City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City Council consider the City’s position on Resolutions for
the 2008 League of California Cities (League) Annual Conference – September 24-
27 in Long Beach - and name a Voting Delegate and Alternate at the Conference.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
Policy development is a key part of the League’s legislative effectiveness. The
League’s Annual Conference Resolutions process is one way that city officials can
directly participate in the development of League policy.
The League President refers resolutions to the League policy committees for review
and recommendation at the Conference. Resolutions are next considered by the
General Resolutions Committee (GRC), which consists of representatives from each
division, department, policy committee and individuals appointed by the League
President. Resolutions that are approved by the GRC and resolutions that are
approved by the policy committees, but not approved by the GRC, are next
considered by the General Assembly. Resolutions approved by the General
Assembly become League policy. Other action on resolutions can be: Amend;
Disapprove; No Action; or Refer Back to a Policy Committee.
Resolutions to address late-breaking issues may be introduced by petition at the
Annual Conference. To qualify, a petitioned resolution must be signed by 10 percent
of the voting delegates (48 voting delegates) and submitted no more than 24 hours
before the beginning of the concluding general assembly. All qualified petitioned
Meeting Date: 08/25/08 Item Number: A-9
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of the City’s Position on Resolutions for the 2008
League of California Cities Annual Conference – September 24-27 in Long Beach -
and Naming of a Voting Delegate and Alternate Voting Delegate at the
Conference.
Contact Person/Dept.: Shelly Wolfberg Phone Number: (310) 253-6008
Fiscal Impact: Yes [] No [X] General Fund: Yes [] No [X]
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [X] Attachments: [X]
Public Notification:
Master E-Mail Notification List (08/20/08)
Department Approval:
Martin R. Cole (08/11/08)
City Attorney Approval:
Carol Schwab (by H. Baker) (08/20/08)
Chief Financial Officer Approval:
Jeff Muir (by N. Kimball) (08/20/08)
City Manager Approval:
Jerry B. Fulwood (08/20/08) City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
resolutions are considered by the GRC and subsequently forwarded to the General
Assembly for consideration, regardless of the action recommended by the GRC.
Further, each City Council is encouraged to designate a Voting Delegate and
Alternate to represent their city at the Annual Business Meeting. A June 13 letter
asking city councils to designate their Voting Delegate and Alternate Voting
Delegate (Attachment 1) was sent to each city. The League invites city participation
in this annual League meeting to help develop League policy. September 5, 2008 is
the deadline to have the City Council designate a voting delegate and up to two
alternates.
At the Annual Conference, League Delegates will consider the four resolutions
introduced by the July 25, 2008 deadline, which are included in Attachment 2 and
summarized below. The League encourages each City Council to consider the
resolutions and to determine a city position so that the Voting Delegate and
Alternate can represent its city’s position on each Resolution. The following is a
summary of the Resolutions:
1. Resolution Relating to League By-Laws Amendments – Adoption of this
Resolution would amend the bylaws to authorize one Director from each of
the League’s diversity groups (or “caucus”) for a two-year term. Additionally,
the League proposes to make technical amendments to the bylaws relating
to: population information; caucuses; large city representatives; timing of the
election of desert-mountain division officers; caucus directors; grounds for
vacancy; department renaming; and effective date of vacancy caused by
leaving city service.
2. Resolution relating to the 2-1-1 California Telephone Service – Adoption of
this resolution would allow the League of California Cities to collaborate with
the 2-1-1 California Partnership, and other state and regional partners to
continue the promotion of the 2-1-1 California telephone services throughout
California. The 2-1-1 California telephone service provides an easy to
remember telephone number with free access to continuous information in
over 100 languages to connect people with important human and community
services including rent assistance, food banks, affordable housing, health
resources, child and elderly care, financial literacy and job training programs.
Currently the 2-1-1 system exists on a county-by-county basis, with 18
currently active systems operating. The 2-1-1 California Partnership states
that by integrating 100% state coverage, Californians will reap the benefits of
a 2-1-1 system.
3. Resolution in support of extension of the federal Section 45 Production Tax
Credit – Adoption of this resolution would allow the League of California Cities City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
to urge California Congressional Members and the President of the United
States to extend the federal Section 45 Production Tax Credit, as it has done
five times in past years, beyond December 31, 2008. This federal tax
measure is essential to attracting capital to develop biomass power plants.
4. Resolution Relating to Comprehensive Statewide Water Infrastructure Plan –
The passage of this resolution resolves the following:
a. That the League support the State in efforts to implement a
comprehensive statewide water infrastructure improvement; and,
b. That such a comprehensive statewide water infrastructure plan result in
immediate resolution to environmental, water supply, infrastructure and
water quality problems within the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta
Estuary to restore water supply certainty for the people of California; and,
c. That such a comprehensive program result in longer-term improvements
and rehabilitation of California’s water infrastructure to provide safe,
adequate and reliable water supplies for a growing population; meet future
water management needs; solve environmental problems and enhance
flood control safety by providing increased conservation and reclamation,
infrastructure and conveyance improvements, and increased storage, both
above and below ground.
All four League resolutions are consistent with the City’s adopted Legislative
Advocacy Program for 2008.
Designation of a Voting Delegate and up to two Alternate Delegates
Staff recommends the City Council designate one of its members as Voting
Delegate and up to two of its members as Alternate Delegates. The Voting Delegate
(and either alternate if the Voting Delegate is not available) may cast the City’s vote
during the League’s General Assembly held as part of the Annual Conference.
In considering appointments in April, the City Council designated Mayor Malsin and
Vice Mayor Silbiger as the City’s Delegate and Alternate Delegate to League related
activities. The Council may wish to consider this when selecting a Delegate and up
to two Alternate Delegates for the Annual Conference.
FISCAL ANALYSIS:
There is no fiscal impact to take positions on the Resolutions or to assign a Voting
Delegate and Alternate Voting Delegate. However, at some point in the future,
implementation of specific programs or projects as recommended in the resolutions City of Culver City, California
City Council Agenda Item Report
may result in a financial impact to the City. As specific programs and/or projects
arise, a fiscal analysis of implementing those programs/projects will be provided.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. June 13, 2008 League of California Cities Letter regarding Designation of
Voting Delegate and Alternate for 2008 League Annual Conference –
September 24-27, Long Beach.
2. August 5, 2008 League of California Cities Letter regarding 2008 Annual
Conference Resolutions packet.
