Are you the voting delegate or alternate for your city? Do you have questions about Resolutions? This is the place to be! Pick up your voting card and get your questions answered before the General Assembly.

Sign-in will begin 30 minutes prior to the session and you must be present for the full two hours to receive the certification of attendance. Entry will be prohibited once the session begins.

State law requires elected and appointed officials to receive two hours of training in specified ethics laws and principles every two years. Newly elected and appointed officials must receive this training within one year of becoming a public servant. Join a panel of experts as they help navigate the ethics laws and principles.

The Institute for Local Government is a Multiple Activity Provider for California State Bar of approved minimum continuing legal education (MCLE) and certifies this activity meets the standards for MCLE credit by the California State Bar in the total amount of 2 participatory hours. Provider #13881

Speaker: Aleks Giragosian, Senior Counsel, Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley, PC

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Laura Varela, lvarela@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Jennifer Quan, jquan@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Sara Sanders, sanders@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Jesse Ramirez, jramirez@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Charles Anderson, canderson@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Rajveer Rakkar, rrakkar@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Join Cal Cities leadership and staff as you begin your first Annual Conference experience. Hear about Cal Cities and how to get the most out of your conference experience.

Presiding: Lynne B. Kennedy Mayor Pro Tem, Rancho Cucamonga

Keynote Address: The Future is NOW: Technology and Trends That Will Revolutionize  
In this high-energy session, technology futurist Crystal Washington will show you exciting, practical ways that technology will rock your world over the next ten years. Best of all, she’ll deliver her discussion in PLAIN English. You will leave this session able to identify buzz-worthy human behavior that impacts how organizations innovate, along with five technologies that could interrupt or revolutionize your work and new tactics to help you stay ahead of the trends.

Keynote Speaker: Crystal Washington, Certified Futurist and Technology Strategist

Celebrate the official opening of the Cal Cities Expo - an afternoon of fresh ideas, and a first look at the innovations helping cities thrive! Enjoy refreshments, light bites, and engaging conversations as you network with professionals and get your first look at more than 200 companies that offer products and services to cities. Make sure to visit your favorite Cal Cities representatives in the Cal Cities Pavilion! The Expo offers a dynamic setting for city leaders, planners, and innovators to connect, share ideas, and explore the solutions shaping tomorrow’s cities.

Are you a current member of or interested in joining a Cal Cities Policy Committee? Come meet our lobbyists and committee leadership and get all your questions answered!

Cities in Orange County are collaborating to address homelessness through the Central Cities Navigation Center. City leaders will discuss the challenges faced, successes achieved, and lessons learned in regional coordination, funding strategies, and service delivery. The discussion will highlight key milestones, including interagency cooperation with the county, community engagement, and the broader impact of delivering homeless resources effectively.

Moderator: Stephanie Klopfenstein, Mayor, Garden Grove

Speakers: Christine Cordon, City Manager, Westminster | Maggie Le, City Manager, Fountain Valley | Ursula Luna-Reynosa, Assistant City Manager, Garden Grove

Plastic pollution imposes significant financial burdens on waste management systems and threatens public health and environmental quality. This session will provide an in-depth look at the wave of plastics litigation that seek to hold companies accountable for waste management costs and for misleading the public by promoting recycling as the primary solution to plastic pollution. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the legal strategies being used, the potential for financial recovery, lessons learned from previous cases, and how their city can respond to constituents’ concerns about plastic pollution. Rather than advocating for a specific course of action, this discussion will provide an objective overview of the opportunities and challenges cities may face in pursuing legal remedies.

Moderator: Allan Kanner, Founding Member , Kanner & Whiteley, LLC

Speakers: Patrick Boyle, Corporate Accountability Attorney (Petrochemicals), CIEL | David Ivy-Taylor, Attorney, Kanner & Whiteley, LLC | Megan Stedtfeld, Counsel, Singleton Schreiber

Facing an onslaught of new state laws and changing economic conditions, cities with older general plans may feel compelled to launch into a comprehensive update effort, only to find the cost and staff resources overwhelming. The reality is that most cities' plans can and should be updated in a manner that focuses on making the general plan an effective tool for decision making, attracting investment, and streamlining development. Through an interactive discussion with the audience, a panel of city staff and general plan consultants will work through common challenges and strategies that can be adapted by cities of all sizes and geographies.

