Governance, Legislation, and Law

Overview

Governance, Legislation & Law

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Article City Forum by Eva Spiegel and Jude Hudson

Relaxation and Inspiration: A Summer Reading List for City Officials and Staff

Western City asked League members which books inspired them as local government leaders, and their recommendations comprise the magazine’s first-ever summer reading list. Whether you’re selecting books to take along on summer vacation or read at home, consider these intriguing titles.

Sanjeri
Article Executive Director's Message by Carolyn Coleman

Transportation Funding, Transparency and Accountability

The League offers a variety of new tools and resources to support cities’ transparency efforts.

Article Features by Dan Carrigg

Redevelopment’s Elimination: Remembering the Local Experience

As new tools emerge, expect local officials to exercise caution.

Article Features by Dan Carrigg

Reassembling Redevelopment

The new tax-increment tools lack the concentrated financial impact provided by the former redevelopment tool. Left unaddressed, this financing gap presents significant challenges for the future use of these tools.

Article News from the Institute for the Local Government by Steve Sanders

State Climate Investments Boost Local Communities

State programs aimed at solving climate change can also help cities tackle many of their other community priorities. The cap-and-trade program generates substantial revenue that the state invests to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve other community co-benefits.

Article President’s Message by Rich Garbarino

Pushing Back on Infrastructure Issues: Key to Our Local and State Economies

The League has focused on transportation infrastructure needs for over a decade, and this remains a priority for California cities in 2018.

Article Features Sarah Rubin

Spanish-Language Leadership Academies Build Trust and Civic Participation

Article Executive Director's Message Carolyn Coleman

Fighting Homelessness: Effective Strategies

A new report from the League and its partners showcases existing and emerging approaches that are having a positive impact on homelessness in California communities.

Article City Forum Alex Padilla

Connecting Youth With Democracy

The secretary of state sponsors programs to inform students about upcoming elections while providing unique hands-on opportunities to participate in the voting process.

Article Legal Notes Jimmie Johnson

Lessons for Local Governments About ADA Lawsuits

A recent court decision offers clarification on which standards and regulations apply to which government

Article Features

On the Record
Which aspect of public service appeals most to you?

Article Features Dan Carrigg

How SB 89 Harmed City Annexations — and Why Fixing It Makes Sense

Fixing annexations would restore previous incentives that support state policies advocating for compact growth and the related benefits of consolidating services for an increasing population.

Article Executive Director's Message Carolyn Coleman

League Leaders Build on 2017 Successes to Shape 2018 Strategic Goals

An inclusive and interactive gathering of highly engaged city leaders from throughout the state ensures that the League’s highest priorities reflect the common interests of California cities.

Article Features

Contract Provisions Expedite Flood Cleanup in San José

An unusual emergency services agreement yielded significant benefits when disaster struck.

Article Legal Notes Barbara Kautz

New Housing Laws Change How Cities Process Housing Applications

California’s new housing laws create additional requirements and new compliance rules for cities.

Article City Forum Jennifer Whiting

Upcoming Leadership Training Opportunities

The League offers a range of professional development sessions featuring current research, model programs and best practices.

Article Features Jason Rhine

2017 Legislative Session Makes Many Changes to California Housing Law

Fifteen bills made it into the “Housing Package” that Gov. Jerry Brown signed, which includes the League’s “Blueprint for More Housing” legislation.

Article City Forum Eva Spiegel

Torch Program Recognizes Leadership in Action and Continued Education

This voluntary program recognizes elected officials for continuing their education to enhance their knowledge and skills and for undertaking leadership roles to better serve the public.

Article Web Exclusive Melissa Kuehne

Tips for Effective Governance

Article Legal Notes Clare M. Gibson

Prevailing Wage Compliance: What Cities Should Do to Avoid Penalties Under SB 96

Prevailing wage laws have changed again. Because prevailing wage requirements apply to all public works contracts over $1,000, these new requirements will apply to the vast majority of municipal…