Governance, Legislation, and Law

Overview

Governance, Legislation & Law

Article by Carolyn Coleman

After the Campaign Is Over: Aim for Exceptional

Two-thirds of Americans surveyed in a 2018 poll had a favorable opinion of their local government. The public will continue to look favorably on local government and a functioning local democracy if newly elected and re-elected mayors and council members embrace the attributes of exceptional councils.

Article Features

On the Record
How long have you served on the city council? What do you wish you’d known when you were first elected?

Article Features

On the Record
What are your city’s top two fiscal issues?

Article Features by Michael Coleman and Michael G. Colantuono

Hot Topics in California Municipal Finance

The next recession may be just around the corner, but the state is much better positioned to weather it — and that bodes well for local governments. Hot topics include sales tax and more.

Article Executive Director's Message by Carolyn Coleman

Preparing for the Next Economic Downturn

Cities can take proactive steps to better position themselves for the impacts of the next major economic downturn.

Article Legal Notes by Patrick Whitnell, Corrie Manning and Luis Haro

Regulating Hate Speech in California

Even though hateful speech is generally protected under the First Amendment, some hate speech does not receive protection.

Article Features by Karalee Browne

Public Safety and Wildfire Resilience

Making wildfire resilience a priority helps cities ensure their communities are safe and prosperous for generations to come.

Article Features by Charles Harvey and Eva Spiegel

Community Policing Insights From Chief Daniel Hahn

Chief Hahn discusses strategies to help build stronger relationships between the community and local law enforcement.

Article Features by Eric Lucan

Novato Says “Not In Our Town”

Not In Our Town is a movement to stop hate, address bullying and build safe, inclusive communities for all.

Article President’s Message by Jan Arbuckle

Strategic Growth Planning and Dynamic Transformation

Moving the League forward will involve implementing big, bold ideas on multiple fronts.

Article Features by Tim Cromartie

Cannabis Legalization in California: Nine Months Out

Gain an overview of current issues for cities.

Article City Forum

Ballot Measure Activities and Use of Public Resources: What You Need to Know

Public agencies and officials face important restrictions related to ballot measure activities.

Article President’s Message by Rich Garbarino

Meeting the Challenges Ahead for Cities

A report on progress made during the past year and a look at what lies ahead.

Article Legal Notes by T. Peter Pierce

Loaded Questions: Local Regulation of Businesses Selling Firearms

A look at local zoning and safety regulations that cities may adopt and apply to firearms retailers.

Article Features

Before, During and After California Wildland Fires: The New Normal

Lessons from one of the worst fire years in California history.

Article Features by Charity Schiller

Newly Proposed CEQA Guidelines Are Coming to Your Town

Key facts and trends city officials need to understand.

Article Executive Director's Message by Carolyn Coleman

November Ballot Measure Attacks Bridge and Road Safety: Mobilize Now

Proposition 6 would repeal the Road Repair and Accountability Act.

Article Features by Frank Benest

Winning the War for Talent: The Elected Official’s Role

Talent is mobile and in short supply.

Article Features by Jared Boigon

Keys to Successful Local Sales Tax Measures: Competent Leadership, Community Engagement and Experienced Advice

Tips to make your case to voters effectively.

Article Features by Steven M. Berliner

Strategies to Manage Increasing Pension Costs

Explore ways to tackle this daunting task.