Moderator: Colin Drukker, Principal, PlaceWorks

Speakers: Omar Dadabhoy, Deputy City Manager/Community Development Director, Fountain Valley | Jennifer Nakamura, Planning Director, Rancho Cucamonga | Mark Teague, Principal Advisor, Land Use & Environmental Services, PlaceWorks

This session will equip local leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to support immigrant communities in response to the evolving immigration policies of the current federal administration. As national policy shifts continue to generate uncertainty and fear among immigrant families, local governments are uniquely positioned to lead with clarity, compassion, and purpose – playing a vital role in keeping residents informed, protected, and connected to essential resources. This session will provide a high-level overview of current and anticipated immigration policy changes, along with practical strategies to strengthen community education, respond to local impacts through coordinated, rights-based approaches, and build trust through culturally competent and inclusive engagement. Planned with the Cal Cities API Caucus.

Moderator: Helen Tran, Mayor, San Bernardino

Speakers: Ash Alvandi, Vice President of Orange County, Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Kathy Khommarath, Institutional Giving Manager; Immigration Attorney, Asian Americans Advancing Justice

The fires in LA County were devastating, but the response of local officials was key in helping residents get to safety and helping them get the resources and information they needed to start the long road to recovery. Drawing from the experiences of city leaders and public information officers in disaster-impacted communities, explore the most effective crisis communications practices for supporting communities during and after a disaster. We will also examine strategies for combating misinformation and delivering timely updates to residents. This session is presented by Western City magazine and the California Association of Public Information Officers.

Moderator: Christine Brainerd, California Association of Public Information Officials, Communications Director, Folsom

Speakers: Chelsea Byers, Mayor, West Hollywood | Lori Fowler, Senior Public Information Officer, Southern Region, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services | Nick Schuler, Deputy Director of Communications, CAL FIRE | Tamara Vides, City Manager, Watsonville

Public trust in government is essential for effective local governance, operations, and thriving communities. While the COVID-19 pandemic tested trust in government, recent shifts in federal policies have accelerated the erosion of public trust to unprecedented levels. What can local leaders do to remedy this situation? Join us for an insightful session where we explore the pillars of trust-building between cities and residents. Hear about leadership practices and actionable strategies that any local leader can apply to help restore trust in government and strengthen support for local policies and programs.

Moderator: Erica Manuel, CEO and Executive Director, Institute for Local Government

Moderator: Prasanna Rasiah, City Attorney, San Mateo

Welcoming Remarks (4:00 - 4:10 p.m.)

Speaker: Dawn McIntosh, City Attorney, Long Beach

General Municipal Litigation Update (4:10 - 4:45 p.m.)

Hear the latest on litigation in federal and state courts, as it pertains to California cities. This session provides an update on litigation from the last six months.

Speaker: Meghan Wharton, Senior Counsel, Colantuono Highsmith & Whatley

Dangerous Condition: Avoiding and Defending Public Property Liability Claims (4:45 - 5:30 p.m.)

Learn about the strategies and best practices to protect against dangerous condition of public property claims. Our panel will discuss legal strategies to defeat these lawsuits, including preparation of Motions for Summary Judgment, effective review and use of medical records, and propounding of targeted discovery.

Speakers: Brian Hamblet, Partner, Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP | Robert Theiring, Senior Associate, Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP

The City of Long Beach invites you to celebrate the first day of the Annual Conference and Expo! Join us on the Terrace Plaza for food, beverages, and an opportunity to network with your colleagues!

Are you the voting delegate or alternate for your city? Do you have questions about Resolutions? This is the place to be! Pick up your voting card and get your questions answered before the General Assembly.

In today’s fast-moving digital world, every city needs a plan to stay ahead and serve its residents effectively. For smaller cities with tight budgets and limited tech expertise, that might seem overwhelming. The good news? A well-crafted technology plan makes it achievable — and it’s easier than you think. Join our expert panel as they discuss how strategic technology planning can enhance public services, strengthen cybersecurity, and improve efficiency. This isn’t about chasing the latest gadgets — it’s about practical, scalable solutions that make city operations more effective and sustainable. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide the roadmap you need to future-proof your community.

Speakers: Rita Gass, Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, Rancho Cordova | Siri Pulipati, Mayor, Rancho Cordova | Micah Runner, City Manager, Rancho Cordova

As political uncertainty clouds America’s energy transition, local strides toward decarbonization, equity, and resilience are more critical than ever. This session will bring an intergenerational perspective to the challenges and opportunities of municipal climate action. Combining decades of leadership experience and fresh insights, public sector sustainability specialists will explore how public-private partnerships can streamline electrification projects to build a clean and diversified energy mix that saves taxpayers millions and keeps dollars in the local economy. Get an in-depth look at the city of Fresno and Ventura’s citywide electrification initiatives, including EV infrastructure upgrades in disadvantaged areas and one of the largest multi-campus public sector solar and storage portfolios in California.

