State policies for achieving sustainability have staked much on
the success of cities. Yet the state’s recent actions signal a
lack of appreciation for the vital function cities serve as
centers…
In tough economic times expectations remain high for cities to
provide quality public services and facilities, though resources
to fund desired projects are scarce. One strategy for
overcoming…
The state’s goals around reducing greenhouse gas emissions are based on a vision that concentrates growth in urban cores and utilizes transit. To meet these goals, cities must be able to make…
The Sustainable Communities Learning Network links nonprofit,
governmental, private sector and community organizations
statewide. It provides a way to share best practices and seek
information from…
While the past few years have presented major challenges for
cities, the events of 2012 included some bright spots as well.
This article presents an overview of the year’s legislative…
Cities and counties throughout California are demonstrating
leadership in creating vibrant, healthy communities by adopting
policies and programs that support sustainability.
The City of Alhambra took action early this year on an innovative
plan to stimulate economic development and identified a range of
tools to help finance new projects.
The continued expansion in core green industries, such as energy
generation and efficiency, recycling and waste, clean
transportation, water and wastewater, offers cause for guarded
optimism.
As local officials, we grapple with a lot of challenging issues
and tough situations, and we don’t always agree on the best thing
to do. But once in a while we come across something that makes…
Obesity and related diseases threaten the health of cities’ most
vulnerable populations, particularly children and youth. As part
of an effort to address obesity, California cities are
participating in the Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) Cities
Campaign and adopting land-use, economic development and employee
wellness policies that support health.
A new era of transportation planning has dawned in California as
metropolitan planning organizations throughout the state work to
comply with Senate Bill 375.
Land-use planning can present difficult and divisive issues for
communities. A local agency’s land-use planning decisions
literally affect people where they live.
Hayward’s Mural Art Program offers an outstanding example of a
local effort that has helped reduce crime, build public-private
partnerships, enhance community pride and save taxpayers’ money.
