RPVCCA_SR_2010_09_07_19_League_of_California_Cities_Annual_ResolutionsCITY OF
MEMORANDUM
RANCHO PALOS VERDES
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
CAROLYNN PETRU,DEPUTY CITY MANAGER~
SEPTEMBER 7,2010
LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES ANNUAL
RESOLUTIONS
REVIEWED BY:CAROLYN LEHR,CITY MANAGER09--
Staff Coordinator:Sara Singer,Senior Administrative Analyst~
RECOMMENDATION
1)Authorize the City Council's Voting Delegate to support the adoption of League of
California Cities General Assembly Resolution Nos.1 (League Bylaws),2 (Let's Move
Campaign),4 (Responsible Banking),5 (Unfunded State Mandates)and 6 (Public Safety
While Driving a Motor Vehicle);and,2)Provide direction to the Voting Delegate regarding
Resolution No.3 (AB 32/SB 375).
BACKGROUND
The League of California Cities Annual Conference is being held September 15-17,2010
at the San Diego Convention Center.At the Annual Conference,the League will consider
six resolutions at the annual business meeting.Each City Council is encouraged to review
the resolutions and determine a City position so that the voting delegate from Rancho
Palos Verdes represents the City's position.Each resolution has been reviewed by staff to
determine any potential impact to the City.A brief description of the Resolution and staff's
recommendation has been provided below.
DISCUSSION
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.
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LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES ANNUAL RESOLUTIONS
September 7,2010
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Annual conference resolutions constitute an additional way to develop League policy.The
proposed resolutions are as follows:
1.Resolution Relating to League Bylaws Amendments
The League's Board of Directors authorized the President to appoint a Bylaws Review
Committee to review the provisions of League bylaws.Their review included an
assessment of policies relating to governing the nomination and election of League Board
members and officers with the goal of ensuring the most qualified and committed city
officials are selected,representing a broad diversity of backgrounds,experience,abilities,
geography and other factors,and that any barriers to their selection are removed.The
committee submitted its recommendations to the Board,which approved the report and
recommends the adoption of five amendments to the League bylaws.The five
amendments are summarized below.For additional detail on these changes,please see
Attachment A.Staff has reviewed the amendments to the bylaws and sees no adverse
impact on the City.Therefore,Staff recommends supporting the adoption of said
resolution by the General Assembly at its upcoming meeting.
•Amendment to Article VII,Section 1.Board of Directors:To encourage greater
diversity on the board of directors,the League board recommends adopting a clear
and unequivocal policy statement that the various subunits of the League should
encourage and support all members to pursue leadership within the League with the
ultimate goal of serving on the board of directors.
•Amendment to Article VII,Section 2.Composition of Board of Directors:The
Committee concluded that due to overwhelming interest in serving in the at-large
positions,additional opportunities to serve on the League board should be provided
by increasing the available at-large seats from 10 to 12.The Committee also
concluded that large city representation should be adjusted to reflect the existence
and political value provided through the coalition of the state's "Big Ten"Mayors,by
increasing big city mayoral representation on the board from 8 to 10.
•Amendment to Article VII,Section 5.Nomination Process:The Committee
concluded that a problem can arise when the President is unable to appoint another
board representative from a division if one or all of its representatives are
candidates for officer or at-large positions.This proposed change would allow the
League President to appoint a substitute nominating committee member from the
same regional division,if available.If one is not available,the President shall
appoint a substitute from a nearby regional division.
•Amendment to Article XIV,Section 1 (new section).Conflicts of Interest:The
Committee recommends including a general statement in the League bylaws that
Board members and policy committee members are expected to make decisions in
the best overall interests of cities statewide,as opposed to narrow parochial,
personal,or financial interests.
•Amendment to Article XIV,Section 4 (new section).Ethical Considerations:As
part of the guidance to avoid conflicts of interest by Board members and policy
committee members,language related to ethical considerations is recommended to
clarify that the items described under Article XIV as prohibited transactions
represent the floor and not the ceiling for standards of ethical conduct.The
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LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES ANNUAL RESOLUTIONS
September 7,2010
Page 3
additional guidance recommends abstention from decisions where personal conflict
may exist.
2.Resolution Relating to the National Let's Move Campaign
In February,First Lady Michelle Obama launched the Let's Move!Campaign to solve the
childhood obesity epidemic within a generation.First Lady Obama is expanding the effort
to include a call to action for mayors and other elected officials to join her Let's Move!
Campaign ("Let's Move Cities and Towns")in an effort to leverage cities and communities
unique ability to solve obesity locally and adopt long-term,sustainable,regional
approaches to childhood obesity.Staff has reviewed the resolution and sees no adverse
impact on the City.Current efforts to increase active recreational opportunities through
park improvements,hiking trails,and cycling trailsall support the mission of this campaign
to promote a more active lifestyle.Therefore.Staff recommends supporting the adoption
of said resolution by the General Assembly at its upcoming meeting.
3.Resolution Opposing the Board of Directors'Decision to Defer Action on AB 32
and SB 375 and to Adopt the Board-Appointed Task Force Recommendations
AB 32 was adopted in 2006 as the first law in the nation to limit Greenhouse Gas
Emissions (GHG).SB 375 was adopted in 2009 to achieve the greenhouse gas reduction
goals set out in AB 32 by requiring the preparation of multiple regional plans that reduce
emissions from vehicle use throughout the state.Specifically,California's 18 Metropolitan
Planning Organizations (MPOs)have been tasked with creating "Sustainable Community
Strategies"(SCS)for their respective regions.
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG)is the MPO forthe Southern
California region that includes RPV.SCAG is currently working on a "Sustainable
Community Strategy",as part of its regional transportation plan,which focuses on
achieving GHG reduction targets set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB)forthe
automobile and light truck sector by 2020 and 2035.City Staff has been participating in
local and regional workshops relating to the requirements of AB 32 and SB 375.In
addition,Staff has been attending local meetings with SCAG and the South Bay Council of
Governments (SBCOG)while reviewing and recommending revisions to various draft
documents pertaining to the proposed "Sustainable Communities Strategy,"specifically
related to the City of RPV.
AB32 and SB375 also have implications for cities that are updating their General Plan.
Specifically,AB32/SB375 requires that a General Plan Update include Greenhouse Gas
(GHG)emission reduction goals,policies to achieve GHG emission reduction targets,
policies for adaption to climate change,and a commitment to adopt a climate action plan.
