Issue

August 2025

Related Content

Article Executive Director's Message By League of California Cities Executive Director and CEO Carolyn Coleman

Safety tips for city officials in challenging times

Sadly, politically motivated violence is not new. It is part of our national history, driven by a range of motives — and is increasing. Here are some practical steps you can take to support your safety and that of those around you. 

Article Features By John Lorinc

Does transit-oriented development lead to gentrification? It’s complicated

“Displacement can happen across any income group,” says planner Karen Chapple, “and it can happen with benefits or with losses. The policy issue is, is the diversity of the neighborhood that you had before as sustained as the new transit improvement comes in?”

People socializing outside neighborhood cottages
Article Features By Jackie Krentzman

‘We’re using 20th century tools to respond to 21st century problems,’ argues urbanist Daniel Parolek

Most neighborhoods used to have a mix of single-family homes and houses with multiple units. But today, many cities struggle to provide that same level of choice. Daniel Parolek says that’s because the systems needed to deliver those choices have disappeared.

Article Legal Notes Steve Berliner and John Z. LaCrosse

Three developments at CalPERS that city leaders need to know

CalPERS and the Legislature have enacted several changes in recent years that expand the pension fund’s enforcement powers, including new financial penalties. Here’s how those changes could impact your city — and what may be coming next. 

Article California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence by Judith Franco

Vacaville’s Summer at City Hall builds generational bridges

Summer at City Hall equips Vacaville youth with job readiness skills and a deeper understanding of local government. But city officials say the four-week program is more than just preparing students for jobs. It’s also about building community and giving them confidence.

Article California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence By Brian Mohan

Hire MoVal shortens commutes, boosts jobs and income levels

In bustling Moreno Valley, the daily commute isn’t just a routine — it’s a formidable challenge. Spending several hours a week on the road to get to and from work can negatively affect people’s finances and health — and a city’s economy. 

Article Local Works By Caleb Zimmerschied Valadez

Doctors in LA bring health care to the streets

What started as a radical fringe movement of medicine more than 30 years ago is now being incorporated into mainstream health care — with the city of Los Angeles at the forefront. Patients receive care wherever they are, whether that’s in an encampment, on the sidewalk, or under a bridge.

Article Local Works By Jackie Krentzman

‘People here were worried for nothing.’ Culver City residents get behind transitional housing

Culver City’s annual operating budget for homeless services has sharply increased to nearly $16.1 million. The agency’s investment is paying off. The latest Point-in-Time Count found that the number of homeless people in the city decreased from 229 to 105.