IN THIS ISSUE: March 27, 2009
Issue #12-2009
Page 4: Deadline Approaching for PPIC Survey on the Economic Climate for Cities
Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Guidelines Released
Page 6: Cities Have Additional Time to Apply for Federal Clean Water Funding
Page 7: April 28 Hearing on Proposed Changes to Workers’ Comp System
California Communities Program Offers Cash Flow Relief for FY 2009-10
Page 8: Administration Launches New Consumer Web site for Responsible Homeowners Seeking Relief
Page 9: NLC Program Offers Prescription Discounts
Job Opening? Western City Magazine Can Help You Find the Best Candidate
Page 10: Find a Bill, Legislators, Leg Committee, or Ask League Leg Staff
GOVERNOR EXPECTED TO SIGN BILL TO DISTRIBUTE FEDERAL
TRANSPORTATION FUNDS
The Assembly on Thursday, March 26, passed ABxxx20, a bill that establishes the process
through which highway funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) will
be distributed in California. For more, see Page 2.
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LOCAL IMPACTS OF FEDERAL STIMULUS FOCUS OF ASSEMBLY HEARING
The Assembly Committees on Local Government and Housing and Community Development
(HCD) invited local government officials to testify at a joint hearing held March 25 investigating
the impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) at the local level. The
federal funding is extremely important to California, especially given how the economic crisis has
contributed to the state’s significant cash flow problems. For more, see Page 2.
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EPA RESOURCES TO HELP OFFICIALS WITH ARRA CLEAN ENERGY FUNDING
Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), state, local and tribal
governments will receive substantial funding to implement clean energy efficiency initiatives in
their jurisdictions. For more, see Page 3. 2
‘Transportation Funds’ Continued from Page 1…
This bill provides a preferred way to distribute the funds in California. Funds will be distributed
through the Surface Transportation Program (STP). This process has several benefits to cities
including increasing the funding available to cities and providing more flexibility in using the funds.
The bill also states the Legislature’s intention that at least 40 percent of funding allocated to
Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) be allocated to cities and counties.
The League has prepared a summary of the bill’s highlights. The figures reported below are
rounded.
California is receiving a total of $2.57 billion in highway funds. Based on federal law, the state
would receive $1.79 billion (70 percent), and MPOs would receive $771 million (30 percent).
There is no requirement in federal law that funds be given directly to cities and counties.
Existing state law requires that federal highway funds be distributed through the State
Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) process, which tends to be more lengthy than the
STP and would make it difficult for regional and local governments to meet the time requirements
in the ARRA.
Under ABxxx20, the funds will be distributed through the STP process, which allocates more
money to MPOs, and increases the flexibility for using funds when compared to the STIP. Using
STP formulas, CalTrans will receive $963.7 million (37.5 percent), and MPOs will receive $1.6
billion (62.5 percent). The legislation also states legislative intent that at least 40 percent of the
regional funding (totaling $642.5 million) go to cities and counties. If cities and counties don't
obligate the funding, the funds will revert back to the region to be reallocated within that region.
ABxxx20 is now awaiting signature by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
_____________________________________________________________________________
‘Hearing’ Continued from Page 1…
In her opening statement, Assembly Local Government Chair Anna Caballero (D-Salinas)
commented on how ARRA funds going to local governments will create jobs, stressing that job
creation is the most important thing the government can do to help turn the tide on the economic
downturn. Assembly Member Norma Torres (D-Pomona), chair of HCD, said that she is focused
on getting these federal funds out the door as fast as possible and asked the panelists to tell
legislators what kind of support they need from the state to do this.
Greg Jolivette, principal fiscal and policy analyst with the Legislative Analyst’s Office told the
Assembly members that of the $1 billion the state receives in formula based housing funding, 65
percent will go directly to the local level. Panelists from a variety of jurisdictions and local
agencies addressed funding needs and realities at the local level.
Stockton Vice-Mayor Kathy Miller testified about how her city will benefit from the funds. The city
stands to receive $12.1 million of the $529 million of Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP)
funds allocated to California. Stockton is known world-wide as the foreclosure crisis’ ground zero
so while these funds will help the city address this problem it will only make a small impact
according to Miller. The city has allocated $7.2 million for the acquisition of single family homes to
renovate and resell. This will cover about 200 homes initially with the goal that the resale of the
homes will replenish the funds so more can be purchased and fixed.