Moderator: Sam Zantzinger, Sr. Director, ForeFront Power

Speakers: Logan Babcock, Environmental Services Specialist, Ventura | Ann Kloose, Sustainability Division Manager, Public Works Sustainability Division, Fresno | Michael Rochman, Managing Director, SPURR

Investing in your community’s future means taking a strategic and proactive approach to securing public funding. This panel will explore effective strategies for pursuing grants and collaborative financing options, especially for cities working to rebuild their economies. The panel will discuss the Building a Better America initiative, as well as how special financing districts can support capital improvements, climate action, housing, and ongoing maintenance. Learn how combining tax increment financing with grants can help revitalize your community and drive sustainable growth.

Moderator: Steve Samuelian, CEO, California Cosulting, Inc.

Speaker: Larry Kosmont, Chairman & CEO, Kosmont Companies | Dr. Robert Lennox, Assistant City Manager, Carson | Chris Zapata, City Manager, Sausalito

Cities can play an essential role in affirming and protecting transgender communities through inclusive, equity-driven leadership. As transgender communities face escalating challenges nationwide — including hostile political rhetoric, legislative attacks, and social stigma — cities can set the standard for leadership grounded in integrity, empathy, and effective action. This session will explore how cities can design and strengthen policies, programs, and services that meaningfully support transgender residents. It will also examine strategies for proactively promoting equity, addressing discrimination, and fostering environments that reflect the full diversity of their communities. Planned with the Cal Cities LGBTQ Caucus.

Moderator: Henry Lo, Council Member, Monterey Park

Speakers: Erin Arendse, Program Director, Equality California Institute | Chelsea Byers, Mayor, West Hollywood

Every city wants residents to show up. But with dozens of calendars, scattered event promotion, and siloed communications, cities often overwhelm their residents or leave them out altogether. Discover how Beaumont tackled these problems head-on by replacing fragmented calendars with a centralized event hub — improving engagement, saving staff time, and even enabling cross-city coordination with the neighboring city of Banning. Whether you're wrestling with silos between departments, struggling to get residents to show up, or rethinking your city's engagement tools, you'll walk away with tested strategies and replicable practices to help your city communicate more clearly, work more collaboratively, and engage more residents.

Moderator: Noa Zeldin, Co-founder and CSO, With

Speakers: Charles Duggan, City Manager, Redlands | Angel Galache, Deputy City Manager, Moreno Valley | Jennifer Schoeneck, Director of Economic Development, Escondido | Julie Van Hook, Public Information Officer, Beaumont

Learn how development agreements can be a powerful tool to secure community benefit projects from developers. This session will explore strategies for negotiating and structuring agreements that ensure developers contribute to local needs, such as affordable housing, public infrastructure, and other community enhancements, while advancing their development goals.

Moderator: Sean Kelleher, Assistant City Manager (Development), Moreno Valley

Speakers: Angelica Frausto-Lupo, Community Development Director, Moreno Valley | Brian Mohan, City Manager, Moreno Valley | Steven Quintanilla, City Attorney, Moreno Valley and Law Offices of Quintanilla & Associates

Moderator: Prasanna Rasiah, City Attorney, San Mateo

Land Use and CEQA Litigation Update (8:30 - 9:10 a.m.)

This session will provide an update on litigation related to land use, and the California Environmental Quality Act from the last six months.

Speakers: Christie Crowl, Senior Partner, Jarvis Fay LLP | Rick Jarvis, Partner, Jarvis Fay LLP

Meeting Housing Needs while Balancing CEQA and Fire Prevention Efforts (9:10 - 9:45 a.m.)

California needs more housing, but not every location is suitable for development with wildfires on the rise. This session explores the legal policy challenges of balancing housing mandates with wildfire risk, including recent legislation, court decisions, and CEQA guidance.

Speaker: Rubin Cruse, Jr., Partner, Renne Public Law Group | Kathryn Oehlschlager, Partner, Stoel Rives LLP

There’s so much to do on the Expo Floor! This is your opportunity to meet the people behind the ideas and initiatives that are redefining how we live, move, and thrive in modern cities. Come and meet businesses that can solve your product and service needs. Explore California CLASS (booth 943) and VC3 (booth 940), both sponsored by Cal Cities, that can enhance and safeguard your city’s financial resources. Stop by the Cal Cities Pavilion to find out how you can get more involved in your Department, Division or Caucus. Meet up with a colleague in the ConnectLounge, sponsored by California CLASS. Whether you're seeking scalable solutions for your city, exploring new partnerships, or staying ahead of emerging trends, the Expo Hall is your hub for insight and inspiration.