MOTION:
That the City Council:
1. Adopt a City Position on the League of California Cities Resolution Relating to
Annual Conference Resolution Procedures; and
2. Adopt a City Position on the League of California Cities Resolution Relating to
the Number of Alternate Voting Delegates a City May Designate – By Laws
Amendment; and
3. Adopt a City Position on the League of California Cities Resolution Relating to
Encouraging Health and Wellness in Cities; and
4. Adopt a City Position on the League of California Cities Resolution Relating to
the Comprehensive State Water Infrastructure Plan; and
5. Designate _____________ as the Voting Delegate for the 2008 League
Annual Conference on September 24-27, 2008 in Long Beach; and
6. Designate _______________ as an Alternate Voting Delegate and
_______________ as an Alternate Voting Delegate for the 2006 League
Annual Conference on September 24-27, 2008 in Long Beach.
MEETING DATE: August 25, 2008
AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of the City's Position on Resolutions for
the 2008 League of California Cities Annual
Conference — September 24-27 in Long Beach - and
Naming of a Voting Delegate and Alternate Voting
Delegate at the Conference.
ATTACHMENTS
Pages
1. June 13, 2008 League of California Cities Letter 1-4
regarding Designation of Voting Delegate and
Alternate for 2008 League Annual Conference —
September 24-27, Long Beach.
2. August 5, 2008 League of California Cities Letter
5-23
regarding 2008 Annual Conference Resolutions
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June 13, 2008
TO: Mayors, City Managers and City Clerks
RE: DESIGNATION OF VOTING DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES
League of California Cities Annual Conference - September 24-27, Long Beach
The League's 2008 Annual Conference is scheduled for September 24-27 in Long Beach. An
important part of the Annual Conference is the Annual Business Meeting, scheduled for 8:30
a.m., September 27, at the Long Beach Convention Center. At this meeting, the League
membership considers and takes action on resolutions that establish League policy.
In order to vote at the Annual Business Meeting, your city council must designate a voting
delegate. In the event that the designated voting delegate is unable to serve in that capacity, your
city may appoint up to two alternate voting delegates. In 2006, the ability to appoint up to two
alternates was the result of approval of a League bylaws amendment that increased the number
of voting delegate alternates from one to two.
Please complete the attached Voting Delegate form and return it to the League's office no
later than September 5, so that voting delegate/alternates records may be established prior
to the conference. At the conference, voting delegate forms may be returned to the Voting
Delegate Desk located in the conference registration area.
Please note the following procedures that are intended to ensure the integrity of the voting
process at the Annual Business Meeting.
• Action by Council Required. Consistent with League bylaws, a city's voting delegate
and up to two alternates must be designated by the city council. When completing the
attached Voting Delegate form, please attach either a copy of the council resolution that
reflects the council action taken, or have your city clerk or mayor sign the form affirming
that the names provided are those selected by the 6 + :5; council. Please note that
designating the voting delegate and alternates must be done by city council action and
cannot be accomplished by individual action of the mayor or city manager alone.
• Conference Registration Required. The voting delegate and alternates must be
registered to attend the conference. At least one must be present at the Business Meeting
and in possession of voting card in order to cast a vote. Voting delegates and alternates
-more-are requested to pick up their conference badges before signing in and picking up the
voting delegate card at the Voting Delegates Desk. This will enable them to receive the
special stamps on their name badges that will admit them into the voting area during the
Business Meeting.
• Transferring Voting Card to Non-Designated Individuals Not Allowed. The voting
card may be transferred freely between the voting delegate and alternates, but only
between the voting delegate and alternates. If the voting delegate and alternates find
themselves unable to attend the Business Meeting, they may not transfer the voting card
to another city official.
o New Seating Protocol during General Assembly. At the Business Meeting, individuals
with the voting card will sit in a separate area. Admission to this area will be limited to
those individuals with a special stamp on their name badge identifying them as a voting
delegate or alternate. lithe voting delegate and alternates wish to sit together, they should
be sure to sign in at the Voting Delegate desk and obtain the special stamps on their badges.
The Voting Delegate desk in the conference registration area will be open September 24, 25 and
26, and prior to the Business Meeting on September 27. The conference registration area will
open at 12:00 p.m., on September 24, at the Long Beach Convention Center. The Voting
Delegate desk will also be open at the Business Meeting, but not during a roll call vote, should
one be undertaken.
The voting procedures that will be used at the conference are attached to this memo. Please share
it and this memo with your council and especially with the individuals your council designates as
your city's voting delegate and alternates.
Once again, thank you for completing the voting delegate and alternate font" and returning it to
the League office by September 5. If you have questions, please call Mary McCullough at
(916) 658-8247.
Attachments:
• 2008 Annual Conference Voting Procedures
a Voting Delegate/Alternate FormLEAGUE
• OF CALIFORNIA
:CITIES
1400 K Street, Suite 400 • Sacramento, California 95814
Phone: 916.658.8200 Fax: 916.658.8240
www.cacities.org
Annual Conference Voting Procedures
2008 Annual Conference
1. One City One Vote. Each member city has a right to cast one vote on matters pertaining to
League policy.
2. Designating a City Voting Representative. Prior to the Annual Conference, each city
council may designate a voting delegate and up to two alternates; these individuals are
identified on the Voting Delegate Form provided to the League Credentials Committee.
3. Registering with the Credentials Committee. The voting delegate, or alternates, may pick
up the city's voting card at the Voting Delegate Desk in the conference registration area. We
encourage voting delegates and alternates to sign in at the Voting Delegate Desk so that they
may receive a special stamp on their name badge and thus be admitted to the voting area at
the Business Meeting.
4. Signing Initiated Resolution Petitions. Only those individuals who are voting delegates
(or alternates) and who have picked up their city's voting card by providing a signature to
the Credentials Committee at the Voting Delegate Desk may sign petitions to initiate a
resolution.
5. Voting. To cast the city's vote, a city official must have in his or her possession the city's
voting card and be registered with the Credentials Committee. The voting card may be
transferred freely between the voting delegate and alternates, but may not be transferred to
another city official who is not either a voting delegate or alternate.
6. Voting Area at Business Meeting. At the Business Meeting, individuals with the voting
card will sit in a separate area. Admission will be limited to those individuals with a special
stamp on their name badge identifying them as a voting delegate or alternate. If the city's
voting delegate and alternates wish to sit together, all should sign in at the Voting Delegate
desk and obtain the special stamps on their badges.
7. Resolving Disputes. In case of dispute, the Credentials Committee will determine the
validity of signatures on petitioned resolutions and the right of a city official to vote at the
Business Meeting.LEAGUE
— OF CALIFORNIA
:CITIES
CITY: 2008 ANNUAL CONFERENCE
VOTING DELEGATE/ALTERNATE FORM
Please complete this form and return it to the League office by September 5., 2008. Forms not sent
by this deadline may be submitted to the Voting Delegate Desk located in the Annual Conference
Registration Area. Your city council may designate one voting delegate and up to two alternates.