Miller conveyed the importance of ARRA funds to Stockton. “It’s not just about individual buildings
or projects. It creates ripple effects in the community,” said Miller “Stockton has an unemployment
rate of 18 percent so you can’t underestimate the impact that these funds will have on a
community like Stockton.”
The San Diego region stands to reap benefits from ARRA funding according to Gary Gallegos,
San Diego Association of Governments executive director. He told the committee that ARRA
funds allocated for San Diego projects will create 2,600 jobs and also help other regions because
many of the products used to complete the projects will come from other areas.
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There was consensus among the panelists that ARRA’s emphasis on transparency and
accountability is extremely important. However, several raised concern that this would put extra
burden on local agencies which are grappling with the fact that declining revenues have made
layoffs necessary to bring budgets into balance.
Local governments are encouraged to work closely with state organizations and their
Metropolitan Planning Organizations on how to access the federal funds.
The League is continuing to update its "City Funding Book, which has information for cities on
how to access and apply for ARRA funds. The most recent version is now available on the
Federal Economic Stimulus section of the League's Web site at
http://www.cacities.org/federalstimulus.
_____________________________________________________________________________
‘EPA Resources’ Continued from Page 1…
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers a suite of resources focused on maximizing
the benefits of ARRA funding:
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009: State and Local Guide to U.S. EPA
Climate and Energy Program Resources
This guide has been designed to help state and local governments see which EPA programs
could be leveraged to expand or develop clean energy initiatives in their locality. It includes
synopses of 14 EPA climate and energy partnership programs. Each program description
includes: basic information and contact details, potential target audiences, highlights of ready-to-
go tools and resources, and possible actions a state or local government could take.
www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/documents/slb_guide_to_program_resources.pdf
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009: A Guide to Renewable Energy and
Energy Efficiency Opportunities for Local and Tribal Governments
This 16 page guide provides an overview of funding sources in ARRA that local governments can
use to implement clean energy programs and EPA resources that can support clean energy
efforts. The guide covers funding and resources for energy, energy in water treatment, schools,
affordable housing, transportation, and green jobs.
www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/documents/local_guide_to_arra.pdf
Webcast: Using EPA Resources to Maximize Clean Energy in Economic Recovery
Spending
This webcast was recorded March 5 and featured a crosswalk of available funds and EPA
resources, including an overview of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants, an
overview of clean energy opportunities in the state water revolving funds, and a Q&A session with
EPA staff. The recording, presentations, transcript and a 16-page guide of funding opportunities
and resources are available.
www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-programs/state-and-local/webcast.html
Rapid Deployment Energy Efficiency (RDEE) Toolkit (in development)
The toolkit will provide detailed program design and implementation guides for five-to-10 broadly
applicable energy efficiency programs that have extensive, proven field experience with
documentation on program design, program cost, and results. The RDEE toolkit is being
developed through a joint effort of the U.S. EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy, building
upon technical information provided by the Leadership Group of the National Action Plan on
Energy Efficiency.
http://epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/ee_toolkit.html
ENERGY STAR Webcasts
U.S. EPA's ENERGY STAR team offers a series of Web trainings that can help you leverage
ENERGY STAR tools to get the most out of your stimulus funding. Visit
www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=business.bus_internet_presentations to view upcoming or pre-
recorded trainings.
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Energy Star Webcast Example: Maximize Stimulus Funding with Performance Contracting and
ENERGY STAR. This practical session provides you with the knowledge you need to understand
the benefits and nuances of performance contracting and how to leverage ENERGY STAR tools
in your contract to get the most out of stimulus funding.
EPA will update materials on the State and Local Clean Energy Web site as additional
information becomes available. Please keep an eye on the “what’s new” section of the EPA’s
Web site http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-programs/state-and-local/index.html for the
latest information and resources.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Deadline Approaching for PPIC Survey on the Economic Climate for Cities
California cities can make their economic issues and concerns known by participating in a Public
Policy Institute of California (PPIC) survey. The deadline to participate is April 1. Only 25 percent
of cities have completed the survey and the researchers need at least 60 percent participation to
accurately complete their analysis.
The survey seeks to gather information about cities' adjustment to the current fiscal and
economic climate. While there are a range of topics, it is not a long survey, and the League
recommends that your city take the time to complete it. PPIC will strive to elicit participation from
as many cities as possible, since it is important that the views of every type of city are
represented in the study.
PPIC will contact city officials and supply a link to the survey questions. Each city will be given a
unique link for the survey.
