Topic - Land Use & Planning Archive

If You Rebuild It They Will Come: How State-Local Partnerships Have Changed the Face of California and Its Cities

Today multiple bills are pending to recreate tax-increment financing. It requires vision, persistence and enough public investment to attract private capital and development that produce much-needed jobs for Californians.

By Chris McKenzie

Supporting Health in Our Communities

By supporting wellness efforts, cities can offer an environment where residents and employees are encouraged to be more physically active, eat nutritious food and enjoy the advantages of good health.

By Bill Bogaard

Fresno’s Planning Process Builds Trust

Communities use planning to make choices about the future. But the process can be as important as the final plan itself and provide a foundation for future efforts around local issues and concerns.

By Jennifer Armer and Steve Sanders

Neglecting Annexation and Incorporation Will Not Serve the State’s Growth Goals

State policies for achieving sustainability have staked much on the success of cities. Yet the state’s recent actions signal a lack of appreciation for the vital function cities serve as centers of commerce and providers of essential quality of-life services for the vast majority of California’s population.

By Kirstin Kolpitcke and Dan Carrigg

Fontana Revitalizes Downtown With a Focus on Seniors

The city provided its senior population with high-quality, affordable housing close to the services they need.

The Impact of Our Crumbling Infrastructure on California’s Economy

The state’s goals around reducing greenhouse gas emissions are based on a vision that concentrates growth in urban cores and utilizes transit. To meet these goals, cities must be able to make much-needed infrastructure upgrades and repairs to support this vision.

By Bill Bogaard

Partnerships Make Roadways Safer

In tough economic times expectations remain high for cities to provide quality public services and facilities, though resources to fund desired projects are scarce. One strategy for overcoming limited resources is to combine forces with other agencies and organizations to leverage expertise, staff time and funding.

By Jennifer Armer and Steve Sanders

Peer Learning Network Advances Leadership in Sustainability

The Sustainable Communities Learning Network links nonprofit, governmental, private sector and community organizations statewide. It provides a way to share best practices and seek information from others engaged in areas related to sustainability.

By Karalee Browne

2012 Legislative Year In Review

While the past few years have presented major challenges for cities, the events of 2012 included some bright spots as well. This article presents an overview of the year’s legislative developments and the League’s achievements. It also poses some questions to keep in mind as the new session begins.

By Dan Carrigg

The Next Generation of Economic Development Tools: Community Development Corporations

Cities throughout California are seeking ways to help create jobs and revitalize neighborhoods.

By Kevin Payne