How to Get Involved
Welcome to the League of California Cities!
Local city officials are the reason California's cities are resilient and diverse communities where our residents can live, work, and play. Cal Cities is here to help ensure you are the best city official you can be for your community.
To help you get started with Cal Cities, the resources below outline your membership benefits and how you can engage with and get the most out of your membership.
Learn More About Cal Cities

Membership and Benefits
Get access to unmatched advocacy, updates about the latest policy issues, cutting-edge professional development, and more.

Members' Roadmap
New to Cal Cities or want to get the most from your membership? We’ve created a roadmap to help you get started.

2023 Advocacy Priorities
We stand ready to work collaboratively with the state and federal governments and other stakeholders to accomplish our strategic advocacy priorities.

News
The League of California Cities engages with city officials through a variety of channels to keep them informed on the issues that matter most to cities.

Western City Magazine
Dive deeper into big policy issues and trends and receive practical ideas for city officials in the monthly digital Western City magazine.

Cal Cities Delivers
Cal Cities delivers major victories for cities year after year – protecting local control, securing billions of dollars in new funding, and preserving existing city resources.
Get Involved

Departments
Functioning as professional societies with educational and networking opportunities, municipal departments play an essential role in forming Cal Cities policy and programs. Each department is represented on the Cal Cities’ board of directors and policy committees.

Regional Divisions
Representing virtually every city and town in California, Regional Divisions are at the core of our advocacy efforts. City officials — both elected and career — help develop region-specific programs and carry out grassroots activities that support chosen legislative, regulatory, and ballot measure goals.

Caucuses
Caucuses advocate for equitable state policies within Cal Cities’ internal committees and departments, ensure that the unique needs of their respective communities are responded to, and promote the advancement of officials from traditionally marginalized communities.

Coastal Cities Group
Composed of 61 cities located within California's coastal zone, the Coastal Cities Group (CCG) collaborates on sea level rise mitigation efforts, land use regulations, and other issues of mutual interest.

Rural City Information Exchange
Rural communities often face different challenges than their urban counterparts and, even when the issues are similar, the solutions can differ dramatically.

Policy Committees
City officials actively debate, shape, and steer Cal Cities’ policy-making process and advocacy efforts. Over 400 officials collectively add their expertise and guidance to Cal Cities through one of seven policy committees.
Advocacy Tools
Cal Cities provides up-to-date information about the legislative process, lobbying, and which bills are scheduled for hearings. Hone your advocacy skills by diving into our Advocacy Tools.
Mission, Vision, and Beliefs
Our mission is to expand and protect local control for cities through education and advocacy to enhance the quality of life for all Californians. Our vision is to be recognized and respected as the leading advocate for the common interests of California's cities. Learn more about Cal Cities' core beliefs.
Annual Conference and Expo
September 20-22, 2023
SAFE Credit Union Convention Center
1401 K St, Sacramento, CA
This year we will celebrate a milestone anniversary: 125 years of strengthening California cities through advocacy and education. The conference will feature a variety of speakers and timely presentations on key topics for local leaders, plus numerous opportunities for peer-to-peer sharing with other city officials throughout California.
Our popular Expo Hall will be filled with new and familiar faces and brimming with opportunities to engage with companies and organizations that provide services to cities.
Importantly, every year at the conference, Cal Cities convenes a member-driven General Assembly and Resolutions process. This is a unique opportunity to engage all members on a range of significant policy issues to protect local control.
In response to member feedback, we have made several updates to improve the member experience and engage members in the process, including a change in the time for the General Assembly. As we lead up to the conference, be on the lookout for more detailed information about the General Assembly, Voting Delegate instructions, and Resolutions process.
For questions about conference registration, please contact our registrar, Megan Dunn. For all other questions, please contact Education and Events Manager, Christina George.
For questions about this year’s Expo, including how to reserve a booth space, please visit the Expo webpage.
Please review our event and meeting policies.
Become an exhibitor2023 Conference Information
Full Registration Includes:
- Admission to general and concurrent sessions and the expo
- Wednesday host city reception, Thursday lunch with exhibitors, and Friday closing lunch
- Admission to CitiPAC and diversity caucus receptions
- Electronic access to all program materials
Registration Process:
With an update in technology, registration will now happen directly through your MyCalCities account. Please take a moment to set up your account so you are ready to go! If you have not used your MyCalCities account already, please review details about the portal and contact us for questions.
If you are registering someone other than yourself, first sign in as yourself and then choose the option to register someone else.
Note: Registrations through MyCalCities are available for credit card payments only. If you need to be invoiced and pay with a check, create your account and then reach out to conference registrar, Megan Dunn to request an invoice. Full payment is due at the time of registration.
Conference registration is required to attend all conference activities including department, division, and caucus meetings as well as the General Assembly. Sharing of registration is prohibited.
To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact conference registrar, Megan Dunn. Every effort will be made to honor requests submitted.
View Cal Cities’ event and meeting policies in advance of the conference.
Full Conference Registration Fee
*Register by Wed. July 26 for a $50 discount on Full Conference Registration Fees.
*Online registration ends Tuesday, Sept. 5. After this date, please register onsite if space allows.
Member-City Official | $650 |
Non-Member City Official | $1,650 |
Other Public Official | $725 |
All Others | $825 |
One-Day Registration Fees
Member City Official | $350 |
Non-Member City Official | $1,350 |
Other Public Official | $400 |
All Others | $450 |
Add-On Registration Fees
Guest Reception Pass | $125 |
*The guest/spouse fee is restricted to persons who are not city or public officials, are not a Cal Cities Partner or exhibitor, and would have no professional reason to attend the conference. It includes admission to Wednesday’s host city reception only. There is no refund for the cancellation of a guest/spouse registration. It is not advisable to use city funds to register a guest/spouse.
City Clerks Workshop Registration Fees
(The City Clerks Workshop is not included in Full Conference or One-Day Registration. Lunch is included.)
Member City Official | $175 |
Non-Member City Official | $350 |
Refund Policy
Advance registrants unable to attend will receive a refund of rate paid, minus a $75 processing charge, only when a written request is submitted to Megan Dunn, and received on or before Sept. 5. Refunds will not be available after this date. If you are unable to attend, you may substitute a colleague for your entire registration.
A limited number of hotel rooms are available at reduced rates for registered attendees and exhibitors at the 2023 Annual Conference and Expo. The deadline to reserve your discounted hotel room is Friday, Aug. 25 or until the hotel block is sold out, whichever is sooner.
STEP ONE: Register for the Conference
Registration can be completed through your MyCalCities Portal.
NOTE: Instructions on how to access your portal can be found at this link. link.
STEP TWO: Book a hotel room
Once you’ve registered, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to the Hotel Reservations Page. This page is where you will access discounted hotel room rates and manage your reservations, including modifications and cancellations.
Discounted hotel rates are available until Friday, Aug. 25th, or until rooms sell out, whichever comes first. We recommend reserving your room early!
You must be registered for the conference prior to booking a hotel room. Do not make a hotel reservation unless you are sure it is needed. Your city/company will be financially responsible for all cancellation/attrition fees.
SCAM NOTICE: There are many hotel scammers who may contact you claiming to be the housing bureau/service for the conference. Cal Cities has contracted with LiveCon as the official housing bureau/service for the 2023 Annual Conference and Expo. Official emails regarding the conference will come from addresses ending in @calcities.org or @live-con.com, or the actual hotel.