PPIC abides by the strictest human subjects protection policies and is committed to ensuring the
anonymity and confidentiality of respondents. Individuals and names will never be used in a way
that links responses to reports or findings or any PPIC publications unless explicit permission is
received from the individuals concerned.
For further questions about the survey, please contact Max Neiman at neiman@ppic.org or (415)
291-4441 or Daniel Krimm at krimm@ppic.org or call (415) 291-4423.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant
Guidelines Released
Federal guidelines for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants (EECBG) program were
released this week by the Department of Energy (DOE). City officials will want to pay attention to
the deadlines. Large cities (population over 35,000) have until June 25. Details for small cities will
be released at a later date by the California Energy Commission (CEC).
Below is general information about EECBG funding. More detailed information is available on the
League’s Web site.
The formal application is available online at: http://www.cacities.org/resource_files/27861.EECBG
DE-FOA-00000131.pdf.
The breakdown of expected large city allocations is also available at:
http://www.cacities.org/resource_files/27860.AttachmentAEECBGProgramAllocations.pdf.
Funding Criteria
EECBG funds can be used community wide, not only for government owned facilities and
infrastructure. A list of eligible activities for use of program funds is provided in Section 544, Title
V, Subtitle E of the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA). Additional details on eligible
activities are in the attached Funding Opportunity Announcement. The following activities are
eligible: 5
• Development of an energy efficiency and conservation strategy and technical consultant
services to assist in the development of such a strategy;
• Residential and commercial building energy audits;
• Financial incentive programs and mechanisms for energy efficiency improvements such
as energy savings performance contracting, on-bill financing, and revolving loan funds;
• Grants to nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies for the purpose of
performing energy efficiency retrofits;
• Energy efficiency and conservation programs for buildings and facilities;
• Development and implementation of transportation programs to conserve energy;
• Building Codes and Inspections to promote building energy efficiency;
• Energy distribution technologies that significantly increase energy efficiency, including
distributed resources, combined heat and power, and district heating and cooling
systems;
• Material conservation programs including source reduction, recycling, and recycled
content procurement programs that lead to increases in energy efficiency;
• Reduction and capture of methane and greenhouse gases generated by landfills or
similar waste-related sources;
• Energy efficient traffic signals and street lighting;
• Renewable energy technologies on government buildings; and
• Any other appropriate activity that meets the purposes of the program and is approved by
DOE.
How to Prioritize Activities for Fund Use
Energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable energy programs and projects are building blocks
for increased economic vitality, energy security, and environmental quality. EECBG program
funds will have maximum impact if invested in ways that create and/or retain jobs and stimulate
the economy in the short term while laying the foundation for a long-term and sustainable clean
energy economy. DOE encourages grantees to prioritize programs and projects that:
• Leverage other public and private resources;
• Enhance workforce development;
• Persist beyond the funding period; and
• Promote energy market transformation such as revolving loans, low-cost loans, energy
savings performance contracting, advanced building codes, building and home retrofit
incentives and policies, and transportation programs and policies.
Criteria for Large City Formula
The formula for large cities is based in general on determining allocations to cities and counties
with two weighted factors: resident and daytime (commuter) population. The resident population
factor receives a weight of approximately 70 percent and the daytime population factor receives a
weight of approximately 30 percent. This accounts for the energy use of these populations.
Application Process
There is a three-step registration process required to do business with the federal government.
Please allow 21 days to complete the registration process. This information is also listed on page
3 of the League’s City Funding Book.
Step 1: Request a DUNS Number at: http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform/displayHomePage.do
Step 2: Register with the Central Contractor Registry (CCR) at: http://www.ccr.gov/
Step 3: E-Business Point of Contact must register in FedConnect at:
https://www.fedconnect.net/FedConnect/
The Funding Opportunity Announcement has complete application instructions. It can be obtained
from FedConnect by searching under Reference Number DE-FOA-0000013. Applications must
be submitted through FedConnect. If you have problems, email support@fedconnect.net
6
FedConnect is an online marketplace where federal agencies post opportunities and make
awards via the Web. More information about FedConnect is available online.:
https://www.fedconnect.net/FedConnect/PublicPages/FedConnect_Ready_Set_Go.pdf
DOE’s first priority is to award the formula grants. Details on applying for competitive grants will
soon be provided in a Funding Opportunity Announcement. Applications can be submitted now
through FedConnect.