In order to vote at the Annual Business Meeting, voting delegates and alternates must be designated by
your city council. Please attach the council resolution as proof of designation. As an alternative, the
Mayor or City Clerk may sign this form, affirming that the designation reflects the action taken by the
council.
Please note: Voting delegates and alternates will be seated in a separate area at the Annual Business
Meeting. Admission to this special area will be limited to individuals (voting delegates and alternates)
who are identified with a special stamp on their conference badge. If your city's voting delegate and
alternates wish to sit together at the Business Meeting, they are all encouraged to sign in at the Voting
Desk in order to obtain the identifying stamp that will admit them to the special voting area.
1.VOTING DELEGATE
Name: Title:
2.VOTING DELEGATE - ALTERNATE 3. VOTING DELEGATE - ALTERNATE
Name: Name: Title: Title: PLEASE ATTACH COUNCIL RESOLUTION DESIGNATING VOTING DELEGATE
AND ALTERNATES.
ATTEST (I affirm that the information provided reflects action by the city council to
designate the voting delegate and alternate.)
Name: Phone:
Title: Date:
Please complete and return by September 5 to:
League of California Cities
ATTN: Mary McCullough
1400 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
FAX: (916) 658-824U
AC20013VotingDelegatt Letter.doc11411,6frimoni-2-
1400 K Street, Suite 400 • Sacramento, California 95814
Phone: 916.658.8200 Fax: 916.658.8240
www.cacities.org
August 5, 2008
TO: Mayors, City Managers and City Clerks
League Board of Directors
General Resolutions Committee Members
Members, League Policy Committees to Which Resolutions Are Referred
RE: Annual Conference Resolutions Packet
Notice of League Annual Meeting
Enclosed please find the 2008 Annual Conference Resolutions packet.
Annual Conference in Long Beach. This year's League Annual Conference will be held
September 24-27 at the Long Beach Convention Center. The conference announcement has
previously been sent to all cities and we hope that you and your colleagues will be able to join us.
More information about the conference is available on the League's Web site at
www.cacities.orgac. We look forward to welcoming city officials to the conference.
Annual Business Meeting - Saturday, September 27, 8:30 a.m. The League's Annual Business
Meeting will be held at the Long Beach Convention Center, Grand Ballroom.
Resolutions Packet. At the Annual Conference, the League will consider the four resolutions
introduced by the deadline, Friday, July 25, 5 p.m., for submittals by regular mail, or Saturday,
July 26, midnight, for submittals by email or fax. These resolutions are included in this packet. We
request that you distribute this packet to your city council.
We encourage each city council to consider the resolutions and to determine a city position so that your
voting delegate can represent your city's position on each. A copy of the resolutions packet is posted on
the League's website for your convenience: w ww. ea cities. orgiresol utions.
This resolutions packet contains additional information related to consideration of the resolutions
at the Annual Conference. This includes the date, time and location of the meetings at which
resolutions will be considered.
Voting Delegates. Each city council is encouraged to designate a voting delegate and two alternates
to represent their city at the Annual Business Meeting. A letter asking city councils to designate their
voting delegate and two alternates has already been sent to each city. Copies of the letter, voting
delegate form, and additional information are also available at: www,cacities.org:resolutions.
Please Bring This Packet to the Annual Conference
September 24 -27— Long BeachI.
INFORMATION AND PROCEDURES
RESOLUTIONS CONTAINED IN THIS PACKET: This year, four resolutions have been
introduced for consideration by the Annual Conference and referred to the League policy
committees. The League bylaws provide that resolutions shall be referred by the president to an
appropriate policy committee for review and recommendation. Resolutions with committee
recommendations shall then be considered by the General Resolutions Committee at the Annual
Conference.
POLICY COMMITTEES: Five policy committees will meet at the Annual Conference to consider
and take action on resolutions referred to them. They are: Administrative Services; Community
Services; Environmental Quality; Housing, Community and Economic Development; and Public
Safety. The committees will meet on Wednesday, September 24, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, located
next to the Long Beach Convention Center. Please see page iii for the policy committee meeting
schedule. The sponsors of the resolutions were notified of the time and location of the meetings.
In addition, two policy committees will meet at the Annual Conference even though a resolution was
not referred to them: Employee Relations, and Revenue and Taxation. One committee will not meet at
the Annual Conference: Transportation, Communication & Public Works.
GENERAL RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE will meet at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, September 26,
at the Long Beach Convention Center, Rooms 203 B/C, to consider the reports of the five policy
committees regarding the four resolutions. This committee includes one representative from each of
the League's regional divisions, functional departments, standing policy committees, as well as other
individuals.
ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING AND GENERAL ASSEMBLY will be held at 8:30 a.m. on
Saturday, September 27, at the Long Beach Convention Center, Grand Ballroom.
PETITIONED RESOLUTIONS: For those issues that develop after the normal 60-day deadline,
a resolution may be introduced at the Annual Conference with a petition signed by designated
voting delegates of 10 percent of all member cities (48 valid signatures required) and presented to
the Voting Delegates Desk at least 24 hours prior to the time set for convening the Annual
Business Session of the General Assembly. This year, that deadline is 8:30 a.m., Friday,
September 26. If the petitioned resolution is substantially similar in substance to a resolution
already under consideration, the petitioned resolution may be disqualified by the General
Resolutions Committee.
Resolutions can be viewed on the League's Web site: www.cacities.orgiresol-utions.
Any questions concerning the resolutions procedure may be directed to Linda Welch Hicks at the
League office: lhickKii)cacitiessom or (916) 658-8224.IL
GUIDELINES FOR ANNUAL CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS
Policy development is a vital and ongoing process within the League. The principal means for
deciding policy on the important issues facing cities and the League is through the League's eight
standing policy committees and the board of directors. The process allows for timely consideration of
issues in a changing environment and assures city officials the opportunity to both initiate and
influence policy decisions.
Annual conference resolutions constitute an additional way to develop League policy. Resolutions
should adhere to the following criteria.
Guidelines for Annual Conference Resolutions
1. Only issues that have a direct bearing on municipal affairs should be considered or adopted at
the Annual Conference.
2. The issue is not of a purely local or regional concern.
3. The recommended policy should not simply restate existing League policy.
4. The resolution should be directed at achieving one of the following objectives:
(a) Focus public or media attention on an issue of major importance to cities.
(b) Establish a new direction for League policy by establishing general principals around
which more detailed policies may be developed by policy committees and the Board of
Directors.
