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.

(Additional registration required) 
The 2026 election cycle marks a consequential period in election governance in the United States. This workshop will examine emerging legislative, regulatory, and institutional developments shaping elections across federal, state, and local levels. Emphasis will be placed on how macro-level policy changes are interpreted, operationalized, and, at times, contested within local jurisdictions. Participants will gain a forward-looking understanding of key trends likely to define the November election and beyond, as well as their practical implications for local governance, administrative capacity, and the delivery of election services.

Moderator: Randi Johl-Olson, Legislative Director / City Clerk, Temecula

Speakers: Eric Danly, City Attorney, Petaluma | Ethan Jones, Chief Consultant, California State Assembly Elections Committee | Michael Madrid, Partner, Grassrootslab Inc | Eric McGhee, Policy Director and Senior Fellow, Public Policy Institute of California | Paul Mitchell, Vice President (PDI), Owner (RP), Political Data / Redistricting Partners | Mindy Romero, Director, Center for Inclusive Democracy

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

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 local officials to receive two hours of specified fiscal and financial training at least once every two years. Newly elected and appointed local officials must receive their training within six months of becoming a public servant. The session will cover topics such as municipal finance responsibilities, revenues, budgeting, reporting, pensions, debt, investing, financial policies, and ethics.

Speakers: Michael Coleman, Fiscal Policy Advisor, CaliforniaCityFinance.com | Christina Turner, City Manager, Morgan Hill

Space is limited; please RSVP to your Regional Public Affairs Managers, Marla Livengood, mlivengood@calcities.org or Rajveer Rakkar, rrakkar@calcities.org. Additional fees may apply.

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, Connor Medina, cmedina@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, Catherine Hill, chill@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.

Join us for a panel discussion on creative and innovative initiatives you can implement to attract and support businesses in your city, inspired by the city of Dublin’s award-winning economic development programs. Panelists will discuss strategies that support both small and first-time business owners, as well as established businesses that form the backbone of a city’s commercial base. Attendees will leave with proven, accessible strategies and tools to help businesses thrive in their communities.

Moderator: Jean Josey, Vice Mayor, Dublin

Speakers: Felicia Escover, Economic Development Manager, Dublin | Colleen Tribby, City Manager, Dublin | Hazel Wetherford, Assistant City Manager, Dublin

After multiple destructive firestorms, the state has implemented numerous regulations over the past five years to increase defensible space around structures in communities along the wildland-urban interface. This presentation will provide an overview of California’s wildfire planning regulations, with a focus on Zone Zero defensible space requirements for structures. Local governments will also examine implementation responsibilities in designated fire hazard severity zones, as well as fire-safe regulations, community wildfire protection plans, and other related requirements.

Moderator: Alex Gonzalez, Attorney, Best Best & Krieger, LLP

Speakers: Tony Andersen, Executive Director, Board of Forestry and Fire Protection | Danielle O'Toole, Fire Marshal, Chino Valley Fire District | Mike Wink, Staff Chief - Wildfire Risk Reduction, CAL FIRE

City governments are having trouble attracting and retaining talent while meeting rising expectations for faster and more effective public service. This session shares findings from a first-of-its-kind national study showing a statistically significant connection between effective workforce practices and resident satisfaction with government services and overall quality of life. The research highlights how leadership, performance management, talent development, and workplace support directly influence outcomes beyond government operations.

Speakers: Robert Lavigna, Retired, UKG | Robert Neiuber, Human Resources Director, Rancho Cucamonga

E-bikes are one of the fastest-moving policy areas facing local governments today. California cities are grappling with rapidly evolving e-bike laws, safety concerns, enforcement challenges, and growing pressure for statewide regulation. This session explores recent legislative proposals, local authority, infrastructure and public safety considerations, and useful strategies cities can implement now to improve safety while supporting responsible e-bike use.

Speakers: Jason Arnotti, Police Lieutenant, Carlsbad | Kevin Fang, Associate Professor, Sonoma State University | Michael Inzunza, Councilman, Chula Vista

Cities are seeing new patterns in public participation — from AI-generated public comments and coordinated submissions to automated tools that can produce hundreds of letters, emails, or speaker scripts in seconds. While these technologies may increase accessibility and civic participation, they also create new challenges for managing meetings, interpreting community input, and maintaining transparency. The discussion will cover emerging trends, legal and governance considerations under the Brown Act, and practical strategies for managing large volumes of public comments, including those generated or amplified by artificial intelligence.

