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AGENDA REPORT 2009 0318 CC REG ITEM 09B
rrEM CITY OF MOORPARK,cA x��Ear a City coup i Meet of_ _ _ �aw% 00. g A PION: AIA dL a 0'" ..,tv • 13Y: MOORPARK CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT TO: Honorable City Council FROM: John A. Brand, Senior Management Analyst DATE: March 11, 2009 (CC Meeting of 3/18/2009) SUBJECT: Consider 2009 Legislative Program BACKGROUND The City p Council adopts an annual Legislative Program outlining the City's position on key municipal issues. If a measure is consistent with the Legislative Program, the Mayor is authorized to send a letter indicating the City's position. If a measure is not addressed by the Legislative Program, or if a staff recommendation differs from the Legislative Program, then the Finance, Administration and Public Safety Committee will review the measure and recommend a osition to the City Council. The Finance, Administration and Public Safety p Y Committee annually reviews the Legislative Program prior to City Council consideration and including the recommendations discussed in the report. DISCUSSION On March 4, the Finance, Administration and Public Safety Committee (Mayor Parvin and Mayor Pro Tern Van Dam) met and discussed the City Legislative Program. Staff developed a number of suggestions for the Committee to consider, which in certain instances the Committee modified, changed or replaced as shown below in underlined italics. Additionally, the Committee proposed changes to the Legislative Platform that it wishes the Council to consider. The changes that the Committee developed in its discussion are shown below in bold italics. The Committee recommended that Council consider the following additions to the Legislative program: Category 1. Local Government Finance O. Low Tax Base Jurisdictions r .. Support efforts by state government to distribute revenue to --f-local overnment in a manner that does not create incentives for commerctal t 000019 Legislative Program HCC March 18, 2009 Page 2 "sprawl" retail development and/or disincentives for residential, industrial, open space or agricultural land uses. Category 3. Transportation F. Federal Transportation Equity Act Reauthorization Encourage the timely reauthorization of the Transportation Equity Act and its annual appropriations for the enhancement of surface transportation in the region, including local transit, commuter rail, highway proiects such as the SR 118 bypass, SR 23/US 101 interchange, and intermodal transportation center development such as the realignment of the Moorpark Metrolink Station entrance, and redevelopment of adjacent property. Category 4. Environment I. Public and Private Sustainability Support funding and other incentives for local government and private industry projects and planning strategies to improve sustainability in infrastructure and operations, greater energy efficiency, lower energy usage, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Category 6. General Government L. Parks and Open Space Support legislation that makes funds available to refurbish and improve parks, and acquire open space. Q. PEG Channels and Programming Support Support preserving public, education and government ("PEG'2 television channels, funding, and programming support as they have always been provided by video service providers. Oppose efforts to make PEG channels hard to find or navigate to such as on an obscure channel or accessible only via several Internet web page menus, of any lesser signal quality than basic channels, or requiring an additional fee or device for viewers to access. R. First Five — Neighborhood For Learnin Oppose efforts to redirect or reduce Proposition 10 funding from the local First 5 Commissions. , . Support the retention of local First 5 program funding from Proposition 10 to maintain current service levels and implement the goals of the local First 5 programs. 0 Legislative Program HCC March 18, 2009 Page 2 STAFF RECOMMENDATION 1) Adopt a 2009 Legislative Program. 2) Direct staff as deemed appropriate. Attachment 1: Draft 2009 Legislative Program Attachment 2: VCOG Legislative Program Attachment 3: VCTC Legislative Program Attachment 4: League of CA Cities - Federal Priorities For 2009 Attachment 5: National League of Cities —Agenda For The Nation 000021 Attachment 1 CITY OF MOORPARK 2009 LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM DRAFT March 18, 2009 The following Legislative Program was developed to allow the City to-respond to state and federal legislation in a proactive manner. The Mayor (or Mayor Pro Tem in the Mayor's absence) is authorized to sign correspondence expressing the Cjtv s pOStion on pending legislation consistent with the Legislative Program and/or other positions approved by the Cit y Council. The Finance, Administration and Public Safety committee will also periodically review legislation for recommendation to the pity council. p Y g Staff will monitor the League of California Cities' Priority Focus and Other sources to identify pending legislation that may impact the:: [ty. Letters.expressing the City's position Yp 9 g Y p will be drafted for the Mayor's signature, and `otpis will be distributed to each Councilmember. Pendin g legislation not addressed by:..the Legislative Program, or staff g recommendations that deviate from the Legislative Program,will be agendized for Finance, Administration and Public Safety Committee review and City council consideration. PLATFORM STATEMENTS 1. Local Government;Finance A. Su ort le' islation that limits cities'contributions to the Educational Revenue pp g Au Inerrtet on Fund ERAF) and directs the repayment of past contributions. g ( Pose B. C pp g le islation that eliminates or restricts the taxing authority of cities over p develo me,,.:weakens existing Government Code Section 66000 fee authority, nd redefines any development tax, condition, or other monetary charge as development fees. C. Su ort le islation requiring the state and federal governments to provide full p d q costeinbursement to cities for all mandated programs and for all programs resulting`in revenue losses. D. Support legislation that safeguards existing City revenue sources from preemption or seizure by the state or county. E. Oppose any change in revenue allocations that would negatively affect the City of Moorpark, including but not limited to the redistribution of sales tax, property tax, transient occupancy tax, and vehicle in-lieu fee. p Y Page 1 of 9 000022 Attachment 1 Legislative Program Platform Statements March 18, 2009 F. Oppose legislation that restricts or limits a city's ability to use tax-exempt pp le g debt for the purchase or construction of public purpose improvements. G. Support measures that provide greater fiscal independence to cities and result in greater stability and predictability in local government budgeting. H. Support efforts that provide greater accountability on the part of counties for the distribution of funds back to municipalities, including, but not limited to, fines and forfeitures. I. Oppose measure that makes local agencies more dependent on the pp any state for financial stability and policy direction, J. Su pp ort legislation that protects the ability of iogal government to recover the g costs of mandated rams through fees that'are not subjectto Prop programs g osition 218. K. Support the establishment of a constitutionally-protected funding structure for local government. L. Support legislation tha eloses the loophole that allows companies currently pp g doing business in California to)orete dot-com subsidiaries to avoid collection of sales taxes on Internet comrierce M. Support le islation that authorizes.a statewide ballot measure to restore the pp g requirement for a simple majority of voters in a city or county to approve an increase in taxes or issue general 'obligation bonds. N. Join with o'ther V entura County cities to encourage the Ventura County Treasurer-Tax Collector to shorten the time to collect property tax readjustments. on su ort efforts b state government to distribute revenue to local :.pp Y ►r�ernmen in a manner that does not create incentives for commercial "spt�awl" retail development and/or disincentives for residential, industrial, open space or agricultural land uses. 2. Labor Relations A. Oppose legislation that would restrict a city's ability to use its own employees on public works projects when such projects have previously been advertised for bid. J . I . . B. Oppose legislation