Parking and Transportation
The SAFE Credit Union Convention Center is located at 1401 J Street with several public parking options available. Please visit the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center parking parking webpagewebpage for additional information. Please note, parking prices are subject to change without notice.
The convention center is conveniently located 11 miles from the Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and one mile from the Amtrak Station.
Schedule is subject to change.
Wednesday, Sept. 20
Registration Open/Voting Delegates Booth Open
8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
City Clerks Workshop
(additional registration required)
8:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
AB 1234 Ethics Training
10:00 a.m.-noon
Regional Division Lunches**
11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
First Time Attendee Orientation
12:45-1:15 p.m.
Opening General Session*
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Concurrent Sessions
3:45-5:00 p.m.
Grand Opening Expo Hall and Host City Reception*
5:00-7:00 p.m.
CitiPAC Leadership Reception
7:00-10:00 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 21
Registration Open/Voting Delegates Booth Open
8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Concurrent Sessions
8:30-9:45 a.m.
Petition Resolutions Due
8:30 a.m.
Expo Hall Open
9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
General Session*
10:00-11:30 a.m.
Attendee Lunch in Expo Hall
11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Resolutions Committee
1:00-2:30 p.m.
Concurrent Sessions
1:00-5:15 p.m.
Regional Division** and Caucus Events
Evening
Friday, Sept. 22
Registration Open
7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Regional Division Breakfasts**
7:30-9:00 a.m.
Concurrent Sessions
8:00-10:45 a.m.
General Assembly (note new time!)
8:30-10:30 a.m.
AB 1661 Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
8:45-10:45 a.m.
Closing General Session*
11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
*No competing events may be scheduled during this time.
**Check with your regional public affairs manager for specific day/time.
2022 Conference Session Descriptions
View the 2022 Annual Conference and Expo Program.
City Clerks Workshop: Fair Political Practices Commission: A Workshop for Filing Officers
8:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Representatives from the Fair Political Practices Commission will conduct a multipronged training for filing officers about their roles and responsibilities under the Political Reform Act. Topics of review will include conflict-of-interest filings by designated employees, candidate campaign filings, and new or proposed regulations. New and seasoned professionals alike will benefit from this wholesale review as they prepare for the upcoming election.
Speakers:
Catharine Baker, Commissioner, CA Fair Political Practices Commission
Chloe Hackert, Education & External Affairs Unit Manager, Fair Political Practices Commission
Adam Ramirez, Political reform
consultant, FPPC
Understanding Public Service Ethics Laws and Principles (AB 1234)
10:00 a.m.-noon
State law requires elected and appointed officials to receive two hours of training in specified ethics laws and principles every two years. Newly elected and appointed officials must receive this training within one year of becoming public servants. Join a panel of experts as they help you navigate the ethics laws and principles. The Institute for Local Government is a State Bar of California minimum continuing legal education (MCLE) approved provider and certifies this activity meets the standards for MCLE credit by the State Bar of California in the total amount of 2 hours (general credits). Provider #13881. * Sign-in will begin 30 minutes prior to the session and you must be present for the full two hours to receive the certification of attendance. Entry will be prohibited once the session begins.
Speakers:
Aleks R. Giragosian, Esq., Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley
Andrew Jared, Senior Counsel, Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley
Public Works Department Meeting
11:00-11:30 a.m.
City Managers Department Business Meeting
11:00 a.m.-noon
Los Angeles County Division Lunch
11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Jennifer Quan. Additional fees may apply.
Riverside County Division General Membership Meeting
11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Erin Sasse. Additional fees may apply.
Sacramento Valley Division Membership Meeting
11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Charles Anderson. Additional fees may apply.
South San Joaquin Valley Division Lunch Meeting
11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Rajveer Rakkar. Additional fees may apply.
Inland Empire and Desert Mountain Division Lunch Meeting
11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Laura Morales. Additional fees may apply.
Opening General Session
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Welcoming Remarks:
Cindy Silva, President, League of California Cities and Mayor Pro Tem, Walnut Creek
National Anthem and Presentation of the Colors
Host City Remarks:
Robert Garcia, Mayor, Long Beach
State of Cal Cities Annual Report:
Carolyn Coleman, Executive Director and CEO, League of California Cities
Nominating Committee Report:
Randi Johl, Nominating Committee Chair and Legislative Director/City Clerk, Temecula
Past Presidents' Lifetime Achievement Award:
Cheryl Viegas Walker, Immediate Past President, League of California Cities and Council Member, El Centro
Keynote Address: We Can't Do It Alone: Leading with Courage
Jill Ellis was the first — and only — head coach to win consecutive Women’s World Cup victories. She is also the first national team coach,
men’s or women’s, to win back-to-back World Cup titles since 1938. After stepping down as head coach, Ellis established a mentoring program for the next generation of women coaches as an ambassador for the U.S. Soccer Federation.
She currently serves as President of San Diego Wave FC, the newest franchise in the National Women’s Soccer League. In her “fireside chat," Ellis will share her insights for creating unified, successful communities. In today’s
environment, it can be difficult to engage people one-on-one, much less get everyone working towards a common goal. It takes personal connection, courage, confidence — and some risk-taking — to successfully lead. Drawing from
her time as one of the most successful coaches in sports, Ellis will share her strategies for success, including ways to recruit top performers, respond to high-profile issues, and unite big personalities, non-conformists, and rising stars.
With many stories, lessons learned, and surprising parallels, Ellis’s historic tenure will equip city leaders with new ways to lead their communities and message key priorities.
Speaker:
Jill Ellis, Legendary Head Coach, U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team and President, National Women’s Soccer League San Diego
Legal Issues: Land Use and CEQA
3:30-5:00 p.m.
This session will provide a city-focused update on land use and California Environmental Quality Act litigation. MCLE credit is available.
Legal Issues: Affordable Housing Covenants: Ensuring Continued Affordability
3:30-5:00 p.m.
This session will provide an overview of best practices for administering a local affordable housing program that ensures affordable housing units are built and affordability requirements are enforced. MCLE credit is available.
Fire Chiefs Department Business Meeting
3:45-4:15 p.m.
Fiscal Officers Department Meeting
3:45-4:15 p.m.
Ending Poverty in California Cities
3:45-5:00 p.m.
California cities have faced massive change over the past two years. For communities of color, the fallout of the pandemic created fear and anxiety. Black/African American and Asian American/Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander residents have experienced higher rates of violence, job loss, and rising housing costs. Community-based organizations and cities have worked on strategies to address the underlying causes of these issues, including guaranteed basic income programs. Learn how to finance the startup of a guaranteed basic income program, sustain financing over time, and evaluate the impacts of the program. Planned with the African American and Asian Pacific Islander Caucuses.
Moderator:
Lois Takahashi, Director and Houston Flournoy Professor of State Government, USC Price School in Sacramento
Speakers:
Mark Nagales, Mayor, South San Francisco
Michael Tubbs, Founder, End Poverty in California (EPIC)
Making Equity Stick: City Charter Revisions and Other Systemic Changes
3:45-5:00 p.m.