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

Speakers: Dave Fleishman, City Attorney, Atascadero, Richards, Watson & Gershon | Emily Lam, Director, Administration, Policy, and Intergovernmental Relations, San Jose

Cities are on the front lines of shifting federal and state immigration policy, responding to community concerns and navigating complex questions. This session will examine this evolving legal and policy landscape, including federal enforcement changes, state-level responses, and ongoing litigation that may shape local responsibilities. Speakers will also highlight how these dynamics impact housing stability, public health, education, and community safety, as well as actionable approaches for supporting immigrant residents while maintaining legal compliance. Attendees will leave with a stronger understanding of current trends and tools cities can use to maintain community trust, ensure access to services, and prepare for future policy shifts.

Moderator: Helen Tran, Mayor, San Bernardino

Speaker: Ash Alvandi, Vice President of Orange County, Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California

Manhattan Beach has no homeless or RV encampments and virtually no visible street homelessness. This is not an accident. Rather, it is the result of a deliberate, community-driven strategy that other cities can learn from and replicate. This session invites attendees into an honest, facilitated conversation about what it takes to make a model like this work — including the challenges around sustainable fundraising. Whether you are looking for inspiration, strategies, or a potential partner in addressing homelessness in your own community, this session offers a replicable success story for cities of all different sizes and contexts.

Facilitators: Lee Phillips, Vice President, MBSAFE | Debra Van Ness, Founding Board Member/Secretary, MBSAFE

City council meetings are where leadership is most visible. They are also where tensions can rise, difficult decisions are made, and public trust is shaped in real time. In this practical and engaging session, city leaders will explore how councils can maintain professionalism, collaboration, and effective decision-making even during challenging discussions.

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

Speakers: Randi Johl-Olson, Legislative Director / City Clerk, Temecula | Erica A. Stewart, Mayor, San Luis Obispo

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!

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 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.

Burnout is one of the most urgent challenges facing public sector teams. This session introduces small but powerful practices leaders and staff can use to reduce stress, increase morale, and stabilize energy throughout the day. You’llwalk away with easy micro habits that improve resilience, focus, and emotional regulation in high-pressure city environments.

Speaker: Katie Distelrath, Training and Development Manager, Jacob Green and Associates

Artificial Intelligence is no longer an abstract concept. It is a practical tool that is changing how public agencies analyze information, make decisions, and engage with their communities. Attendees will explore how cities can use AI for predictive maintenance, smart dispatching, asset management, and synthesizing public input. The session will also highlight cities working on joint AI solutions, like the San Jose GovAI Coalition, as well as city-specific pilot programs and internal usage policies. Participants will leave with actionable guidelines for integrating AI tools into everyday workflows that maintain transparency and responsible safeguards.

Moderator: Carmen Kasner, CA Sector Growth Director, Ardurra

Speaker: Gabriela Dow, Director, Community Relations & Public Affairs, Ardurra | Kristina Ray, President, KPR Strategies

Tough times and budgets call for innovative ways to finance key projects that offer community benefits, housing, jobs, and services. Hear from cities that have worked with businesses to leverage tax credits to support job growth, create affordable housing from existing housing stock, and revitalize downtown through facilities districts. The session will also highlight partnerships with private entities, special districts, joint powers authorities, and economic development alliances.

Moderator: Felicia Williams, Executive Director, CA Statewide Communities Development Authority

Speakers: Katie Bowman, Economic Development Manager, San Leandro | Dylan Feik, City Manager, Monrovia | Jason Holley, City Manager, American Canyon

California housing laws continue to evolve rapidly, leaving city leaders to navigate complex mandates, shifting regulations, and increasing legal risk. Understanding how these laws affect code compliance, housing policy, and city decision-making is critical. This session will break down the most significant housing laws affecting California code enforcement and explain how they impact local regulation and enforcement. Attendees will gain useful insights into compliance strategies, implementation challenges, and new state laws mandating inspections and enforcement.

Speaker: Valerie Escalante Troesh, Partner, Civica Law Group, A.P.C.

California cities are experiencing weather whiplash — from extreme heat and drought to flooding, coastal erosion, earthquakes, and catastrophic wildfires. This session will cover each disaster type and the latest research in extreme weather patterns. Local government decisionmakers will be asked how they are preparing for the next natural disaster in their communities and what strategies they have in place to prepare, adapt, and respond in an emergency. Attendees will be asked to identify their city’s highest-priority disaster risk and areas where they need support to enhance local preparedness and community resilience.