Although there is a November ballot measure that,if adopted,would delay implementation
of AB32/SB375 until the State's economy improves,the State Attorney General has filed
suit against some cities/county that have moved forward with General Plan Updates
without addressing AB32/SB375 (Stockton,Pleasanton,San Bernardino).To avoid
potential litigation,Staff's work plan is for the "Draft"updated General Plan to address
GHG goals and policies to ensure compliance with AB32/SB375.
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LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES ANNUAL RESOLUTIONS
September 7,2010
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Earlier this year,the League of California Cities (LCC)appointed a Task Force to craft a
recommendation regarding AB 32/SB 375 based upon recommendations of 4 different
policy committees.The Task Force recommended that the LCC Board of Directors request
specific actions by the Governor and the CARB to delay certain deadlines to implement AB
32/SB 375.However,the Board of Directors rejected the Task Force's recommendation by
deferring action on AB 32 and SB 375.In response,the Desert/Mountain Division of the
LCC is proposing to file an official protest of the recent Board of Directors decision,citing
that the Board's decision does not reflect/represent the position of the majority of the
member cities.The Desert/Mountain Division has prepared a resolution (attached)citing
concerns with the current economy,the need to deliver vital public services as a priority,
the unknown viability of businesses that are critical to the State's economic recovery and
the lack of resources to implement existing AB32/SB375 mandates and is requesting that
the General Assembly of the LLC adopt the recommendations by the LLC Task Force,
thereby representing the position of a majority of the League's member cities.Therefore,
Staff recommends that the City Council review the attached resolution prepared by the
Desert/Mountain Division and if deemed appropriate,support adoption of said resolution by
the General Assembly at its upcoming meeting.
4.Resolution Relating to Responsible Banking
The proposed Resolution No.4 encourages:
~"....municipalities to require transparent,responsible banking from the financial
institutions receiving city funds;"and
~"....that the League of California Cities serve as a clearinghouse of information on
the responsible banking initiatives of municipalities across the country,such as
those of Philadelphia,Cleveland,Los Angeles and Carson,California;in order to
help California cities interested in taking steps to increase transparent,responsible
banking in their own communities."
The recitals of the proposed resolution state:
"WHEREAS,on March 5,2010,the Los Angeles City Council unanimously passed a
Responsible Banking Initiative that requires financial institutions with which the City
contracts to provide an annual "report card"detailing investment and lending activity
within Los Angeles,to allow the City to reward institutions that re-invest in Los
Angeles by adding extra points to these institutions'applications during the City's
RFP process for financial service providers;and
WHEREAS,many municipalities could benefit from increased transparency about
which ofthe financial institutions their city taxpayer dollars are invested in are in turn
re-investing in their city's homes,businesses,and non-profits,which will allow cities
to hold banks to a higher standard of reinvestment by offering increased city
business to those that are generating higher levels of investment,lending,and
community service activity within their city;"
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LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES ANNUAL RESOLUTIONS
September 7,2010
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Staff respects the intent and purpose of evaluating financial institutions re-investment in the
community.
Additionally,in light of the current legislative and regulatory environment surrounding the
country's financial institutions,Staff observes that the likely intent of the resolution is to
promote wider adoption of the principles of the Community Reinvestment Act (originally
enacted by the Congress in the late 1970s)that encourage elimination of "redlining"and
other discriminatory lending practices.The recent passage of the Dodd-Frank Act will
require extensive formulation of new regulation for the nation's banks and lending
institutions.Undoubtedly,the principles of CRA will be incorporated into much of that
regulation.For that reason alone,the City may wish to join in this measure.
Staff believes that the measurable commitment of banking institutions to sound,community
based lending is an appropriate measure for consideration in the selection of depositories
for City funds.However,due to the pending wholesale changes in banking regulation,and
the amount of staff time required to establish and measure objective measurement criteria
for these activities,any application of these principles by the City prior to the completion of
the regulatory process is premature.
Staff recommends supporting the principles of this resolution,as well as the adoption by
the General Assembly.as written.
5.Resolution Relating to Unfunded State Mandates
For over forty years,local governments,including cities,counties and special districts,have
struggled with mandates placed upon them by the State of California.Over the past two
decades,the California Legislature has made a practice of borrowing,transferring,shifting,
or otherwise conveying from local governments to the State of California,as part of the
state budget balancing process,what have historically been considered local revenues.
The failure of the State of California,for the most part,to repay these funds to local
governments has led to ballot measures restricting the ability of the state to use local
revenues to balance its continual budget deficit. State regulatory agencies also continue to
impose requirements upon local governments,which may result in the need to increase
local fees or taxes.Failure to implement the regulatory requirements may result in the
imposition of substantial financial penalties,which must be paid for by the local
government and ultimately the taxpayers in the jurisdiction.This resolution supports the
suspension or elimination of certain state and federal mandates until improvement of the
national and state economy.Staff has reviewed the resolution and sees no adverse
impact on the City.Therefore.Staff recommends supporting the adoption of said
resolution by the General Assembly at its upcoming meeting.
6.Resolution Related to Enhancing Public Safety While Driving a Motor Vehicle
In September 2008,Governor Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 28 (SB 28)in law,which
prohibits any person from driving a motor vehicle while using an electronic wireless
communications device to write,send,or read a text-based communications.SB 28
complements an existing law signed by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2006 requiring
motorist to use hands-free devices while talking on a mobile phone when driving a motor
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LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES ANNUAL RESOLUTIONS
September 7,2010
Page 6
vehicle.This resolution encourages cities to promote safe driving across California and the
education of the general public about the dangers of texting while driving.Staff has
reviewed the resolution and sees no adverse impact on the City.Therefore,Staff
recommends supporting the adoption of said resolution by the General Assembly at its
upcoming meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
League of California Cities Proposed Resolutions
19-6
v.