Presiding: Gabe Quinto, First Vice President, League of California Cities and Mayor Pro Tem, El Cerrito

Keynote Address: The Creator Mindset – How to Be More Creative at Work  
According to a recent study by the World Economic Forum, the most in-demand skill at work today is creativity and innovation. Yet there are so few places where people can learn creativity and innovation that they can immediately use at work. In a groundbreaking keynote, Nir shows that creativity and innovation are traits we are born with, but we lose somewhere along the way. Nir will help the audience rediscover their creativity. Even those who don’t consider themselves creative will discover practical, repeatable techniques to think more creatively at work. This session isn’t about art, painting, or dance. It’s about everyday workplace creativity — problem-solving, idea generation, and innovation you can apply in any role. Use the Creator Mindset to view the world as it can be, not as it is.

Keynote Speaker: Nir Bashan, Founder and CEO, The Creator Mindset

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Deanna Sessums, dsessums@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Montana Cruz, mcruz@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Nancy Hall Bennett, nbennett@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Samantha Brightman (Caygill), sbrightman@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Protecting communities from wildfires is one of the hottest topics for municipal leaders today — from wildfires that threaten hundreds of acres to balancing limited resources. In this interactive session, a fire marshal/fire prevention chief will provide attendees with best practices and lessons learned for implementing wildfire preparedness programs, community-friendly safety inspections, as well as effective partnerships with the private/non-government sectors.

Speaker: Vince Anderson, Fire Marshal, MPA, Redlands

Over the past five years, the Santa Ana Public Library has implemented a variety of initiatives to enhance services and community engagement. This session will provide a brief overview of how these improvements were championed and how the city leveraged funding sources such as the Cannabis Public Benefit Fund and a local sales tax measure to launch new programs and services in the community. This presentation will also offer quick insights into how attendees can transform an underutilized and outdated city service into a modern and culturally relevant platform for building community.

Speaker: Brian Sternberg, Library Services Director, Santa Ana

Like many municipalities in California, Daly City has experienced its share of fiscal challenges. The 2008 Great Recession forced the city to defer maintenance and freeze the development of many capital projects. As Daly City explored public-private partnerships, new opportunities emerged — allowing the city to take on projects that would have been difficult to complete on its own. These partnerships save tax dollars while making infrastructure enhancements that improve public access, increase community programming, and raise revenues. Learn about Daly City’s latest partnership that will result in a new state-of-the-art athletic field and enhance the quality of life for the community.

Speaker: Juslyn Manalo, Council Member, Daly City

Members of the City Attorneys Department will be asked to scan in at 1:00 p.m. for the Department Business Meeting. This is to track attendance for voting on bylaws amendments and will be in addition to your MCLE scans.

How can cities meaningfully invest in young people — not just through programs, but through policy, funding, and civic inclusion? In this interactive session, participants will explore local strategies for advancing youth well-being, rights, and leadership. Using the city of Santa Cruz as a launch point, examine real-world efforts like a voter-approved Children’s Fund, the Children & Youth Bill of Rights, and the Youth Liaison role that prioritize equity, elevate youth leadership, and provide a roadmap for systemic change. Attendees will reflect on their own community efforts and leave with ideas and tools to adapt in their own contexts.

Facilitators: Scarlett Folger, Youth Liaison , Santa Cruz | Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson, Vice Mayor, Santa Cruz

Learn about the latest issues and trends with wireless installations, including Federal Communications Commission actions, the impacts of recent litigation, California’s new batch broadband permit processing law, and the status of 5G network rollout. This session will detail best practices to avoid common pitfalls when applying your wireless ordinances. Presenters will also provide insights into the new administration’s priorities, updated composition of the FCC, and what that may mean for pending regulatory issues. Attendees will obtain important, nuanced understandings of current wireless regulations and leave the session with new confidence when tackling even the most convoluted wireless applications and related issues.

Moderator and Speaker: Gerard Lavery Lederer, Partner, Best Best & Krieger LLP

Speaker: Bennett Givens, Of Counsel, Best Best & Krieger LLP

Small cities face unique opportunities and challenges. With leaner staff and limited resources, leaders must be flexible, innovative, and collaborative in their approach to governing. This session will bring together leaders from cities under 30,000 in population to discuss how they can support one another, share best practices, and highlight both the challenges and advantages of serving in smaller cities. Participants will leave with new ideas and connections to strengthen small cities.

Speaker: Shelley Hasselbrink, Mayor, Los Alamitos

Many cities today are facing financial challenges. There’s a lot to think about when bringing elected officials, community members, influential organizations, city employees, and labor groups up to speed or into the conversation. This discussion involves practical tips for building credibility, developing needed technical information, and helpful dos and don’ts for communicating your city’s financial situation.