that requires the use of city employees rather than Page 2 of 9 000023 Attachment 1 Legislative Program Platform Statements March 18, 2009 contracting out. C. Oppose any legislation that would grant employee benefits that should be decided at the local bargaining table. D. Oppose legislation that removes or reduces management rights, such as deciding staffing or service levels, either by direct action or increased liability. E. Support legislation that would reform the Workers' Compensation system to reduce employer cost through the reduction of system abuse. F. Support legislation that limits the ability of employee ao receive Workers' pp g Compensation benefits for occupational J njuries/illnesses that result from stress, disciplinary action, or performance evaluation consultations. G. Oppose legislation that expands or extends any presumptions of pp le g occupational injury or illness. H. Oppose measure that imposes compulsory and binding interest pp any arbitration. I. Oppose efforts that reduce local;dontrol over public employee disputes or impose regulations of an outside agency on such disputes. p g J. Oppose a narato Social Securit tax for public employers and public pp �/ Y employees: 3. Transportation A. C ose:le islation.that redirects local transportation funds away from cities. pp 9 B. Support le islation that would provide additional resources to cities to finance pp .:. local transportation systems, facilities, and improvements. C. Su ort le�;islation that provides greater flexibility for the use of local p .�g trans p:. rtation funds for both public transit and street maintenance and construction purposes. D. Support legislation that will help reduce non-local commercial vehicle traffic on SR-118 through the City. E. Oppose legislation that limits and/or decreases the existing amount of retention pp le g proceeds withheld from any payment by a public entity to the contractor on a Page 3 of 9 000A* Attachment 1 Legislative Program Platform Statements March 18, 2009 public project. F. Encourage the timely reauthorization of the Transportation Equity Act and its annual appropriations for the enhancement of surface transportation in the region, including local transit, commuter rail, highway projects such as the SR 118 bypass, SR 23 1US 101 interchange, and intermodal transportation center development such as the realignment of the Moorpark Metrolink Station entrance, and redevelopment of adjacent property. 4. Environment A. Support legislation that streamlines the state's environmental review process pp le g and maintains public participation. B. Support legislation that would eliminate unfinded mandates such as the pp le g water course pollution prevention programs. C. Support legislation that reduces or elirninatos local government's pp le g owner/operator Superfund liability. D. Support legislation to either.consolidate or streamline the federal and state pp g Clean Air Acts without red udipg..air quaff 11:y standards. E. Support air uali efforts that ern hasize use of advanced technologies and pp � tY � market:t ncentives,-iocluding use of alternative fuels and development of an infrastructure forIernative,fuel vehicles. F. su g ort le islation that reimburses cities for revenue losses stemming from °environmental deciiens made without city participation. G. ort le islation that provides money to local governments for energy pp g p conservat, programs. H. Support legislation that gives cities authority to meet their National Pollution Elimination Discharge System requirements on a more collective and regional basis. I. Support funding and other incentives for local government and private industry projects and planning strategies to improve sustainability.in ` • infrastructure and operations, greater energy efficiency, lower energy usage, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Page 4of9 000025 Attachment 1 Legislative Program Platform Statements March 18, 2009 5. Waste Management A. Support legislation that provides cities with financial assistance for programs designed to provide for the safe disposal of solid, hazardous, and special waste. B. Support legislation that strengthens cities' ability to direct municipal solid waste flow to designated solid waste facilities. C. Support legislation that streamlines AB 9 tracking' and reporting requirements. D. Support legislation that would make gran: rants available to local agencies for :: , pp le g programs that encourage the recycling�reclairning of resources. E. Support legislation that promotes source reduction measures without creating an unfunded mandate. F. Oppose legislation that.would restrict or limit local government's ability to franchise refuse and recycling collection services, to direct municipal solid waste flow (flow control;, or to contractually require haulers to guarantee achievement of AB 939 9 oals. G. Support legislation that promotes recycling and expands the market for pp le g recycled rnater-ials. . H. Support new resource recovery and conversion technologies, such as bio-diesel-frt�rn ergr�ic waste. I. Support legislation that implements the concept of extended manufacturer responsibi I ity for :electronic waste and other material types requiring 77 incentives, or recyling. 6. General Government A. Support legislation that ensures cities receive a proportionate share of property taxes upon withdrawal from a county library services district, or any other county service or district for which property taxes are received. B. Support legislation that provides financial assistance for local public libraries without the imposition of new taxes. C. Support legislation that limits libraries' contributions to the Educational • Revenue Augmentation Fund. Page 5of9 000026 Attachment 1 Legislative Program Platform Statements March 18, 2009 D. Oppose legislation that reduces funding for libraries including Public Library Funds. E. Support legislation that reinstates effective local regulation of the cable television industry and other deregulated utilities, including financial reimbursement for use of public right-of-ways. F. Oppose legislation that restricts or weakens a city's ability to regulate pp le g smoking areas, alcoholic beverage licenses, or .acult-€oriented business establishments. G. Support legislation limiting a city's liability ^associated with hazardous pp le g recreational activities, such as skateboarding and in-line skating. H. Oppose legislation that increases local government's expost, re`to litigation. pp le g I. Support legislation that provides maximum-local.flexibility in contracting for pp le g services. J. Oppose efforts to cut funding for Community Development Block Grant pp (CDBG) programs and:other community servtes and workforce assistance programs to serve love-inc6me: ,.*,anW lor other disadvantaged residents. K. Support legislation to give: no pp g ntitlement cities the same rights as . : entitlement cities in CDBG program administration. L. Su pp ort le 9 islation'that makes funds available to refurbish and improve parks, anal acquire o ►en space. M. 0 ort le islation that promotes low-cost or no-cost spay and neuter 9 g to rams. p g Su ort le` islatien that holds animal owners accountable for injuries or property damage caused by animals under their care or control. O. Evaluate the benefits of expanding the current boundaries of the Oxnard Harbor b* trict through collaborative legislation with other Ventura County cities and the County of Ventura. P. Oppose any legislation that reduces or restricts local authority to regulate public right-of-way. Q, Support reserving public, education and government .