President's Message

Overview

President’s Message

Article President’s Message by John F. Dunbar

Laying the Groundwork for Success in 2020

Communication and collaboration are cornerstones of the ability to lead, and the League’s positive relationships with legislators are key to cities’ successes in the Capitol. Cultivating open two-way communication with our state leaders is essential to protecting the interests of cities and our residents.

Article President’s Message by John F. Dunbar

Partnering With the State to Support Affordable Housing Development: Get Ready

The shortage of affordable housing is a crisis for cities statewide and the focus of a League 2019 strategic goal. The League’s hard work on this issue was boosted by an executive order from Governor Newsom earlier this year.

Article President’s Message by Jan Arbuckle

Tales From the Dusty Trail: City Voices on Statewide Issues

A summary of insights and issues from League divisions statewide.

Article President’s Message by Jan Arbuckle

Focusing on Youth and a Vibrant Future

Our young residents play a critically important part in the future of our cities — they are tomorrow’s leaders, workers and innovators. Cities statewide are engaging youth in numerous ways.

Article President’s Message by Jan Arbuckle

Broadband Deployment, Public Safety and Defending Local Control

It is unreasonable and unacceptable for the telecom industry to expect it can override the legitimate concerns and best interests of our residents and cities.

Article President’s Message by Jan Arbuckle

When Face-to-Face Meetings Produce the Best Results

One advantage of establishing relationships with newly elected officials (and their staff) is that it often facilitates access during their term that follows.

Article President’s Message by Jan Arbuckle

League Strategic Goals Set a Course for 2019

Approximately 100 League leaders participated in the goal-setting process. This provides an opportunity for city leaders to reflect on the prior year’s work, discuss current challenges and establish League priorities, as the organization continues to serve as the leading voice of California cities.

Article President’s Message by Jan Arbuckle

Steer Clear of Trouble: Refresh Your Knowledge and Update Your Skills

It’s easy to make a misstep by not understanding that what may seem acceptable or harmless may nevertheless be a violation of the law with serious consequences.

Article President’s Message by Jan Arbuckle

Strategic Growth Planning and Dynamic Transformation

Moving the League forward will involve implementing big, bold ideas on multiple fronts.

Article President’s Message by Rich Garbarino

Meeting the Challenges Ahead for Cities

A report on progress made during the past year and a look at what lies ahead.

Article President’s Message by Rich Garbarino

Energy, Water and the Responsibilities of Stewardship

Energy production is a key factor both in the state’s economy and its environmental quality. Water quality and supply reliability also play a central role in our state’s economy.

Article President’s Message by Rich Garbarino

Pushing Back on Infrastructure Issues: Key to Our Local and State Economies

The League has focused on transportation infrastructure needs for over a decade, and this remains a priority for California cities in 2018.

Article President’s Message Rich Garbarino

Cultivating an Inclusive and Diverse Future Workforce

Programs that introduce our young people to local government and career opportunities in public service can provide a variety of benefits.

Article President’s Message Rich Garbarino

Amplify Your Community’s Voice by Fostering Future Leaders

California cities use a variety of methods, including citizens’ academies and similar programs, to engage residents in civic life and give them a voice.

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 President’s Message Joanne Mounce

Connecting Youth and Civic Leadership

Youth commissions foster civic engagement and citizenship skills.

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 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.

Article President’s Message Joanne Mounce

Local Infrastructure Conditions: A Crisis Situation

We can either pay to fix and maintain our infrastructure today or pay much more in the future to replace it.

Article President’s Message Joanne Mounce

What You Need to Know About Legislative Advocacy and the League

Keeping track of legislation and priority bills that affect your city is critically important for elected officials. The League provides an array of helpful tools to make this task easier.