The National Civic League recently revised its 120-year-old Model City Charter to provide guidance on everything from city management to equity and public engagement. This session will explore how communities can work together to make equity and civic engagement permanent fixtures of local governance, whether in city charters, policies, or agencies. Panelists will introduce concepts from the new model regarding equity and engagement and discuss their work to make equity and engagement lasting features of their communities.
Moderator:
Doug Linkhart, President, National Civic League
Speakers:
Harry Black, City Manager, Stockton
Mary Casillas Salas, Mayor, Chula Vista
Barbara Halliday, Mayor, Hayward
How to Stay Out of Trouble: Avoiding Council Chaos
3:45-5:00 p.m.
Council members are elected to be trustworthy and loyal stewards of public services. Using real-life examples, this session will cover the topics council members need to understand to avoid allegations of misconduct and to have a functional council. Join this session to learn the roles of a city council versus individual council members and who holds which privileges; and how to handle confidential material; safeguard attorney-client privileged information; and understand fair process hearing standards.
Speakers:
Amy Ackerman, Partner, Renne Public Law Group
Jenica Maldonado, Partner, Renne Public Law Group
Climate Action Plans in Practice: San Leandro and Ontario Case Studies
3:45-5:00 p.m.
California cities of all sizes have adopted climate action plans to help meet the state’s long-term energy reduction targets. In both Ontario and San Leandro, sustainability goals required civic leaders to take bold action to produce positive outcomes. As a result, these cities have preserved critical services and drastically reduced annual greenhouse gas emissions. San Leandro and Ontario both demonstrate cities’ capacity to adapt and hedge against climate change. In this session, learn how these two communities envisioned and accomplished their goals — and how other cities can do the same.
Moderator:
Tyler Girtman, Regional Manager, Climatec
Speakers:
Tito Haes, Director of Public Works, Ontario
Frances Robustelli, City Manager, San Leandro
Supporting Housing in Your Community Through Policy, Finance, and Communications
3:45-5:00 p.m.
As cities throughout the state strive to meet aggressive RHNA goals, many are running up against obstacles. If they have land, they lack developers. If they have developers, they often have community opposition. In this session, local leaders will share creative policies, innovative financing strategies, and new marketing techniques to help you steer clear of the pitfalls on the road to encouraging more housing in your community.
Moderator:
Karalee Browne, Assistant Executive Director, Institute for Local Government
Speakers:
Lisa Motoyama, Mayor Pro Tem, El Cerrito
Heather Vaikona, President and CEO, Lift to Rise
Scaling Up: Fostering Innovation Through Technology Pilot Projects
3:45-4:05 p.m.
As California cities face tight budgets, cities like Long Beach have invested in programs that procure and pilot innovative solutions to pressing civic challenges. This session will highlight three innovative, data-informed pilot projects in the city of Long Beach from the last two years. Participants will learn why pilot projects are a transformative low-cost strategy for exploring technological solutions in an accessible, equitable, and cost-effective manner, and how they can design procurement workflows to scale from idea to pilot project, and eventually, full contract.
Speaker:
Ryan Kurtzman, Smart Cities Program Manager, Long Beach
Infrastructure Recovery After Disaster: 2018 Camp Fire
4:15-4:35 p.m.
The most destructive fire in California history, the Camp Fire, destroyed 90% of the town of Paradise. Public infrastructure was heavily impacted and has required creative solutions for recovery. Hear the lessons learned on the road to infrastructure recovery, and how regional cooperation and leveraging financial resources have supported the path forward.
Speaker:
Marc Mattox, Public Works Director/Town Engineer, Paradise
Personnel and Employee Relations Department Meeting
4:30-5:00 p.m.
California's Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program
4:45-5:05 p.m.
With over $1 billion invested, California's Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program includes a detailed public engagement process for improving park access in underserved communities. Learn how this interactive, three-step model can improve access to the community outreach process, create an authentic dialogue with residents, and lead to better outcomes for a broad range of public projects.
Speaker:
Sedrick Mitchell, Deputy Director, Community Engagement, California State Parks
Grand Opening Expo Hall and Host City Reception
5:00-7:00 p.m.
CitiPAC Annual Leadership Reception
7:00-10:00 p.m.
Supporting Local Small Businesses to Raise Community Capital
8:30-9:45 a.m.
There is a crisis of capital access for many small businesses: 83% of businesses do not have access to bank loans or venture capital. Hear from a securities lawyer and capital raising coach on how local governments and community-based organizations can create an ecosystem that helps small local businesses raise investment capital from their community of customers, supporters, and fans. Discover how to set up the necessary infrastructure so that capital can flow to these unsung heroes of our communities.
Facilitator:
Jenny Kassan, Council Member, Fremont
Defending Institutions: Promoting Civic Debate and Rejecting Personal Attacks
8:30-9:45 a.m.
Public discourse has become increasingly hostile in the last couple of years, at times escalating to verbal and physical threats against elected officials and city employees. When this happens, how can city leaders and administrators protect themselves and their families while fostering greater community trust? Do existing channels for public debate suffice, or are more outlets needed to make the public feel heard — particularly in the age of digitization? Attend this session to learn how transparent communication tactics can effectively diffuse situations with outraged citizens.
Moderator:
Jim Lewis, City Manager, Pismo Beach
Speakers:
Larry Gonzalez, Chief of Police, Riverside Police Department
Patricia Lock Dawson, Mayor, Riverside
Going Green By 2025: Implementing SB 1383 in California Communities
8:30-9:45 a.m.
New regulations went into effect this year that will force most Californians to adopt a new habit: organic waste recycling. SB 1383 (Lara, 2016) aims to reduce organic waste disposal by 75% by 2025 and recover no less than 20% of disposed edible food. These changes not only require cities to reevaluate their waste disposal services but unleash a wave of education and outreach. Experts will share lessons they have taken away from assisting jurisdictions with this issue and what public agencies should be doing now.
Moderator:
Jennifer Nentwig, Principal, Tripepi Smith
Speakers:
Michael Balliet, President, Michael Balliet Consulting, LLC
Mike Learakos, CEO, Abound Food Care
Cara Morgan, Branch Chief, CalRecycle
Ann Schneider, Council Member, Former Mayor, Millbrae, Commissioner,
CA Statewide Commission on Recycling Markets & Curbside Recycling
Cannabis and Economic Development
8:30-9:45 a.m.
In the emerging post-pandemic world, many cities are struggling to plug holes in their general fund caused by the loss of sales tax revenues. For many, it may be difficult to find funding for vital programs, including public works projects, parks, and public libraries. This panel examines in detail the revenues cannabis has brought to cities and how this funding can replace state financing programs — including redevelopment and enterprise zones — that were eliminated a decade ago. Additionally, this session will examine best practices to maximize cities’ use of cannabis revenues.
Moderator:
Barigye McCoy, Chief of Communication, Culture Cannabis Club
Speakers:
Amy O'Gorman Jenkins, Legislative Advocate, California Cannabis Industry Association
Lamar Thorpe, Mayor, Antioch
Black Education and Economics Empowerment
8:30-9:45 a.m.
Black Americans continue to face systemic obstacles in education and economics, which are perpetuating the educational achievement and wealth gap throughout our nation. Building on a recent Cal Cities African American Caucus conversation about Black excellence, education, economics, and empowerment, this panel will provide insight on how we can close the educational achievement and wealth gap to empower Black Americans to thrive in communities throughout California. Planned with the African American Caucus.
