Issue

February 2025

Related Content

Article President’s Message By League of California Cities President Lynne B. Kennedy, Ph.D.

In moments of devastation, the strength and character of public servants shine through

Elected officials hold a unique and critical responsibility: to guide their communities through times of peace and crisis alike. The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County and nearby regions serve as a stark reminder of this task. 

Affordable apartments in South Lake Tahoe
Article Local Works By Jackie Krentzman

City officials work to keep South Lake Tahoe afforda-blue

South Lake Tahoe’s housing stock is controlled by regional growth limits. That stock became even more limited in 2020, as white-collar workers freed from downtown office commutes in pricier regions moved to the area. Home prices and rent soared by double digits, displacing many longtime residents and seasonal workers.

A 5-over-1 residential building with ground-floor commercial space.
Article Features By Robert J. Landeros

Housing affordability has become a public service issue, with potentially devastating impacts

The high cost of housing has had repercussions on all aspects of life, including employee recruitment and retention. And while staffing shortages are impacting nearly every public service sector, they are potentially life-threatening for public safety.

Household batteries in a trash bin
Article Special to Cal Cities By Heidi Sanborn and Jordan Wells

It’s time for California to help cities manage household hazardous waste

California has become a leader in passing laws that hold producers, not ratepayers, responsible for properly managing product and packaging waste. The state needs to take a similar approach to the state’s dangerous (and frequently, deadly) household hazardous waste.

Article California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence By Adrienne Etherton

Brisbane charges up its climate action goals with new city ordinance

Most buildings use methane gas for heating, drying, and cooking. But methane is also a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide. A program in Brisbane would slash tons of the city’s emissions equal to roughly 8 million miles driven in an average gasoline vehicle.