Issue highlights:
Read below for more news and events.
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Cal Cities recently submitted comments on a set of emergency regulations that would streamline clean energy project permitting. The regulations would allow the California Energy Commission to approve certain clean energy projects instead of local governments. The regulations are the result of a budget trailer bill, AB 205. Read more
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You might not think of the Coachella Valley as a biking oasis. The low-density area is, famously, a desert. However, that could soon change thanks to a 40-mile transportation project known as CV Link. This type of project could be a template for success for cities seeking state and federal infrastructure dollars. Read more
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Cities can expect additional resources to help improve mental health among first responders over the next few years. The new resources are the result of sustained advocacy from Cal Cities and its partners, as well as an increased focus among lawmakers on improving behavioral health outcomes. Read more
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A public hearing for a set of regulations that would accelerate the number of medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles used by cities is set for Oct. 27. The aggressive proposal would impact every city, regardless of its size and existing infrastructure. Public comment can be provided virtually or in person. Read more
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There is more to being a firefighter than just putting out fires. Firefighters also need to be mentally fit due to the unique conditions they work and live in. The Fire Chiefs Leadership Seminar — scheduled for Dec. 7-8 in Monterey — equips fire chiefs and fire service personnel with the tools needed to build stronger, more resilient teams and keep their communities safe. Read more
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Tuesday, Oct. 25, Noon — Want to take your local expertise to the state level, but don't know where to start? Join the League of California Cities API Caucus, Women's Caucus, and LGBTQ Caucus to learn how to apply for a state board or commission. The workshop will feature a panel discussion led by current appointees sharing an insider's view about the application process, helpful tips, and the work they do now on behalf of the state. Register today
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From protecting public records to election administration, city clerks are an integral part of the democratic process. The City Clerks New Law and Elections Seminar — scheduled for Dec. 7-9 in Monterey — equips city clerks of all tenures with the tools needed to respond to emerging challenges and conduct routine business. This year's keynote speaker, Mitchell Friedman, will focus on how city clerks can achieve their goals even when they are not in charge. Read more
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The California Strategic Growth Council has expanded its technical assistance offerings for the Transformative Climate Communities Program. The program funds community-led planning and infrastructure projects that achieve major environmental, health, and economic benefits in disadvantaged communities. Workshops and other guidance will be provided from Oct. 2022 to Feb. 2023. A related webinar for rural communities is scheduled for Oct. 26. Read more
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Caltrans is accepting comments on several sustainable transportation planning grant programs, including a one-time $50 million grant program for climate adaptation plans. Other initiatives include a $29.5 million program to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and a $4.5 million program to address transportation deficiencies — including multimodal challenges — on the state highway system. The comment period is open until Nov. 4. Read more
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California’s warming climate is increasing demand on its groundwater sources. The state’s Groundwater Management Grant Program helps regional groundwater agencies build sustainable groundwater recharge projects; prevent or clean up contaminated groundwater supplies that serve as a source of drinking water; and fund other projects that support water supply reliability for people, farms, and the environment. Applications close Nov. 30. Read more
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Replacing thirsty lawns with native landscaping is one of the quickest ways to conserve water. The Urban Community Drought Relief Grant Program helps water agencies and their communities “go golden” by providing funding for turf replacement, drought resilience planning, outreach activities, and other projects that emphasize water conservation efforts or provide immediate drought relief. $300 million in funding is available, including approximately $85 million for underrepresented communities. Applications are due Jan. 31. Read more
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Cal Cities is seeking feedback on the biggest issues facing cities through its Legislative Priorities Membership Survey. This survey is an important source of information for Cal Cities. The feedback plays a crucial role in setting the Cal Cities Action Agenda and developing member-informed legislative priorities. In order to represent the diversity of California’s cities, officials from all member cities are encouraged to participate. Members have until Oct. 18 to respond. Read more
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Tuesday, Oct. 18, 12:30 p.m. — More cities than ever are using social media as a public engagement tool. However, social media is regulated by a complex, changing set of legal parameters. Join the Institute for Local Government, Best Best & Krieger, and California local leaders for a discussion about the newest legal developments for public sector social media and the best practices for developing a social media policy. Additional topics will include recent Brown Act updates, due process parameters, and public record retention. Register today
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Multiple factors put cities on the right track for recovery in fiscal year 2021, including a strong rebound of income and sales taxes and the timely injection of federal funds. However, cities still face an uphill battle, as abnormally high inflation rates have nearly canceled the tax revenues gained in 2021. A recent study from the National League of the Cities explores how cities coped with recovery and are preparing for fiscal uncertainty going forward. Read more
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“Residents sending in pictures of their dogs” is not an official performance metric for the city of Carlsbad’s communication department. But it’s a perfect example of how the city’s new communications strategy has transformed the relationship between the city organization and the community it serves. Read more
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League of California Cities President Ali Sajjad Taj has announced his chair and vice chair appointments for the 2023 policy committees. The leadership appointments set the stage for the committees’ work, which begins in January when they hold their first meetings. The work of the committees lays the foundation for Cal Cities’ strong, year-round advocacy on behalf of cities. Read more
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Dec. 7-8
Dec. 7-8
Dec. 7-9
Jan. 18-20 & Feb. 1-3 (Save the date!)
Feb. 8-10
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Mar. 8-10 (Save the date!)
Mar. 29-31 (Save the date!)
Apr. 12-14 (Save the date!)
May 17-19 (Save the date!)
Sept. 20-22 (Save the date!)
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