The DOE’s project management team will review each application to ensure that the grantee has
developed a strategy for use of funds with activities eligible under the program, and that the
proposed budgets are acceptable.
Measurement of Success
Grantees will be required to report regularly to the DOE on five metrics:
1. Jobs created and/or retained
2. Energy savings on a per dollar invested basis
3. Renewable energy capacity installed
4. Greenhouse gas emissions reduced
5. Funds leveraged
Funding Release Schedule
Based on funding levels, formula grants will be released in stages:
1. Local governments will be required to submit a proposed energy efficiency and
conservation strategy either with the application or within 120 days after the effective date
of the award.
2. Entities are required to obligate/commit all funds within 18 months from the effective date
of the award. In the event funds are not obligated/committed within 18 months, DOE
reserves the right to de-obligate the funds and cancel the award.
3. ARRA gives preference to activities that can be started and completed expeditiously,
including a goal of using at least 50 percent of the funds made available by it for activities
that can be initiated not later than June 17.
Small City Information
For California’s smaller cities (population under 35,000), the CEC now has 60 days (until May 25)
to turn in their application for the EECBG funding going to states (and then on to small cities).
Once that funding has been released to the CEC, then information will be passed on to small
cities about how to apply and receive EECBG funding for small cities.
Additional Information
For more information about large city block grants, please visit http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/#ld2
or for small city block grants information please visit www.energy.ca.gov/recovery.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Cities Have Additional Time to Apply for Federal Clean Water Funding
City officials who thought they had until March 24 to get their clean water projects on the State
Project Priority List (PPL) for federal stimulus funding can breathe a sigh of relief because the
next deadline is May 1. The State Water Resource Control Board, which operates the Clean
Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), can amend the PPL at any time to include applicants who
are ready to proceed after that date.
Application for these funds is a two-step process. First, submit the project to the PPL by applying
through the CWSRF’s online Financial Assistance Application Submittal Tool (FAAST)
(https://faast.waterboards.ca.gov/). Second, complete the hard copy Financial Assistance
Application (FAA). It is available online at
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/grants_loans/srf/docs/forms/application.
doc.
7
There is no deadline for the FAA, but applicants will not be considered for funding unless both
steps are completed.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 provides $283 million for
California’s CWSRF.
The purpose of the CWSRF program is to implement the federal Clean Water Act and various
state laws by providing financial assistance for the construction of facilities or implementation of
measures necessary to address water quality problems and to prevent pollution of the waters of
the State.
Eligible uses for the funds include construction of publicly-owned wastewater treatment facilities,
local sewers, sewer interceptors, water recycling facilities, as well as, expanded use projects
such as implementation of nonpoint source (NPS) projects or programs, development and
implementation of estuary Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plans, and storm
water treatment.
The CWSRF program has released a new fact sheet on the program and how ARRA funds will be
used. This fact sheet is available on the League’s Web site at:
http://www.cacities.org/resource_files/27864.arra_cwsrf_factsheet.pdf
Cities interested in applying for these funds can find the CWSRF applications and program
information at:
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/grants_loans/srf/econ_recovery_info.shtml
Cities with additional questions should submit them to cleanwaterSRF@waterboards.ca.gov or
call CWSRF at (916) 327-9978.
____________________________________________________________________________
April 28 Hearing on Proposed Changes to Workers’ Comp System
Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner is convening a hearing on April 28 in San Francisco on
proposed increases to workers comp medical costs.
The Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau’s (WCIRB) recently voted to recommend a
24.4 percent increase in the Workers Compensation Claims Cost Benchmark. The April 28
hearing will investigate the reason why medical costs are rising in the workers compensation
system.
After WCIRB recommends a rate to the California Department of Insurance (CDI), the Insurance
Commissioner holds a subsequent hearing to solicit feedback on the proposed change and can
then accept or revise the WCIRB’s recommended changes in the Workers Compensation Claims
Cost Benchmark (WCCCB). The WCCCB is the estimated change in claim costs over the next 18
months. The CDI does not have the authority to set workers’ compensation insurance rates.
_____________________________________________________________________________
California Communities Program Offers Cash Flow Relief for FY 2009-10
A California Communities program can help cities ease a potential cash flow burden in the
coming fiscal year. The 2009 Tax and Revenue Anticipation Notes program (TRANs) was
developed to assist local governments to finance short-term cash flow deficits. Individual
participant issuance amounts have ranged in size from $100,000 up to $320,000,000. California
Communities has issued over $7.8 billion in TRANs, serving more than 150 local agencies since
1993.