Moderator: Mark Enmeier, Council Member, San Clemente

Speakers: Sean McGlynn, City Manager, Escondido | Marty Ralph, Director, Center of Western Weather and Water Extremes at Scripps Institution of Oceanography

New national research from the National League of Cities reveals a critical challenge: Trust in local government is relatively strong, but civic understanding and participation are often shallow. Without intentional efforts to improve civic literacy and engagement, trust can erode quickly — especially in an environment shaped by misinformation, polarization, and declining civic participation. This session brings together national research, statewide leadership, and practitioner experience to explore how cities can strengthen civic literacy, deepen engagement, and rebuild durable public trust in local governance.

Moderator: Dr. Peter Pirnejad, ICMA-CM, Executive Director, Davenport Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership, Pepperdine University

Speakers: Harry Black, Interim City Manager, Vallejo | Dean Bonner, Associate Survey Director, PPIC | Tina Walia, Vice Mayor, City of Saratoga, President, Cities Association of Santa Clara County

LGBTQ-owned businesses play a vital role in building vibrant commercial areas, fostering inclusive economic growth, and strengthening community identity. Yet many LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs face barriers to capital, visibility, and government contracting. This panel will look at practical ways local governments can better support LGBTQ-owned businesses and cultivate inclusive local economies. Panelists will discuss tools such as supplier diversity programs, certification pathways, targeted small-business assistance, inclusive procurement policies, and partnerships with LGBTQ+ organizations.

Moderator: Chelsea Byers, Council Member, West Hollywood

Speaker: Christina Fialho, Founder & President, Rewrite the BiLine

Most cities still rely on manual vegetation patrols to identify fire hazards — a method that covers limited ground, misses early-stage risks, and cannot keep pace with fast-changing climate conditions. New AI-driven, satellite-based vegetation and climate risk models can give local governments the ability to spot overgrown fuels, stressed canopies, and ignition risk zones with consistent, repeatable coverage. Attendees will learn how these capabilities can enhance public safety and extend limited staff capacity.

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

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, Nancy Hall Bennett, nbennett@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.

Many organizations struggle with the same persistent challenge: fragmented information, priorities, and decisionmaking. Using a metaphor from Stranger Things, explore an unconventional framework for strengthening leadership culture in public service: the concept of a “hive mind.” When adapted for good, the “hive mind” becomes a model for shared situational awareness, clear organizational purpose, and distributed leadership across departments that improves emergency response, infrastructure planning, and community resilience. Attendees will leave with practical ideas for strengthening collaboration across their organizations and building teams that operate with shared awareness and purpose.

Speaker: Marc Mattox, Assistant Town Manager / Public Works Director, Paradise

Cities are being asked to do more than ever with limited resources. This session will explore practical strategies for strengthening the systems behind budgeting, program design, service delivery, and community engagement to improve outcomes for residents. Through real-world examples, participants will learn how cities have addressed system-level barriers, used data and community insight to guide decision-making, and refined programs to maximize impact. This session will also highlight how clear communication and storytelling can build trust, strengthen community understanding, and support long-term success.

Speakers: Cephoni Jackson, Chief DEI Officer, County of Sacramento | Jinnae Looney, Equity Strategy Manager, CA Department of Transportation | Megan Morgan, Race & Equity Manager, California Arts Council

California cities are confronting an unprecedented convergence of risk: a hard insurance market, escalating claim costs, changing public sentiment, and the rising frequency of “nuclear verdicts.” Together, these forces are reshaping how local governments manage risk and how they deliver essential public services under public scrutiny. This timely session will give elected officials and city management a practical overview of today’s local government liability environment and what these trends mean for insurance availability and affordability.

Moderator: Thaddeus McCormack, City Manager, Lakewood

Speakers: Rachel Boden, Equity Partner, Behar Gibbs Savage Paulson | Margaret Finlay, President, California Joint Powers Insurance Authority

As California faces growing disparities in opportunity and access, this session will explore how to create pathways to sustainable careers and shared prosperity using a three-part lens — state, regional, and on-the-ground impact — providing a model for action at every level. Through real-world success stories, panelists will show how this approach can serve as a model for other communities working to improve economic mobility.