2010 ANNUAL CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION REFERRED TO ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES POLICY COMMITTEE
1.RESOLUTION RELATING TO LEAGUE BYLAWS AMENDMENTS
(2/3 vote at General Assembly required to approve)
Source:League Board of Director
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 convened a Bylaws Review Committee to make
recommendations regarding various necessary amendments to ensure that the most qualified and committed
city officials are selected to serve on the League's Board,policy committees and other leadership positions,
representing a broad diversity of backgrounds,experience,abilities,geography and other factors,and that
any barriers to their selection are removed;and
WHEREAS,the Board of Directors approved the Bylaws Review Committee's recommendations
that identified amendments to the bylaws that:a)encourage all segments of League membership to pursue
leadership positions within the League to advance the goal that the League Board of Directors reflects the
diverse ethnic and social fabric of California;b)clarify the League Board's nomination procedures and
expand Board membership by four positions;and c)provide guidance to avoid conflicts of interest for Board
and policy committee members with the expectation that decisions should be in the best overall interests of
cities statewide;and
WHEREAS,the League's Board offers amendments and additions to the following sections of the
bylaws for the membership's consideration:
1.Article VII,Section 1;new subsection 1(b):Board Diversity Policy,Board of Directors
2.Article VII,Section 2 (c),(f):Composition,Board of Directors
3.Article VII,Section 5 (d):Nomination Process,Board of Directors
4.Article XIV,Section 1,new section:Conflicts ofInterest
5.Article XIV,Section 4,new section:Ethical Considerations;
now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED,by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities assembled during the
Annual Conference in San Diego,September 17,2010,that the League make the specified changes to the
League bylaws by amending the above-referenced sections as indicated on Attachment A.
[Please see ATTACHMENT A,following background information,for text of proposed bylaws
amendments.]
//1///////
6
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Background Information on Resolution No.1
Source:League Board of Directors
Title:Resolution Relating to League Bylaws Amendments
Background:
At its February,2010 Board meeting the League Board authorized the President to appoint a Bylaws Review
Committee,consisting of a cross-section of current Board members,to review the provisions of League
bylaws.This included policies related to governing the nomination and election of League Board members
and officers with the goal of ensuring the most qualified and committed city officials are selected,
representing a broad diversity of backgrounds,experience,abilities,geography and other factors,and that
any barriers to their selection are removed.The Committee,chaired by First Vice President Jim Ridenour,
completed its work in four face-to-face meetings (April 2,April 29,June 17 and July 9)and submitted its
recommendations to the board.The Board approved the Committee's report and recommends the adoption of
the following five amendments to the League bylaws:
•Amendment to Article VII,Section 1.Board of Directors.The Committee reviewed a variety of
recommendations from previous task forces to encourage greater diversity on the board of directors.
It concluded that the best way to encourage greater diversity on the board of directors is to adopt a
clear and unequivocal policy statement that the various subunits of the League should encourage and
support all members to pursue leadership within the League with the ultimate goal of serving on the
board of directors. The League board recommends this proposal for approval.
•Amendment to Article VII.Section 2.Composition of Board of Directors.The Committee
examined the current composition of the board of directors and is proposing to expand the board by
two at-large positions and two large city positions to meet particular needs.Currently,the bylaws
provide for approximately 50 directors,including 16 from regional divisions,11 from functional
departments of the League (e.g.,city attorneys,city managers,etc.),10 at-large directors,the mayors
of the 8 largest cities (ranging from Los Angeles with 4,065,585 population to Oakland with 425,068
population,and the directors on the National League of Cities Board of Directors that are from
California (approximately 2 -4 members).All must be from dues paying cities.
The Committee concluded that due to the overwhelming interest in the at-large positions (4 -5 times
the applications as available seats each year)additional opportunities to serve on the League board
should be provided by increasing the available at-large seats from 10 to 12.The Committee also
concluded that large city representation should be adjusted to reflect the existence and political value
provided through the coalition of the state's "Big Ten"Mayors,by increasing big city mayoral
representation on the board from 8 to 10.The current make-up of the Board allows for only the
mayors of the eight largest cities.This excludes two important cities that participate regularly in the
coalition of the ten (10)largest cities in the state--Santa Ana (355,662)and Anaheim (348,467)--with
which the League works closely.The League board recommends this proposal for approval.
•Amendment to Article VII,Section 5.Nomination Process.The Committee examined problems
associated with the current process for the President selecting division representatives to serve on the
Board Nominating Committee.Each year the President selects representatives from half (8)of the
regional divisions,but the bylaws exclude those board members who are candidates for an officer or
at-large position from serving.The Committee concluded that a problem can arise when the
President is unable to appoint another board representative from a division if one or all of its
representatives are candidates for officer or at-large positions.The proposed change would allow the
League President to appoint a substitute nominating committee member from the same regional
division,if available.If one is not available,the President shall appoint a substitute from a nearby
regional division.The League board recommends this proposal for approval.
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•Amendment to Article XIV,Section 1 (new section).Conflicts oflnterest.The Board of Directors
recently adopted a policy designed to reduce potential conflicts of interest by Board members and
policy committee members involved in the adoption of League policy and asked the Committee to
consider whether it should be proposed to be added to the League bylaws.The Committee
recommends that this step be taken.The proposed new language is a general statement that Board
members and policy committee members are expected to make decisions in the best overall interests
of cities statewide,as opposed to narrow parochial,personal,or financial interests.The League board
recommends this proposal for approval.
•Amendment to Article XIV,Section 4 (new section).Ethical Considerations.As part of the
guidance to avoid conflicts of interest by Board members and policy committee members,language
related to ethical considerations is recommended to clarify that the items described under Article
XIV as prohibited transactions represent the floor and not the ceiling for standards of ethical conduct.
The additional guidance recommends abstention from decisions where personal conflict may exist.
The League board recommends this proposal for approval.
[NOTE:Please see ATTACHMENT A (page 9)for text of proposed bylaws amendments,]
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Article VII:Board of Directors
Section 1:Role and Powers;Board Diversity Policv
C!!l.Subject to the provisions and limitations of the California Nonprofit Corporation Law,
any other applicable laws,and the provisions of these bylaws,the League's activities and
affairs are exercised by or under the direction of the League's control and direction of the
League.The League Board may delegate the management of the League's affairs to any
person or group,including a committee,provided the League Board retains ultimate
responsibility for the actions of such person or group.
(b)The goal oUhe League is to ensure that the Board ofDirectors reflects the diverse
ethnic and social fabric of California.As such.each Division.Department.Caucus.
andPolicv Committee should encourage and support members ofevery race.ethnicity.
gender.age.sexual orientation and heritage to seek leadership positions within the
League.with the ultimate goal ofachieving membership on the Board ofDirectors.
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;
(b)The Immediate Past President who serves for a term of one year,immediately succeeding
his or her term as President;
(c)~::feft Directors-at-Large,
(i)Who serve staggered two-year terms,and
(ii)At least one of whom is a representative ofa 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)Members of the National League of Cities Board of Directors who hold an office in a
Member City;and
(f)mgftt:Ten Directors that may be designated by the mayors of each of the eiglH.!!m largest
cities in California to serve two-year terms.