(c) Consider important issues not adequately addressed by the policy committees and Board
of Directors.
(d) Amend the League bylaws (requires 2/3 vote at General Assembly).LOCATION OF MEETINGS
Policy Committee Meetings
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Hyatt Regency Hotel
(Located next to the Long Beach Convention Center)
200 South Pine Street
Long Beach, CA 90802
POLICY COMMITTEES MEETING AT ANNUAL CONFERENCE
(NOTE: * Indicates the committees with a resolution referred to them.)
10:00 a.m. - Noon 12:30 - 2:30 A.m.
* Administrative Services — Regency A * Community Services — Regency A
* Environmental Quality — Regency B/C Employee Relations — Regency B/C
Revenue and Taxation — Beacon Ballroom * Public Safety — Beacon Ballroom
* Housing, Comm. & Econ. Dev. — Regency D/E/F
Note: Transportation, Communication & Public Works will NOT meet
at the Annual Conference.
General Resolutions Committee
Friday, September 26, 2008, 1:30 p.m.
Long Beach Convention Center (Rooms 203 B/C)
300 E. Ocean Blvd (Corner of Pine Ave. and Shoreline Blvd.)
Long Beach, CA 90802
.46
Annual Business Meeting and General Assembly
Saturday, September 27, 2008, 8:30 a.m.
Long Beach Convention Center (Grand Ballroom)
300 E. Ocean Blvd (Corner of Pine Ave. and Shoreline Blvd.)
Long Beach, CA 90802IV.
KEY TO ACTIONS TAKEN ON RESOLUTIONS
Resolutions have been grouped by policy committees to which they have been assigned. Please note that two
resolutions have been assigned to more than one committee. These resolutions are noted by this sign (4).
Number Key Word Index
Reviewing Body Action|1010| 3
1 - Policy Committee Recommendation
to General Resolutions Committee
2 - General Resolutions Committee
3 - General Assembly
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES POLICY COMMITTEE|109| 2
3
1 I League Bylaws Amendments
COMMUNITY SERVICES POLICY COMMITTEE|109| 2
3
I*2 1
2-1-1 California Telephone Service
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY POLICY COMMITTEE|109| 2
3
3 Extension of Federal Section 45 Production Tax Credit
*4 Comprehensive Statewide Water Infrastructure Plan
HOUSING, COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POLICY COMMITTEE|109| 2 3
*4 I Comprehensive Statewide Water Infrastructure Plan
PUBLIC SAFETY POLICY COMMITTEE|109| 2 3
*2 I 2-1-1 California Telephone Service
Please note: Some Policy Committees without resolutions will still meet. Notification will be mailed to all
committee members. Information will also be posted on each committee's page on the League Web site:
www.eacities.org .
RESOLUTIONS INITIATED BY PETITION AT THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
General General
Resolutions Assembly
Committee Action
Recommendation
ivKEY TO ACTIONS TAKEN ON RESOLUTIONS (Continued)
KEY TO REVIEWING BODIES KEY TO ACTIONS TAKEN
I. Policy Committee A - Approve
2. General Resolutions Committee D - Disapprove
3. General Assembly N - No Action
R - Refer to appropriate policy committee for
study
Action Footnotes a - Amend
* Subject matter covered in another resolution
** Existing League policy
*** Local authority presently exists
Aa - Approve as amended
Aaa - Approve with additional amendment(s)
Ra - Amend and refer as amended to
appropriate policy committee for study
Raa - Additional amendments and refer
Da - Amend (for clarity or brevity) and
Disapprove
Na - Amend (for clarity or brevity) and take No
Action
W - Withdrawn by Sponsor
Procedural Note: Resolutions that are approved by the General Resolutions Committee, as well as all qualified
petitioned resolutions, are reported to the floor of the General Assembly. In addition, League policy provides the
following procedure for resolutions approved by League policy committees but not approved by the General
Resolutions Committee:
Resolutions initially recommended for approval and adoption by all the League policy committees to which
the resolution is assigned, but subsequently recommended for disapproval, referral or no action by the
General Resolutions Committee, shall then be placed on a consent agenda for consideration by the General
Assembly. The consent agenda shall include a brief description of the basis for the recommendations by both
the policy committee(s) and General Resolutions Committee, as well as the recommended action by each.
Any voting delegate may make a motion to pull a resolution from the consent agenda in order to request the
opportunity to fully debate the resolution. If, upon a majority vote of the General Assembly, the request for
debate is approved, the General Assembly shall have the opportunity to debate and subsequently vote on the
resolution.2008 ANNUAL CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION REFERRED TO ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES POLICY COMMITTEE
I. RESOLUTION RELATING TO LEAGUE BYLAWS AMENDMENTS
(2/3 vote at General Assembly required to approve)
Source: League Board of Directors
Referred to: Administrative Services Policy Committee
Recommendation to General Resolutions Committee:
WHEREAS, the League of California Cities is a nonprofit mutual benefit corporation under
California law and, as such, is governed by corporate bylaws; and
WHEREAS, the League's Board of Directors periodically reviews the League's bylaws for issues
of clarity, practicality, compliance with current laws, and responsiveness to membership interests; and
WHEREAS, the League's Board of Directors has recognized four diversity groups, commonly
referred to as caucuses, as follows: African-American Caucus, Asian-Pacific Islander Caucus, Gay
Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Local Officials Caucus, and Latino Caucus; and
WHEREAS, the leadership of the four caucuses have requested that they each be given a seat on
the Board of Directors to help ensure that the Board and the League as an organization continue to reflect
California's diversity, and to help ensure that the Board will reflect each caucus's unique community
within the League; and
WHEREAS, League staff and the Board's Executive Cornrnittee have identified various technical
amendments and additions to the bylaws that: a) clarify how each city's population is determined for
purposes of assessing dues and determining eligibility for Board seats, b) clarify the grounds for finding a
directorship that has become vacant, c) clarify the effective date of a vacancy from League office, and
d) make various minor technical amendments; and
WHEREAS, the League's Board offers amendments and additions to the following sections of
the bylaws for the membership's consideration:
I. Article IV, Section 1: Establishment of Dues
2. Article VII, Sections 2(e), (g) and (h): Composition of Board of Directors
3. Article VII, Section 3(a)(ii): Board of Directors Terms
4. Article VII, new subsection 4(f): Caucus Directors
5. Article VII, new subsection 6(f): Grounds for Vacancy in Directorship
6. Article X, section 1(a): Listing of Existing Departments
7. Article XII, Section 2(b): Effective Date of Vacancy from League Office;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities assembled in Annual
Conference in Long Beach, September 27, 2008, that the League include a representative from each
League diversity group caucus on the Board of Directors and make the other technical additions and
amendments to the League's bylaws by amending the above-referenced sections of the League bylaws, as
indicated on Attachment A.