Moderator: Vicki Veenker, Mayor, Palo Alto

Speakers: Sarah Bohn, Vice President and Director, Public Policy Institute of California | Barrie Hathaway, CEO, JobTrain | Shireen Malekafzali Taidi, Chief Equity Officer & Director of Economic Mobility and Labor Standards, County of San Mateo

Uplift Eureka, by the city of Eureka, is a community-centered approach to community resiliency centered on transparency, networking, education, and outreach. Building on a decade of quality-of-life and affordable housing programming, the city recently launched a one-stop community resource center that includes a myriad of services, such as rehousing assistance and homelessness prevention. Learn how Eureka is working to expand and sustain these services amid a fluctuating funding landscape.

Moderator: Miles Slattery, City Manager, Eureka

Speakers: Jeff Davis, Special Projects Manager, Eureka | Katelyn Merrell, Program Coordinator, Eureka | Sierra Wood, Community Resources Program Coordinator, Eureka

City councils and city managers operate under public scrutiny, where meetings are clipped for social media, records requests are instantaneous, and community reaction unfolds in real time. This panel focuses on how local leaders can govern effectively in a digital landscape while maintaining transparency, trust, and organizational stability. Panelists will share actionable strategies for navigating online narratives and managing high-pressure communications confidently and effectively.

Moderator: Janelle Cameron, City Manager, San Leandro

Speakers: Abel Avalos, City Manager, Artesia | Dante Hall, City Manager, Monterey | Heather Sumagaysay, Deputy City Manager, Simi Valley

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.

In small cities, labor negotiations and personnel issues often reach the dais. This session examines governance boundaries, risk awareness, and responsible labor leadership to protect the city while maintaining employee and public trust.

Public safety is one of the most visible and scrutinized responsibilities of city leadership. Elected officials are expected to ensure accountability, risk mitigation, and community trust while balancing fiscal realities and operational demands. Program attendees will learn how accreditation through the California Accreditation for Public Safety (CAPS) program reduces liability exposure, improves operational consistency, and demonstrates a measurable commitment to professional standards. Designed specifically for California agencies and aligned with state laws and expectations, CAPS provides cities with a structured and achievable pathway to continuous improvement.

Speaker: Denton Carlson, Chief of Police (Retired), California Police Chiefs Association

Full-Depth Reclamation (FDR) is a proven approach to rebuilding failing streets faster, at significantly lower costs, that extends pavement life and reduces environmental impact. Attendees will learn when FDR is the right solution, how it compares to mill-and-fill and full reconstruction, and how cities are using their own crews and equipment to regain control over road maintenance budgets. The discussion will focus on practical decision-making for city leaders, including lifecycle cost savings, staffing implications, and risk management.

Speaker: Marion Watson, Roads and Reclamation Specialist, Asphalt Zipper, Inc.

For city officials, the line between personal political activity and official responsibilities can become blurred, particularly when council meetings, city communications, and social media activity unfold during an active campaign. This session will guide elected officials and executive staff through common legal and ethical challenges that arise during campaign season. Participants will learn how to navigate the complex intersection of the Political Reform Act, the Brown Act, and laws prohibiting the use of public resources for campaign activity using real-world examples and common scenarios.

Speakers: Matthew Richardson, Partner, Best Best & Krieger LLP | Stephanie Smith, Director of Election Services, Best Best & Krieger LLP

Leading experts will review the latest major developments for California city revenues. Learn about new laws, legal developments, risks, and opportunities that will affect your agency's finances.

Speakers: Michael Colantuono, Shareholder, Colantuono, HIghsmith & Whatley, PC | Ben Triffo, Legislative Advocate, League of California Cities

Young elected officials are transforming how cities communicate with residents, respond to criticism, and engage in meaningful public dialogue. Discover how emerging leaders are navigating tough conversations while maintaining transparency, professionalism, and trust. Participants will examine innovative and creative ways to govern collaboratively by hearing from a panel of their peers and through interactive table talks. Attendees will leave with actionable communication techniques, tools for navigating controversial issues, and a deeper understanding of how to work collaboratively with their younger peers.

