Public Safety

Overview

Public Safety

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 News from the Institute for the Local Government Steve Sanders

Resiliency Is Key to Managing the Risks of Climate Change

Over 2 million households in California are at high or extreme risk from wildfires, and cities statewide will have to step up their efforts in hazard mitigation, emergency planning and resilience.

Article Features

Contract Provisions Expedite Flood Cleanup in San José

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

Article City Forum Tim Cromartie

Local Siting Grants Available for Corrections Re-Entry Facilities

A $25 million Community-Based Transitional Housing Program offers incentive grants for providing transitional housing sites for recently released offenders.

Santa Clarita Pushes Back Against Heroin

The city mobilized a hard-hitting campaign to address a crisis.

Article Features Heidi SanbornAkin BabatolaDebbie Raphael

Focusing on Safe Disposal of Sharps and Pharmaceutical Waste

Local governments’ extended producer responsibility programs offer policy models for other states.

Article Features Patrice Chamberlain

Police Departments Use Creative Approaches to Build Public Trust

A foundation of community trust and strong community relationships is crucial for law enforcement to effectively prevent crime and safely resolve situations that involve residents.

Article Features June Catalano

Crisis Management for Cities

An unexpected event requires careful, strong management and teamwork in the face of extreme pressure.

Article Features Dan Sperling

Will Driverless Vehicles Create a Better Future?

The coming revolutions in electric, shared and automated vehicles present many potential scenarios.

Article City Forum Cindy Mills

Help Keep Bigger Trucks Off Our Roadways

Proponents of bigger trucks are lobbying for longer, heavier double-trailers, which pose threats to public safety and infrastructure.

Article Features Jennifer Cohen

Planning for Self-Driving Cars

Public officials need to act quickly to enact policies and plans.

Article Features Jim Lewis

Getting the Most Value From Your City’s Technology Investment

Technology increasingly serves as the backbone for providing local services.

Article City Forum

AskRail App Provides Hazmat Data for First Responders

The app provides immediate access to information about hazardous materials a railcar is carrying.

Article President’s Message Joanne Mounce

Making Cities Smarter

A few key principles apply to any smart city efforts, regardless of size or scope.

Article Features George Khalil

Data Loss Prevention and Cybersecurity: A Practical Guide

Adapting and responding to cyber threats and protecting critical infrastructure are essential for cities.

Article News from the Institute for the Local Government Randi Kay Stephens

Cities and Schools Partner for Positive, Transformational Outcomes

Culver City offers a model for successful community-schools partnerships.

Article President’s Message Joanne Mounce

How Volunteerism Enriches Communities

The small-town feeling of community that many of us experienced as youngsters has become more elusive. Volunteering gives us a sense of connectedness and offers multiple benefits.

Fairfield Reverses Crime and Neglect in Parkway Gardens

The city took legal action to help property owners effect change and address the shootings, illegal drug sales, traffic and other problems that plagued the complex.

Article Features Tim Cromartie

What Cities Should Know About Proposition 64, the Adult Use of Marijuana Act

Changes in the law related to marijuana raise many concerns for cities.