("PEG") PP P television channels, funding, and programming support as they have Page 6 of 9 000027 Attachment 1 Legislative Program Platform Statements March 18, 2009 always been provided by video service providers. Oppose efforts to make PEG channels hard to find or navigate to such as on an obscure channel or accessible only via several Internet web page menus, of any lesser signal quality than basic channels, or requiring an additional fee or device for viewers to access. R. Oppose efforts to redirect or reduce Proposition 10 funding from the local First 5 Commissions. Support the retention of local First 5 program funding from Proposition 10 to maintain current service levels and implement the goals of the local First 5 ms. 7. Public Safety A. Support legislation that would provide cities with a greater share of fines and pp le g forfeitures. B. Support legislation that would provide additional resources for commercial pp le g truck safety inspections and the enforcement of commercial truck vehicle codes. C. Oppose legislation that weakens enforcernt of and penalties for, pp g commercial truck violefions. D. Support legislation that would,p'rovide cities with contract law enforcement a pp g . . proportionate share of Proposition 172 sales tax revenues for public safety. E. Su art le islation that increases local law enforcement resources without pp g increavngtaxes. F. Su : art le is anon that would provide a greater share of seized assets to . p g cities. Su art le' islation that allows use of state and federal public safety grants pp _g . for maintenance efforts in addition to service increases. H. Su pp 9 ort le islation to expand Vehicle Code enforcement on privately owned and ma ntained parking lots. 8. Land Use Planning A. Support legislation that reforms annexation law by strengthening cities' authority over spheres of influence and ensures that fair property tax agreements can be obtained. B. Support legislation that provides for shared land use determinations between Page 7 of 9 000028 Attachment 1 Legislative Program Platform Statements March 18, 2009 counties and cities when the General Plan of the city establishes a planning area consistent with Government Code provisions. C. Support legislation that enhances local control and diminishes litigation surrounding adult entertainment facilities. D. Support legislation that strengthens local control to prepare, adopt, and implement fiscal plans for orderly growth, development., beautification, and conservation of local planning areas, including, but not limited to, regulatory authority over zoning, subdivisions, annexations, and redevelopment areas. E. Support efforts that are consistent with the doctrine of.....home rule" and the local exercise of police powers, through planning and zoning processes, over local land use. F. Oppose count development projects for ...undeveloped areas:-in the city's pp Y l area of interest that do not conform to city standards. G. Support legislation that allows local control over the establishment of medical pp le g marijuana establishments. H. Oppose legislation that iinllts city use of eminent domain. pp g 9. Housing A. Support le islatit�n that addresses occupancy levels and strengthens cities' pp g... ability to,reduce overcrowding inn residential housing. B. Su ort efforts t+ develop federal, state, and county participation, financial Sup support, and �dentives 'for programs that provide adequate, affordable pp housing:for the elderly, handicapped, and low-income persons throughout the community. C. ose Q islation that expands the state Department of Housing and pp leg tommuntTy Development's review role for local Housing Elements. D. Su pp oft Housin g Element reform legislation that provides greater local control and flexibility, simplifies the process, and improves its effectiveness. E. Support legislation that eliminates the current Regional Housing Needs Allocation process and defines an equitable process to determine a."fair share" of new housing needed to respond to growth trends in the region. Page 8 of 9 ooOO29 Attachment 1 Legislative Program Platform Statements March 18, 2009 F. Oppose legislation that expands the state exemption for second dwelling units in single family zones. G. Support legislation to ensure that property tax valuations for deed restricted dwelling units with reinforcing Deeds of Trust are based on the Affordable Sales Price, actually paid by the buyers, rather than ased on market value. 10. Redevelopment/Economic Development A. Oppose legislation that further weakens a city redevelopment agency's pp le g authority to use eminent domain. B. Oppose legislation that would prohibit or limit the establishment of new J redevelopment project areas and/or the expansion of existing project areas. p p C. Oppose legislation that reduces the amount©f gross tax increment allocable pp le g to redevelopment agencies. D. Support legislation that reforms reporting requirements for redevelopment pp le g agencies b simplifying,the process and elimthating reporting confusion. g Y 9 E. Oppose legislation that .::adds restrictions and procedural requirements regarding closed session discussions on land acquisition, use of eminent g g domain, and disposal of property. h he curren �authorit or financing F. Oppose measures that would dminis t y g capabilities of redevelopment agencies. G. S�qppQrt le islation that g ives cities resources to finance economic deve opment efforts, such as business attraction, retention, and growth, as well asmerketing and tourism. H. Support le islation that simplifies and streamlines the process for foreign . .� trade. I. O ose le islation that limits redevelopment agency use of eminent domain. pp g 00003.0 Page 9of9 Attachment 2 VCOG ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE AGENDA FOR 2009 Adopted -January 8, 2009 Purpose The goal and intent of VCOG is one of voluntary cooperation among cities and the county of Ventura for their collective benefit. In this regard, VCOG serves as an advocate in representing the members of VCOG at the regional, state and federal levels on issues of mutual importance to the Ventura County area. It also can serve as a forum for the review, consideration, study, development and recommendation of public policies and plans with regional significance. Overriding Principles VCOG believes that cities and counties must be able to control matters within their own jurisdictions. Therefore, VCOG will take positions on proposed legislation, rules and/or regulations that affect local control. Additionally, VCOG will take positions on issues that directly affect the county area. And, when local decisions affect neighboring communities, VCOG supports local governments working collaboratively and regionally to address regional issues. Process Staff will monitor the League of California Cities' Priority Focus, California State Association of Counties' positions as well as other sources to identify pending legislation that may impact the member entities. A Legislative Subcommittee of the VCOG Administrative Committee shall be created composed of the following three members: Chair, Chair Elect and Immediate Past Chair. The Chair (or Chair Elect in the Chair's absence) is authorized to sign correspondence expressing VCOG's position on pending legislation consistent with the Legislative Program and/or other positions approved by the Governing Board provided that such correspondence has been sent to the Legislative Subcommittee for their review with a deadline for their comments but not less than 24 hours before it is finalized. Copies of all correspondence will be distributed to each Governing Board member and their jurisdiction and a Legislative Report will be provided at Board meetings. Pending legislation not addressed by the Legislative Agenda, member requests or staff recommendations that deviate from the Legislative Agenda, will be agendized for VCOG Governing Board consideration. This policy will be reviewed each year with the adoption of the Legislative Agenda. 000031, Attachment 2 Issues Of Common Concern and Areas of VCOG Commitment I. Fiscal Impact-VCOG is committed to: A. Maintain the protections that are provided in Proposition IA to protect local revenues from seizure by the state. B. Oppose preemption of local authority. C. Support measures that result in greater stability and predictability in local government budgeting. D. Support legislation requiring the*state and federal governments to provide full cost reimbursement to cities and counties for all unfunded or underfunded mandated programs and for all programs resulting in revenue losses. E. Encourage the use of state incentives for local government action rather than mandates and penalties. F. Support legislation eliminate unfunded Federal mandates. II. Transportation & Transit - VCOG is committed to: A. Support legislation that would provide additional resources to cities and counties to finance local transportation systems, facilities, and improvements. B. Protect and enhance current funding levels and local authority for existing State and Federal transportation revenues and programs C. Support the immediate halt to transfers to the State General Fund of dedicated State Transportation funds and the timely return of all previous loans D. Support the authority of cities and county to manage the public right-of-way and receive compensation for its use. E. Support