1[Please see ATTACHMENT A, following background information, for text of proposed bylaws
amendments.)
1111111111
Background Information on Resolution No. I
Source: League Board of Directors
Title: Resolution Relating to League Bylaws Amendments
Background
In response to requests received from the chairs of the League's four diversity groups, the League
Executive Committee, with the concurrence of the League Board of Directors, is recommending that the
League's bylaws be amended to authorize one Director from each League diversity groups (or "caucus")
for a two-year term. The League has had caucuses since the early 1990s, and they have grown into
important parts of the lifeblood of the organization. They routinely organize training and other events of
importance to the League, and they do so in a way that complements the programming of the overall
League.
Despite their ongoing involvement in helping accomplish the goals of the League, the caucuses are the
only League subunits that are not represented on the board of directors. The Executive Committee and
League Board agree it is time for this to change, and the attached amendments would implement the
addition of one board member from each caucus, under certain terms and conditions.
In addition, some unrelated technical amendments have been accruing since the last amendments to the
bylaws in 2007, and they have been included as well.
Overview of the Proposed Bylaws Amendments
Population Information. Currently, Article IV, Section 1 provides that the Board may establish dues
annually according to city population, and that city population is determined by the State Controller's
population figures for making the most recent allocation of subventions to cities. In order to obtain more
accurate population numbers for determining dues, the amendment provides that city population be that
population as determined by the Department of Finance Demographic Unit and that the Board be allowed
to adopt a different method for determining city population upon the recommendation of the Executive
Director.
Caucuses. This provision would place a representative of each of the League's four diversity groups, or
caucuses, by recommendation of each caucus president of an officer of the caucus to the Executive
Committee and later approval by the state league board. In order to be eligible to nominate a caucus
officer to serve on the hoard, the League's Executive Director must certify that the caucus has received
formal recognition by the League Board, that the caucus is open to all elected and appointed officials, and
that the caucus is operating in full compliance with the League's Bylaws and all League Board-adopted
policies. The initial terms for the first Director appointments from the caucuses will be staggered with
two Directors appointed to an initial term of one-year and two Directors appointed to an initial term of
two-years. The initial term for each Director will be determined by a random drawing.
Large City Representatives. Article VII, section 2(f) provides that the eight largest cities may designate
a Director for a two-year term. This section is amended to provide that the mayors of the eight largest
cities may designate a Director. This is consistent with board policy and city practice.
2Population Information. Currently, Article VII, Section 2 provides that the population of the eight
largest cities shall be determined by the State Controller's population figures for making the most recent
allocation of subventions to cities. In order to obtain more accurate population numbers for this purpose,
the amendment provides that city population be that population as determined by the Department of
Finance Demographic Unit and that the Board be allowed to adopt a different method for determining city
population upon the recommendation of the Executive Director.
Timing of Election of Desert-Mountain Division Officers. Currently the League board representative
from the Desert Mountain Division is elected in odd-numbered years. This is proposed to be changed by
the officers of the Division, who believe changing to even-numbered years will put the election process
on a schedule that balances with the political timetable in their counties.
Caucus Directors. A new section is proposed to be added to provide that caucus directors will be
recommended by their respective caucus presidents to the Board's Executive Committee and approved by
either the Board or the Executive Committee. The new section further provides that the proposed Board
member from each caucus be a current elected mayor or council member.
Grounds for Vacancy. Under the current bylaws, it is clear a vacancy occurs when an official resigns or
leaves their official office, but there are no provisions for a vacancy for violation of league bylaws or the
policies of the board. This amendment simply clarifies that a vacancy in a directorship shall occur due to
resignation, by vacating an elective or appointive office, or by noncompliance with the League bylaws or
the rules of the board.
Department Renaming. Article X, Section 1(a) lists the names of the 11 functional departments of the
League. The amendment provides that "Recreation, Parks, and Community Services" be changed to read
"Community Services" to reflect the Board-approved name change.
Effective Date of Vacancy Caused by Leaving City Service. Currently, Article XII, Section 2(b)
provides that the effective date of a vacancy caused by an officer leaving city service is 3 months after the
officer ceases to hold the city office. The proposed amendment to this subsection provides that a vacancy
becomes effective upon the date the officer ceases to hold the city office. It also proposes that the Board
may approve a written request from the officer to remain in office beyond the effective date of the
vacancy for a period not to exceed 3 months from the effective date except that, upon a finding of good
cause, the Board is authorized to allow an officer to remain in office for a longer period.
3ATTACHMENT A
Amendments to League Bylaws Proposed by Resolution 1
Changes indicated by bold strikeout and underlining
Please review in conjunction with summary provided in
background information of Resolution I
Article IV: Dues
Section 1: Establishment.
The League Board establishes the League's dues annually according to city population. The population of
each city is the most current population
* • t
as determined by the California Department of Finance,
Demographic Research Unit, or its successor agency or unit. Upon the recommendation of the
Executive Director, the League Board may approve an alternative method for determining city
population than is set forth in this Section.
*********************
Article VII: Board of Directors
Section 2: Composition.
The League's Board is composed of the following:
(a) A President, First Vice-President and Second Vice-President/Treasurer, who each serve a term
of one year;1
(h) The Immediate Past President who serves for a term of one year, immediately succeeding his
or her term as President;
(c) Ten Directors-at-Large,2
(i) Who serve staggered two-year terms, and
(ii) At least one of whom is a representative of a small city with a population of 10,000 or
less.
(d) One Director to be elected from each of the regional divisions and functional departments of
the League, each of whom serves for a term of two years;
(e) One Director who is an officer of each League diversity group ("caucus") for a two-year
term who is recommended by the president of each caucus to the League Executive
Committee and approved by the League Board, provided that the League's Executive
Director has certified that the caucus has received formal recognition by the League
Board, that the caucus is open to all elected and appointed officials, and that the caucus
is operating in full compliance with the League's Bylaws and all League Board-adopted
policies. The initial terms for the first Director appointments from the caucuses will be
staggered with two Directors appointed to an initial term of one year and two Directors
See Article VIII §3 for information about officer elections.
2 See Article VEl, §§ 4 and 5 for information about Director-at-Large elections. See also Article VII, § 6(c) relating vacancies of at-large directorships.|1010|\L-kappointed to an initial term of two years. The initial term for each Director will be
determined by a random drawing.