Moderator: Tyller Williamson, Mayor, Monterey

Speakers: Kaylee Law, Council Member, Walnut | Alexander Walker-Griffin, Vice Mayor, Hercules

Every city has them: the keyboard critics who dominate comment sections, online forums, and social media. Misinformation and criticism can travel quickly, and cities often find themselves reacting to online narratives rather than shaping them. This session highlights how intentional and strategic engagement programs developed by the city of Menifee cultivated community champions. Attendees will leave with accessible strategies to strengthen transparency, build trust, and transform stakeholders into informed champions for their community.

Moderator: Bryan Jones, Assistant City Manager, Menifee

Speakers: Kayla Charters, Economic Development Director, Menifee | Orlando Hernandez, Community Development Director, Menifee | Philip Southard, Communications and Government Affairs Director, Menifee

Affordable housing development often takes five to 10 years to build, but families need affordable housing now. The Irvine Cares Family Housing Assistance Program (FHAP) is a creative public-private partnership between the city of Irvine, Irvine Company, Jamboree Housing, and Irvine Unified School District that provides rental assistance to families with school-age children who are at risk of or are currently experiencing homelessness. The FHAP provides immediate transitional family housing to address the housing needs of targeted, at-risk populations through a collaborative partnership model.

Moderator: Sandra Salcedo, Deputy Director, Irvine

Speakers: Natalie Hamilton, Director, Mental Health and Wellness, Irvine Unified School District | Jackie Martinez, Vice President, Community Impact, Jamboree Housing | Hitta Mosesman, Housing Manager, Irvine

Cities across California recognize that youth development requires more than one-time programs. It requires thoughtful infrastructure, committed leadership, and sustained investment. This session explores how cities are creating dedicated offices and departments focused on youth development, children, and families, including cityled childcare and early learning initiatives, as well as employer and community partnerships supporting childcare and workforce development. Speakers will share ways to fund these structures, collaborate across city departments, and integrate youth voices into decision-making. Attendees will learn practical approaches for launching or strengthening youth-focused initiatives in their own communities, including governance models and partnerships with schools and community organizations.

Moderator: Cassandra Chase, Council Member, Lakewood

Speakers: Courtney Baltiyskyy, Vice President of Public Policy, YMCA of San Diego County | Patrick Seals, Administrative Chief, Richmond

Supporting employees through periods of uncertainty and disruption is good for employees and residents alike. This session offers actionable strategies for city leaders that strengthen well-being, reduce burnout, improve team cohesion, and maintain operational continuity during a wide range of disruptive events. Attendees will learn how to communicate effectively during crises, stabilize teams in rapidly changing situations, and foster psychological safety that keeps employees engaged, supported, and resilient.

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

The 2028 Summer Olympics will place Los Angeles at the center of global attention, but the effects of the Games will extend far beyond the host city. This session explores how the Olympics will shape California’s economy, infrastructure, and communities.

Moderator: Dr. Robert Lennox, Assistant City Manager, Carson

Speakers: Dustin McDonald, Business Development Manager - Los Angeles & Orange Counties, California Governor's Office of Business & Economic Development | Sam Morrissey, VP, Transportation, LA28

Using real-world examples, this session will discuss the basics of investing your city’s funds, including how to comply with the California Government Code and maintain a safe, liquid, and productive investment portfolio in uncertain market conditions. After this session, you will know which California Government Code sections apply to investing your agency's funds, best practices for keeping your agency's funds safe, and how to build a comprehensive investment policy that helps your portfolio perform throughout market cycles.

Speaker: Brian Hextell, Institutional Portfolio Manager, PTMA Investment Advisors

California downtowns have evolved as cities rethink how their most important public spaces function for residents, businesses, and visitors. This session explores how three Central Coast communities are revitalizing their downtowns through strategic public investment, localized economic development, and people-focused design. Each effort reflects a different approach to balancing economic vitality, transportation needs, and vibrant public spaces. Panelists will discuss the journey their city is taking to marry the old and the new, with an eye toward the future of retail, housing, community connection, and technology.

Moderator: Robert Nisbet, City Manager, Goleta

Speakers: Meagan Harmon, Council Member, Santa Barbara | James Kyriaco, City Council Member, District 2, Goleta | Erica A. Stewart, Mayor, San Luis Obispo

Unlike most leadership teams, councils have no say in who they serve with, no onboarding for relationship building, and few mechanisms for repair when they become strained. The result can be a governing body that is divided before its first meeting, where campaign dynamics bleed into council deliberations and public scrutiny intensifies conflict. This session examines what council dysfunction looks like in practice, the tools available to rebuild trust and function across political divides, and how city managers and city attorneys can help councils regain effectiveness without overstepping their roles.