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(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.Ifno successor agency or unit is named,the most current
population used to determine these dues shall be used to determine future dues until such
time as these bylaws are amended to designate a new source for determining city
population.
(h)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.
Article VII:Board of Directors
Section 5:Nomination Process.
(d)Candidates for Positions Ineligible.Candidates for officer and at-large positions on the
League Board are not eligible to serve on the nominating committee.In the event a
regional division representative on the nominating committee wishes to be a candidate for
an officer or at-large position,the League President will appoint a substitute nominating
committee member from the same regional division.ifavailable.I(one is not available.
the President shall appoint a substitute from a nearbv regional division.
**********
Article XIV:Prohibited Transactions
Section 1:Conflicts o(Interest
General Principle.Members oUhe League board as well as members orLeague policy committees.
and members ofany standing or ad hoc committees and task forces consisting ofmembers ofthe
League board or League policy committees.are expected to make decisions in the best overall
interests orcities statewide.as opposed to narrow parochial.personal.or financial interests.This
is analogous to city officials being expected to make decisions in the best overall interests orthe
community as opposed to narrow private or self-interests.
Section 2.Loans.
Except as permitted by California Nonprofit Corporation Law,the League may not make any loan of
money or property to,or guarantee the obligation of,any director or officer.This prohibition does not
prohibit the League from advancing funds to a League director or officer for expenses reasonably
anticipated to be incurred in performance of their duties as an officer or director,so long as such
individual would be entitled to be reimbursed for such expenses under League Board policies absent
that advance.
Section 3:Self-Dealing and Common Directorship Transactions.
(a)Self-Dealing Transactions.A self-dealing transaction is a transaction to which the
League is a party and in which one or more of its directors has a material financial
interest.
10
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(b)Common Directorships."Common directorships"occur when the League enters into a
transaction with an organization in which one of the League directors also serves on the
organization's board.
(c)Pre-Transaction Approval.To approve a transaction involving either self-dealing or a
common directorship,the League Board shall determine,before the transaction,that,
(i)The League is entering into the transaction for its own benefit;
(ii)The transaction is fair and reasonable to the League at the time;and
(iii)After reasonable investigation,the League Board determines that it could not have
obtained a more advantageous arrangement with reasonable effort under the
circumstances.
Such determinations shall be made by the League Board in good faith,with knowledge of
the material facts concerning the transaction and the director's interest in the transaction,
without counting the vote of the interested director or directors.
(d)Post-Transaction Approval.When it is not reasonably practicable to obtain Board
approval before entering into such transactions,a Board committee may approve such
transaction in a manner consistent with the requirements in the preceding paragraph,
provided that,at its next meeting,the full Board determines in good faith that the League
Board committee's approval of the transaction was consistent with such requirements and
that it was not reasonably practical to obtain advance approval by the full Board,and
ratifies the transaction by a majority of the directors then in office without the vote of any
interested director.'
Section 4:Ethical Considerations.
These restrictions.ofcourse.represent the floor not the ceiling for ethical conduct as a League
board member or policv committee member.Ifa board member or policv committee member
believes that there are circumstances under which the League's members might reasonablv
question the board member's or policv committee member's abilitv to act solelv in the best
interests in the League and its member cities.the prudent course is to abstain.As an example.
typicallv.League board members have abstained from participating in decisions on legislation
that would affect organizations for which thev work.Another example is legislation that would
uniquelv benefit a board member's city.Policy committee members should also consider
abstaining in similar circumstances.
»»»»
1 See Cal.Corp.Code §7233 (specIfying under what circumstances a self-dealing transaction Is void or voIdable).
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RESOLUTION REFERRED TO COMMUNITY SERVICES POLICY COMMITTEE
2.RESOLUTION RELATING TO THE NATIONAL LET'S MOVE CAMPAIGN
Source:League Board of Directors
Referred to:Community Services Policy Committee
Recommendation to General Resolutions Committee:
WHEREAS,the League supports policies that focus on health and wellness,continuing
education,and healthier lifestyles in all communities;and
WHEREAS,many cities,counties,and schools have adopted policies,programs,and ordinances
that promote healthy lifestyles by making their communities walkable,promoting youth and senior
activities,eliminating the sale ofjunk:food in city,county,or school facilities,providing incentives for
stores that sell fresh produce to locate in depressed neighborhoods,and providing exercise opportunities
for their residents;and
WHEREAS,city officials believe there are important,long-term community benefits to be gained
by encouraging healthy lifestyles,including a decrease in the rate of childhood obesity and its negative
health-related impacts;and
WHEREAS,cities and other community partners can work together to understand the relationship
between obesity,land-use policies,redevelopment,and community planning;and
WHEREAS,cities and other community partners can work together to ensure that there are safe
places for their residents to be active such as in parks,ball fields,pools,gyms,and recreation centers;and
WHEREAS,access to healthy foods has a direct impact on the overall health of our community
and planning for fresh food,open space,sidewalks,and parks should be a priority;and
WHEREAS,the League has partnered with the Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL)Cities
Campaign to provide training and technical assistance to help city officials adopt policies that improve
their communities'physical activity and retail food environments;and
WHEREAS,the League wants to partner with and support the Let's Move!Campaign headed by
the First Lady of the United States,the President's Task Force on Childhood Obesity and the Secretary of
Health and Hwnan Services,in an effort to solve the challenge of childhood obesity within a generation;
now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED,by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities,assembled during the
Annual Conference in San Diego,September 17,2010,that the League encourages the existing 480
California cities to adopt preventative measures to fight obesity as set forth by the First Lady of the
United States of America in the Let's Move campaign;and,be it further
RESOLVED,that California cities be encouraged to sign-up with the United States Department
of Health and Human Services -Region IX office as a Let's Move!City;and,be it further
RESOLVED,that California cities are encouraged to:(1)help parents make healthy family
choices;(2)create healthy schools;(3)provide access to healthy and affordable foods;and (4)promote
physical activity.
IIIIIIIIII
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Background Information on Resolution No.2
Source:League Board of Directors
Title:Resolution Relating to the National Let's Move Campaign
Background:
According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services,Region 9:
In February,First Lady Michelle Obama launched the Let's Move!campaign to solve the childhood
obesity epidemic within a generation.First Lady Obama is expanding the effort to include a call to
action for mayors and other elected officials to join her Let's Move!Campaign ("Let's Move Cities and
Towns ")in an effort to leverage cities and communities unique ability to solve obesity locally and
adopt long-term,sustainable,regional approaches to fight childhood obesity.