C f
e) Members of the National League of Cities Board of Directors who hold an office in a
Member City; and
(g f) Eight Directors which- that may be designated by the mayors of each of the eight largest
cities in California to serve two-year terms.
(ii
g) For purposes of this section, the population of each city is the most current population
as determined by the California Department of Finance, Demographic Research Unit,
or its successor agency or unit. Upon the recommendation of the Executive Director,
the League Board may approve an alternative method for determining city population
than is set forth in this Section.
subyentions-of-eities:
U
I+) Directors hold office until their successors are elected and qualified or, if they sit on the
League Board by virtue of their membership on the National League of Cities Board of
Directors, until their terms on the National League of Cities Board of Directors conclude.
Section 3: Staggered Terms.
The terms of the Directors are staggered, so that the terms of approximately one-half of the members of
the League Board expire each year.
(a) Even-Numbered Year Terms. The following directorship terms expire in even-numbered
years:
(i) Departments. Directors from the Fiscal Officers, Public Works Officers, Mayors and
Council Members, Planning and Community Development, Fire Chiefs, and City
Clerks departments;
(ii) Divisions. Directors from the Central Valley, Desert-Mountain, Imperial County,
Monterey Bay, North Bay, Orange County, Redwood Empire, Sacramento Valley
and San Diego County divisions; and
(iii) At Large. Directors from five of the ten at-large directorships.
(b)
Odd-Numbered Year Terms. The following directorship terms expire in odd-numbered
years:
(i) Departments. Directors from the City Attorneys, City Managers, Police Chiefs,
Recreation, Parks and Community Services, and Personnel and Employee Relations
departments;
(ii) Divisions. Directors from the Channel Counties, Inland Empire, Desert Mountain,
East Bay, Los Angeles County, Peninsula, Riverside County and South San Joaquin
Valley divisions; and
(iii) At Large. Directors from five of the ten at-large directorships.|1010|15Section 4: Election of Directors.
(a) Functional Department Directors. Unless their respective functional department bylaws
provide otherwise, Departmental Directors are elected by their respective departments at the
Annual Conference.
(b) Regional Division Directors. Unless their respective regional division bylaws provide
otherwise, Regional Directors are elected at the regional division meeting immediately
preceding the Annual Conference.
(c) At-Large Directors. Directors-at-Large are elected by the League Board at its organization
meeting.
(d) Commencement of Terms. The term of office of all newly elected Directors commences
immediately on the adjournment of the Annual Conference; however, the newly constituted
League Board may meet prior to the adjournment of the Annual Conference for the purpose
of organization.
(e) Additional Directors. In the event of the creation of additional regional divisions or
functional departments of the League, each regional division or functional department may
elect a representative to the League Board. When a new functional department Or regional
division is created at any Annual Conference, the League Board may select a Director to
represent such functional department or regional division until the entity organizes and elects
a Director in the regular manner The League Board may fix the initial term of any such
Director from a new regional division or functional department at either one or two years, so
as to keep the number of terms expiring on alternate years as nearly equal as possible.
(f) Caucus Directors. Caucus Directors shall be recommended by the respective caucus
presidents to the League Executive Committee and approved by the League Board of
Directors or its Executive Committee. Each Caucus Director shall be a current or
former caucus officer and a current elected mayor or council member.
**********************
Section 6: Vacancies.3
(a) Functional Departmental Directorships. In the event of a vacancy in a functional
departmental directorship, the president of the department may become a member of the
League Board or may appoint a member of his or her department to fill the vacancy.
(h) Regional Division Directorships. If a vacancy occurs in the regional division directorship,
the regional division in question may elect a new Director at the next regular meeting of the
regional division.
3 Note that League Board officer vacandes are fl!led as prey:dec.! in Article '1St, section 4.|1010|u(c) At-Large Directorships. If a vacancy occurs in an at-large directorship, the League Board
may elect a new Director to fill the vacancy at the next regular board meeting. The League
president may nominate individuals for consideration by the League Board.
(d) Large City Directorships. In the event of a vacancy in a large-city seat, that large city may
designate a new representative.
(e) Terms.
The person elected or appointed to fill a vacancy holds office for the remainder of the
term of the office in question (see Article VII, section 3).
(I) Grounds for Vacancy. A vacancy in a directorship shall occur due to resignation, a
vacancy in elective or appointed office held by the director, or if the League Board
determines the department, division, or caucus that elected the director, or an
appointed director, is not complying with these bylaws or the policies of the League
Board.
*************************
Article X: Functional Departments
Section 1: Listing.
(a) Existing Departments. The League includes the following functional departments:
Mayors and Council Members
City Attorneys
Fiscal Officers
Public Works Officers
City Managers
Planning and Community Development
Police Chiefs
Fire Chiefs
ommunitv Services
City Clerks
Personnel and Employee Relations
(b) New Departments. Additional functional departments may be formed through an
amendment to these bylaws (Article XVI).
***********************
Article XII: Qualifications to Hold Office and Vacancies
Section 2: Vacancies.
(a) Vacancy Defined. A League office becomes vacant when an individual resigns, misses three
consecutive convened meetings or leaves city service.4
4 See also Cal. Corp. Code §7221 (board may declare a director's seat vacant if a court declares the director of unsound mind or the director has been
convicted of a felony).
:
LA-
7(b) Effective Date of Vacancy Caused by Leaving City Service. The effective date of a
vacancy caused by a departure from city service is _ : the date an
individual ceases to occupy the same or comparable city office as the individual had when the
individual was elected or appointed to League office. Upon written request of the
individual, the League Board ma y allow the individual to continue in the League office
for a period not to exceed 3 months from the effective date of the vacancy, which time
period may be extended by the Board upon a finding of good cause.
(c) Effective Date of Resignations. For the effective dates of resignations, see Article VII,
section 7 (effective date of League Board resignations), Article IX, section 8 (effective date
of regional division officer resignations), and Article X, section 2(f) (effective date of
department officer resignations).
(d) Filling Vacancies. Vacancies will be filled as provided in these bylaws, see Article VII,
section 6 (filling League Board vacancies), Article IX, section 7(d)
(filling regional division officer vacancies), and Article X, section 2(d) (filling functional
department officer vacancies).
