Topic - Community Services Archive

Property Tax Postponement Program Helps Seniors and People With Disabilities Remain in Their Homes

Governor Jerry Brown signed legislation in September 2014 bringing a successful property tax postponement program back to communities throughout California. Assembly Bill (AB) 2231 (Chapter 703, Statutes of 2014) reinstates and revises the Senior Citizens and Disabled Citizens Property Tax Postponement (PTP) Program, which enables qualified Californians living on fixed incomes to remain in their homes and defer payment of all — or a portion of — the property taxes on their residence.

by Rich Gordon

How Libraries Build Community

Anyone who believes libraries are a withered vestige from sepia-tinted yesteryear hasn’t been inside their neighborhood branch lately.

by Greg Lucas

Enthusiasm Plays Central Role in Success of “Live Well Perris” Public Health Program

“Live Well Perris demonstrated in its first year that a city doesn’t need a large budget to implement an effective public health campaign,” says Ron Carr, assistant city manager and Live Well Perris coordinator. “More important are enthusiasm, energy and a commitment to serving the community.”

Beyond Books: Leveraging Resources for Library Programs

An International City/County Management Association report, Maximize the Potential of Your Public Library: A Report on the Innovative Ways Public Libraries Are Addressing Community Priorities, offers food for thought on the ways libraries are serving as a new type of town square and connecting people with information, services and each other.

by Stephany Aguilar

Community Leadership Programs: Empowering Future Leaders

Community-based organizations often provide leadership development programs for residents or specific underrepresented populations and offer an opportunity to invigorate civic engagement.

Santa Clarita Uses Collaborative Approach to Tackle Youths’ Drug Abuse

An upward trend in substance abuse spurred a partnership of the city, county and school district.

Electronic Transparency and Open Data: A Movement Worth Joining

Taking information that local agencies already have and making it open to the public reduces in-house costs and builds efficiencies for both staff and constituents. In the past the public typically had to request this data through a public records request, which could take days or weeks to produce results. Cities can now share that data online proactively and let others analyze and use it in various ways.

by Lea Deesing

Cities and Schools: Playing Well Together Pays Off for Children and Families

Santa Clarita Uses Community Approach to Strengthen Neighborhood

The city partnered with residents to find creative ways to address tough challenges.

Elk Grove Rain Garden Plaza Showcases Water Conservation

A public project demonstrates sustainable stormwater management practices and offers an educational, inviting space.