Moderator: Ken Nordhoff, Principal, HdL Companies

Speakers: Gerry Beaudin, City Manager, Pleasanton | Peggy Flynn, City Manager, Petaluma | Lydia Romero, City Manager, Lemon Grove

Public transportation is more than moving people from point A to point B—it’s a driver of economic development, a tool for building and connecting housing, and a pathway to reversing historic patterns of displacement. At the same time, major capital projects are complex and long-term, with far-reaching impacts on communities and regional economies. This session will explore how cities can harness the benefits of public transportation to deliver high-quality, equitable, and environmentally sustainable systems that serve everyone. Discussion will highlight the economic benefits to both workers and businesses, strategies for leveraging affordable housing dollars, reducing the overall cost of living, and building housing alongside transit investments. Panelists will also reflect on the history of infrastructurerelated displacement and how cities can reverse these trends, manage congestion, and align transit expansion with climate and environmental goals.

Hear firsthand about the intense challenges faced by Malibu during the back-to-back, unprecedented Franklin and Palisades wildfires and how Long Beach supported Malibu and enhanced emergency response capacity for the region. Attendees will gain practical insights and lessons learned that can enhance their disaster response and capacity-building, ensuring their community is better prepared and municipal operations are more resilient. This session is crucial for city leaders in areas recently added to Cal Fire's wildfire hazard severity map.

Moderator: Sam Hall, Public Partnership Leader, Schneider Electric

Speakers: Alexis Brown-Gillam, Director, Tripepi Smith & Associates | Meredith Reynolds, Deputy City Manager, Long Beach | Joseph Toney, City Manager in Transition / Former Acting City Manager, Malibu

We’re pulling back the curtain on how two mid-sized cities turned a potential political liability into a voter mandate, successfully passing sales tax measures that restored their financial stability. From effectively engaging community stakeholders to building coalitions and mobilizing support, panelists will share key lessons and hard truths. Attendees will walk away with a practical playbook covering every stage of a local ballot measure — along with key steps to help the city deliver on its promises and operate at a higher level after a measure passes.

Moderator: Kristina Ray, Director of LEAN Government, San Marcos

Speakers: Michelle Bender, City Manager, San Marcos | Jared Boigon, Partner, TeamCivX | Joe Lopez, City Manager, Modesto

The Resolutions Committee will hear, debate, and consider all resolutions. It will also provide an opportunity for attendees who are not voting delegates to comment on proposed resolutions. General resolutions approved by either a policy committee or the Resolutions Committee are next considered by the General Assembly. General resolutions not approved or referred for further study by both a policy committee and the Resolutions Committee, do not go to the General Assembly. All petitioned resolutions are considered by the General Assembly, unless they are disqualified.

Members of the City Attorneys Department will be asked to scan in at 1:00 p.m. for the Department Business Meeting. This is to track attendance for voting on bylaws amendments and will be in addition to your MCLE scans.

The growth of technology in law enforcement is transforming how police agencies serve their communities and improve the quality of life. As agencies have increased access to sensors and data collection technologies, they face another challenge: the need to understand and use that data in an efficient, cost-effective way. This is especially important for jurisdictions with staffing challenges or fewer resources. This session will walk through new tools and strategies to help agencies utilize data intelligently, take advantage of artificial intelligence in a responsible manner, and create force multipliers for their emergency services departments.

Speaker: Mike Moulton, Consultant, Flock Safety

This session will explore the trends, challenges, and solutions to the persistent problem of deferred maintenance. Attendees will hear a description of technologies and tools readily available to help organizations assess current conditions and strategize around solutions and implementation. It will also cover funding opportunities and financial tools to support projects beyond traditional capital expenditures. This session is geared toward elected officials and city staff as both policymakers and those who oversee project development and implementation.

Speaker: David Torres, Sustainability Professional, Siemens

Moderator: Roxanne Diaz, City Attorney, Maywood and South Pasadena

Affordable Housing: What City Attorneys (and Cities) Need to Know (1:45-2:30 p.m.)

California housing laws have shifted over recent years to focus on increasing housing, especially affordable housing. But how is it going for our cities? Hear from our expert panel of attorneys as they discuss common roadblocks city attorneys and their clients encounter in advancing affordable housing projects.

Speaker: Andrew Shen, Partner , Renne Public Law Group | Gabrielle Janssens, Partner, Goldfarb & Lipman LLP | Matthew Summers, City Attorney, Barstow, Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley, PC

Moderator: J. Christine Dietrick, City Attorney, San Luis Obispo

California Voting Rights Act: Conversations Around Achieving Election Equity (2:45-3:45 p.m.)

