Most people understand the need for public engagement and support the idea, but often worry if they’re getting it right. Engaging communities in ongoing discussions and during the planning stages of a project or an initiative is vital to build relationships and create compromise. Gathering opinions and feedback allows the…
Municipal park and recreation departments and special districts in California seem always to be in dire need of funding. This is in large part due to the restrictions of Proposition 13, and often a by-product of the focus on public safety services. However, it is possible to tune up your…
In Spring 2019, the California Senate policy committees decided to put a pause on fee caps as proposed in Senate Bill (SB)13 and SB 4. These two bills would have capped fees on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and other types of housing. Development impact fees are calculated based on estimated…
Effective cost recovery policies and procedures must come from an initial understanding of the true costs of providing services. Many local government agencies are aware that indirect administrative costs can be quantified and recovered from various funds, grants, fees, and charges, but are unsure of the best method of assigning…