On February 2,2010,President Barack Obama established the Task Force on Childhood Obesity,
which includes senior administration officials.The Task Force developed an interagency plan after
incorporating inputfrom more than 2,500 public comments in 90 days.The plan details a coordinated
strategy,identifies key benchmarks,and outlines an action plan to end the problem ofchildhood
obesity within a generation.
League adopts resolution in 2004:This resolution related to "encouraging healthier lifestyles for
children,adults,and seniors in cities throughout California."This resolution directed the League to
encourage cities to embrace policies that facilitate activities that promote healthier lifestyles,including
healthy diet and nutrition,and adopt city design and planning principles that enable citizens to undertake
exercise with the goal of achieving a more active and healthy community.
League adopts resolution in 2006:This resolution related to "encouraging health and wellness in cities."
This resolution directed that the League in cooperation with related League committees,departments,and
the CCS Partnership,work together to develop a clearinghouse of information that cities can use to
promote wellness policies and healthier cities.It also directed the League to develop a toolkit on the
League's Website for cities to visit in order to share,find and develop successful models of health and
wellness to use in their respective communities.It also established that health and wellness programs
become a topic of the Helen Putnam Awards Program beginning in 2007.
Previous Legislation:SCR 31 was introduced by Senator Alex Padilla in 2007,which established
Healthy Communities Awareness Month.This Senate Concurrent Resolution recognized the importance
of health and wellness in communities and declared the month of May as Healthy Communities
Awareness Month.This was a League sponsored resolution.
League Partners with the Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL)Cities Campaign:The HEAL Cities
Campaign provides training and technical assistance to help city officials adopt policies that improve their
communities'physical activity and retail food environments.The HEAL Cities Campaign,funded by
Kaiser Permanente and the Vitamin Cases Consumer Settlement Fund,is a partnership of the League of
California Cities,the California Center for Public Health Advocacy,and the Cities Counties and Schools
Partnership.At its core the HEAL Cities Campaign believes that supporting healthy choices is essential
to address the obesity epidemic among California's children and adults,which they purport currently
costs the state nearly $50 billion annually in healthcare and lost productivity.Forty cities have adopted
resolutions and adopted specific action steps and a timeline in one of the several key campaign areas (e.g.,
language in general plan,zoning ordinances governing street design or community gardens,joint use of
recreational facilities,and employee wellness).The HEAL campaign goals are:
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•To provide city officials information about the statewide obesity epidemic and demonstrate how the
community food environment,physical activity environment,children's out-of-school
environment(s),and soda consumption perpetuate the epidemics;and,
•To inform city officials about the role they can play locally to fight the obesity and inactivity
epidemics through policy adoption,and to recommend those policies that would improve the physical
activity and food environments of their cities and make their community healthier.
Existing League policy on Healthy Cities:The League encourages cities to embrace policies that
facilitate activities that promote healthier lifestyles,including healthy diet and nutrition,and to adopt city
design and planning principles that enable citizens to undertake exercise with the goal of achieving a
more active and healthy community.
Institute for Local Government (lLm On Healthy Neighborhoods:ILG heads the Healthy
Neighborhoods Project,which provides support and resources local officials can use to protect and
improve community health by integrating health considerations into their planning,land use and other
decisions.The resources the ILG Website offers are geared to strengthen the efforts oflocal officials,
staff,planning and development professionals,and community residents in creating healthier
communities.
According to the Healthy Neighborhoods Project,healthy neighborhoods provide:
(1)Places where walking and bicycling are safe and convenient and where residents of all ages and
abilities have the opportunity to be physically active;(2)Nutritious,fresh,culturally appropriate food-
grown locally whenever possible -is affordable and accessible,promoting health and boosting the local
economy;(3)A place where residents aren't exposed to environmental hazards or pollutants that
endanger their present or future health or well-being.ILG's Healthy Neighborhoods'Website provides
current,relevant resources to aid in adapting general policies and strategies to reverse the negative trends
related to physical inactivity,unhealthy eating,and environmental hazards.
National League of Cities (NLC)Commends First Lady Michelle Obama for Including Cities and Towns
in Let's Move Campaign:In a press release dated June 11,2010,NLC commends First Lady Michelle
Obama for her newest initiative to combat childhood obesity,Let's Move Cities and Towns.The release
continued that "NLC looks forward to working with the First Lady in encouraging local leaders to be
proactive in their approach against childhood obesity."
Through its Institute for Youth,Education and Families,NLC works to combat childhood obesity by
raising awareness among municipal leaders and providing them with tools and resources to make changes
in their communities.Most recently,NLC and the Foundation for the Mid South,with support from
Leadership for Healthy Communities,a national program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation,
launched the Municipal Leadership for Healthy Southern Cities project.This initiative will help local
officials in Arkansas,Louisiana and Mississippi advance policies to promote healthy eating and active
living in order to reduce childhood obesity.NLC also recently collaborated with the American
Association of School Administrators on a report,Community Wellness:Comprehensive City-School
Strategies to Reduce Childhood Obesity.For more information on this NLC initiative visit
www.nlc.org/iyef.
»»»»»
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RESOLUTION REFERRED TO ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY POLICY COMMITTEE
+3.RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS'DECISION TO DEFER
ACTION ON AB 32 AND SB 375 AND TO ADOPT THE BOARD-APPOINTED TASK
FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS
Source:DesertlMountain Division
Referred to:Environmental Quality Policy Committee;Housing,Community &Economic
Development Policy Committee;Revenue and Taxation Policy Committee;and Transportation,
Communication &Public Works Policy Committee
Recommendations to General Resolutions Committee:
+Environmental Quality Policy Committee:
+Housing,Community and Economic Development Policy Committee:
+Revenue and Taxation Policy Committee:
+Transportation,Communication &Public Works Policy Committee:
WHEREAS,the DesertlMountain Division of the League of California Cities has broad concerns
about the economy;and
WHEREAS,these concerns extend both to the ability of cities to deliver vital public services and
the viability of businesses which are critical to the State's economic recovery;and
WHEREAS,the DesertlMountain Division of the League of California Cities is concerned that
cities lack the resources to implement existing State mandates imposed at either the regional or local
level;and
WHEREAS,the League of California Cities Board of Directors appointed a Task Force to craft
a recommendation regarding AB 32 and SB 375,based upon the recommendations developed by four
policy committees;and
WHEREAS,the Task Force recommended that the League of California Cities Board of
Directors request specific actions by Governor Schwarzenegger and the California Air Resources Board
to delay certain deadlines and take other actions with respect to AB 32 and SB 375;and
WHEREAS,the League of California Cities Board of Directors rejected the specific
recommendations of the Task Force and four policy committees by deferring action on AB 32 and
SB 375;and
WHEREAS,the Desert/Mountain Division of the League of California Cities wishes to file an
official protest of the Board of Directors ,decision to defer action on a position regarding AB 32 and
SB 375;now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED,by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities,assembled during the
Annual Conference in San Diego,September 17,2010,that the League of California Cities fmds,
determines and orders the adoption of the consolidated recommendations of four policy committees and
the Board appointed Task Force,as follows:
1.Request that the Governor exercise his authority to delay individual AB 32 implementation
deadlines.