legislation authorizing design-build as an option for public works projects. F. Support legislation that expands SCAG's"2% blueprint" process. III. Economic Development - VCOG is committed to: A. Support legislation that gives cities and counties resources to finance economic development efforts, such as business attraction, retention, and growth, as well as marketing and tourism. B. Support the retention of the Naval Base Ventura County. �032 Attachment 2 C. Support legislation to ensure sufficient funding to operate one-stop employment and training centers. D. Oppose efforts to cut funding for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs and other publicly funded community services and workforce assistance programs to serve low-income and/or other disadvantaged residents. E. Support legislation that reforms reporting requirements for redevelopment agencies by simplifying the process and eliminating reporting confusion. IV. Land Use - VCOG is committed to: A. Support efforts that are consistent with the doctrine of"home rule" and the local exercise of police powers,,through planning and zoning processes, over local land use. B. Support legislation that strengthens local control to prepare, adopt, and implement plans for orderly growth, development, beautification, and conservation of local planning areas, including, but not limited to, regulatory authority over zoning, subdivisions, annexations, and redevelopment areas. V. Housing- VCOG is committed to: A. Support efforts to develop multi jurisdictional (federal, state, county, city) participation, financial support, and incentives for programs that provide adequate, affordable housing for the elderly, handicapped, and low-income persons throughout the community as well as required infrastructure construction. B. Support Housing Element reform legislation that provides greater local control and flexibility, simplifies the process, and improves its effectiveness. C. Support legislation that eliminates the current Regional Housing Needs Allocation process and defines a more equitable process to respond to growth trends in the region. D. Support legislation that streamlines the environmental review process for mixed-use inftll development without compromising environmental quality standards. E. Support legislation that promotes and provides incentives for environmentally responsible design and construction. F. Support legislation that streamlines the Regional Housing Needs Assesment process to make less onerous on cities and counties. VI. Environment- VCOG is committed to: A. Support legislation that streamlines the state's environmental review process and 3 000033 Attachment 2 maintains public participation without compromising environmental quality standards. B. Air Quality Protection 1. Support mobile source emission reduction activities to improve the environment without adverse impact on local economy. 2. Support air quality efforts that emphasize use of advanced technologies and market incentives, including use of alternative fuels and development of an infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicles. 3. Support port air emission reductions. 4. Support federal action for reducing air pollution from those sources solely under federal control such as ships, planes and trains which. are increasingly affecting the. ability to reach local air quality attainment. C. Solid Waste 1. Support legislation that provides cities and counties with financial assistance for P ro designed to provide for the safe disposal of solid, hazardous, and special g rams g waste. 2. Support legislation that promotes source reduction measures without creating an unfunded mandate. 3. Support legislation that promotes recycling and expands the market for recycled materials as well as making grants available to local agencies for programs that encourage the recycling/reclaiming of resources. 4. Support new resource recovery and conversion technologies, such as bio-diesel from organic waste, including removing impediments to the adoption of transformation or conversion technologies to help municipalities and the county meet and exceed their requirement to divert 50% of their solid waste away from landfills. 5. Oppose legislation that would restrict or limit local government's ability to franchise refuse and recycling collection services, to direct municipal or county solid waste flow (flow control), or to contractually require haulers to guarantee achievement of AB 939 goals 6. Initiate legislation that streamlines AB 939 tracking and reporting requirements. D. Water Protection 1. Suppo rt legislation and cooperative efforts to ensure adequate water supplies for . . 4 Attachment 2 Southern California and to protect and enhance regional groundwater resources and watersheds. 2. Support state and federal funding legislation for local storm water and NPDES programs as well as incentives for the re-use of reclaimed water. Support regulations and full reimbursement for local agencies to carry out the NPDES mission that are practical and capable of being implemented including taking into account economic considerations. 3. Support scientific investigation and implementation, as funding permits, of reasonable, cost-effective, and proven best management practices (BMP)and best available technologies (BAT) to mitigate storm water pollution to the maximum extent practicable E. Natural Resources 1. Support funding and legislation for the designation and preservation of open space and preservation, restoration and enhancement of natural resources. 2. Support legislation and/or programs that provide money to local governments for energy efficiency and conservation programs. VIII. Public Safety and Homeland Security -VCOG is committed to: A. Support legislation that increases local law enforcement resources including providing cities and counties with a greater share of fines and forfeitures. B. Support funding for improved public safety programs, specifically the State Grants that have provided police departments with the funds necessary to support technology improvements increasing efficiency. This includes grants that support homeland security, grants through the Office of Traffic Safety, as well as other grants that support the hiring of law enforcement personnel. C. Support legislation to support public safety facilities funding. D. Support legislation that would provide additional resources for commercial truck safety inspections and the enforcement of commercial truck vehicle codes. E. Support legislation that allows use of state and federal public safety grants for maintenance efforts in addition to service increases. F. Support maintenance of existing health care facilities within the county for emergency response with adequate funding and staffing. 5 000035 Attachment 2 G. Support funding for all hazards, not just terrorism and encourage comprehensive All Hazards planning. H. Oppose a relaxation of TSA safety standards enacted after 9/11. IX. Labor Relations -VCOG is committed to: A. Oppose legislation that would restrict a local government's ability to use its own employees on public works projects when such projects have previously been advertised for bid. B. Oppose legislation that requires the use of city or county employees rather than contracting out. C. Oppose any legislation that would grant employee benefits that should be decided at Y le g the local bargaining table. D. Support legislation that would reform the Workers'Compensation system to reduce g employer cost through the reduction of system abuse. E. Oppose any measure that imposes compulsory and binding interest arbitration. F. Oppose efforts that reduce local control over public employee disputes or impose regulations of an outside agency on such disputes. IX. General Government- VCOG is committed to: A. Support legislation limiting the county and a city's liability associated with hazardous recreational activities, such as skateboarding and in-line skating. B. Support legislation that makes funds available to refurbish and improve parks. C. Oppose legislation that increases local government's exposure to litigation. 