(e) Successor Terms. An individual filling a vacancy serves the unexpired term of his or her
predecessor
>>>>>>>>»
RESOLUTION REFERRED TO COMMUNITY SERVICES POLICY COMMITTEE
+2. RESOLUTION RELATING TO THE 2-1-1 CALIFORNIA TELEPHONE SERVICE
Source: Public Safety Policy Committee
Referred to: Community Services Policy Committee and Public Safety Policy Committee
Recommendation to General Resolutions Committee:
• Community Services Policy Committee:
• Public Safety Policy Committee:
WHEREAS, every hour of every day, someone in California seeks essential human and
community services from the more than 1 5 million non-profit organizations in the United States, whether
it is to find an after-school program, secure adequate care for a child or an aging parent, or connect with
financial management or job training services; and
WHEREAS, with numerous agencies and help-lines, Californians may not know where to turn
for assistance and could go without necessary services because they are unable to find help; and
WHEREAS, in times of disaster, demand increases dramatically for the most up-to-the-minute
information on road closures, evacuations, shelters, and recovery resources, creating an additional
burden on emergency response personnel and 9-1-1 telephone systems; and
WHEREAS, an alternate public information resource for non-emergency, human and community
services needs would reduce the number of inappropriate calls to 9-1-1, alleviating demand on emergency
response agencies; and
WHEREAS, the 2-1-1 California telephone service provides an easy to remember telephone
number with free access to information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in over 100 languages, and
connects people with important human and community services including rent assistance, food banks,
89
affordable housing, health resources, child and elderly care, financial literacy and job training programs;
and
WHEREAS, the 2-14 California telephone service facilitates the availability of a single
repository where comprehensive information is collected, maintained, and updated regularly, reducing
costs and duplication of efforts; and
WHEREAS, the reliable, consistent information provided through the 2-1-1 California telephone
service helps to better assess the needs of California's communities and to immediately mobilize
resources toward those needs; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities assembled at the
Annual Conference in Long Beach, September 27, 2008, that the League supports the 2-1-1 California
telephone service as a non-emergency, human and community services and disaster information resource;
and, be it further
RESOLVED, that the League of California Cities will collaborate with state and regional partners
to continue the promotion of the 2-1-1 California telephone service throughout California.
1111111N
Background Information on Resolution No. 2
Source: Public Safety Policy Committee
Title: Resolution Relating to the 2-1-1 California Telephone Service
Background:
The 2-1-1 California Partnership is seeking to establish local and statewide partners as they pursue their
mission to create and sustain a statewide network that brings together high-quality local and 2-1-1 call
centers and provides benefits beyond what is possible independently. Currently the 2-1-1 telephone
system exists on a county-by-county basis, with 18 currently active systems operating. Nationally, the
2-1-1 telephone system covers all or part of 40 states plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, serving over
62% of the United States population.
In regards to disaster planning and response, the 2-1-1 California system effectively diverts non-
emergency calls from 9-1-1, reducing expense and alleviating call volumes for first-responder agencies.
During the 2007 San Diego area firestorms, the 2-1-1 Southern California system handled more than
130,000 calls in the five days following the outbreak of the fires and is credited with providing vital,
localized information on road closures, emergency shelters, and how to locate disaster relief supplies.
Integrated 100% statewide coverage is essential for reaping the full benefits of 2-1-1 in California. This
includes continuous high-quality service during disasters, consistent information about services anywhere
in the state, and reduced costs from creating and maintaining new statewide 800 numbers to promote
human services.
2-1-1 California system is operated by certified call professionals, trained to provide personal assistance
to the caller and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Services are provided in the caller's
language through bilingual staff and te/e-interpreting services and callers are linked to local human
service organizations that can give immediate help in areas such as suicide prevention, senior services,
family counseling, child care, or volunteerism.California currently invests $14 million annually in community-based comprehensive information and
referral services, with a major local program funding from counties, First 5, United Way, and private
foundations to supplement awarded grant monies. It is estimated that achieving the statewide integrated
system will cost $2 million in infrastructure and data integrations and network, with an annual estimated
operating cost of $30 million However, this telephone system is also projected to save nearly an equal
amount through streamlined service operations, facilitating access to health and human services programs,
and providing coordinated disaster response information.
>>>>>>>>>>
RESOLUTIONS REFERRED TO ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY POLICY COMMITTEE
3. RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF EXTENSION OF THE FEDERAL SECTION 45
PRODUCTION TAX CREDIT
Source: City of Fort Bragg
Referred to: Environmental Quality Policy Committee
Recommendation to General Resolutions Committee:
WHEREAS, the State of California Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) law mandates that
electric power generation goals for utility companies are 20% by 2010 and 33% by 2020 from renewable
sources; and,
WHEREAS, biomass power plants create electric power from renewable sources like forestry
practices, timber product manufacturing, agricultural trimmings and urban wood waste; and,
WHEREAS, the federal Section 45 Production Tax Credit is due to expire on December 31,
2008, unless extended by Congress and the President, and this federal tax measure is essential to
attracting capital to develop biomass power plants; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities, assembled in Annual
Conference in Long Beach, September 27, 2008, that the California Congressional Members and the
President of the United States are urged to extend the federal Section 45 Production Tax Credit, as it has
done five times in past years, beyond December 31, 2008; and, be it further
RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be provided to the President of the United States, to
U.S. Senators Boxer and Feinstein and to each Member of Congress from the State of California.