In this uncertain financial market environment, California Communities is pleased to announce
that US Bank has agreed to provide a partial letter of credit for the 2009 issuance. This coverage
is important since the traditional method of insurance for credit enhancement is no longer
available.
8
Interested cities can enroll in the TRANs program online at www.cscdadocs.com. Legal
documents and worksheets will be available to cities through the online document management
system after enrollment.
Some of the advantages of issuing TRANs through the California Communities Program include:
• Streamlined Issuance Process: California Communities TRANs issuers estimate that
the staff time requirement is less than half of the time required for a stand-alone
issuance;
• Cost Savings: California Communities has pre-negotiated fees at significant cost
savings for borrowers;
• Experienced Team: The California Communities financing team includes a highly skilled
group of professionals with many years of experience structuring California cash flow
transactions. This is the program’s 17th year. In 2008 the program provided $854 million
in cash flow financing to 29 local governments;
• Market Access: The significant transaction size of the California Communities TRANs
program increases market access; and
• Investor Relations: Each year, the California Communities team schedules individual
meetings with key institutional investors and holds investor conference calls for the
TRANs Program.
Additional Information
For more information about the 2009 TRANs Program visit the California Communities Web site
at www.cacommunities.org or contact Dan Harrison of the League staff at
dharrison@cacities.org.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Administration Launches New Consumer Web site for Responsible Homeowners
Seeking Relief
The U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) and the Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) launched a new Web site, www.MakingHomeAffordable.gov, for
homeowners seeking information about the Making Home Affordable loan modification and
refinancing program introduced in February by the President.
The Administration is accelerating efforts to communicate directly with borrowers about the
Making Home Affordable program. Features of the Web site include:
• Extensive information about the Administration’s Making Home Affordable plan;
• Self assessment tools to allow borrowers to determine if they are eligible for the program;
• A calculator feature that allows homeowners to estimate the reduction to their monthly
mortgage payment;
• Resources to find free, HUD-approved counseling services for borrowers who have
additional questions; and
• A handy checklist to ensure homeowners collect all the documents they need before
calling their servicers
Since March 4, when the guidelines allowing modifications to eligible mortgages were released,
representatives from the Treasury, HUD and other members of a broad interagency task force
have conducted detailed briefings and training sessions for more than 2,500 mortgage loan
servicers and investors, nonprofit housing counselors and nationwide borrower advocacy groups
who have agreed to participate in the program.
The program, aimed at preventing the destructive impact of the housing crisis on families and
communities, will offer assistance to 7 to 9 million homeowners making a good-faith effort to
make their mortgage payments.
_____________________________________________________________________________
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NLC Program Offers Prescription Discounts
The National League of Cities (NLC) is partnering with CVS Caremark® to offer residents of NLC
member municipalities a prescription discount card that gives the user an average discount of 20
percent. This can be especially valuable to residents who don’t have health insurance, have
prescriptions that are not covered by their insurer or who may be enrolled in the Medicare drug
program and have prescription costs that fall into the several thousand dollar gap before
Medicare picks up all the costs.
Some features are:
• No cost to NLC-member municipalities;
• No cost to your residents;
• No age or income limits;
• Customized cards with city’s name and logo provided at no cost;
• Promotional material provided at no cost (in English and Spanish); and
• Eight weeks to set up program from receipt of a completed application form.
Membership in NLC is required, however NLC has several “introductory” membership plans
giving either one or two year discounts of 15 percent or 35 percent, respectively. Given the nature
of the discount program, the NLC dues might be allocated among several different accounts such
as General Assistance, Senior and/or Youth Services, Health, etc.
The NLC membership dues schedule is:
Population Range One Year’s Dues Two Year’s Dues
[15 percent discount] [35 percent discount]
5,001-10,000 $ 949. $1,452.
10,001-20,000 $1,266. $1,936.
20,001-30,000 $1,582. $2,419.
30,001-40,000 $2,769. $4,235.
40,001-50,000 $3,241. $4,957.
80,001-90,000 $5,692. $8,706.
100,001-125,000 $7,432 $11,366.
To obtain more information and an NLC membership application contact Mark Shapiro at
shapiro@nlc.org or call (202) 626-3019.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Job Opening? Western City Magazine Can Help You Find the Best Candidate
List your job opening in Western City magazine. When you advertise your job opportunity in
Western City, you also receive a Web site posting at no additional charge! Visit
www.westerncity.com or call (800) 262-1801 for more information.