6 000036 Attachment 3 VENTURA COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION 2009 LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM STATE LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM A. TRANSPORTATION FUNDING • Work with transit agencies statewide to oppose the Governor's proposed elimination of the State Transit Assistance program, or any significant reductions to this program, which represents the only source of State support for transit operations. • Oppose suspension of Proposition 42 funds for transportation in either the FY 2008/09 budget revision or the FY 2009/10 budget. • Participate in developing clean-up legislation for SB 375, the new law addressing global climate change, to ensure that local transportation sales tax measures with specified projects can feasibly be placed on the 2010 ballot. 4 • Monitor and participate in efforts to increase statewide transportation funding, and take appropriate action to ensure that any proposed changes provide Ventura County with a fair share of transportation funding. • Support the continued ability of regions to set priorities as set forth in SB 45, and oppose any efforts to lessen regional agencies'jurisdiction over the regional program within the State Transportation Improvement Program. • Support continuation of the Safe Routes to Schools program. B. RAIL PROGRAM • Work with the Southern California Regional Rail Authority(SCRRA) and its member agencies to advocate for State funds, including potential expedited Proposition 1 B rail safety and security funds, to facilitate rapid implementation of rail safety measures including positive train control and sealed corridor measures. • Work with Southern California transportation agencies to support State legislation creating a port container fee, with Ventura County rail safety, grade separation and rail freight capacity projects eligible to receive funds associated with the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, commensurate with Ventura County's share of the impact due to container traffic moved from those ports. • Support efforts to ensure the state's commitment to fund intercity rail service is continued at current levels. FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM • Participate in discussions regarding SAFETEA-LU reauthorization in 2009, supporting the California Consensus Principles (previously adopted by VCTC), and working with other Southern California transportation agencies to advocate for more specific regional priorities. 00003'7 Attachment 3 • Support an increased transportation appropriation as part of the FY 2010 federal budget as well a potential economic stimulus measure, while monitoring and supporting as appropriate possible solutions to the impending insolvency of federal transportation accounts. • Advocate for further Federal action in support of rail safety, including significant funding to facilitate compliance with the Positive Train Control mandate. • Support continuation of federal programs and funding, such as Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality(CMAQ), which provide special benefits to Ventura County. In particular, support continuation of the eligibility of transit operating demonstration projects for CMAQ funds. boo oas Attachment 4 2009 FEDERAL PRIORITE S DISCUSSION (November 21, 2008) ECONOMIC STIMULUS California's 480 cities are facing a major economic downturn that has required severe cuts to police, fire, parks, libraries and other vital services as well as put public infrastructure projects on hold. This is occurring while the demand on city services and infrastructure is increasing with 500,000 new residents calling California home each year. The League urges Congress and the Administration to provide economic stimulus to our lagging economy by providing urgent funding for the following: • Energy Block Grant for Infrastructure & Green Jobs • CDBG for Infrastructure • Highway Infrastructure • Water& Wastewater Infrastructure • Public Housing Modernization • Public Safety Jobs & Technology • Transit Equipment& Infrastructure • Restoration of the Rental Housing Tax Break ENERGY/ENVIRONMENT In California, 31 million.of the state's population of 38 million lives in a city. California's cities continue to work collaboratively with state and regional partners to implement sustainable community strategies to increase energy efficiency and lower consumption for this population, as well as work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to1990 levels by 2020. To effectively accomplish the goals of local governments, the League urges Congress to: • Support for full funding of the Energy and Environmental Efficiency Block Grant program, authorized in the Energy Policy Act of 2007 (P.L. 110-140). This will provide resources directly to local governments for programs that improve community energy efficiency, develop and implement community and transportation energy conservation programs, and promote and develop alternative and renewable energy sources; • Support climate-friendly transportation and land-use policies that assist local governments, integrate new growth into existing communities, and develop transit oriented, bicycle and pedestrian-friendly communities utilizing green building design and construction to maximize resources and reduce energy consumption; and . • Ensure that local governments can continue, and not be preempted in, their efforts to decrease carbon emissions. 000039 Attachment 4 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT • Support increased funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, which is critical in assisting urban and rural cities throughout California with creating jobs, providing affordable housing, eliminating blight and generating new economic investment. In addition, seek flexibility in the CDBG state program to enhance the use of the program by California's 314 non-entitlement cities (cities under 50,000). AFFORDABLE HOUSING As the state's population continues to grow and California grapples with the effects of the national mortgage crisis, our cities are deeply concerned about the need for affordable housing. The League urges Congress to: • Foreclosures: Support the allocation of increased resources for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program that truly target communities with the highest foreclosure rates in the nation; • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers: Support full funding of the Section 8 program, which assists very low-income families, the elderly and the disabled afford decent and safe housing; • Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) Program: Support increased funding for the HOME program, which provides formula grants to local governments to create affordable housing for low-income households; • National Housing Trust Fund: Dedicate additional sources of funding to the National Housing Trust Fund enacted in Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (P.L. 110- 289) to help fund the production of new housing, and the rehabilitation of existing housing that is affordable for low-income people; • Preservation of Affordable Housing: Support initiatives that provide a variety of financial restructuring options, such as loan forgiveness, payment deferrals, grants, loans and loan guarantees to preserve rental housing for long-term affordable use; • Workforce Housing: Seek the creation of new initiatives that provide affordable housing to workin g families. The housing shortage has particularly affected low- and middle-income families. In many areas, workers who provide basic services to local governments, such as teachers, firefighters, and police officers, cannot afford to live in the communities where they work; and • Housing Tax Incentives: Seek tax incentives to promote investment in the production of multifamily rental housing, including expanding the Low Income Housing Tax Credit to create mixed income developments. WATER & WASTEWATER INFRASTRUCTURE Vital to fueling and keeping the world's eighth largest economy moving, California cities' water and wastewater systems need a significant overhaul. There has been almost no new . investment in California's water and wastewater systems in more than 30 years. This is putting increasing pressure on the state as California is expected to grow by 10 million by 2020 and is working to meet new, more stringent standards for safe drinking water and clean water. The League urges Congress to: 000040 Attachrnent 4 • Provide adequate and reliable long-term funding for municipal water delivery, maintenance and treatment needs to meet federally mandated water quality standards and maintain the vital infrastructure necessary to ensure the availability of clean water for an increasing population. REAUTHORIZATION OF SAFETEA-LU California has more than 45,000 miles of highway and one of the most developed transit systems in