The California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) continues to evolve, particularly following the California Supreme Court’s decision in Pico Neighborhood Assoc. v. City of Santa Monica. This session will examine key legal questions surrounding standards of proof in CVRA litigation, the status of active cases, and the implications for cities navigating at-large and district-based election systems. Panelists will also discuss recent developments, including the 2024 FAIR MAPS Act, and explore what options remain for cities evaluating their obligations under the law. Attendees will gain insights into the legal landscape and strategies for addressing election-related challenges.

Speaker: Sheri Damon, City Attorney, Seaside | Douglas Johnson, President, National Demographics Corporation | Christopher Skinnell, Partner, Nielsen Merksamer, LLP

Moderator: Michael Lawson, City Attorney, Hayward

Labor and Employment Litigation Update (4:00-4:40 p.m.)

This session will provide an update on labor and employment litigation from the last six months, as it pertains to California cities.

Speakers: Geoffrey Sheldon, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore | Elizabeth Tom Arce, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore

Policy Shifts and Legal Battles: The Trump Administration’s Impact on Local Government (4:40-5:30 p.m.)

As the Trump administration reshapes federal funding, DEI, immigration, environmental regulations, and more, cities face extensive legal and financial uncertainty. Examining the far-reaching implications of recent executive orders and tracking the lawsuits that could define these policies moving forward, our expert panel will draw from frontline experience advising cities on these evolving challenges. Hear key insights into how public agencies can navigate intensified federal scrutiny and shifting legal landscapes.

Speaker: Jena Acos, Shareholder, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck | Justin Bogda, Natural Resources Associate, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP | Paige Samblanet, Attorney, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck

For millions of California families, economic mobility and opportunity is a hot-button issue. In the face of a landscape of economic uncertainty, local leaders continue to serve as the key catalysts to shape the economic future of their residents. During this session, the National League of Cities will provide training on economic mobility resources that can directly impact your community — including policies, programs, and procedures — along with city-specific examples and case studies. Attendees will work with each other to better understand the common themes, challenges, and resources within their communities and California at large.

Facilitator: Diana Goldsmith, Senior Specialist, Economic Opportunity & Financial Empowerment, National League of Cities

Extreme weather and natural disasters are part of life in California, but these events are increasing in frequency and severity, impacting utility services and making communities more vulnerable than ever. What are the risk factors? How do local, state, and federal governments leverage their capabilities to enhance resiliency, partner with the private sector (including utilities), and communicate effectively with the public? Join us for an open discussion about our responsibilities to address resiliency challenges — funding, regulations, expertise, and redundancies — to provide a safer future for all.

Moderator: John Bwarie, Deputy Director, Dr. Lucy Jones Center for Science and Society

Speakers: Donna Boston, Principal Manager, Southern California Edison | Mackenzie Douglass, Emergency Services Manager, Police Department, Ventura | Floyd Velasquez, EMS Administrator, Morongo Band of Mission Indians

With the evolving funding landscape at the state and federal levels, cities are being asked to do more with less. This session will explore Proposition 4 climate funding and how cities across California are implementing innovative climate resilience projects despite a decrease in federal funding and support. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies and inspiration for applying proven solutions in their cities.

Moderator: Nikita Sinha, Program Manager, Institute for Local Government

Speakers: Michael Luellen, Mayor, Calipatria | Traci Park, Council Member, 11th District, Los Angeles | Gabe Quinto, First Vice President, League of California Cities and Mayor Pro Tem, El Cerrito

Navigating a career in local government often means facing unexpected challenges. But these challenges can also serve as pivotal leadership milestones. This session features city managers who bounced back from tough moments, transforming professional obstacles into powerful lessons in leadership. Attendees will gain practical strategies for building resilience, leveraging challenges as learning opportunities, and harnessing a mindset that turns setbacks into comebacks. Whether you’re just starting your career or are a veteran leader, this conversation will empower you to view challenges as a springboard for success.

Moderator: Karen Pinkos, City Manager, El Cerrito

Speakers: Alexa Davis, Assistant City Manager, Rolling Hills Estates | Patrick Martinez, City Manager, Needles | Bret Prebula, City Manager, Suisun City

Some major cities in California have experienced population declines, with families citing high costs, lack of child care, and limited family-friendly infrastructure as the key reasons for leaving. Investing in child care and family-centered policies is no longer optional — it’s essential to a city’s economic stability. This panel discussion will highlight innovative local efforts, barriers, best practices, and actionable steps for leaders seeking to make their cities more livable for working class families. Participants will leave with a toolkit of strategies to advocate for and implement child care solutions in their communities. Planned with the Cal Cities Women’s Caucus.