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2.Request that the California Air Resources Board take the following three actions:
•Revisit and update economic and growth assumptions used to estimate 2020
business-as-usual emissions and recalculate AB 32 goal;
•Consider local government costs in all future studies relating to AB 32 and SB 375;and
•Request that the SB 375 targets be set in a way to reflect the economy and scarce
local resources.
3.Support (but not sponsor)any legislation that would suspend or delay implementation of
SB 375 until there is funding and resources in place to implement individual mandates and
requirements associated with the bill;and,be it further,
RESOLVED,that the specific recommendations developed by the four policy committees and
Task Force be considered by the General Assembly at the Annual Conference unless the Board of
Directors reverses its deferred action stance on AB 32 and SB 375 and adopts the Task Force
recommendations.
1111111111
Background Information on Resolution No.3
Source:DesertlMountain Division
Title:Resolution Opposing the Board of Directors Decision to Defer Action on AB 32 and
SB 375 and to Adopt the Board-Appointed Task Force Recommendations
Background:
The DesertlMountain Division adopted a Resolution formally opposing the Board of Directors decision to
defer action on the Task Force's recommendations regarding AB 32 and SB 375.We took this action out
of concern of the impact these regulations will have on our economy and our ability to serve our
constituents,and do not want to be complicit by remaining silent on this issue.
The recommended revisions to the League's current positions on AB 32 and SB 375 were crafted by a
Board-appointed Task Force after study of the issue by four League policy committees.The changes
recommended specific actions by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and the California Air Resources
Board to delay certain deadlines and take other actions with respect to AB 32 and to suspend or delay the
implementation of SB 375 until state funding is provided for the implementation of its mandates.
The DesertlMountain Division believes that the Board's decision to defer action on the specific
recommendations developed by the four policy committees and Board-appointed Task Force does not
represent the majority of the member cities.This Resolution is being presented for consideration by the
General Assembly at the Annual Conference to allow the entire membership to weigh in on the decision
of whether or not to adopt the Task Force recommendations regarding AB 32 and SB 375.
»»»»»
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RESOLUTION REFERRED TO HOUSING,COMMUNITY &ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
POLICY COMMITTEE
+3.RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS DECISION TO DEFER
ACTION ON AD 32 AND SB 375 AND TO ADOPT THE BOARD-APPOINTED TASK
FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS
Resolution #3 also referred to these policy committees:Environmental Quality;Revenue and
Taxation;and Transportation,Communication &Public Works.Please see Environmental
QUality Policy Committee section for the resolution and background information.
1111111111
+4.RESOLUTION RELATING TO RESPONSIBLE BANKING
Source:Richard Alarcon,Council Member,Los Angeles and
Karen Avilla,City Treasurer,Carson
Referred to:Housing,Community &Economic Development Policy Committee;and
Revenue and Taxation Policy Committee
ReCOmmendation to General Resolutions Committee:
+Housing,Community and Economic Development Policy Committee:
+Revenue and Taxation Policy Committee:
WHEREAS,cities strive to spend taxpayer dollars wisely on services;and
WHEREAS,cities invest taxpayer dollars with a range of institutions that provide financial
service contracts each year;and
WHEREAS,it is important to ensure that taxpayer dollars are invested in institutions that are not
just fiscally sound,but are committed to investing back into our communities,generating positive
investment and lending in our cities;and
WHEREAS,cities can help support the nation's economic recovery by supporting financial
institutions that in tum re-invest in our local communities;and
WHEREAS,the national Community Reinvestment Act,passed by the U.S.Congress in 1977,
pioneered the use of transparent,responsible banking,by starting a federal rating system to measure
banks'local lending and investment activity in the communities they take deposits from,providing
accountability to the communities that institutions serve;and
WHEREAS,three decades have passed since the original passage of the Community
Reinvestment Act (CRA),and due in part to the dramatic changes in the U.S.banking system since this
time,CRA does not provide the level of detail needed for local municipalities to determine our financial
partners' lending activity and investment within a single city alone;and
WHEREAS,on March 20,2002,the City of Philadelphia signed into law a requirement that all
banks authorized to receive deposits from the City submit an annual statement of community reinvestment
goals within Philadelphia,including but not limited to a summary of the home loans,small business loans,
and other lending and investment activity within Philadelphia,which independent studies
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have confumed has resulted in increased access to credit among Philadelphia's minority and low-and
moderate-income communities;and
WHEREAS,the City of Cleveland enacted into law a similar Community Reinvestment
Depository Ordinance in 1991,and since that time has negotiated over $10 billion in lending
commitments and investments through designated Community Reinvestment Initiative agreements with
designated depository banks,with an independent study by the Brookings Institution confirming that
compared to comparable midwestern cities Cleveland's CRA Ordinance has resulted in "more bang for
the community development buck;"and
WHEREAS,on March 5,2010,the Los Angeles City Council unanimously passed a Responsible
Banking Initiative that requires fmancial institutions with which the City contracts to provide an annual
"report card"detailing investment and lending activity within Los Angeles,to allow the City to reward
institutions that re-invest in Los Angeles by adding extra points to these institutions'applications during
the City's RFP process for financial service providers;and
WHEREAS,many municipalities could benefit from increased transparency about which of the
financial institutions their city taxpayer dollars are invested in are in tum re-investing in their city's
homes,businesses,and non-profits,which will allow cities to hold banks to a higher standard ofre-
investment by offering increased city business to those that are generating higher levels of investment,
lending,and community service activity within their city;now,therefore,be it
RESOLYED,by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities,assembled during the
Annual Conference in San Diego,September 17,20 I 0,that the League of California Cities strongly
encourages municipalities to require transparent,responsible banking from the financial institutions
receiving city funds;and,be it further
RESOLYED,that the League of California Cities serve as a clearinghouse of information on the
responsible banking initiatives of municipalities across the country,such as those of Philadelphia,
Cleveland,Los Angeles and Carson,California;in order to help California cities interested in taking steps
to increase transparent,responsible banking in their own communities.