the nation. Our transportation systems, which face rapidly growing vehicle use by an ever increasing number of new drivers, have witnessed the cost of building new lane miles rise much faster than inflation and road maintenance needs increase with the age of the freeway system. California's cities are responsible for administering,the local streets and roads that connect with the state and federal highway system. As Congress begins to consider the reauthorization of the nation's highway and transit laws, the League urges Congress to: • Support Federal legislative efforts such as transient oriented development that bring together transportation, land use planning, energy and the environment and housing and economic development strategies to reduce congestion and create jobs; • Make reconstruction and preservation of the existing system a high priority for expenditures; and target funds for maintenance to local agencies, which are charged with administering the system; and • Support Federal transportation legislation that fully utilizes a Federal, state and local partnership to develop multi-modal transportation solutions to reduce congestions, streamline transportation project delivery and integrate transportation planning solutions for the nation's highway, rail, air and port freight systems to achieve more efficient goods movement. PUBLIC SAFETY/HOMELAND SECURITY/DISASTER PREPAREDNESS California's cities are on the front line of the war on terrorism and crime. To strengthen California's homeland security, emergency preparedness and crime-fighting efforts, the League urges Congress to: • Support increased Federal investment in resources critical to local law enforcement, including full funding for the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant, as authorized in the reauthorization of the program (P.L. 110-294), and the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program, as well as integrated public safety communications systems • Maximize first responder funding to California cities, as well as flexibility in the use of funds to assist areas of need (i.e. personnel, training, and target hardening); • Support for full funding for the Interoperable Emergency Communications Grant Program; and • Support increased funding for disaster preparedness, prevention, recovery, and response for all-hazard threats, including investment in assisting communities with necessary upgrades to existing flood control systems. 00004JL Attachment 4 LIMITATIONS ON LOCAL FUNDING California local governments, many of whom are currently facing extremely difficult fiscal circumstances, already face limited options to generate revenue to provide valuable city services while simultaneously working to expand access internet access to residents. The League urges Congress to: • Oppose legislation that would reduce or eliminate local government resources by providing a tax moratorium for the expanding and profitable cellular telecommunications industry; • Oppose legislative and administrative efforts by online travel companies to circumvent remittance of transient occupancy taxes to local governments from hotel reservations purchased using the internet; and • Oppose legislation that would preempt California local government's ability to regulate and collect revenue derived from state and local use taxes. .000042 • F, now . � � l r T �•lr, ate t 1'v':. ir•.rc •a ._ � q 7 '.t' �� `Fi T 1 f•.r�``2°c+sue{� ,�7' �t ,.�.-.•- - •f L �t�.., •r r� a�7 �a • - - - "..�+ e!r• 1,. � C'( J;+,,'��..MTi �+'{„'.fir. 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T r.. •a ;,4' . . .l- •.S Y tit} •q t t 2i M THE - Attachment 5 ' - , f Our Hornelc)wns and (Dior Notion AN AGENDA FOR �rl� Fc,t�re u America's future is taking shape - right now - in the nation's cities and towns. To snake it a better future for all Americans,we need to work together at all levels of government to find solutions to the critical challenges we face,from the economy and housing to health care and public safety. These are national challenges-yet they are hornetown challenges too. It is in America's cities and towns where the effects of today's biggest problems-from the national economic crisis to our broken immigration system-hit home. And it is in America's cities and towns where we will find solutions. How can we create a better economic future for all Americans? How can we grow our local, regional, and national economies without leaving the climate and our environment at risk? How can we maintain and build the infrastructure that is the backbone of economy and communities?How can we best protect our citizens from crime and terror and other threats? How can we reform our health care system t0 improve access to care and reduce costs? The next President and Congress will have to grapple with a host of difficult questions like these, and America's local elected leaders stand ready to help find answers, based on our firsthand understanding of the urgent issues facing our communities every day. In this report,we describe eight issues that demand the attention of all of America's leaders- federal,state,and local-at this time of transition. And,we offer an Agenda for Elie Nation that includes key actions that the federal government can take to address each one. This report, together with an accompanying series of policy briefs on the eight issues, is part of a broader effort by the National League of Cities to provide the incoming Administration and Congress with information and ideas that can help shape a better future for our hometowns and our nation. In addition to this report, NLC has prepared a separate document, Governing Economies in the 21st Century, that takes a longer view of how governance and politics need to change in order for our nation to resolve the most urgent challenge of all: the uncertain state of the U.S.economy. , ;:;..,,�.r .,-.v.. ,s,#r-c .:'.#.; :y..,,,,:., a.:.. a1,..:<.�l3.t... .s::.,• <''. ,'41'r k �• ��.: :,vn 4, s. �+ f„; z `•.S. S5 rtS ` z« :t _ . ofRac -at a tt,'tj •`F._.•'',. yx� •.Z1 Jy'y}� � `•. •t�a ei�!' :5.•.• �4.V .L �3�.��. e: „`• * ..7S .,.^4 ;e> ,R i :`� v'•-� > _ •r ..�- n �.1:.+.^r...aes�. - g A•:' a. �E :t c tz:i'A '-. .r�a, '�caP.-. ,r7`'.a; .1f-:y T. :yh+' : � '^�T. _tr.... 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Y .•.8,, 'x4 :�sit"X:..}'� .t. y�'y t<f!.,- ,s.:.4' ±r{ ....�`...*!t : w..:.t .� -t,,..'. , �,.•�, .. s,..u..;,,.• iH 3:%ye.,,t Nk `i zF".. #� r�: f. ,-, ry �� -�3 'i��. lc ...,f� '� s�F. ,TX.. ;: •r - :.Y'L.:'L.sy::F?t its shr.•.. k..a t^..,!+'�,f •s. {:_ .d_.�:'6%; )4 /y"���Y. }-a ...yL,r� L,:£ <R ..-t[ f .1.. ,;'RF. •_� M ><., : National League of Cities 0. 000-4.4 Attachment 5 Tre ;''uh're `,t,�)�,�,.,,��r-r���tc>�f;;„ �.�; j;^v afr'or AT ISSUE: HOUSING 'lhe way we talk and think about housing policy in America has changed overnight, due to the home mortgage crisis and the coincident failures of various financial institutions. Encouraging home ownership for as many Americans as p g possible— giving people a stake in the future of their community — remains.a laudable goal. 'Ihe challenge: for the; federal government,working in partnership with state and local governments, is to resolve the crucial questions raised by the collapse in America's housing market — questions like what kinds of housing America needs; how to finance construction,rehabilitation and resale of homes;and how best to engage the private sector in the work of building houses and revitalizing America's hometowns. AGENDA FOR THE NATION The National League of Cities believes that federal and local housing priorities,while promoting home ownership, must also include a myriad of options that take into account the various needs of all segments of society. With an overarching goal of building stronger communities,cities and towns support federal efforts to: • Ensure the availability of capital for mortgage financing and refinancing and continue to -encourage lenders and loan servicers to work-out unsound loans as an alternative to foreclosure. • Invest in programs that stabilize and enhance neighborhoods, while helping communities minimize the damage caused by the national foreclosure crisis. • Protect homebuyers from predatory lending by ensuring that mortgage brokers are effectively regulated and that mortgage loans are well-suited to the financial means of the homebuyer. • .Expand programs focusing on affordable rental housing,including housing vouchers and low-income housing 3 tax credits. • Support transitional housing in coordination with comprehensive services for the homeless. • Prevent ail appreciable loss of the nation's affordable housing stack by funding the rehabilitation of abandoned or vacant properties. • Reform the Community Reinvestment Act to encourage genuine partnerships between financial institutions and the neighborhoods in which they operate; increase meaningful investments in cities;encourage broader access to credit;and strengthen compliance with the law by financial institutions. 