In a hurry to get the word out? Place your ad on our Web site today by visiting:
www.westerncity.com/postjobs.
Interim Management Needs?
MuniLink is the League of California Cities' interim management employee
directory. Featuring searchable categories of interim resumes, MuniLink is still the
best online tool to connect with highly trained municipal veterans eager to meet
your agency’s needs.
SEARCHING THE ONLINE DIRECTORY IS FREE for agencies looking for products and
services, and offers individuals and companies a fast and effective way of connecting with city
officials in California. 10
MuniLink is a joint project of the League, the Institute for Local Government and Western City
magazine. Proceeds from MuniLink benefit the League's research and advocacy efforts on
behalf of cities.
Visit Today! www.cacities.org/munilink
_____________________________________________________________________________
Find a Bill, Legislators, Leg Committee, or Ask League Leg Staff
Visit (and bookmark!) the League’s Legislative Resources Web page
(www.cacities.org/legresources). You’ll find a roster and contact information for the League’s
legislative staff; the online Bill Search program, background materials on lobbying your
legislators, and more.
_____________________________________________________________________________
IN THIS ISSUE: April 3, 2009
Issue #13-2009
Page 4: $9.2 Million in Grants to Combat Gang Violence
Page 5: Institute for Local Government’s Ethics Program Receives Award
Orange County Division Executive Director Lacy Kelly Recognized as Leader
Page 6: Job Opening? Western City Magazine Can Help You Find the Best Candidate
Find a Bill, Legislators, Leg Committee, or Ask League Leg Staff
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON ARRA
The League has been contacted by city officials with questions about funding available through
the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. Many of the questions address
similar issues and League staff has prepared answers for some of the most frequently asked
questions. For more, see Page 2.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
MAYORS AND COUNCIL MEMBERS EXECUTIVE FORUM AND ADVANCED
LEADERSHIP WORKSHOPS STIMULUS PACKAGE
Everyone’s looking to save a little money and stretch the dollar a bit further this year, so the
League is doing its best to help make that a possibility. For more, see Page 3.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
BECOME A FACEBOOK FAN OF THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES
There is a new way to connect with the League—Facebook. Launched on Friday, March 27, the
League’s Facebook page features updates on legislative developments, League activities as well
as organizational information. For more, see Page 4. 2
‘ARRA’ Continued from Page 1…
The City Funding Book can be found on the Federal Economic Stimulus update section of the
League’s Web site at www.cacities.org/federalstimulus.
FAQs
Who should my city contact with specific questions on a program included in the City
Funding Book?
Although the League will continue to update the City Funding Book as new information becomes
available, it is best for city officials to contact the federal or state agency with specific questions
once grant/program application guidelines are released.
Where do I find additional information on federal stimulus funding not found in the
League’s City Funding Book?
The City Funding Book contains general information on ARRA funds but specific grant and
program information can be obtained by directly contacting the agency or department issuing the
funds.
How do I know if my city’s project is eligible for ARRA funds?
Review the grant application to determine if your city’s project qualifies for ARRA funds. If the
information is not there, contact the agency or department directly.
What key Web sites should be monitored regularly for ARRA information?
www.recovery.gov
www.grants.gov
www.recovery.ca.gov
www.cacities.org/federalstimulus
My shovel ready project doesn’t exactly fit the ARRA grant guidelines, what is the next
step to try to get funding for my project?
The best course of action in this situation is to contact the agency or department issuing the funds
directly and find out if there are other programs or non-ARRA funds that may apply to the project.
Are projects funded through ARRA exempt from CEQA or NEPA?
No.
Can cities apply jointly for ARRA funds?
Each program is different so it is important to check the grant application guidelines for
information.
Can League staff tell me if my city’s project will qualify for ARRA funding?
League staff does not have the authority to determine whether specific projects qualify. Cities are
encouraged to contact the responsible regional, state, or federal agency directly. League staff has
indicated who the responsible agency is for each program in the City Funding Book.
Can the League assist my city in writing a grant application?
The League does not have grant writers on staff and does not maintain a list of grant writers.
Contact cities in your area for references for freelance grant writers or visit the League Partners
Web site http://www.cacities.org/leaguepartners for a list of Partners that offer grant writing
services.
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Will there be a second round of federal stimulus funding?
