California’s changing climate continues to influence water supply availability statewide, with deep swings between extreme flooding and drought. Safe drinking water and a reliable water supply are critical to sustaining vibrant and thriving cities in both urban and rural areas. This panel of esteemed experts and decision-makers will share their perspectives on how to address regional water supply challenges, while charting a vision for a secure future for California’s water supply.

Across California, local leaders are seeking bold, proven ways to strengthen their communities and build a lasting legacy. Through the United4Youth Initiative of United Way Santa Cruz County, cities like Capitola, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley are embedding youth leadership into the heart of local governance. Attendees will explore how to establish and implement programs and strategies such as a Children and Youth Bill of Rights, Student and Youth Liaison roles, and Youth Participatory Action Research to inform local priorities. Speakers will also discuss ways to secure sustainable funding for these programs through dedicated city funds. Participants will leave inspired, equipped with ready-to-use tools, and confident in adapting these strategies locally.

Speakers: Yvette Brooks, CEO, United Way Santa Cruz County| Pamela Velazquez Janusz, Director of Community Impact, United Way Santa Cruz County

California has the highest number of homeless veterans in the nation. Learn how cities are responding through local programs and state initiatives like Proposition 1, which funds veteran housing and expands mental and behavioral health support. Panelists will share real city examples and resources to help communities better serve and house their veterans.

Moderator: Michael Cao, Council Member, Arcadia

Speakers: Tramecia Garner, Executive Director, Swords to Plowshares | Jennifer Perez, Mayor, Norwalk

Misinformation can spread rapidly, shaping public perception and eroding trust, particularly during crises. To ensure your city’s message remains clear and credible, effective community and media relations are essential. This panel brings together experienced city leaders to share their strategies for identifying, addressing, and preventing misinformation both on a day-to-day basis and during emergencies. Attendees will gain practical insights into navigating public concerns, engaging stakeholders, and maintaining credibility and empathy to preserve trust in an ever-evolving information climate. Through real-world case studies, panelists will explore proactive communication tactics and the critical role of transparency in strengthening long-term community trust during emergencies and beyond. Participants will learn actionable leadership strategies to protect their city’s reputation and reinforce public confidence.

This session will explore key elements of the California state budget, growing uncertainty at the federal level, and how both can affect cities. The speaker will discuss revenue trends and potential risks on the horizon, offering insights to help city leaders anticipate challenges, plan strategically, and advocate effectively in an evolving fiscal landscape.

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 familycentered 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.

Speakers: Pamela Campos, Council Member, San Jose | Angelica Ramos-Allen, President, National Women's Political Caucus of California

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: Dale Sumersille, Senior Associate, California Consulting

Speakers: Michael L. Antwine II, City Manager, Bell | Larry Kosmont, Chairman & CEO, Kosmont Companies | Patrick Martinez , City Manager , Needles

This panel will explore the evolving landscape of immigration enforcement and the challenges and opportunities it presents for local governments. Local leaders will discuss policy approaches, communication strategies, and partnerships that protect residents' rights while supporting safe and welcoming communities.

Speaker: Larry Gonzalez, Chief of Police, Riverside Police Department

Tools such as CoPilot and ChatGPT are often used to increase efficiency and get answers to difficult questions. This session will take a broader look at emerging AI applications cities are utilizing to improve services such as public safety, transportation, urban planning, and citizen services. Attendees will deepen their understanding of today’s cutting-edge AI applications and discover what is on the horizon for their city in the not-so-distant future.

Speaker: Jason Peters, AI and Data Solutions Lead, VC3

Based on Doug Griffiths’ bestselling book, 13 Ways to Kill Your Community, this engaging and thought-provoking keynote will challenge you to take a fresh look at your community. Blending humor and wisdom, Griffiths will explore the common pitfalls that hold cities back, and how to move beyond them. You will leave this session with a stronger sense of ownership and responsibility for your community’s success, a clear understanding of the key challenges your community faces and why, and practical tools to start driving meaningful progress.

Keynote Speaker: Doug Griffiths, President & CEO, 13 Ways Inc.