Moderator:
Marla Matime, Executive Director, African American Caucus
Speakers:
Jovan Agee, CEO Agee Global Solutions
Stevevonna Evans, Council Member, Adelanto
Legal Issues: An Update on the California Public Records Act
8:30-9:45 a.m.
This session will include a presentation on the California Public Records Act. MCLE credit is available.
Latino Caucus Business Meeting
8:45-9:15 a.m.
Monterey Bay Divison
11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Deanna Sessums. Additional fees may apply.
EV Infrastructure at No Cost: Can’t Get Better Than That!
9:15-9:35 a.m.
Cities and other public agencies in Los Angeles County can now install electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at no cost through the EV Equity Leadership program. Administered by Los Angeles County and implemented by The Energy Coalition, this program provides the infrastructure needed to improve EV charging access in disadvantaged communities and increase residents’ awareness of EV mobility options. Learn how disadvantaged communities are disproportionately burdened by the negative impacts of pollution and how they can benefit through this program.
Speaker:
Rebecca Hausheer, Director of Energy Services, The Energy Coalition
General Session
10:00 a.m.-noon
Welcome Remarks:
Ali Sajjad Taj, First Vice President, League of California Cities and Council Member, Artesia
National League of Cities Remarks:
Vince Williams, President, National League of Cities and Mayor, Union City, GA
Cities for Workforce Health Awards
Beacon Awards
Helen Putnam Award for Excellence
Outgoing President's Remarks:
Cindy Silva, President, League of California Cities and Mayor Pro Tem, Walnut Creek
Keynote Address: The Future of California
As state and local leaders grapple with changes in our economy, workforce, and communities, now, more than ever, it’s important to understand the economic, demographic,
and political trends expected in our future. Hear the latest research and data and explore how cities can use available data and resources to promote opportunity, equity, and sustainability for the state’s communities.
Speaker:
Dr. Lande Ajose, Vice President and Walter and Esther Hewlett Chair in Understanding California’s Future and Senior Fellow, Public Policy Institute of California
SB 1383 Procurement and Opportunities
12:15-12:35 p.m.
California's new organic waste regulations (SB 1383, 2016) went into effect at the start of the year. One of the goals of the new regulations is to reduce harmful methane gas emissions by composting organic waste and returning it to the soil in the form of compost and mulch. While meeting some of the regulation’s requirements, cities can also enhance local landscapes and save water. In this session, learn about the organic-waste-turned-soil-amendment process, the effect of carbon sequestration on climate change, and the different ways jurisdictions can comply with SB 1383 procurement requirements.
Speaker:
Bill Camarillo, CEO, Agromin
LED Streetlight Conversions: Benefits for the Environment and Your Budget
12:45-1:05 p.m.
Southern California Edison’s LS-1 Option E program provides local governments an opportunity to update older, less efficient streetlights to LED technology. This program offers a cost recovery mechanism, no up-front costs to the customer, and immediate savings. Plus, Southern California Edison manages the entire program from beginning to end. Learn how your city can utilize this cost-effective program.
Speaker:
John King, Manager, Southern California Edison
African American Caucus Business Meeting
1:00-1:30 p.m.
Legal Issues: Public Works Contracting and Risk Management
1:00-2:30 p.m.
This session will cover legal trends and issues pertaining to public works contracting and risk management. MCLE credit is available.
Rural City Information Exchange Meeting
1:15-2:15 p.m.
Cities for Workforce Health Grant Program: Lessons Learned for Your Employee Wellness Program
1:15-1:35 p.m.
The Cities for Workforce Health Grant Program, launched in 2014, provides 20 hours of consulting with a Workforce Health expert and $5,000 seed grants to 5 California cities each year. These grants help cities start, improve, and maintain employee wellness programs. In this session, speakers will share success stories, provide examples of how cities spent their grant funds, and discuss what did and did not work for the grant cities. Attendees will leave the session with ideas and suggestions for how they can implement or improve their city's employee wellness program now, even without grant funding.
Speakers:
Jennifer Castillo, Workforce Health Consultant, Kaiser Permanente
Dayna Gowan, Health and Wellness Manager, Keenan and Associates
CalPERS: Continuing on the Path to Sustainable Pensions
1:15-2:30 p.m.
Although CalPERS lowered its assumed rate of return in 2021, the effects on city budgets were muted by strong returns that year. Since then, global markets have been rocked by conflict, inflation, the supply crisis, and factors beyond the control of any one investor, institution, or even nation. Yet pension obligations remain in place, a yearly cost for which cities must both account and plan for. In this session, CalPERS executives will cover the most recent developments impacting city contribution rates, actuarial assumptions, investment strategies, system funding, governance, and policy decisions.
Moderator:
David Teykaerts, Assistant Division Chief, Stakeholder Relations, CalPERS
Speaker:
Marcie Frost, CEO, CalPERS
The Secrets to Building Tech Economies in Underestimated Cities
1:15-2:30 p.m.
How does a city like Fresno develop a powerhouse tech economy? How does a place once siloed as just another agricultural town successfully diversify its economy and become a hub for technology careers, businesses, and digital infrastructure? In this session, learn how Bitwise Industries builds tech economies outside Silicon Valley, creating jobs and strengthening digital infrastructure. By the end of the session, attendees will be able to explore specific ways to promote economic development while strengthening their city’s digital infrastructure and reducing workforce barriers. Planned with the Latino Caucus.
Moderator:
Laura Maristany, Vice President, External Affairs, Bitwise Industries
Speakers:
Thilani Grubel, VP of Bitwise Industries, Fresno, Bitwise Industries
Esmeralda Soria, Council Member, Fresno
Creating More Equitable and Resilient Communities
1:15-2:30 p.m.
Communities across California are increasingly affected by climate change and face growing health concerns, safety issues, and economic impacts. Learn how cities throughout the state are engaging vulnerable residents to identify problems and solutions that advance equity and create more resilient communities for all.
Moderator:
Roberto Carlos Torres, Senior Program Manager, Institute for Local Government
Speaker:
Kimbley Craig, Mayor, Salinas
Joe DeVries, Deputy City Administrator/Chief Resilience Officer, Oakland
Farrah Khan, Mayor, Irvine
AB 602: An Essential Breakdown for Development Impact Fee Programs
1:15-2:30 p.m.
AB 602 (Grayson, 2021) imposes significant changes to the way cities and counties administer impact fee programs by amending Government Code Section 65940.1 and the California Mitigation Fee Act. Notable changes include requirements related to internet postings and hearing information, fee calculation summaries, and annual reports. AB 602 also substantially changes how fees are justified, calculated, and adopted. During this session, attendees will learn the details of each new requirement and the steps they need to take to ensure compliance.
Moderator:
Marco Martinez, Attorney, Best Best & Krieger LLP
Speakers:
Anita Gutierrez, Development Services Director, Pomona
Scott Thorpe, Senior Vice President, Revenue and Cost Specialists, LLC
Creating a Youth-Friendly City: It’s Not Just About the Money
1:15-2:30 p.m.
Learn how the city of Sacramento’s efforts to create a community where all youth can thrive can be replicated in other municipalities. This session will outline a multifaceted strategy that covers how to change policy, expand infrastructure, start new programming, collaborate with key stakeholders, and find new protected sources of revenue. Engage in a dialogue that delves into the integration of authentic and meaningful youth voices, including when it is appropriate to engage with them and what authentic and meaningful youth engagement looks like.