000045 Attachment 5 • NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES AT ISSUE: Nt, :,7. r y c Healthy hometowns make for a healthy America.But today,Americas local governments face fundamental challenges ; as they strive to protect and improve the health of city employees and other residents.tike most businesses in the country, cities and towns are finding that their budgets are overstretched by the ever-increasing costs of providing health care coverage to municipal employees and their families. In addition, cities face the much more basic challenge of trying to make sure all residents stay healthy.America must reform its health care system to control costs and to expand access to affordable coverage for all,with a special focus on the 46 million Americans who are uninsured. AGENDA FOR .THE NATION Control costs."Ihe National I..eague of Cities believes major reforms are needed to control costs and reduce the rate:of growth in health care expenditures and coverage costs. Given its key role in reform efforts, cities and towns urge the federal government to: • Focus on disease prevention and management instead of more costly episodic medical procedures. • Establish national performance standards for physicians and hospitals to lead to fewer costly errors. • Provide financial incentives for medical providers to use health information technology as a way to improve care coordination and reduce costs. • Enact reforms to reduce administrative costs in the insurance industry. • Require insurance companies to publicly disclose their premiums,co-payment rates,administrative costs,and profit margins so purchasers can effectively compare costs. 6 Expand access to care.The National I,e<ague c-)f Cities believes local,state,and federal leaders.must collaborate to design a health care system that ensures that all residents can have access to affordable health care coverage.America's cities and towns support federal efforts ter. • Conduct a public information and outreach campaign to all uninsured individuals who are eligible for government health care programs like Medicaid and the Mate Children's Health Insurance Program(SC:HIP) to encourager them to take advantage of what's available. • Provide all employers with the same tax incentives to offer health insurance to employees,so that all employers are supported for providing workers with health benefits. • Create new pooling opportunities so small employers and self-employed individuals can obtain group rates to reduce costs and make it affordable to obtain health insurance. • Create financial incentives for individuals to purchase health cart coverage for themselves anti their families,so that all receive the same incentives to buy health insurance either through an employer or on the individual market. • Ensure that all individuals and families can obtain health insurance.Among the options for ensuring coverage: expanding existing government programs, such as Medicare or SCRIP; allowing employers to buy into the federal system (the Federal Employees Health Benefits Plan); or establishing an alternative program that assures coverage for everyone. 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W �. �,f� �� ' his k k C p� k it - ,y.. -� �: ��• .:�.r.: a,� ,S,a -:r•-.�5 .Tj�i:k"+t` ,r+•' �. rV -}; `�v� '� .�, A 1. t N ,1 L x' � I AT ISSUE: 7 Sustainability is one of the defining issues of our time. -Me reason: increasi rig.concern about climate change and other threats to public health and the environment related to human activities. Today, the nations local governments find themselves at the epicenter of the sustainability movement. Cities and towns are actively pursuing initiatives to conserve energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect the environment in ether ways. 'The federal government can and Should be a full partner in these efforts.. providing national leadership when appropriate, and supporting; the mane creative efforts that can only happen at the community level. AGENDA FOR THE -NATION 'The National League of Cities believes that the federal government must take the lead in advancing policies that put g America on track to a more sustainable future for our hometowns and our nation. Cities and towns call upo1l the federal government to: • Adopt a comprehensive emissions reduction plan that includes the establishment of a national greenhouse gas registry and a cap on total emissions. • Pursue a responsible energy policy that promotes the most efficient and affordable use of all sources,promotes renewable sources, encourages domestic production, protects the environment, decreases greenhouse gas emissions,and encourages efficiency and conservation. • Support a multimodal transportation system that encourages mass transit,passenger rail,and non-motorized transportation,and the development of alternative fuels and low-emission vehicles. • Assist local governments in leveraging their resources and increasing their ability to institute beneficial"green" WMA initiatives. I 0004 0 s Attachment 5 NATIONAL LEAGUE Of CITIES AT ISSUE: PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY "The security of the United States anti its citizens is one of the defining issues of the decacle and will Likely remain a top concern for the foreseeable future.The threats to America's citizens frorn crime,terror and natural disasters have changed significantly. In the face of these new challenges, the leaders of America's cities and towns are best positioned to address traditional public safety needs while at the same time advancing the nation's homeland security priorities. National top- down plans are riot sufficient. America needs collaborative strategies that emphasize partnerships, innovation, and"all- hazard"approaches to public safety. AGEN DA FOR THE NATION Direct resources where they are needed most.The National League of Cities believes the federal government must invest in several key areas as it seeks to bolster the capacity of local governments and others to protect the safety and security of America and its citizens.Cities and towns support federal efforts to: • Provide local governments with the resources to meet the growing demands ern local first responders as the linchpin of emergency and disaster response. • Invest more in disaster prevention and resilience so local communities can identify vulnerabilities and take steps to reduce the loss of lives and property in the event of a disaster. ! Invest more in programs that reduce the long-term incidence and costs of crime, from substance abuse 10 treatment to proven programs that build alliances between citizens and police. Strengthen information sharing at all levels.The National League of Cities believes the federal goverrment can play a crucial role in advancing public safety and homeland security by collecting and sharing information about urgent issues and what works.Cities and towns urge the federal government to: . • Collect information about best practices and model public safety and homeland N I security programs;rams; and provide local communities with examples that can be k.,. t. tailored to their unique needs and concerns,while also providing direct assistance to implement programs fully and correctly. Y S tr n then domestic intelligence sharing between federal and local authorities on a wide-ranging issues from illegal gun sales to terrorist threats. y Create a culture of public awareness and action. -Die National League of Cities �.. believes the federal government also has an important role to play in ensuring that all Americans understand their own responsibilities in preventing crime and preparing P g for disasters.Cities and towns urge the federal government to: +� C:omit to educating the nation in an efTort to create a culture cif rational m g UY, . community preparedness—so that the public can act wisely� - y general P P P b y if confronted with an emergency. .y a Expand efforts to Spur local collaboration between first responders and citizens AW within a community to prepare for disasters. 