There are no current plans to issue a second stimulus package. However, the League will
continue to monitor federal actions and provide updates on additional funding.
Will there be additional funding for the new programs implemented in ARRA, for example
the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program?
It is likely that new programs in ARRA that prove to be successful will continue. The League is
monitoring programs impacting cities, and will lobby for additional funding as appropriate. For
example, the League is already lobbying for full funding ($10 billion) of the EECBG funding over
the next few years.
What are the reporting requirements for projects once funded?
The federal government is still working on reporting requirements. Federal agencies and
departments will release reporting guidelines as they are finalized for each program. City officials
should be prepared for the requirements to evolve over time, even after the initial guidelines are
announced.
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‘Forum’ Continued from Page 1…
Mayors and Council Members Executive Forum
Now you can get to the Mayors and Council Members Executive Forum a little cheaper by taking
advantage of the League’s special pricing for this conference:
• Reduced hotel rate from $215 to $199
• One-day registration of $250 for city officials/city staff
• Register three individuals and get the fourth registration FREE (applies to elected
officials/city staff only). For details on this offer, contact Kerri Lofte at klofte@cacities.org.
Advanced Leadership Workshops – Friday, May 29 – Saturday, May 30
• One-time special. The Friday night hotel cost is included with the Advanced Leadership
Workshop registration fee of $295. This is a $199 savings per workshop attendee and is
good for this location only, so don’t miss it.
The post-conference workshops are Friday afternoon through Saturday morning. Be sure to visit
www.cacities.org/events and register today for one of the following workshop topics:
• Redevelopment: Building Better Communities and Economic Development for Cities;
• A Toolbox of Meeting Management and Group Process Skills for Local Elected Officials –
Teambuilding; and
• City Finances – What You Need to Know.
Ten more good reasons why you will want to attend this conference:
1. Your tuition is tax deductible. Even the government smiles on professional education.
All expenses of Continuing Education (including registration fees, travel, meals and
lodging) taken to maintain and improve professional skills are tax deductible according to
Treasury Regulation 1.162-5 Coughlin vs. Commissioner, 203 F2d 307.
2. We give you only the most important information. There’s a lot of information out
there that could take years to gather on your own. We’ll give you valuable information to
help you be the best you can be.
3. Practicality is emphasized. You won’t go home empty-handed. You’ll leave this
conference with specifics you can apply immediately and guidelines for using the
information you’ve just learned.
4. The value is unbeatable. Not only is our enrollment fee a great value, when a fourth
person registers from the same organization, they’ll enjoy a 100 percent discount. 4
5. Learning, learning, and more learning. You will receive three days of education that
will help you build skills and a network that you can bring back to the office.
6. Networking opportunities abound. Sometimes the most valuable thing you'll learn will
happen while connecting with your colleagues.
7. Case studies and real life examples. Many of the sessions feature real life examples
that you can learn from immediately.
8. Time and money. Even one example learned could save you lots of money and time
down the road. A small investment now will have big pay-off later.
9. Easy access. San Diego is easily accessible from almost everywhere.
10. The Early Bird. Register by 10 April and you'll save $180.
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‘Facebook’ Continued from Page 1…
It’s easy to become a fan of the League on Facebook if you are a Facebook member. To find the
League’s page either search for “League of California Cities” in the search box in the upper right
corner of Facebook or click on http://www.facebook.com/pages/League-of-California-
Cities/76642059637 to go directly to the page. Under the League logo click on “Become a Fan.”
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$9.2 Million in Grants to Combat Gang Violence
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger last week announced the awarding of more than $9.2 million in
competitive grants to 17 cities and 13 community-based organizations to combat gang violence.
The Governor also announced the formation of the Safe Community Partnership, a public-private
partnership between the Governor’s Office of Gang and Youth Violence Policy and the California
Wellness Foundation, the California Endowment and Kaiser Permanente Northern California
Region: Community Benefits Program.
Five cities will also receive technical assistance from the Safe Community Partnership to
implement anti-violence strategies. The five cities are: Modesto, Oakland, Oxnard, Salinas and
Stockton. Gang members are warned under the strategy of possible prosecution of all gang
members for further violence and given information on alternatives to gang life.
In January, the Governor’s Labor and Workforce Development Agency released more than $5.4
million in grants for job training and education programs targeted towards youth at risk of joining
gangs or who want to leave a gang. Program funding comes from the Governor’s 15 percent
Discretionary Workforce Investment Act funds under the administrative authority of the
Employment Development Department.