Facilitator:
Jay Schenirer, Council Member, Sacramento
Five Steps to Take Before Applying for Federal Infrastructure Funding
1:45-2:05 p.m.
Join this session to learn the five steps cities can take to better prepare to apply for federal funding made available through the 2021 federal infrastructure bill. Panelists will discuss how to prioritize the request list, align local priorities with federal funding, assess available resources and processes, and analyze the implications of funds with and without federal tracking requirements. Panelists will also discuss how to evaluate and implement new technologies and processes to ensure a sustainable, streamlined program that meets the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program’s tracking and reporting requirements.
Speaker:
Michael Parrish, Director of Business Development, B2GNow
Asian Pacific Islander Caucus Business Meeting
2:00-3:00 p.m.
Coastal Cities Group Annual Meeting
2:45-4:00 p.m.
Advancing Empowerment in a Disadvantaged Community
2:45-4:00 p.m.
Join the city of Norwalk for an informative discussion on how a partnership with the University of California, Irvine helped Norwalk successfully engage and empower one of its most distressed neighborhoods. Attendees will learn how the city’s empathic listening-first approach helped bridge divisions and uncover meaningful, cost-effective, and context-sensitive interventions to community needs. This session will focus on how its attention to the significance of culture and art helped the city build trust and create a partnership necessary for sustained progress.
Moderator:
Richard Rojas, Deputy City Manager, Norwalk
Speakers:
Susan Harden, Adjunct Faculty, University of California Irvine
Rick Ramirez, Mayor, Norwalk
Gabriela Regalado, Director of Social Services, Norwalk
ARPA to General Fund: Leveraging Today’s Capital for Tomorrow’s Savings
2:45-4:00 p.m.
With a stream of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and a deadline to spend them, cities have a unique opportunity to invest in critical infrastructure like never before. From energy and water system modernization to broadband and indoor air quality improvements, cities are looking to deploy innovative solutions that will pay dividends in the future. Panelists will discuss how cities are using ARPA funds, what projects have and have not worked, lessons learned, and how cities are best positioned to help the state meet its greenhouse gas reduction goals.
Speakers:
Jennifer Martin-Gallardo, Grants Ombudsman, California Energy Comission
Ken Striplin, City Manager, Santa Clarita
Dealing with Deferred Maintenance
2:45-4:00 p.m.
Building owners and local government agencies are facing a deferred maintenance crisis. This is often exacerbated by the “pay as you go” policy employed by many state and local governments to fund ongoing and capital maintenance. Without proper funding and policy correction, the cost of deferred maintenance will double every five years. During this session, attendees will learn effective methods to gather information and develop insights to make strategic decisions and develop a prioritized capital needs plan that successfully addresses the growing deferred maintenance crisis.
Facilitator:
Dean Leonard, Vice President, Strategic Asset Management, Faithful+Gould
Fixing Prop 47
2:45-4:00 p.m.
Proposition 47 promised safer neighborhoods, but the unintended consequences that followed have provided something else. In 2018, the Public Policy Institute of California reported that the passage of Proposition 47 directly correlated to the uptick in theft throughout the state. That report took on new relevance in 2022 when a flurry of “smash-and-grab" robberies and retail thefts received nationwide attention. In fact, many urban cities have reported an increase in property and violent crimes in recent months. Constituents throughout the state are feeling these impacts and looking to the Legislature for solutions. Many voters want to change Proposition 47 to address repeat theft offenders. Join this session to hear about possible legislative solutions and underlying causes of the recent increase in crime.
Speakers:
Jonathan Feldman, Legislative Advocate, CA Police Chiefs Association
Robert Mestman, Assistant District Attorney, Orange County DA's Office
Rachel Michellin, President/CEO, California Retailers Association
Legal Issues: Audit Letters, Government Code Section 1090, and Wireless Permitting
2:45-4:15 p.m.
This session will cover how to respond to audit letters, legal trends, and issues pertaining to Government Code section 1090. The session will also provide attendees with a how-to guide to address new challenges in wireless facilities permitting and updates on cases currently pending in California courts. MCLE credit is available.
Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Caucus Business Meeting
3:15-4:15 p.m.
How To Be an Effective Partner during CEQA Tribal Consultation
4:15-5:15 p.m.
The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians manages a robust regulatory program that allows the tribe to build strong relationships with agencies across their ancestral territory. These relationships have allowed California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) agencies to understand the nature of tribal cultural resources, how to avoid or appropriately mitigate impacts to those resources, and how to be effective partners to tribes during consultation. This presentation will provide an overview of the nature of tribal cultural resources, how to advocate for them at the agency level, and how to meaningfully work with tribes in pursuit of cultural preservation.
Moderator and Speaker:
Jessica Mauck, Director of Cultural Resources Management, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
Speaker:
Ryan Nordness, Cultural Resource Analyst, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
Lessons Learned from the Most Destructive Fires in California History
4:15-5:30 p.m.
Wildfire season has now expanded to the entire year, making recovery planning vital for cities. The city of Santa Rosa and the town of Paradise experienced the two most destructive fires in California history, the 2017 Tubbs Fire and the 2018 Camp Fire. Now several years into recovery, both communities have lessons learned and best practices to share. Panelists will share their experiences and lessons learned in recovery, including employee care, communication, and regional partnerships.
Moderator:
Steven Crowder, Mayor, Paradise
Speakers:
Colette Curtis, Recovery and Economic Recovery Director, Paradise
Sean McGlynn, City Manager, Escondido
Kevin Phillips, Town Manager, Paradise
Post-Pandemic Mentorship for Women
4:15-5:30 p.m.
The pandemic has changed workplaces and roles — especially for women. Women have been significantly impacted by the pandemic, with nearly half of all women saying the pandemic has negatively impacted their careers. Today, women face increased challenges in the workplace, including evolving workplaces, career pivots, and changing leadership. During this session, women leaders will discuss and brainstorm the opportunities and benefits of mentoring that supports women. Learn how to strengthen mentoring skills and about programs that help women emerge stronger from the pandemic. Planned with the Women’s Caucus.
Moderator:
Dr. Diandra Bremond, Vice President, California Women Lead
Speakers:
Bea Dieringer, Council Member, Rolling Hills
Maggie Le, City Manager, Fountain Valley
Margita Thompson, Board Member, CA Women Lead
I'm Not in Charge? How to Get Things Done!
4:15-5:30 p.m.
Excited, energized, and passionate newly elected council members want to dive into city work. However, excitement can turn into frustration, when they hear “you can't do it that way," "it’s not in the budget," "you need council approval," or "we don't do it that way." This session will review city governance models and discuss the roles of officials and staff. Elected officials will share their experiences and explain how they creatively get work done while balancing policies and rules. There will be a special emphasis on what motivates these elected officials to work outside of city hall and serve constituents most in need of services.
Moderator:
Sonia Carvalho, City Attorney, Best Best & Krieger LLP
Speakers:
Damon Alexander, Council Member, San Bernardino
Phil Bacerra, Mayor Pro Tem, Santa Ana
Steve Lustro, Council Member, District 5, Pomona
Creative Funding Strategies for Infrastructure Renewal
4:15-5:30 p.m.