IIIIIIIIII
Background Information on Resolution No.4
Source:Richard Alarc6n,Council Member,Los Angeles and Karen Avilla,City Treasurer,Carson
Title:Resolution Relating to Responsible Banking
Background:
As a Councilmember from the City of Los Angeles and a Treasurer from the City of Carson,we know
that stewards of public funds must strive to ensure that taxpayer dollars are invested in businesses and
institutions that are not just fiscally sound,but committed to investing back into our communities.
On Friday,March 5,2010,the Los Angeles City Council unanimously passed a Responsible Banking
Initiative that Councilmember Alarc6n introduced last year,which will require financial institutions with
which the City of Los Angeles does business to provide an annual "report card"detailing the institution's
investment and lending activity within the City.
The purpose of the report card is to determine which institutions the City does business with are in tum
reinvesting in the City,by extending credit to residents and businesses,and investing capital in
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communities and development projects.The report card will allow policy makers to reward institutions
with above average rates of impact in the City,while decreasing business with those institutions that do
not recycle dollars back into the local economy.
This effort could be likened to a local version of the federal Community Reinvestment Act,by allowing
local policymakers to review the community reinvestment activity of the financial institutions with which
the City invests.It builds on the work of existing law in the cities of Philadelphia and Cleveland.Both the
City of Philadelphia,in 2002,and the City of Cleveland,in 1991,passed laws requiring annual statements
of community reinvestment goals from the institutions that manage their City deposits.
The City of Cleveland reports that,from 1991 through 2008,Cleveland has negotiated over 10 billion
dollars in lending commitments and investments with designated depository banks as a result of their
responsible banking law.In a 2003 report,the independent Brookings Institution compared three
Midwestern cities and praised the City of Cleveland for achieving "more bang for their community
development buck"through the use of their Community Reinvestment and other innovative City laws.
We owe it to the current and future residents of our Cities to ensure that taxpayer dollars are invested in
responsible banking institutions that are creating opportunities for investment and lending in our
communities.That's why we urge the League of California Cities to encourage municipalities to require
transparent,responsible banking from financial service providers.With the strength of our collective
wallets combined,Cities will be sending a powerful message to banks:invest in us,and we will invest
in you.
»»»»»
RESOLUTIONS REFERRED TO REVENUE AND TAXATION POLICY COMMITTEE
+3.RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS DECISION TO DEFER
ACTION ON AB 32 AND SB 375 AND TO ADOPT THE BOARD-APPOINTED TASK
FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS
Resolution #3 also referred to these policy committees:Environmental Quality;Housing,
Community &Economic Development;and Transportation,Communication &Public Works.
Please see Environmental Quality Policy Committee section for the resolution and background
information.
//////1///
+4.RESOLUTION RELATING TO RESPONSIBLE BANKING
Resolution #4 also referred to the Housing,Community &Economic Development Policy
Committee.Please see the Housing,Community &Economic Development Policy
Committee section for the resolution and background information.
/11///////
-Continued,Revenue and Taxation Resolutions -
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5.RESOLUTION RELATING TO UNFUNDED STATE MANDATES
Source:City of Santa Clarita
Referred to:Revenue and Taxation Policy Committee
Recommendation to General Resolutions Committee:
WHEREAS,unfunded mandates imposed upon local governments,including cities,counties and
special districts,by the State of California place a tremendous financial burden upon local governments;and
WHEREAS,some of the mandates placed upon local governments are the result of actions by
Boards and Commissions not directly accountable to the electorate;and
WHEREAS,the State of California and many local governments within the state are under
financial duress due to the continuing national economic crisis,and
WHEREAS,approximately twelve percent of Californians,are currently unemployed and
struggling to pay for basic life necessities,well above the national average;and
WHEREAS,mandates enacted by the State of California may result in the need for local agencies
to increase fees or taxes to satisfy the requirements of the mandate;and
WHEREAS,as citied in a 2005 report on state mandates published by the League of California
Cities,the original intent of Property Tax Relief Act of 1972,which established the concept of state
reimbursement of local agencies for state mandated activities,was to limit the ability of local agencies to
levy taxes;and
WHEREAS,in 1979 the voters of the State of California approved Proposition 4 adding Article
XIII B to the California Constitution,requiring the state to provide a subvention of funds to local
governments for costs associated with state mandated programs,under specified conditions,and through
subsequent legislation creating the Commission on state mandates;and
WHEREAS,in 2004,the voters of the State of Califomi a adopted Proposition lA expanding the
constitutional protections for local governments regarding state mandates;and
WHEREAS,the State of California has struggled to balance its budget for the past several years
and has chosen to borrow funds from local governments,thus reducing traditional revenues to local
governments,forcing additional local program and service reductions and cutbacks;and
WHEREAS,various federal and state laws and regulations may result in the imposition of state
mandates on local governments;and
WHEREAS,an example of state imposed mandates are the establishment of Total Maximum
Daily Loads (TMDL)for such things as bacteria,chloride,metals,and toxicity,and
WHEREAS,in order to meet the obligations imposed by Regional Water Quality Control Boards
throughout California,local agencies may need to implement or increase fees and taxes to pay for new
programs or facilities,in order to avoid penalties for non-compliance;and
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WHEREAS,there appears to be no correlation between the imposition of state mandates,taxpayer
funded resources to pay for the costs of state mandates,California's high unemployment rate,and the fiscal
conditions of the State of California and local governments;now,therefore be it
RESOLYED,by the General Assembly ofthe League of California Cities,assembled during the
Annual Conference in San Diego,September 17,2010,that:
1.The League of California Cities work with its member cities and other local government partners
to identify situations in which local governments must increase fees or taxes to meet state
mandated requirements;and
2.The League of California Cities petition the Governor of the State of California and Legislature of
the State of California to suspend or eliminate certain state mandates until improvement of the
national and California economy results in substantially lower statewide unemployment and flScal
solvency of the State of California and local governments;and
3.The League of California Cities work with Members of Congress and the government of the
United States to suspend or eliminate certain federal mandates,passed along to the states for
implementation,until the improvement of the national economy results in substantially lower
national unemployment and fiscal solvency of the United States,the State of California and local
governments;and
4.That the League of California Cities will support legislation to suspend,eliminate,or otherwise
modify the negative impacts of state mandates on local agencies,particularly in which a new local
tax or fee or tax or fee increase is necessary to implement the mandate.
