Municipal Finance

Overview

Municipal Finance

Article Features by Alison Leary

Courtroom Clashes Seek to Elevate City and Citizens’ Rights Over Telecom Company Profits

Residents and local communities have numerous concerns related to the telecom industry’s efforts to preempt local control.

Article News from the Institute for the Local Government By Kim Danko

Desalination’s Potential for California’s Water Supply

Although less than half a dozen desalination plants currently exist in the state, the idea is gaining momentum and greater support at the state level.

Article Features by Michael Coleman and Michael G. Colantuono

Hot Topics in California Municipal Finance

The next recession may be just around the corner, but the state is much better positioned to weather it — and that bodes well for local governments. Hot topics include sales tax and more.

Article Features by Melissa Kuehne

Finance Advisory Committees: Tips and Traps

Melissa Kuehne is communications and development manager for the Institute for Local Government; she can be reached at mkuehne@ca-ilg.org.

Article Features by Lynnette Kelly

Learn About California’s Municipal Bonds With EMMA

Lynnette Kelly is president and CEO of the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board and can be reached at thamlin@msrb.org.

Article News from the Institute for the Local Government by Melissa Kuehne

Tools to Engage Your Community in the Budgeting Process

Sharing the city’s budget information with the community helps residents understand constraints and develop informed opinions on how limited financial resources should be allocated.

Article City Forum by James Hamill

TRIP Offers Low-Cost Bond Financing for Cities in “Self-Help” Counties

Since 2008, TRIP has helped 16 agencies finance more than $230 million for transportation projects.

Article Executive Director's Message by Carolyn Coleman

Preparing for the Next Economic Downturn

Cities can take proactive steps to better position themselves for the impacts of the next major economic downturn.

Article Features by Karalee Browne

Public Safety and Wildfire Resilience

Making wildfire resilience a priority helps cities ensure their communities are safe and prosperous for generations to come.

Article City Forum by Cindy Silva and David Rabbitt

We Can Outsmart Disaster: Why Local Governments Should Get Involved

A look at how communities can plan for an earthquake and improve resilience.

Article Features by Shaun M. Anderson

Creating a Collaborative Community Development Initiative

Using sports for community development initiatives holds promise for cities.

Article Features by Tim Cromartie

Cannabis Legalization in California: Nine Months Out

Gain an overview of current issues for cities.

Article Features by Jim Lewis

Getting the Most Value From Your City’s Technology Investment

On average, cities spend 2.5 to 3 percent of their overall budgets on technology.

Article Executive Director's Message by Carolyn Coleman

November Ballot Measure Attacks Bridge and Road Safety: Mobilize Now

Proposition 6 would repeal the Road Repair and Accountability Act.

Article Features by Jared Boigon

Keys to Successful Local Sales Tax Measures: Competent Leadership, Community Engagement and Experienced Advice

Tips to make your case to voters effectively.

Article Features by Steven M. Berliner

Strategies to Manage Increasing Pension Costs

Explore ways to tackle this daunting task.

Article Features by Steve Sanders and Karalee Browne

Collaboration Helps Cities Become More Prosperous and Sustainable

Partnerships can help local communities attract investments that advance sustainability and boost local economies.

Article News from the Institute for the Local Government by Karalee Browne

Beacon Program Helps Cities Lead the Way to a More Sustainable State

The program helps local agencies reach aggressive state climate goals.

Article Features

Local Streets and Roads Awards Showcase Innovation

Cities and counties are using new technology to improve system efficiency and safety for motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians. These projects also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thus helping to meet statewide goals designed to address climate change. And a safe, well-maintained and environmentally friendly local transportation system saves money over the long term for cities, counties and taxpayers.