The 2022 League of California Cities Annual Conference and Expo at the Long Beach Convention Center, Sept. 7-9, features general sessions, workshops, and networking events. The conference attracts hundreds of leaders from all sections of city government, including mayors, council members, city managers, city clerks, city attorneys, fiscal officers, and other city staff.
This year’s conference will offer educational and innovative leadership sessions across a variety of formats, with a roster of more than 100 speakers. Change is constant in our cities, and these sessions will support city leaders by equipping them with the latest knowledge, resources, and tools to advance their communities and assist officials in their daily roles and operations within their city.
For questions about registration, please contact our registrar, Megan Dunn. For all other questions, please contact Education and Events Manager Christina George.
HOUSING ALERT AND POTENTIAL SCAM WARNING
Beware of professional hotel scammers who may contact you claiming to be the Cal Cities Housing Bureau/Service to help reserve hotel rooms in the vicinity of the Long Beach Convention Center.
They may say the Cal Cities hotel block is sold out or use some other ploy to book you into another hotel for a room that most likely does not exist.
Once the housing reservation period has begun, and after your registration or exhibit space fee has been paid in full, you will automatically receive a hotel registration link from an @calcities.org email address.
Please review our event and meeting policies.
CAUTION! 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. If you are making hotel reservations for others, please confirm with each individual, in advance, that they actually need hotel accommodations and intend to use them on the dates you are reserving.
View the complete shuttle schedule to get to the Long Beach Convention Center from your hotel.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
This session will provide a city-focused update on land use and California Environmental Quality Act litigation. MCLE credit is available.
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.
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)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
This session will include a presentation on the California Public Records Act. MCLE credit is available.
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.
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
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
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
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
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
This session will cover legal trends and issues pertaining to public works contracting and risk management. MCLE credit is available.
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
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
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
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 (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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, David Mullinax. Additional fees may apply.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Sam Caygill. Additional fees may apply.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Nancy Hall Bennett. Additional fees may apply.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Tony Cardenas. Additional fees may apply.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Catherine Hill. Additional fees may apply.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Sara Sanders. Additional fees may apply.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Stephen Qualls. Additional fees may apply.
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Seth Miller. Additional fees may apply.
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.
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
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
This session will provide a city-focused update on land use and California Environmental Quality Act litigation. MCLE credit is available.
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.
This session will include a presentation on the California Public Records Act. MCLE credit is available.
This session will cover legal trends and issues pertaining to public works contracting and risk management. MCLE credit is available.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Access the MCLE sessions agenda here.
Read speaker bios here.
Gabrielle Janssens, Attorney, Goldfarb & Lipman Paper | PowerPoint
Elizabeth Tom Arce, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore Paper | PowerPoint
2021 Annual Conference and Expo Program (PDF)
City Clerks Workshop: DEI and the City Clerk’s Office: Expanding the Bridge Clerks
Additional registration $150 per attendee from a member city/$300 per attendee from a non-member city. Pending approval for 1 CMC/MMC Advanced Education Point.
The City Clerk’s office is often referred to as the bridge between the community and City Hall. It is the first place where the members of the community go when they don’t know where to go. It is forward facing to the community on so many levels – boards and commissions, public records requests, elections, special events, etc. It is uniquely situated to serve as an internal and external ally in City Hall. The question is whether that ability is recognized and what, if anything, is done with it. In this session, participants will examine how DEI principles are interwoven with the work of the profession and learn practical skills and strategies to implement the same, and how the City Clerk's office can be a conduit for greater sense of belonging in our communities.. The goal and hope of the session is to equip participants to expand the bridge in their communities from their place on the front lines of local government and democracy.
Join League leadership and staff as you begin your first Annual Conference experience. Hear about the League, and most importantly, how to get the most out of your conference experience.
• Keynote - Bonnie St. John
Leading experts will review the latest major developments in California city revenues, spending, and financing as well as important changes, significant challenges, and new opportunities. Learn about legal developments in new laws, taxes and fees, Proposition 218, Proposition 26, and the underlying issues of your agency’s finances. CPEs offered for CA Certified Public Accountants (CPAs).
The governing bodies of California public agencies play an important decision-making role in labor negotiations. This session is for elected or appointed officials at local public agencies with represented employees. Hear an overview of the labor relations framework for local government agencies, the labor negotiations process, and the role of the Public Employment Relations Board. Learn about the role of the governing body in negotiations, the importance of the Brown Act, and communication issues related to negotiations.
• Keynote - Richard Montañez
It is evident that city leaders must change how we approach wildfire prevention. Total elimination of wildfires is not only impossible, but not advisable. We must build resiliency into our communities and learn to coexist with wildfires. As wildfire knows no jurisdictional boundaries, this effort must be a regional approach. The towns, cities, special districts and county government in Marin County have partnered together for this approach. Through agency and community leadership they are changing the paradigm of wildfire prevention by creating fire adapted communities through vegetation management, home hardening, defensible space, evacuation route improvements, and community education.