Moderator: Cassandra Chase, Mayor, City of Lakewood

Speakers: Chelsea Byers, Mayor, West Hollywood | Pamela Campos, Council Member, District 2, San Jose | Angelica Ramos-Allen, President, National Women's Political Caucus of California

Parking complaints often feel like a never-ending source of frustration. In this interactive discussion, hear from the Seal Beach Police Department about how the city transformed its parking program from the ground up to optimize customer convenience and administrative processes. A nationally recognized parking consultant will share challenges and lessons on parking availability, community resistance, accessibility, and equity. This session will also include a step-by-step guide for cities to assess their current parking situation, identify areas for improvement, and implement changes while actively engaging stakeholders throughout the process. Walk away with insights on the future of urban parking and how to prepare your city for evolving mobility priorities and impacts.

Speakers: Julie Dixon, President, Dixon Resources Unlimited | Nick Nicholas, Captain, Police Department, Seal Beach

Mental fitness encompasses a blend of activities, habits, and attitudes. Just like we all are mindful of our heart health, dental health, and overall health, mental fitness is about preventive and proactive habits. By implementing prevention and early intervention strategies, employers can cultivate a healthier and more supportive work environment that boosts productivity, increases engagement, and enhances employee retention. In this session, learn how to incorporate mental well-being into your employee wellness strategy and how the Cities for Workforce Health program can help your city create a culture of health in the workplace.

Speakers: Mariah Caracoza, Senior Health and Wellness Manager, Keenan | Jennifer Castillo, Workforce Health Consultant, Kaiser Permanente

Could your city recover its data after a ransomware attack? What if a tornado or flood struck? While having data backups is essential, disaster recovery goes far beyond simply storing files. It’s not enough to have a backup — you need a plan to make that data usable again. How will you put the pieces back together? How will you restore systems and resume operations after a cyberattack or natural disaster? In this session, hear fictional but realistic scenarios based on 29 years of municipal-focused experience. You'll also receive a nine-point disaster recovery checklist to help evaluate and strengthen your city's readiness.

Facilitator: Corey Kaufman, Directory of Client Strategy & Solutions, VC3

With California’s shifting demographics and the increasing influence of Latino voices in policymaking, it is critical to foster pathways of leadership development that empower the next generation of Latino leaders. Attendees will hear firsthand experiences, key lessons, and practical strategies from elected officials who have moved from city government to county boards and beyond. This engaging conversation will explore the importance of mentorship, coalition-building, campaign readiness, and overcoming systemic barriers. City leaders will walk away with tangible tools and inspiration to envision their own journeys to higher leadership or to support emerging leaders in their communities. Planned with the Cal Cities Latino Caucus.

Moderator: Teresa Acosta, Second Vice President, League of California Cities and Council Member, Carlsbad

Speaker: Luis Chavez, Fresno County Supervisor, Fresno County

Last November, voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 36, the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act. A panel of experts will discuss Prop. 36 implementation, along with the challenges and opportunities it represents for cities.

Moderator: Jolena Voorhis, Legislative Advocate, League of California Cities

Speakers: Larry Gonzalez, Chief of Police, Riverside | Jonathan Raven, Assistant CEO, CDAA | Robert Rodriguez, Chief of Police, Santa Ana

City council meetings are more challenging than they used to be. So, how does a city council stay focused on governing, priorities, and maintaining civility? It doesn’t happen by accident. Effective meetings require preparation, thoughtful deliberation, and a commitment to process. Serving as a productive council member is a skill — one that can be learned. Join us to hear practical tips and proven strategies for running smoother, more successful council meetings. After all, chaos is optional!

Moderator: Jan Perkins, Former City Manager/Vice President, Raftelis

Speakers: Jason Behrmann, City Manager, Elk Grove | Caren Ray Russom, Mayor, Arroyo Grande | Bobbie Singh-Allen, Mayor, Elk Grove

Learn about new laws, legal developments, risks and opportunities, and federal actions that will affect your city’s finances.

Moderator and Speaker: Ben Triffo, Legislative Advocate, League of California Cities

Speakers: Michael Colantuono, Shareholder, Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley, PC | Caroline Grinder, Legislative Advocate, League of California Cities

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Marla Livengood, mlivengood@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Connor Medina, cmedina@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, David Mullinax, dmullinax@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Manager, Catherine Hill, chill@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

During the General Assembly, voting delegates will debate and consider resolutions forwarded by the Resolutions Committee. Since no general resolutions were submitted this year, the Assembly will meet only if a petitioned resolution is submitted. Updates will be provided via the conference App.

Are you a voting delegate or alternate? If you have not already checked in to receive your voting card, you may do so in this room beginning at 8:00 a.m.