/1////////
Background Information on Resolution No.5
Source:City of Santa Clarita
Title:Resolution Relating to State Unfunded Mandates
Background:
Reaching back at least forty years,local governments,including cities,counties and special districts,have
struggled with mandates placed upon them by the State of California.Under California law,whenever
the Legislature,Govemor,or a state agency enacts a new law,executive order,regulation,or rule that
requires a local government to implement a new program or provide a higher level of service to an
existing program,the state shall reimburse the local agency for the increased cost.
Over the past two decades,the California Legislature has made a practice of borrowing,transferring,
shifting,or otherwise conveying from local governments to the State of California,as part of the state
budget balancing process,what have historically been considered local revenues.The failure of the State
of California,for the most part,to repay these funds to local governments has led to ballot measures
restricting the ability of the state to use local revenues to balance its continual budget deficit.
Against this backdrop,state regulatory agencies continue to impose requirements upon local
governments,which may result in the need to increase local fees or taxes.Failure to implement the
regulatory requirements may result in the imposition of substantial fmancial penalties,which must be paid
for by the local government and ultimately,taxpayers or rate payers within the jurisdiction.
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At a time when California's unemployment rate is in excess of 12%,which is well above the national
unemployment rate,and California businesses are struggling to stay afloat in the worst national recession
since the great depression of the 1930s,the question ofregulatory relief must be considered.
For example,many communities throughout the State of California are facing establishment of Total
Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)requirements for such things as bacteria,chloride,metals,and toxicity.
While the environmental or other goals that are sought to be achieved are laudable,regulatory
requirements must be sensitive to the overlaying statewide and national economic climate and the ability
of local governments to pay for new programs and enhancements.In the Santa Clarita area,the Los
Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board,through imposition of a Chloride TMDL mandate and its
required implementation,is causing local sanitation district ratepayers to pay a 50%fee increase over four
years for increased operational and new facility expenses and committing to long term additional
increases.Failure to approve the increase will likely invite substantial fmes,totaling in the millions of
dollars collectively for the ratepayers.
In a time of economic uncertainty and high unemployment,is it appropriate to require California
taxpayers to pay for new regulatory requirements or is it reasonable to suspend or eliminate certain state
mandates until such time as unemployment levels return to more traditional levels and national,state and
local governments return to financial stability?
»»»»»
RESOLUTIONS REFERRED TO TRANSPORTATION,COMMUNICATION &
PUBLIC WORKS POLICY COMMITTEE
+3.RESOLUTION OPPOSING THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS DECISION TO DEFER
ACTION ON AB 32 AND SB 375 AND TO ADOPT THE BOARD-APPOINTED TASK
FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS
Resolution #3 also referred to these policy committees:Environmental Quality;Housing,
Community &Economic Development;and Revenue and Taxation.Please see Environmental
Quality Policy Committee section for the resolution and background information.
6.RESOLUTION RELATED TO ENHANCING PUBLIC SAFETY WffiLE DRIVING
A MOTOR VEffiCLE
Source:City of Elk Grove
Referred to:Transportation,Communication &Public Works Policy Committee
Recommendation to General Resolutions Committee:
WHEREAS,cities throughout the State of California hold the health and safety of their residents
as a paramount concern;and
WHEREAS,the use of text messages has grown exponentially in recent years;and
WHEREAS,any time a driver attempts to send an electronic text message while driving,his or
her attention is diverted from the road;and
WHEREAS,a recent Virginia Tech study showed sending electronic text messages while driving
makes an accident 23 times more likely;and
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WHEREAS,a study conducted by The Transport Research Laboratory in the United Kingdom
showed that sending text messages while driving is riskier than driving under the influence of alcohol or
drugs;and
WHEREAS,Senate Bill 28 and California Vehicle Code Section 23123.5 ban writing,sending,or
reading electronic text messages while operating a motor vehicle in the state of California;and
WHEREAS,the League supports this type of traffic safety enhancement as demonstrated through
their support of motorcycle helmets,child restraints,seat belt and speed limit laws;now,therefore,be it
RESOLVED,by the General Assembly of the League of California Cities,assembled during the
Annual Conference in San Diego,September 17,2010,that the League encourages cities to promote safe
driving across California and the education of the general public about the dangers of texting while driving.
//11111111
Background Information on Resolution No.6
Source:City of Elk Grove
Title:Resolution Relating to Enhancing Public Safety While Driving a Motor Vehicle
Background:
On September 24,2008,the Governor of California,Arnold Schwarzenegger,signed Senate Bill 28
("SB 28")into law.SB 28 is codified in section 23123.5 of the California Vehicle Code and prohibits
any person from driving a motor vehicle while using an electronic wireless communications device to
write,send,or read a text-based communication.SB 28 complements an existing law which Governor
Schwarzenegger signed in 2006 requiring motorists to use hands-free devices while talking on a mobile
phone when driving a motor vehicle.
Many studies recognize that the distraction that occurs while using electronic devices while operating a
motor vehicle is very dangerous:
•It is estimated that 28%of crashes -1.6 million crashes per year -can be attributed to cell
phone talking and texting while driving.(Source:National Safety Council)
•Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to
injure themselves.(Source:Insurance Institute for Highway Safety)
•Using a cell phone while driving delays a driver's reactions as much as having a blood alcohol
concentration at the legal limit of .08 percent.(Source:University of Utah)
Because the health and safety of the residents of Elk Grove is paramount to the members of the City
Council;on May 12,2010,the Elk Grove City Council unanimously adopted a resolution promoting
awareness of the dangers oftexting while driving.The City is embarking on an aggressive,yet
economical,public outreach campaign to educate its residents about the dangers oftexting while driving,
which includes:educational links on the City's Web site,a flyer in the city's utility billing insert which
reaches every household,free promotional items for residents specifically geared toward this topic,and a
spotlight feature in the City's bimonthly newsletter.
Other cities in California are encouraged to enhance public safety in their community by educating
residents about the dangers oftexting while driving a motor vehicle.Educational outreach will benefit
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drivers,passengers,by-standards,bicyclists,walkers and runners.Local governments have the ability to
implement cost-effective educational tools to communicate with residents about this important public
safety issue.
All local government officials and employees in California want to protect their families,themselves,and
others.Please put down your phone when you are driving or use a hands-free device and do not text.It's
safe and it's the law..
»»»»»
[NOTE:No resolutions were assigned to the following policy committees:Employee Relations and
Public Safety.]
##########
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