Looking for the latest tools, tips and best practices to better engage with your community on Facebook and Instagram? Hear directly from the experts how your city can leverage social media, especially when facing a crisis in your city. Planned with the Latino Caucus.
Considering making the jump from finance director to city manager? The city manager is responsible for more than just carrying out the council's policy direction, providing recommendations for and assisting with the implementation of the annual budget, and providing assurance of quality service delivery. Hear from individuals who have experienced the jump as they share both common and not-often-discussed issues related to becoming a city manager. Learn about the nuances of leadership for this specific profession, and key facets of the role that can prepare you before taking the leap. CPEs offered for CA Certified Public Accountants (CPAs).
Public agencies continue to navigate through the damaging effects that COVID-19 has had on their revenues, general fund returns and the economy. Meanwhile, their pension obligations continue to grow, putting further strain on their impacted budgets. Pension systems face an uncertain economic outlook with discount rate targets that are mismatched with future expected returns. How are agencies addressing their pension liabilities during tough economic times such as these? Learn about the fiscal strategies cities have proactively implemented to prepare for the road ahead of rising pension costs.
A year after Governor Newsom’s Executive Order to phase out the sale of internal-combustion vehicles, the ZEV marketplace is poised for tremendous growth as policy action meets California’s leadership in ZEV innovation. State policymakers, local officials, and industry partners are seizing the moment to help Californians transition to cleaner modes of transportation, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve local air quality. Explore the progress made to date, the challenges that lie ahead, and the practical steps local governments are taking to prepare for greater adoption of ZEVs like electric vehicles.
After a polarizing 2020, how can city leaders help bridge divides in their communities and begin to advance policies and programs that heal and unify their residents? Hear from nationally recognized experts in conflict resolution, civil discourse, and bi-partisanship about how to approach complex topics, find common ground, and rebuild trust.
California cities face a myriad of critical and emerging issues, about which city leaders may have widely differing opinions. To navigate these issues, elected officials must be equipped with advanced governance strategies to lead more effectively through these changing times. Women electeds often face additional challenges in their efforts to build trust and gain consensus with their colleagues. Attendees will hear from experts and learn best practices to address these challenges, create a culture of trust and collaboration without violating the Brown Act, and operate with decorum in a manner that best serves the public. Planned with the Women’s Caucus.
Space is limited; only guests that have RSVP’d in advance to Nancy Hall Bennett will be admitted
Featuring a celebration of Cal Cities President/El Centro Mayor Cheryl Viegas Walker. Space is limited, RSVP required. RSVP to Catherine Hill.
Women’s Caucus Wine & Cheese Reception
Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Stephen Qualls (209) 614-0118. Additional fees may apply.
API Caucus: Ice Cream Social
How do you create a balanced approach to STR administration that addresses the needs of your community? Homeowners can start a STR business with the click of a button, but the majority are not aware of their tax obligations. Some community members want to rent, while others don’t want rentals in their neighborhood. Some municipalities are most interested in tax compliance and creating a fair hospitality market, while others are more interested in the potential revenue STRs can generate. Delve into these issues and more with our panel of experts.
The impact of COVID-19 on the economy has underscored the importance of using data to support decision-making across all industries and sectors, but most importantly for local governments. Data plays a key role in providing public services, keeping residents and businesses safe, improving equity, and tracking resources. Learn how municipalities like the City of Los Angeles are leveraging data and visual tools to support informed decision-making across all levels of government, especially during a global crisis.
This informational and interactive workplace harassment prevention training will focus on current and emerging issues resulting from the #MeToo movement, and 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. 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 session begins. Planned with the Institute for Local Government. 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
In today’s world, all aspects of city leadership and governance are intertwined. How did three neighboring Capitol Corridor cities handle parallel goals of fiscal, environmental, and community sustainability while facing the multiple crises of natural disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic, and revenue shortfalls? Join us to learn about the bold, innovative strategies implemented by these geographically-linked agencies, including: public infrastructure financing and renewal, hedging against rising energy costs, improving public safety, capturing grant funding, climate pollution reduction, “smart cities” innovations, and building toward power-grid resilience for critical facilities.
Join the City of San Luis Obispo for an informational discussion on how to successfully engage your community to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within your city. During this session, efforts such as the establishment of a DEI Taskforce, expanded DEI funding, community learning sessions, and DEI focused city planning will be shared to provide a robust picture of how to effectively advance DEI efforts within a predominately white affluent community. This session will provide you with tangible strategies to support your city’s efforts to be more diverse, equitable, and inclusive.
California communities report that one of the greatest economic development threats of 2021 is the critical shortage of available workforce and affordable housing. Learn about recent trends in financing, construction, design and wellness models that are helping communities increase the volume of affordable housing construction to scale the solution and meet the workforce needs for housing. What new building technologies and materials are serving to reduce the cost of housing construction and increase housing choice? This panel will provide case study examples of the evolving city-developer strategic partnership model that successfully produce more affordable, sustainable, resilient, and healthy residential products.
2021 Annual Conference City Attorneys Programming Agenda
1400 K Street, Suite 400 Sacramento, CA 95814