Topic - Public Safety Archive

New Law Strengthens Local Regulation of Massage Businesses

New legislation returned to California cities and counties the authority to adopt ordinances regarding the massage therapy industry through a combination of land-use and business regulations.

by Kirstin Kolpitcke

A Growing Risk: Oil Trains Raise Safety and Environmental Concerns

An oil boom in North Dakota and Canada from the Bakken shale formation and a lack of pipeline infrastructure have led to a dramatic increase in oil-by-rail shipments nationwide. As the volume of oil being transported by rail has swelled, train derailments have also increased.

by Cory Golden

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.

2014 Legislative Year in Review

League actions in 2014 included sponsoring and supporting legislation on infrastructure, economic development and the redevelopment dissolution process. Other efforts focused on improving the regulatory framework for medical marijuana and restoring local control over massage establishments.

By Dan Carrigg

Addressing Health and Safety Issues Related to Public Encampments and Vehicle Habitation

In dealing with public encampments and vehicle habitation, city officials must be sensitive to the constitutional rights of the affected individuals, who are often homeless, and the many related complex social welfare challenges.

by Stephen A. McEwen and Lisa S. Kurihara

The Better Part of Valor: Amending Local Sex Offender Ordinances

Few city officials or residents favor the idea of repealing an ordinance intended to protect children from sexual predators, but many cities with such ordinances are being forced to do just that as a result of legal challenges. By moving quickly and carefully, city councils can address the appellate rulings and avoid paying for the privilege of repealing their ordinances.

by Michael R. Cobden and Teresa L. Highsmith

Is Your City Prepared for The Next Major Disaster?

California is vulnerable to earthquakes, floods, wildfires, tsunamis, hazardous materials spills, acts of terrorism and many other natural and human-caused disasters. For this reason state law requires all municipalities to have in place a comprehensive, all-hazard emergency plan. Everyone, including the mayor and city council, has a defined role in ensuring that the needs of their communities are met during crises.

by Tony Ferrara

Goleta Makes Emergency Preparedness a Priority

The Goleta Prepare Now/Goleta Prepárese Hoy program provides education and training to community members so they can assist their families and neighborhoods during a disaster.

Monrovia’s YES Program Opens Doors For At-Risk Teens

Monrovia’s YES Program Opens Doors For At-Risk Teens The program provides career opportunities and guidance.

Outstanding Local Streets and Roads Project Awards Highlight Exceptional Efforts

Launched in 2014, the awards highlight cities and counties using innovative projects to achieve safety, preservation and sustainability goals for the local street and road systems.