Moderator: Roxanne Diaz, City Attorney, Maywood and South Pasadena

Municipal Tort and Civil Rights Litigation Update (8:15 - 8:55 a.m.)

Hear the latest updates on municipal tort and civil rights litigation from the last six months as it pertains to California cities.

Speaker: Andrea Velasquez, Supervising Deputy City Attorney, Sacramento

AI’s Seat at the Table: The Role of AI in Labor Relations (8:55 - 9:45 a.m.)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help streamline city officials’ preparation for labor negotiations, facilitate responses to union information requests, and improve operational efficiency. However, it also raises complex legal and labor relations questions. Hear from our panel of experts on ways AI can create both opportunities and challenges in labor relations at your city.

Speakers: Gabriella Kamran, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore | Alexander Volberding, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore

Moderator: J. Christine Dietrick, City Attorney, San Luis Obispo

Public Records Act: Compliance and Tips for Navigating Difficult Requests

Sometimes, even a routine request can turn into a major headache. Examine real-world cases where agencies faced legal challenges due to mishandled California Public Records Act requests, and learn practical tactics to stay compliant, avoid costly missteps, and protect your agency. Panelists will also share strategies for managing difficult requests, and minimizing risk.

Speaker: Darren Ziegler, Director of PRA Services & E-Discovery Counsel, Best Best & Krieger LLP

Sign-in will begin 30 minutes prior to the session and you must be present for the full two hours to receive the certification of attendance. Entry will be prohibited once the session begins.

This informational and interactive workplace harassment prevention training will teach officials and supervisors how to identify, prevent, and properly respond to workplace harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and abusive conduct in order to avoid personal and agency liability in compliance with AB 1825/2053/1661 and SB 396.

The Institute for Local Government is a Multiple Activity Provider for California State Bar of approved minimum continuing legal education (MCLE) and certifies this activity meets the standards for MCLE credit by the California State Bar in the total amount of 2 participatory credits) Provider #13881

Redlands has taken a proactive and strategic approach to addressing homelessness that responds to both immediate and long-term needs. This session will explore how city leadership worked collaboratively to develop policies, secure funding, and implement targeted initiatives that resulted in the largest Point-in-Time Count reduction in the Inland Empire region. Attendees will gain an understanding of the real-world complexities of delivering homeless services and insights for building a sustainable, comprehensive homelessness strategy in their own communities. The session will include an opportunity for knowledge-sharing.

Moderator: David Rabindranath, Homeless Solutions Manager, Homeless Solutions, Redlands

Speakers: Christopher Boatman, Assistant City Manager, Redlands | Denise Davis, Council Member, Redlands | Charles Duggan, City Manager, Redlands

Amid increasing public skepticism and the growing influence of social media-driven narratives, the fundamentals of local governance and service delivery must remain at the forefront. This session will focus on how local government leaders can reinforce public confidence by emphasizing the essential, albeit unglamorous, work of governance, fostering an understanding of its complexity, and ensuring that elected officials and staff work together to advance thoughtful, balanced decision-making over singular agendas. Drawing on lessons from seasoned leaders, this session will also examine what is at stake when this partnership falters — losing public trust, creating instability, and undermining the very foundations of good governance.

Moderator: Peter Pirnejad, City Manager, Los Altos Hills

Speakers: Debbie S. Baker, Council Member, La Palma | Thaddeus McCormack, City Manager, Lakewood | Maria Ristow, Council Member, Los Gatos

Get an in-depth view of how cities can regulate and enforce issues concerning accessory dwelling units, group homes, sober living facilities, and short-term rentals. Through expert insight and case studies, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the limits of local enforcement under state and federal law, effective tools for compliance, and best practices for a public agency’s regulations.

Moderator and Speaker: Matthew Silver, Founding Partner, Civica Law Group APC

Speakers: Adam Atamian, Community Development Director, San Clemente | Larry Breceda, Director of Public Safety, Duarte

Planning and Building Express (PBx) is a branding effort made to change the narrative about doing business in Santa Ana. Through the initiative, the city committed to a new set of ideals for streamlining application reviews, better use of staff resources, and above all, reintroducing empathy into the city's permit review process. These feats have been highlighted in Western City magazine and academic publications, such as Harvard’s inaugural The State of Housing Design 2023. Learn how outward expressions of an organization's values and commitment to quality are a way to inspire change from within.

Moderator: Ali Pezeshkpour, Executive Director of Planning and Building, Santa Ana

Speakers: Jason Kwak, Building Safety Manager, Santa Ana | Ricardo Soto, Acting Planning Manager, Santa Ana | Minh Thai, Assistant City Manager, Santa Ana