February 23, 2022
Cal Cities News

Despite recent snowfall, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation confirmed California’s drought is worsening. This is a timely reminder for cities that preparing for drought conditions is necessary. For cities looking for funding for drought-related projects, the task just got easier. Read more

Feb. 18 was the last day for lawmakers to introduce bills in this year’s legislative session. As League of California Cities staff analyze the 2,000 bills that were introduced, now is a great time to ensure that you are receiving the advocacy and education updates you need. Read more

The White House is hosting two Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act webinars and the National League of Cities is leading a federal grant writing webinar. Additionally, Gov. Gavin Newsom unveiled a new COVID-19 response plan. Read more

The Western City Job Board has long been the best source for job seekers and hiring staff to find or share openings in local government. Updated daily, the City Job Board has the latest opportunities for city managers, finance and public works officers, public safety, and more! Easily find the latest jobs or share your open positions on the City Job Board through a new link now available in the top navigation on the Cal Cities website. Visit Cal Cities website
Education and Events

March 16-18 — Set in San Ramon, the Planning Commissioners Academy provides planning commissioners with updates about recent legislative and regulatory changes. This year's keynote speakers include former Oklahoma City mayor Mick Cornett, who successfully lobbied for a $777 million quality-of-life infrastructure program for Oklahoma City, and Berké Brown, a noted organizational change consultant. A limited number of hotel rooms are available at a reduced rate through today, Feb. 23. Register today

The League of California Cities is seeking unique, forward-looking topics for the 2022 Annual Conference and Expo, taking place at the Long Beach Convention Center, Sept. 7-9. These sessions will support city leaders by equipping them with the latest knowledge, resources, and tools to advance their communities and assist them in their daily roles and operations within their city. Submissions from individuals, groups, businesses, and organizations on any topic of interest to cities are welcome. Submissions are due March 31. Read more
Opportunities for Cities

It is critical that communities are able to respond quickly and efficiently to wildfires and other natural disasters, especially as California enters another year of a worsening, multiyear drought. The Listos California Community Emergency Respond Team Support Grant Program provides funding to new and existing community emergency response activities, including non-English language training programs, that help prepare vulnerable and underserved populations. Applicants may apply for up to $15,000 in funding. Read more

Libraries are important resources for communities and often offer services beyond book lending. The California State Library’s Building Forward Library Infrastructure Program helps ensure that libraries remain safe places of learning by funding critical maintenance and infrastructure needs. The maximum grant amount per library facility is $10 million and a dollar-for-dollar match is required. Priority will be given to projects that support libraries in high-poverty areas. Applications are due March 14, at 5:00 p.m. Read more

Urban greening and urban forestry projects are one way that cities can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and reduce energy consumption. Historically, such projects benefit already affluent neighborhoods. As such, the California Natural Resources Agency’s Urban Greening Program will give priority consideration to projects located within and benefitting disadvantaged communities. There are no maximum or minimum grant amounts. Read more

Like most communities, the pandemic challenged Whittier’s economy across industries. In the early days of the pandemic, a once buzzing and vivacious Whittier became a shadow of its former self. Small businesses were forced to close their doors and furlough or lay off employees. Amidst considerable uncertainty, the city acted swiftly to implement critical solutions and assist the business community in a variety of effective, innovative ways. Read more
More News and Events

Each year, the League of California Cities honors the outstanding work of member cities through the Helen Putnam Award for Excellence program. The awards, sponsored by Cal Cities League Partners, recognize the successes of cities, as demonstrated by beneficial innovations, resourceful efficiencies, improved public service, and overall enhanced public trust and support. Entries must be submitted online by April 14, at 5:00 p.m. Read more

The Institute for Local Government’s Beacon Awards program honors the work cities are doing to build more sustainable, resilient, and equitable communities. The Beacon Vanguard and Spotlight Awards recognize the voluntary actions local governments undertake to meet climate and sustainability goals. The program's Leadership and Innovation Awards celebrate the state’s most collaborative, inclusive, and equitable climate resilience and adaptation programs. Applications are due by May 2. Read more

Friday, March 18, 9:00 a.m. — This year’s virtual Municipal Law Institute Symposium will provide an in-depth exploration of issues facing municipal lawyers in 2022, including the national opioid settlement, water rights, remote work, wildfire impacts, and new developments in labor and employment relations. Registration is $50 for public agency employees; general registration is $100. Learn more
Cal Cities in the News

An article from the California League of Cities highlights the successes of Citrus Heights, a [city] in the Sacramento area ... As the article states, "Investments in local infrastructure can yield benefits that extend far beyond the curb. A 2021 report found that upcoming spending on federal, state, and local infrastructure will generate nearly $200 billion in economic activity in California alone." Read more

In the span of two days this week, the Hanford and Madera City Councils unanimously passed resolutions opposing the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act, which could make its way on the November ballot with enough support via voter signatures .... According to the League of California Cities, the initiative would prohibit local advisory measures, meaning voters would not be able to provide direction on how local tax dollars should be spent. Read more

Each year since 1978, the League of California Cities, whose goal is to protect local control and enhance the quality of life for all Californians, has given the John H. Nail Memorial Award to outstanding municipal assistants to promote the advancement of California communities. Santa Clarita City Manager Ken Striplin, who presented the 2021 honor to Oviedo earlier this month at a city manager conference in Monterey, said Oviedo is the embodiment of what the prestigious award recognizes. Read more
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