4 Improve emergency communications and warning systems so citizens have the ca.A rya n >' Y,y`ci ► C information they need to protect themselves. InY y 4'. T )' � � �+ate a*�J'"°. r� � �� �s`^ .� 0, 00048 t it NATIONAL LEAGUE CAE CITIES Attachment 5 . AT ISSUE: GOVERNMENTS . WORKING TOGETHER '[he intergovernmental partnership char.has defined American governance for most of the nation's history is unraveling. It is time for serious dialogue that engages local, state, regional, and federal leaders in "national" rather than federal policymaking. All levels of government will be under enormous stress in future years as the nation tries to confront pressing challenges on issues from the economy and health care to climate change. The question is whether we will take this opportunity to bring the different levels of governnent together to collaborate on national goals and objectives,or whether we will continue on the current path of"go-it-alone"governance. AGENDA FOR THE NATION The National League of Cities believes that all levels of government can better serve America's citizens and the nation by building a well-functioning intergovernmental system. In order to strengthen and revitalize the intergovernmental partnership,cities and towns urge the federal government to: • Conduct a summit of local, regional,state,and federal leaders to discuss the intergovernmental relationship, the principles and practices of federalism,and the steps needed to ensure an effective partnership on behalf of the American people. • Reaffirm the policies and principles of federalism as set forth in Executive Order 13131 federalism. • Establish an Office of Intergovernmental Affairs within the White House policy apparatus to serve as a 12 conduit between the President and state and local leaders. • Crcate a permanent entity that works to faster improved relations and consensus-building among d4crent levels of government while providing information,data,and analysis about the health of the intergovernmental system and the impact of federal programs and requirements on inter-local and regional collaboration.. AIL Y Aa ��aa.l;t�.`ti;��7:.+� _. -• - .: .:M - - -.. ''T'j' 7; - rh� •r sRtiirixir ,7I 75 ..•r - 'f,.c w, i I ~�Y,r:..tit' :?i .• ' ,... - "_ f":,a� 'tc .'� 0MR.JR p. �.w._ � ,...y..•+d'?K ft r~'! ",�c'r r► •!Y * c :,,., ..,z..r..': Siff '� .,�a t.�., 'F4 P..s '?x..ax'' .:�1 '� _ '•L- ;rry�;. .y . -s YD'S A A-� a a �� •L'.. s -.if .Y ► y 4 �... f +1 • ki—4-1 s:� T7J .'f f +'�. .+i �Q1. . _j 't t i •'r i.'•j'.•I . I .11.r=,`.� V'P���,_:ti.", . .�� t M y./ r` i /A^^�(/�_ �/+� ={rte) . !s ,, 1..11.'r' a s s' .. } { .j ♦o �.t _ - .. I`:i 'i r• .1 - - _ may; . 4 r s _. z �. i. .y� t'�' 5 7 .. ..f•- v'f - �� `, ��AV l . .. - .. - f .•! # . i� ._ ., 0aI— . �u - . �y4c—, ,::r�.� #� '. `may•� . SF .-'':. aj .. : .. - - + . .. . .. - _. . .. _ ... .. I ,,. .. : -. .. ..I. wk ,.,,. . . . ,< s .. .-. .. . � 1. �. , . a. s r . -+ .i •r .. ,. .:. �. .-. : .. A ., ,1.' .: .,., .. _ �i 1. .. . } C Y ..•.:.....1 a..1 :. .. .. .. 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J W .w •r .- } A .. a _1. r • X41 ti.- g Y . .- :., ..- .. -.. V ( LY L na w M K ;' ,ry r S .:. . _ t . ,, itr '� _ +, w ' Ica ...4, . . 4" ... 1 , ... .s..t ., . .. -.a+.. IN-1211 " }; H i L X 1 �s} I ON j,.-L'L—7*.-1 I �.. . --- 1.- UM -.I �� BUIL.DING A BETTER FUTURE America's hometowns are where we come together as neighbors and fellow citizens to solve problems and get things done. . They are where we create new industries,businesses,and jobs. And they are where we get an early,firsthand view of the full array of challenges and opportunities facing our nation. "The future of America's hometowns is bound up with the future of our nation. On behalf of America's local elected . leaders, the National League of Cities looks forward to working with the new President and Congress to build a fetter future for all of us. . 00050 UEM �. a . RECEIVED MAR 17 2009 Councilmember Mikos comments on Legislative Program CITY OF MOORPARK OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER Stamp page 19: Paragraph 2- She asked for clarification on what were staff suggestions and what came from the Committee. I told that the underlined italics were staff's original suggestions. Committee edits of staff suggestions are shown in and the Committee-generated recommendations are shown in bold italics. Changes that Councilmember Mikos might propose that the Council to consider are shown in red, and her questions to staff and comments are shown in blue. Stamp page 22: Paragraph 2- Staff will monitor the League of California Cities' City Advocate Weekly(formerly Priority Focus) ... Stamp page 23: 1. Local Government Finance F. Oppose legislation that restricts or limits a city's ability to use tax- exempt debt for the purchase or construction of public purpose improvements. Q: What specific projects or types of projects might this refer to? H. Support efforts that provide greater accountability on the part of counties for the distribution of funds back to municipalities, including, but not limited to, fines and forfeitures. Q: What specific funding fines or forfeitures does this refer to? N. Join with other Ventura County cities to encourage the Ventura County Treasurer-Tax Collector to shorten the time to collect property tax readjustments. Q: Is this still an issue? What is the history of this issue? On Stamp Page 25 3. Transportation F. Encourage the timely reauthorization of the Transportation Equity Act and its annual appropriations for the enhancement of surface transportation in the region, including local transit, commuter rail, highway projects such as: the widening of the SR 118 and SR 23 freeways, the SP 118 bypasS the SR 23 1US 101 interchange; and local road improvements such as the proposed North Hills Parkway, and intermodal transportation center development such as the realignment of the Moorpark Metrolink Station entrance, and to encourage transit-oriented projects in the redevelopment of adjacent property. On Stamp Page 25 4. Environment A. Support legislation that streamlines the state's environmental review process and maintains public participation without compromising environmental quality standards. This matches the wording of VCOG's legislative program statement. H. Support funding and other incentives for local government and private industry projects and planning strategies to +r��rev� promote sustainability in infrastructure and operations, greater energy efficiency, lower energy usage, and reduction of Feduc-e greenhouse gas emissions. I. Support funding and legislation for the designation and preservation of open space and preservation, restoration and enhancement of natural resources. This matches the wording of a VCOG legislative program statement. J. Support legislation and/or programs that provide money to local governments for energy efficiency and conservation programs. This matches the wording of a VCOG legislative program statement. On stamp pages 27 - 28 6. General Government K. Support legislation to give non-entitlement cities the same rights as entitlement cities in CDBG program administration. Q: What would this enable a non-entitlement city to do that it can't now? L. Support legislation that makes funds available to refurbish and improve parks, and to acquire and maintain open space. Clarify wording and separate "support: and "oppose" into separate statements: Q. Support preserving public, education and government ("PEG") television channels, funding, and programming support by video service providers such as: payments to local government of franchise fees, PEG fees, and facility/equipment grants; and furnishing public access production facilities. as they hay aAva) R. Oppose efforts to make PEG channels hard to find or navigate to, such as on an obscure channel or accessible only via several Internet web page menus, of any lesser signal quality than basic channels, or requiring an additional fee or device for viewers to access. S. Oppose efforts to redirect or reduce Proposition 10 funding from the local First 5 Commissions. T. Support the retention of local First 5 program funding from Proposition 10 to maintain current service levels and implement the goals of the local First 5 programs. On Stamp page 30 9. Housing F. Oppose legislation that expands the state exemption for second dwelling units in single family zones. Q: Is this statement still applicable, or has the issue been settled? Is there some further possible state action or concern? ICI