Limited resources and staffing, coupled with unfunded mandates, often hamper cities’ abilities to invest in the infrastructure necessary to meet sustainability and decarbonization goals. As a result, some local governments wait and hope for grants to be approved or revenue measures to pass. However, hope is not the best strategy. This session will focus on creative strategies to meet unfunded challenges, including sustainability and climate goals. Attendees will learn how agencies like the city of Fullerton; California State University, Fresno; and Travis Air Force Base leveraged performance contracting, public-private partnerships, and energy-as-a-service to achieve outstanding results.
Moderator:
Darcy Immerman, Senior Vice President for Growth, NORESCO
Speakers:
Fred Jung, Mayor, Fullerton
Meg McWade, Public Works Director, Fullerton
Chad Wanke, Board Chair, Orange County Sanitation District
“Community Capitals Policing:” Rethinking Public Safety by Creating Healthy Communities
4:15-5:30 p.m.
The “community capitals policing” model helps prevent crime by addressing the essential “capitals” that make a thriving community. Much like community policing, community capitals policing is built on community input. It leverages existing community strengths; forms partnerships between local agencies; creates positive youth development opportunities; facilitates employment for formerly incarcerated individuals; and addresses priority community and local business needs while building health equity. Learn how to alleviate crime, reduce recidivism, and reenergize communities using this model through the successes, challenges, and knowledge gained in Alameda County — California’s first county to initiate this approach.
Moderator:
Mary Thomas, Management Analyst, Hayward
Speakers:
Dave Brown, Supervisor, Alameda County Board of Supervisors
Martin Neideffer, Captain of the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Youth and Family Services Bureau, Alameda County Sheriff's Office
Kimberly Thomas, Co-Food Hub Director, Alameda County Deputy Sheriff's Activities League
Legal Issues: Municipal Tort and Civil Rights Litigation and Government Claims
4:30-6:00 p.m.
This session will provide a city-focused update on municipal tort and civil rights litigation, followed by a presentation on responding to government claims. MCLE credit is available.
Channel Counties Division Reception
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, David Mullinax. Additional fees may apply.
East Bay Division Reception
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Sam Caygill. Additional fees may apply.
Women's Caucus Reception
5:30-6:30 p.m.
North Bay Division
5:30-7:00 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Nancy Hall Bennett. Additional fees may apply.
Orange County Division Board Installation Reception
5:30-7:30 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Tony Cardenas. Additional fees may apply.
San Diego and Imperial Counties Division Reception
5:30-7:00 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Catherine Hill. Additional fees may apply.
Redwood Empire Division Reception
6:00-8:00 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Sara Sanders. Additional fees may apply.
Latino Caucus 2022 Annual Awards Gala Reception
6:00-9:00 p.m.
African American Caucus Reception
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Central Valley Division Meeting
6:30-9:00 p.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Stephen Qualls. Additional fees may apply.
Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Caucus Reception
7:00-8:00 p.m.
Asian Pacific Islander Caucus Reception
9:00-10:00 p.m.
Peninsula Division
7:00-8:30 a.m.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Seth Miller. Additional fees may apply.
Legal Issues: Labor and Employment Law
8:00-9:30 a.m.
This session will provide a city-focused update on labor and employment litigation, followed by a presentation on attorney-client investigations. MCLE credit is available.
Rural Retail: Making Your Community Competitive
8:30-9:45 a.m.
One common thread among all local officials is that we want our communities to grow, thrive, and prosper. Every community has its own vision for community and economic development. Offering new retail and restaurant options to citizens plays a big role in growth. Rural communities, however, face unique challenges when it comes to attracting those new businesses. Hear from three rural city managers about how they have positioned their cities to expand retail and restaurant businesses. Plus, discover key components to include when pitching your city to companies.
Moderator:
Matthew Tate, Director of Business Development, Western Region, Retail Strategies
Speakers:Alan Flora, City Manager, Clearlake
Mallory Crecelius, City Manager, Blythe
Surplus Land Act: Know the Impact Before You Transact
8:30-9:45 a.m.
California is facing a housing crisis and the state has revved up efforts to accelerate the production of affordable housing, including the use of public agency-owned land. The Surplus Land Act requires all public agencies to follow a process to sell or lease any public property by first offering it to a state-controlled list of affordable housing developers. Learn how the Surplus Land Act process impacts local land use and how to navigate the sale, lease, or licensing of public agency property to pursue public-private projects that produce economic development results, all while staying in compliance with state requirements.
Moderator:
Larry J. Kosmont, Chairman & CEO, Kosmont Companies
Speaker:
Troy Brown, City Manager, Moorpark
Elizabeth Hull, Partner, Best Best & Krieger, LLP
David Zisser, Assistant Deputy Director, CA. Dept. of Housing and Community Development
On-Street Dining Risks: Managing Tensions between Safety and Supporting Businesses
8:30-9:45 a.m.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in outdoor business activities within the public right-of-way. While dining decks, parklets, streeteries, and other similar outdoor dining areas helped local businesses survive the pandemic, their proximity to moving vehicles has created safety concerns. Public agencies are now faced with managing difficult tensions between supporting local businesses and public safety. Attend to learn best practices, resources, and safeguards that help increase sidewalk and on-street dining safety for residents and visitors.
Moderator:
Alex Mellor, Senior Risk Manager, California JPIA
Speakers:
Victor Manalo, Former Mayor, Artesia
Rob Reiter, Co-Founder, Storefront Safety Council
David Wilson, City Manager, West Hollywood
Harassment Prevention Training for Supervisors and Officials (AB 1661)
9:15-11:15 a.m.
This informational and interactive workplace harassment prevention training will teach officials and supervisors how to identify, prevent, and properly respond to workplace harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and abusive conduct in order to avoid personal and agency liability in compliance with AB 1825/2053/1661 and SB 396. The Institute for Local Government is a State Bar of California minimum continuing legal education (MCLE) approved provider and certifies this activity meets the standards for MCLE credit by the State Bar of California in the total amount of 2 hours (general credits). Provider #13881. * Sign-in will begin 30 minutes prior to the session and you must be present for the full two hours to receive the certification of attendance. Entry will be prohibited once the session begins.
Speaker:
Alfonso Estrada, Partner, Hanson Bridgett LLP
Legal Issues: Municipal Litigation Update and Public Safety
9:45-11:15 a.m.
This session will provide a city-focused update on general municipal litigation, including a presentation on recent cases interpreting the Second Amendment and California law related to possessing or acquiring firearms. MCLE credit is available.
Show Me Some RECOVERY! Updates on Fees, Assessments, Financing Districts
10:00-11:15 a.m.
Fiscal sustainability is a constant challenge for cities, especially as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. It is critical that cities utilize a variety of revenue tools for long-term fiscal sustainability, as well as recovery. This panel will address revenue options and the importance of public engagement, and updates from recent case law and legislative changes affecting California cities, including tales of challenges and successes in Rancho Cucamonga. Attendees will leave with actionable information that can be applied to their city.
Moderator:
John Gillison, City Manager, Rancho Cucamonga
Speakers:
Michael Colantuono, Managing Shareholder, Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley, PC
Tim Seufert, Managing Director, NBS
Danielle Wood, Director, NBS
Creative Solutions to Reduce Homelessness
10:00-11:15 a.m.
