the California Transportation Commission, where he led the Road Charge Task Force focused on the future of transportation funding. He also served eight years on the Cal Cities Board of Directors and as Cal Cities president from 2007–08, helping strengthen the organization’s role as the unified voice for cities statewide.

“Jim’s career is defined by a remarkable commitment to public service and a deep belief in the power of local government,” said League of California Cities Executive Director and CEO Carolyn Coleman. “From city halls and regional agencies to statewide leadership roles, he has consistently brought people together to solve challenges and build stronger communities. His contributions have left a lasting mark on California cities and the residents they serve.”

Following his time in elected office, Madaffer founded Madaffer Enterprises, Inc., a public policy and government affairs firm that advises municipalities, public agencies, and private-sector clients throughout California. He continues his public service today through leadership roles focused on transportation, water policy, and regional infrastructure, including service on the Colorado River Board of California and the Wynola Water District, as well as his work as a member of the California Transportation Commission’s Road Charge Technical Advisory Committee.

The Cal Cities Past Presidents’ Lifetime Achievement Award was established in 1996 and is given annually.

Established in 1898, the League of California Cities is a nonprofit statewide association that advocates for cities with the state and federal governments and provides education and training services to elected and appointed city officials. Cal Cities’ mission is to expand and protect local control for cities through education and advocacy to enhance the quality of life for all Californians.

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