Governance, Legislation, and Law

Overview

Governance, Legislation & Law

Article Features Dan Carrigg

How SB 89 Harmed City Annexations — and Why Fixing It Makes Sense

Fixing annexations would restore previous incentives that support state policies advocating for compact growth and the related benefits of consolidating services for an increasing population.

Article Executive Director's Message Carolyn Coleman

League Leaders Build on 2017 Successes to Shape 2018 Strategic Goals

An inclusive and interactive gathering of highly engaged city leaders from throughout the state ensures that the League’s highest priorities reflect the common interests of California cities.

Article Features

Contract Provisions Expedite Flood Cleanup in San José

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

Article Legal Notes Barbara Kautz

New Housing Laws Change How Cities Process Housing Applications

California’s new housing laws create additional requirements and new compliance rules for cities.

Article City Forum Jennifer Whiting

Upcoming Leadership Training Opportunities

The League offers a range of professional development sessions featuring current research, model programs and best practices.

Article Features Jason Rhine

2017 Legislative Session Makes Many Changes to California Housing Law

Fifteen bills made it into the “Housing Package” that Gov. Jerry Brown signed, which includes the League’s “Blueprint for More Housing” legislation.

Article City Forum Eva Spiegel

Torch Program Recognizes Leadership in Action and Continued Education

This voluntary program recognizes elected officials for continuing their education to enhance their knowledge and skills and for undertaking leadership roles to better serve the public.

Article Web Exclusive Melissa Kuehne

Tips for Effective Governance

Article Legal Notes Clare M. Gibson

Prevailing Wage Compliance: What Cities Should Do to Avoid Penalties Under SB 96

Prevailing wage laws have changed again. Because prevailing wage requirements apply to all public works contracts over $1,000, these new requirements will apply to the vast majority of municipal…

Article Executive Director's Message Carolyn Coleman

Taking Proactive Steps to Avoid Scandal

When making decisions or taking action, the savvy local official embraces the notion that the law creates a floor for ethical behavior — not a ceiling. In other words, just because a particular…

Article News from the Institute for the Local Government Madeline Henry

Engaging Your Community in the Budgeting Process

Public involvement in city budgeting increases financial transparency and promotes greater trust.

Article Features Dan Carrigg

It’s Time to Restore Opportunities for City Incorporation: The Roots of American Democracy

Obstacles to city incorporation should be removed to give communities the same option for self-government that existing cities had.

Article Features Lynnette Kelly

Understanding Roles and Responsibilities When Issuing Municipal Bonds

Working with unregistered or unqualified financial professionals puts a city at risk.

Article President’s Message Rich Garbarino

How Diversity Makes the League Stronger

Diversity enriches California’s culture and economy and also plays a critically important role in the League.

Article Legal Notes Robert Saxe

Court Rejects Challenges to Mello-Roos District in San Ramon

The decision is an important reminder for cities that the creation of Mello-Roos Community Facilities Districts may be a potential tool to supplement funds needed to provide services to new…

Article Executive Director's Message Carolyn Coleman

Stopping the Runaway Pension Train

Increasing pension costs could push cities already in financial distress closer to the brink of bankruptcy.

Article Executive Director's Message Carolyn Coleman

Celebrating Our Accomplishments — and Protecting Local Control

We have achieved important victories on behalf of cities this year on our strategic goals and in other areas.

Article Features Michael Martello

The Public Official and the FPPC: Forging a New Partnership

A partnership of the League and the FPPC can provide numerous resources to support community dialogue about transparency.

Article Features June Catalano

Crisis Management for Cities

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