Reducing homelessness is consistently ranked as a top priority by California residents and local officials. Local governments have developed creative solutions and partnerships to capitalize on the political will — and funding — to implement real solutions. Discover how three California communities leveraged state and federal funding to develop new housing, while communicating effectively at city hall and on the streets.
Moderator:
Helene Schneider, Senior Regional Advisor, U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness
Speakers:
Damien Arrula, City Administrator, Placentia
Mike Callagy, County Executive, San Mateo County
Peter Radu, Assistant to the City Manager, Berkeley
How Bias-Free Technologies Can Play a Role in Reimagining Policing
10:00-11:15 a.m.
City leaders, community members, and law enforcement are reimagining how cities can reshape policing while keeping communities safe. Technologies such as vehicle fingerprint cameras can provide bias-neutral, objective investigative leads, while helping departments increase time and budget efficiencies. Gain an understanding of how these technologies can improve policing outcomes and community safety. Innovative, forward-thinking California elected officials and police leaders will share their experiences in adopting the use of cutting-edge, ethically engineered technologies to improve public safety and enhance public trust.
Moderator:
Jason Potts, Public Safety Director / Chief, Las Vegas - Department of Public Safety
Speakers:
Walter Allen III, Council Member, Covina
Pippin Dew, Council Member, Vallejo
Transgender Health Care
10:00-11:15 a.m.
Very few municipalities have public health programs. Learn about the realities, myths, and a path forward on transgender health care from experts who will speak on barriers to care, the present state of coverage, networks, and cultural competence. In this session, those treating patients today will share their experiences providing gender-affirming care. City leaders will gain insights while in a safe space for questions, conversations, and understanding. Planned with the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Caucus.
Moderator:
Dan Arriola, Council Member, Tracy
Speakers:
Julia Logan, Chief Medical Officer, CalPERS
Lisa Middleton, Mayor, Palm Springs
Evan Minton, LGBTQ+ Advocate/ACLU Plaintiff, Self Advocate
Katie Thatcher, Director Gender Health, Kaiser Permanente
Legal Issues: Labor and Employment Law
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
This session will provide information on implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. MCLE credit is available. Includes 1 hour of Elimination of Bias sub-field MCLE credit.
Closing Session and General Assembly (includes lunch)
11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Presiding:
Cindy Silva President, League of California Cities and Mayor Pro Tem, Walnut Creek
Gather on this final day for the launch of a new Cal Cities year. Vote on bylaw amendments and resolutions and celebrate the transition to new Cal Cities leadership.
Leadership Transition
Swearing in of the Cal Cities Board of Directors
Incoming President's Remarks:
Ali Sajjad Taj First Vice President, League of California Cities and Council Member, Artesia
General Assembly
- AB 602- An Essential Breakdown for Development Impact Fee Programs
- Advancing Empowerment in a Disadvantaged Community
- ARPA to General Fund- Leveraging Today’s Capital for Tomorrow’s Savings
- California's Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program
- CalPERS- Continuing on the Path to Sustainable Pensions
- Cannabis and Economic Development
- Cities for Workforce Health Grant Program- Lessons Learned for your Employee Wellness Program
- City Clerks Workshop- Fair Political Practices Commission- A Workshop for Filing Officers
- Climate Action Plans in Practice- San Leandro and Ontario Case Studies
- Community Capitals Policing- Rethinking Public Safety by Creating Healthy Communities
- Creating a Youth-Friendly City It’s Not Just About the Money
- Creating More Equitable and Resilient Communities
- Creative Funding Strategies for Infrastructure Renewal
- Creative Solutions to Reducing Homelessness
- Dealing With Deferred Maintenance
- Defending Institutions- Promoting Civic Debate & Rejecting Personal Attacks
- Ending Poverty in California Cities - Nagales
- EV Infrastructure at No Cost- Can’t Get Better Than That!
- Five Steps to Take Before Applying for Federal Infrastructure Funding
- Fixing Prop 47
- Going Green By 2025- Implementing SB 1383 in California Communities
- Harassment Prevention Training for Supervisors and Officials (AB 1661)
- How Bias-Free Technologies Can Play a Role in Reimagining Policing
- How To Be an Effective Partner During CEQA Tribal Consultation
- How to Stay Out of Trouble- Avoiding Council Chaos
- I'm Not in Charge- How to Get Things Done
- Infrastructure Recovery After Disaster- 2018 Camp Fire
- Keynote Address- The Future of California
- LED Streetlight Conversions- Benefits for the Environment and Your Budget
- Lessons Learned from the Most Destructive Fires in California History
- Making Equity Stick- City Charter Revisions and Other Systemic Changes
- On-Street Dining Risks- Managing Tensions Between Safety and Supporting Businesses
- Post-Pandemic Mentorship for Women
- Rural Retail- Making Your Community Competitive
- Scaling Up- Fostering Innovation Through Technology Pilot Projects
- SB 1383 Procurement and Opportunities
- Show me some RECOVERY
- Supporting Housing in Your Community through Policy, Finance and Communications
- Supporting Local Small Businesses to Raise Community Capital
- Surplus Land Act- Know the Impact Before You Transact
- The Secrets to Building Tech Economies in Underestimated Cities
- Transgender Health Care
- Understanding Public Service Ethics Laws & Principles- AB 1234 Training
MCLE Session Materials
Access the MCLE sessions agenda here.
Read speaker bios here.
Land Use and CEQA Litigation Update
Affordable Housing Covenants: Ensuring Continued Affordability
Gabrielle Janssens, Attorney, Goldfarb & Lipman
Paper | PowerPoint
The People’s Business: California Public Records Act Update
Practical Tips for Reviewing Public Works Contracts
Transferring and Financing Risk in Public Works Contracts
Lawyers’ Responses to Audit Letters: Law, Practice, and A Few Tips
Section 1090 Update: Davis v. Fresno, FPPC Opinions and Other Developments
Wireless Update: Shot Clocks, Deemed Granted Remedies and Fee Challenges
Municipal Tort and Civil Rights Litigation Update
Getting It Right: Best Practices in Responding to Government Claims
Labor and Employment Litigation Update
Elizabeth Tom Arce, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Paper | PowerPoint
Microaggresions vs. Dog Whistle: How to Differentiate and Investigate
General Municipal Litigation Update
Public Safety and Individual Rights in the Age of Firearms
So, You Say You Have Diversity?! Now What? (Specialty MCLE – Elimination of Bias)
Robert Lennox, Assistant City Manager, Carson
Sunny Soltani, City Attorney, Carson, Partner, Aleshire & Wynder
- A Practical Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- An Out-of-the-Box Technique for Decision Making and Resident Involvement
- Attracting the Next Generation Workforce with Virtual Career Exploration
- Bold Action, Innovation During Fiscal Uncertainty, and Environmental Sustainability Case Studies
- Bridging Divides Tackling Polarization in Your Cities & Communities
- Building API Solidarity & Safe Communities
- California’s Drought: Can We Conserve Our Way Out?