Moderator: Jennifer Ott, City Manager, Hayward

Speakers: Jen Cavenaugh, Former Mayor; Founder, City of Piedmont; Cavenaugh Coaching + Consulting | Suja Lowenthal, City Manager, Lynwood

Across California, Latino families are disproportionately impacted by rising costs—from housing and utilities to food, transportation, and childcare. While these pressures are often discussed at the state and federal levels, local governments play a critical role in delivering real, immediate relief. This session brings together leaders in economic development and small business advocacy to explore how cities can directly address cost-of-living challenges through local policy decisions, targeted programs, and strategic partnerships. Panelists will highlight how supporting Latino-owned small businesses, expanding access to quality jobs, and improving local economic systems can stabilize household finances and strengthen community resilience. Participants will leave with actionable strategies to: Support small business growth to increase local job opportunities and wages, Reduce cost burdens through smarter local policies (fees, permitting, utilities, etc.)Leverage partnerships with chambers and community organizations Align economic development with affordability and workforce goals Communicate impact to constituents in a meaningful way This session centers a Latino perspective on affordability, while equipping city leaders with tools to respond to one of the most urgent concerns facing their communities.

Moderator: Ulises Cabrera, Mayor, Moreno Valley

Speakers: Julian Canete, President & CEO, California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce | Sergio Robles, Council Member, Elk Grove

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

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

Cities across California are being asked to do more with fewer housing resources. This session highlights how local governments can strategically partner with nonprofit builders to expand affordable homeownership, preserve existing housing stock, and stabilize neighborhoods through practical, scalable collaboration. Attendees will gain real-world strategies for aligning municipal housing goals with nonprofit delivery models, utilizing local funding and policy frameworks, and building cross-sector partnerships that maximize impact without overextending city budgets.

Moderator: Randi Johl-Olson, Legislative Director / City Clerk, Temecula

Speakers: Debbie Arakel, CEO, Habitat for Humanity California | Kwofi Reed, President & CEO, SD Habitat | Luke Watson, Assistant City Manager, Temecula

California cities are navigating an unprecedented wave of state mandates, fiscal uncertainty, staffing shortages, aging infrastructure, and rising community expectations. Many city leaders are caught in a cycle of reacting to crises rather than driving strategic priorities. Through real-world case studies, panelists will share strategies for restoring clarity in budgeting, capital planning, service delivery, and cross-departmental coordination. Learn how cities are aligning resources with priorities, improving internal accountability, building systems that create stability and restore order — even in a volatile environment.

Moderator: Mark Risco, President & CEO, Willdan Financial Services

Speakers: John Moreno, City Manager, Paramount | Lisa Motoyama, Council Member, El Cerrito | Brenda Olmos, Mayor, Paramount | Karen Pinkos, City Manager, El Cerrito

Passing a tax measure is difficult. Investing the revenue boldly is even harder. This session shares how a mid-sized city secured voter approval for a general sales tax and strategically invested the revenue in long-term economic repositioning. Panelists will discuss how leadership evaluated risk, sequenced investments, and aligned public dollars with long-term economic growth. This session provides actionable frameworks for city leaders to think more strategically about revenue, evaluate large-scale development opportunities, manage fiscal and political risk, and demonstrate measurable economic returns to their communities.

Speakers: Jennifer Hiramoto, Executive Director Economic Development, Ontario | Ria Pavia, Deputy Director - Innovation, performance and Audit, Ontario | Jordan Villwock, Deputy City Manager, Ontario

This session highlights how the city of Lancaster’s hybrid policing model is creating a safer, more responsive community. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department provides core law enforcement services for residents while the city advances community policing, local public safety initiatives, and innovation-driven programs to improve outcomes for residents. Participants will learn how Lancaster’s Innovation Committee and cross-departmental efforts are helping reimagine public safety through technology, partnerships, and creative problem solving.

Moderator: Trolis Niebla, City Manager, Lancaster

Speakers: Rodrick Armalin, Police Chief, Lancaster | Patti Garibay, Community Development Director, Lancaster

New council members often struggle with the strict rules that apply to elected officials under the Brown Act. Council members can also become frustrated with the operational norms of a city manager form of government. Others find it hard to balance advocating for their constituents with representing programs implemented by city staff. This facilitated discussion between new and returning council members will identify challenges they have faced when "getting things done" and honoring the city manager form of government.