PPM
+4. RESOLUTION RELATING TO COMPREHENSIVE STATEWIDE WATER
INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN
Source: South San Joaquin Valley Division
Referred to: Environmental Quality Policy Committee and Housing, Community & Economic
Development Policy Committee
Recommendation to General Resolutions Committee:
* Environmental Quality Policy Committee:
• Housing, Community and Economic Development Policy Committee:
WHEREAS, adequate, reliable and affordable supplies of high-quality water are the most vital
need of all Californians and the many cities in which they live; and
1011
WHEREAS, water is also essential in sustaining the economic activity that supports California's
existing population, as well as its anticipated growth; and
WHEREAS, the water supplies upon which millions of Californians depend for beneficial
municipal, business, industrial and agricultural uses are at risk because of court-ordered water pumping
export reductions for Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta Estuary endangered species protection, other
environmental protection demands and mandates, as well as the effects of drought; and
WHEREAS, curtailments in water supplies, without exception, result in decreased economic
activity, which quickly leads to losses in employment, resulting in family and community hardships and
other negative social impacts; and
WHEREAS, California's growing water crisis is largely the result of aging, decaying and
inadequate infrastructure and associated fishery habitat and related environmental concerns, particularly
within the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta Estuary through which much of the state's water supply
must pass; and
WHEREAS, the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta Estuary is plagued by aging and fragile
levees, water quality problems, declining and endangered species, invasive species and other problems
adversely affecting its environmental and ecological health; and
WHEREAS, the state is also confronted with the very real potential of climate change which may
result in more extended and pronounced drought periods, less snowfall and more rainfall in higher
elevations in the mountains, creating more abrupt runoff in mountain rivers and streams that California's
existing reservoir system would be inadequate to capture to prevent flooding while sustaining the state's
population, as well as economic and social activity during dry periods; and
WHEREAS, California's existing system of surface and groundwater storage facilities is no
longer adequate to meet demands posed by a rapidly growing population, and radical swings in water
supplies generated by the state's cycles of wet and dry years; and
WHEREAS, despite California's population boom, skyrocketing housing needs and multi-billion-
dollar agriculture industry, investments in the state's water system have been woefully inadequate,
leaving the state with an aging water infrastructure system that neither meets current demands nor
prepares the state for anticipated growth; and
WHEREAS, the well being of the people of California must be protected and enhanced with
water supply, quality, safety and conservation consideration that results in a wide-ranging approach to
resolving the present water crisis and existing water demands while providing for adequate, reliable and
affordable water supplies that can meet future needs; and
WHEREAS, cities of necessity must rely upon the State of California to address broad statewide
water problems, needs and demands, while assisting cities with development of conservation and
reclamation programs; and
WHEREAS, cities cannot grow without additional water infrastructure improvements; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities assembled in Annual
Conference in Long Beach, September 27, 2008, that the League support the State in efforts to implement
a comprehensive statewide water infrastructure improvement; and, be it furtherRESOLVED, that such a comprehensive statewide water infrastructure plan result in immediate
resolution to environmental, water supply, infrastructure and water quality problems within the
Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta Estuary to restore water supply certainty for the people of California;
and, be it further
RESOLVED, that such a comprehensive program result in longer-term improvements and
rehabilitation of California's water infrastructure to provide safe, adequate and reliable water supplies for
a growing population; meet future water management needs; solve environmental problems and enhance
flood control safety by providing increased conservation and reclamation, infrastructure and conveyance
improvements, and increased storage, both above and below ground.
0//////
Background Information on Resolution No. 4
Source: South San Joaquin Valley Division
Title: Resolution Relating To Comprehensive Statewide Water Infrastructure Plan
Background:
California is confronted with a major water crisis caused by a number of converging factors, among
which is the state's failure to develop its water supply, conveyance, storage and flood management
infrastructure to keep pace with water demands caused by rapidly growing population and expanding
residential, business and industrial development. The state also needs to provide for anticipated
significant future growth. More people mean a rising need for clean water. The state's population is
expected to grow by as much as 30 percent within 20 years, comparable to adding three cities the size of
Los Angeles. Without proper planning and adequate conservation, this growth could mean a need for up
to 3.8 million additional acre-feet of water per year by 2030.
The situation has been exacerbated over the past several months by a combination of severe drought
conditions occurring atop court ordered curtailments in water export supply pumping from the
Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta Estuary to protect the threatened Delta Smelt under the federal
Endangered Species Act. Water supplies to many cities have been reduced and strict use limits are having
to be imposed upon customers. The Delta provides water to 25 million Californians and must be made
healthy and sustainable in the long-term. Aging levees, new development and seismic risks, paired with a
long-overdue need for investment and conservation have compromised the Delta's environmental and
ecological health. In addition, there's a 66 percent chance that catastrophic Delta flooding will occur
within the next 50 years. Such pressures on the Delta compromise its ability to provide safe drinking
water and maintain a vibrant ecosystem. Scientists agree that without immediate changes, the Delta will
fail as a reliable water source and a healthy estuary.
Further clouding California's long-term water supply outlook are prospects for dramatic changes in
precipitation, rain, snow and runoff patterns that may result from climate change. Current weather trends
and climate models suggest that California will lose at least 25 percent of its annual snovvpack by 2050.
More rapid runoff from rain events occurring at higher elevations will require adequate water storage
facilities to prevent flooding and provide supplies to sustain Californians during dry periods. At the other
extreme, climate models also predict longer and more severe droughts, creating a great need for water
reserves that can only be accomplished through additional water storage facilities.
New storage requires balance between groundwater recharge and banking facilities, and new or expanded
surface facilities. Numerous areas within California have aquifers capable of storing vast quantities of
groundwater. However, percolation required to recharge or bank groundwater is, by its nature, a slow
process. It relies upon adequate surface storage to capture runoff from rain and snowmelt events as those
1213
discharges from watersheds are occurring because of the impossibility of instantaneously conveying and
recharging more than a very small amount of runoff. Failure to capture excess runoff as it is occurring
means that much of that water must be released as floodwater and be lost to beneficial human use,
increasing flood management problems and flooding threats.
Along with the billions of dollars in economic activity and social benefits provided by adequate and
affordable supplies of water in cities and towns across California, the state's water supply system and
infrastructure also support an agricultural industry that provides much of the food consumer by
Californians and their fellow Americans. Agricultural exports are among the nation's most important
tools in foreign trade and are relied upon by nations in all parts of the world. The nation's two most
highly productive agricultural counties are Fresno and Tulare. In many parts of the San Joaquin Valley,
the effects of drought and supply curtailments resulting from the Endangered Species Act court orders
have resulted in hundreds of thousands of acres being allowed as state and federal agencies have imposed
water supply rationing and cuts. Without those crops, food prices in the state will continue to rise and
Californians will be forced to rely upon food imported from other states or nations whose protective food
safety regulations may not be as strong as those within California.
The State Water Project alone directly supports a $300 billion share of the California economy. A more
reliable water supply means that this economy can continue to grow and provide jobs and prosperity for
our state.
Such reliability is a centerpiece in a comprehensive water infrastructure program that has been proposed
by Governor Schwarzenegger and Senator Feinstein. This plan would provide much of the funding
necessary for crucially needed infrastructure repairs and improvements, environmental solutions and
habitat improvements, enhanced conservation, and development of needed water supplies.
>>>>>>>>>>
RESOLUTION REFERRED TO HOUSING, COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
POLICY COMMITTEE
•4. RESOLUTION RELATING TO COMPREHENSIVE STATEWIDE WATER
INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN
Resolution #4 also referred to Environmental Quality Policy Committee. Please see
Environmental Quality section for the resolution and background information.
>>>>>>>>.»
RESOLUTION REFERRED TO PUBLIC SAFETY POLICY COMMITTEE
•2, RESOLUTION RELATING TO THE 2-1-1 CALIFORNIA TELEPHONE SERVICE
Resolution #2 also referred to Community Services Policy Committee. Please see Community
Services section for the resolution and background information.
>>>>>>>>.»
[NOTE: No resolutions were assigned to the following policy committees: Employee Relations;
Revenue and Taxation; and Transportation, Communication & Public Works.]
11,#########