- CalPERS Update: A Conversation with the CEO
- Cannabis- Perceptions vs. Reality
- Changing the Wildfire Prevention Paradigm
- City Finance Law and Elections Update
- Cybersecurity Risks and Cities Strategies to Address Escalating Threats
- Equity and Public Engagement Increasing Access and Building Trust
- Harassment Prevention Training for Supervisors and Officials (AB 1661)
- How Regional Cooperation Makes California Community Marketing Work Harder
- How to Create a More Inclusive Environment for LGBTQ+ People in Your City – Quinto
- How to Improve Public Safety Through Innovation
- Human-Centered Design and Why My City Should Care About It
- Introduction to Labor Relations for Elected Officials
- Level Up Your Leadership: Creating a Governance Culture of Civility and Purpose
- Municipal Data in Action
- Neighborhood Law Programs: Generate Revenue, Reduce Blight and Crime
- Post-COVID Retail Trends and Opportunities
- Ready, Set, Go! Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Outlook
- Roadmap to Advancing DEI in a Predominately White, Affluent Community
- Short-Term Rentals (STR): A Balanced Approach
- State and Local Roles in Building and Measuring Fiscal Resilience
- Stories of the Census: What It Says About California’s Future
- Tackling the Housing Crisis: The Role of Local Leaders
- The Road Ahead for Managing Rising Pension Costs
- Tools for Navigating Elected Officials Who Won't Follow the Rules
- Understanding Public Service Ethics Laws and Principles (AB 1234)
- Unprecedented Action Dignified Housing Delivered in Six Months – Ballard
- What Finance Professionals Need to Know about IT and Security
- Why Culture Curation Matters Now More Than Ever
2021 Annual Conference City Attorneys Programming Agenda
- 2020 Annual Conference & Expo Program
- Building a Virtual Emergency Operations Center - Lessons Learned from COVID-19 - Green
- Code Enforcement During a Pandemic Lessons Learned - Wright
- From Vision to Reality Lessons Learned in Complete Street Implementation - Kramer
- Harassment Prevention Training for Supervisors and Officials (AB 1661)
- Housing Law Update - Leishman
- Informing Through Crisis COVID-19’s Impact on Black Communities in California - Henry
- Integrating Lessons from Race and Trauma in Local Services Achieving Better Results at Lower Costs
- Is a Virtual Workforce our New Normal
- Is Your City Really Prepared for Rising Pension Costs - Meza
- Layoffs, Furloughs, & Concessions - Negotiating in Challenging Times - Brown
- Leadership in a Time of Uncertainty, Fear and Recovery
- Libraries Respond in Crisis and Beyond
- Local Government Apprenticeship & Workforce Strategies a Latino Caucus Perspective
- Local Government Apprenticeship and Workforce Strategies A Latino Caucus Perspective - Beltran
- Modern Emergencies How to incorporate digital communications into emergency plans - Cheng
- Placemaking & Community Branding That Leverages Your Natural Assets
- Placemaking & Community Branding That Leverages Your Natural Assets - Ketchum
- Rates, Policies and Reforms… How COVID-19 Will Impact CalPERS Employers - Hutchings
- Recovering From Ransomware - Hester
- Regional Partnership How to Address Homelessness Differently - Arrula
- Resetting Your Community Post COVID-19 - Ibarra
- Resetting Your Community Post-Covid 19 - Ambrose
- Scrap Your Fears About Food Waste Regulations Preparing for SB1383 - Enright
- Social Media & Government What Are the Rules of Engagement - Fox
- Talking Together About Housing in Burlingame Building Community Support
- Telecommuting Policies – Hot Topics & Key Issues to Consider - Yee
- Ten Years After the Bell Scandal-Are We More Ethical
- The Role of Local Governments in Adapting to Climate Change
- Think as an LGBTQ+ Executive Ally Enhancing your City’s Economic and Social Prosperity - Middleton
- Understanding Public Service Ethics Laws and Principles (AB 1234)
- What to Do When In-Person Engagement Isn't Possible - Stelmakhovych
- What You Need to Know About Municipal Revenues
Speaker Center
In the Speaker Center, you can find resources for all speaker-related details including deadlines, presentation guidelines, layout, and structure, speaker agreements, and presentation submission directions.
Should you have any questions, please contact the education department.
Friday, Aug. 25 : Discounted hotel rate cut off (subject to availability).
By Tuesday, Sept. 5: Submit your final presentation to Cal Cities within the “My Speaking Session” of your MyCalCities Portal.
Our goal is to provide exceptional educational experiences, networking opportunities, and innovative tools that will make attendees and their cities more successful. Studies show that adults learn best when they are actively involved in the process rather than passively listening or watching. Most seminar attendees are knowledgeable about the subject, and therefore are interested in hearing what others know and what their experiences have been. Accordingly, we urge you to plan your presentation with these suggestions in mind.
The most common complaints on session evaluations from prior seminars are:
- "The presentation was a 'sales' pitch for a particular product or service."
- "I couldn't read the slides."
- "One speaker took so much time that the others were not able to give their full presentations."
- "I'd like more practical knowledge."
Please consider the following as you prepare for your presentation:
- Relevant content for experienced audiences that stretches thinking and provides new approaches.
- Content that is delivered in an engaging way and draws on the experience of the attendees.
- Examples and case studies of real success (and successful failures).
- Try to add stories, anecdotes, testimonials, or demonstrations that emphasize your point. We all remember a good story, and thus more easily the lesson with it.
- Provide tools and information that the audience can implement.
- If there are other speakers in your session, coordinate with them in advance to decide your speaking order and ensure that all presentations fit into the assigned time allotment. If you do not have the contact information for your co-presenters, please contact us at education@calcities.org.
- Selling from the podium creates conflict of interest problems. Education sessions at the Public Works Officers Institute should never be an advertisement. Therefore, presentations may not include any commercialism for specific products or consulting services.
The League of California Cities encourages our presenters to use the most engaging educational platform possible when speaking at the Annual Conference and Expo. We recognize that each session has a unique format and presentation style based on the preferences of the speaker(s) and content being presented, but the following three examples are provided as a general guideline in planning your session.
Panel Discussions: 75 minutes, with up to 3 speakers
Moderator (5 minutes)
- Welcome
- Frame session
- Introduce speakers
Speaker(s) #1, #2 and #3 (20 minutes)
- Summary of relevant experience
- Learning objectives
- Core session content
- Summary of key points
Moderator (10 minutes)
- Facilitate Q&A
- Final comments
Panel Discussions: 75 minutes, 1 speaker
Moderator (5 minutes)
- Welcome
- Frame session
- Introduce speaker
Speaker #1 (60 minutes)
- Summary of relevant experience
- Learning objectives
- Core session content
- Summary of key points
Presider (10 minutes)
- Facilitate Q&A
- Final comments
Speed Sessions: 20 minutes
Speaker #1 (15 minutes)
- Self-Introduction
- Frame session
- Fun and engaging presentation
Final Thoughts (5 minutes)
- Facilitate Q&A
- Final comments
As a reminder, sessions may not include any product/service demonstrations or commercial presentations for specific products or consulting services. Please contact the education department with any questions, concerns or assistance needs you may have.
Cal Cities by the Numbers
479 Member Cities
57 Board Members
16 Regional Divisions
10 Municipal Departments
5 Diversity Caucuses
Cal Cities Bylaws
Cal Cities staff, boards, departments, finances, committees, and divisions are governed by an extensive set of bylaws.
FPPC Compliance
The League of California Cities is a “publicly funded nonprofit organization” for purposes of Government Code section 84222.5. This statute imposes several requirements, including posting Cal Cities’ FPPC ballot measure campaign filings on its website.