There’s a noticeable change in Sacramento when the Legislature is in recess. Traffic is lighter, parking is easier and lines at popular lunch spots are shorter. While it’s been more than a month since the end of session and two weeks since the Governor’s bill-signing deadline, CSAC remains hard at work advocating on its key priorities of homelessness, In- Home Supportive Services and wildfires.

CSAC and California Counties have placed a strong emphasis on disaster preparedness, resilience and recovery over the past several years. Some of our most memorable regional meetings, partnerships and even Challenge Awards have spotlighted California’s innovation in preparedness at the individual, community and county levels.

In a state as geographically diverse as California, emergencies can take many forms. Wildfires and earthquakes are often top of mind, but power outages, floods, debris flows, tsunamis and even drought can prompt disaster declarations as well.

As a child, I always looked forward to Fourth of July celebrations. Not only did my family host 200 of our closest friends for a potluck party on our five acre “truck farm” in New York, but my four uncles by marriage provided an extensive fireworks display. While fireworks have been a part of Fourth of July celebrations from the very beginning– more on that later– in many California Counties, the reality of wildfire season means local ordinances, restrictions and adaptations to keep the Fourth festive, safe and wildfire-free.

The CSAC Legislative Conference is around the corner. While a large number of county supervisors and staff have already registered, there’s always room for more. For anyone still on the fence about this year’s event, here are 10 great reasons to click the REGISTER button today.

  10. Springtime in Sacramento is lovely. Stroll Capitol Park, check out some historic homes or local sights.