Facilitator: Brianne Zorn, Mayor, Martinez

General Municipal Litigation Update

Updates covering the latest litigation in federal and state courts related to California cities.

Speakers: Kyle Brochard, Attorney, Richards, Watson & Gershon | Peter Pierce, Shareholder, Richards, Watson & Gershon

Expanding Public Access: SB 707's Updates to the Brown Act

Review the expanded teleconferencing options for members of a legislative body and the new requirements on remote public access imposed on "eligible legislative bodies" outlined by SB 707.

Speakers: Aleks Giragosian, Shareholder, Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley, PC | Nicholaus Norvell, Partner, Best, Best, & Krieger

Moderator: Javan Rad, Second Vice President, City Attorneys Department and City Attorney, Ventura

Land Use and CEQA Litigation Update

Updates covering litigation related to land use and the California Environmental Quality Act.

Inspections, Abatements and the Fourth Amendment

Hear how constitutional search and seizure principles apply to code enforcement, housing inspections, and regulatory actions. Gain practical guidance on conducting inspections legally while protecting both public safety and individual rights.

Speaker: Matthew Silver, Managing Partner, Civica Law, APC

Moderator: Eric Danly, Director, City Attorneys Department and City Attorney, Petaluma

California Municipalities and Federal Government Actions

Several local governments are pursuing litigation to protect critical federal funding and policies that support their communities. This session features attorneys actively engaged in such litigation, along with a city manager and elected official from cities that have chosen to participate. Panelists will discuss the ongoing litigation efforts, their impacts on local government, the experiences of agencies involved in the legal efforts, and how the outcomes could affect cities and other local agencies.

Speaker: James Ross, Partner and Head of Affirmative Litigation Practice, Renne Public Law Group

Financial and Policy Tools to Support Affordable Housing

Many California cities lack the financial and policy tools needed to make housing projects feasible. Focused on practical strategies, speakers will highlight two approaches local governments can use to support affordable housing: local or regional housing trusts that provide gap financing and refining local policies that encourage affordable housing. Learn how these strategies can help expand housing production and support affordable housing in your city.

Speaker: Elena Gerli, Partner, Burke Williams & Sorensen LLP

Labor and Employment Litigation Update

Hear the latest updates on litigation related to labor and employment in California.

Gearing Up for Stricter E-Bike Laws: A Playbook for Cities

Many cities are adopting stricter e-bike regulations for safety. Hear from Carlsbad, co-sponsor of the AB 2234 legislation allowing cities in San Diego County to establish a minimum age of 12 for e-bike riders. Carlsbad panelists will discuss how they were able to tackle e-bike safety in their community and share helpful insights for how other cities can do the same.

Speakers: Jason Arnotti, Police Lieutenant, Carlsbad | Jennifer True, Senior Assistant City Attorney, Carlsbad

Construction Delivery Methods: How to Choose?

The procurement landscape for California public agencies has grown complex and there are more options for project delivery than ever before. Hear a review of the types of delivery methods available and join the discussion of strengths, limitations, and risk tradeoffs with emphasis on practical considerations to guide your selection.

Municipal Tort and Civil Rights Litigation Update

Hear the latest updates on litigation related to municipal torts and civil rights in California.

A Practical Guide to Litigation and Crisis Management Communication

Elected officials and staff are often asked to comment on claims against their city. This unique presentation will provide practical advice on who should speak for the city, when, and what they should say, or not say. Learn how to develop communications protocols that can be adapted for any city or claim, while complying with laws for privacy, confidentiality, and protection.

Speakers: Amanda Griffith, Director-Litigation, Sedgwick | Marc Zafferano, Senior Counsel, Boucher Law PC

Nothing but the Truth? Candor and Honesty for City Attorneys

Unlike private counsel, city attorneys advise public officials, work in highly-visible political environments, and serve institutions accountable to the public, all of which can create recurring ethical challenges. Using real-world scenarios, panelists will examine duties under the California Rules of Professional Conduct, with a focus on Candor Toward the Tribunal and Misconduct. What are a city attorney’s obligations? When does silence become a violation of the duty of candor? Gain practical tools for navigating these situations where professional duties and political realities intersect.

Speaker: Speaker: David King, Attorney, Hensley Law Group