2009 grant year awards have been made to the following cities:
• Hayward: $400,000
• Los Angeles: $962,000
• Madera: $400,000
• Modesto: $383,423
• Oakland: $400,000
• Oceanside: $400,000
• Oxnard: $399,690
• Richmond: $400,000
• Sacramento: $400,000
• Salinas: $357,021
• San Bernardino: $400,000
• Sanger: $398,763
• Santa Ana: $400,000
• Santa Barbara: $400,000
• Stockton: $400,000
• Union City: $314,103
• Watsonville: $400,000
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During the first year (2008) of this program, $9.2 million in grant funding was also issued to cities
and community-based organizations for gang prevention, intervention and enforcement.
For more information on these grants or the Governor’s public safety policies, please visit:
http://gov.ca.gov/.
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Institute for Local Government’s Ethics Program Receives Award
The American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) recognized on Monday, March 23 the
Institute for Local Government’s (Institute) work in public service ethics with ASPA’s Public
Integrity Award for 2009. The award acknowledges the Institute’s Public Service Ethics program
as having made outstanding contributions to responsible public service and was given in
conjunction with ASPA’s annual conference.
ASPA is a membership organization of public administration educators, scholars and
professionals that advances the art, science, teaching, and practice of public administration. Its
Public Integrity Award is awarded in collaboration with the International City/County Management
Association, the Council of State Governments, and the Council on Governmental Ethics Laws.
The Institute is the 501(c)(3) research affiliate of the California State Association of Counties and
the League of California Cities. To access the Institute’s resources on public service ethics,
please visit www.ca-ilg.org/trust.
The Institute offers wide-ranging resources for local officials on both public service ethics laws
and principles, including its bi-monthly “Everyday Ethics” analyses of ethical issues commonly
faced by public officials.
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Orange County Division Executive Director Lacy Kelly Recognized as Leader
OC Metro magazine honored Lacy Kelly, executive director of the League’s Orange County
Division, as one of the “20 Women to Watch” in its March issue. Kelly was interviewed about her
work philosophies and advice she has for women entering the workforce.
Kelly was nominated by Lucy Dunn, president and CEO of the Orange County Business Council
for her efforts in building strong relationships between cities, nonprofits and business. “Serving
our cities gives me an opportunity to work on important issues that affect the quality of life of our
residents,” said Kelly. “I am fortunate to work with people that offer so much knowledge and
experience and share my commitment to Orange County.”
Kelly, former deputy director at the National Forest Association, came to the League two years
ago this month. Her focus is advocating for Orange County cities regionally as well as at the state
and national levels.
“OC Metro’s recognition of Lacy as a woman to watch comes as no surprise to her colleagues at
the League, but it clearly reflects the stature of her service to the community. Orange County
cities are fortunate to have a person with such broad experience, ability and commitment as their
voice in Orange County, the state league and beyond,” said League Executive Director Chris
McKenzie. “We are extremely proud of her contributions.”
Read about Lacy Kelly in OC Metro online at http://www.ocmetro.com/t-
Covers15_20_Women_Kelly0309.aspx
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Job Opening? Western City Magazine Can Help You Find the Best Candidate
List your job opening in Western City magazine. When you advertise your job opportunity in
Western City, you also receive a Web site posting at no additional charge! Visit
www.westerncity.com or call (800) 262-1801 for more information.
In a hurry to get the word out? Place your ad on our Web site today by visiting:
www.westerncity.com/postjobs.
Interim Management Needs?
MuniLink is the League of California Cities' interim management employee directory.
Featuring searchable categories of interim resumes, MuniLink is still the best online tool to
connect with highly trained municipal veterans eager to meet your agency’s needs.
SEARCHING THE ONLINE DIRECTORY IS FREE for agencies looking for products and
services, and offers individuals and companies a fast and effective way of connecting with city
officials in California.
MuniLink is a joint project of the League, the Institute for Local Government and Western City
magazine. Proceeds from MuniLink benefit the League's research and advocacy efforts on
behalf of cities.
Visit Today! www.cacities.org/munilink
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Find a Bill, Legislators, Leg Committee, or Ask League Leg Staff
Visit (and bookmark!) the League’s Legislative Resources Web page
(www.cacities.org/legresources). You’ll find a roster and contact information for the League’s
legislative staff; the online Bill Search program, background materials on lobbying your
legislators, and more.
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