Misc. Bulletin Stories

November 3, 2016

When Proposition 10 raised tobacco taxes for early childhood systems in 1998, counties understood that these funds would decline over time. Two decades in, First 5s and their county partners have built new programs and improved existing systems and the demand for these systems and services is growing, not declining.

November 3, 2016

The U.S. Communities purchasing program has 40 contracts currently available to help local governments purchase what they need. However, the average California county only uses two contracts, potentially leaving significant savings on the table. Counties can realize more savings if they take advantage of more of the supplier contracts. This no-cost program is available to all counties, cities, special districts, and non-profits and offers the lowest local government pricing on all contract items.

CSAC follows many important issues throughout the year, and the Legislative season has its ebbs and flows. Now, with the Legislature out of session and the Governor done with his annual ritual of signings and vetoes, there is time to offer a more in-depth look at three issues that remain at the top of our priority list and that we have been addressing with a more comprehensive effort.

October 5, 2016

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.

To assist in this effort, CSAC — in conjunction with the Institute for Local Government — will be conducting AB 1234 training during our upcoming Annual Meeting.

Keeping our communities safe is a responsibility shared by community members at all levels and sectors. Collaboration among local officials, staff, community groups and constituents plays a vital role in the safety and welfare of our communities.

September 22, 2016

The State Water Resources Control Board is planning to release soon a proposed fee schedule for the costs associated with their implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA).  

September 22, 2016

The California Public Employees’ Retirement System’s (CalPERS) Finance and Administration Committee met this week and heard an annual review of the system’s funding levels and risk report that included news of higher contribution rates for contracting employers and the conclusion that the risk that plans will continue to fall to low funding levels remains high.