HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/13/23 LEGISLATIVE AND LITIGATION REGULARV
BAKERSFIELD
THE SOUND OF5awte(Gwi V4I
Staff:
Anthony Valdez, Assistant to the City Manager
Committee Members:
Councilmember, Bruce Freeman -Chair
Councilmember, Andrae Gonzales
Councilmember, Monpreet Kour
Regular Meeting of the
Legislative and Litigation Committee
of the City Council - City of Bakersfield
Monday, February 13, 2023
12:00 p.m.
City Hall North, First Floor, Conference Room A
1600 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield CA 93301
1. ROLL CALL
2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS
Agenda Item Public Statements.
Non -Agenda Item Public Statements.
3. ADOPT OCTOBER 27, 2022, AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
4. NEW BUSINESS
A. Approval of 2023 Committee Calendar.
Committee Discussion and Recommendation regarding
Legislative Platform.
5. COMMITTEE COMMENTS
6. ADJOURNMENT
u
BAKERSFIELD
THE SOUND OF 5x4e" 11je*
Staff: Committee Members:
Christian Clegg, City Manager Councilmember, Chris Parlier-Chair
Councilmember, Andrae Gonzales
Councilmember, Ken Weir - Absent
Special Meeting of the
Legislative and Litigation Committee
of the City Council - City of Bakersfield
Thursday, October 27, 2022
12:00 p.m.
City Hall North, First Floor, Conference Room A
1600 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield CA 93301
AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
The meeting was called to order at 12:01
1. ROLL CALL
Committee members: Councilmember Andrae Gonzales
Coundimember Patty Gray
City Staff: Christian Clegg, City Manager
Gary Hallen, Assistant City Manager
Virginia "Ginny" Gennaro, City Attorney
Josh Rudnick, Deputy City Attorney
2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS No public statements
3. ADOPT JUNE 21, 2021 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
Motion by Committee Member Gonzales, seconded by Committee Member
Parlier to adopt the agenda summary report as submitted. Motion carried.
4. DEFERRED BUSINESS
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. Committee Update and Discussion Regarding Legislative Advocacy -
Clegg
City Manager Christian Clegg provided a brief follow-up to the year long
Legislative Advocacy efforts and introduced Sharon Gonsalves and Jake
Whitaker from RPPG to provide the committee an update on what has
been accomplished this past year.
Sharon Gonsalves introduced the RPPG team and the experience they
bring to the team. Ms. Gonsalves shared that the City took a position on
11 State bills in 2022, although it does not include all the bills being tracked
on behalf of the City.
Committee member Gonzales inquired about crafting our own legislation
in areas we have significant need as the 91h largest city in California. Ms.
Gonsalves shared that RPPG began with meeting with all department
heads to see where the needs are. The plan is to revisit again to better
understand the key issues for the platform. Mr. Clegg added that being
the first year, we made a conscious choice to co-sponsor with our
delegates to have their support with future issues.
Committee member Gonzales followed up with the request that we utilize
this resource in a meaningful way and collaborate with other cities that
share in our sentiment; with Committee Chair Parlier adding that
Bakersfield's unique asks do not fall under our regional area.
Ms. Gonsalves continued with an update on legislation of interest to
include which bills the city took positions on and introduced Jake
Whitaker, to provide the committee with an update on funding advocacy
and opportunities for the city.
Mr. Whitaker discussed the key elements of successful grant applications
as well as the best practices for grant -seeking. Mr. Whitaker provided an
update on grants the city departments have been working on and his
desire to strengthen grant approvals.
City Manager Clegg, provide a few observations on the high caliber of
experience and resource RPPG are providing the City, They have
provided evaluations of City's past practices for grants. Although we as
the City have done a fair job, we have not done a great job. Moving
forward as we create departmental grant liaisons, it will allow us to
improve. RPPG are assisting us with both state and federal grants and
identifying where we have missed the mark on receiving some of those
grants. Mr. Whitaker has not only assisted in reviewing the applications, he
has also assisted in writing a few grant applications.
Mr. Whitaker reiterated that with the highly competitive nature of these
grants, the City must submit great grant applications.
Legislative and Litigation Committee
Regular Meeting October 27, 2022 ASR
Page 2
Committee Chair Parlier complimented City Manager and team on
driving the grant development and review processes. Committee Chair
Parlier also asked that in the future, RPPG have the opportunity to meet
with Council to provide an overview of the services and provide an
update.
Committee member Gonzales asked that we have a strategic plan on
the grants we want to pursue. He also commented on the City not
securing the TCC grant and how we can insure that we learn from it and
develop a better grant application at the next opportunity.
Committee member Gonzales requested that staff develop a score card
that will track how many grants are applied for and how many the City
secures as a performance measure on how efforts are improving.
6. COMMITTEE COMMENTS
Committee Chair Parlier expressed his appreciation for staff moving forward
with securing a lobbying firm to have those resources as the City continues to
grow.
Committee member Gonzales thanked Committee Chair Fortier for his service
on this committee and for leading the charge on the issue of lobbyist and
providing his leadership.
ADJOURNMENT 1:12 p.m.
BRUCE FREEMAN, CHAIR
LEGISLATIVE AND LITIGATION COMMITTEE
ATTEST:
JULIE DRIMAKIS, MMC
CITY CLERK and Ex Officio Clerk of
The Council of the City of Bakersfield
Legislative and Litigation Committee
Regular Meeting October 27, 2022 ASR
Page 3
Legislative & Litigation Committee Calendar
January 2023 Through December 2023
All meetings will be held at City Hall North, First Floor, Conference Room A
■legislative & Litigation Meetings
12:00 p.m.
E-lBudget Departmental Workshop
12:00 p.m.
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City Council Meetings
3:30 p.m. Closed Session 5:15 p.m. Public Session
Budget Hearing:06/ 14, Budget Adoption: 6126
■Holidays - City Hall Closed
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League of Califomia Cities Mayors and Council Members Executive Forum - TIBD
0 League of California Cities Annual Conference - September 20-22. 2023
00
BAKERSFIELD
THE SOUND OF 5W 13' 66{ e
2023
State legislative
Program
Page i of 24
Bakersfield Mayor & City Council
KarenGoh......................................................................................................
Mayor
EricArias........................................................................................................Ward
1
AndraeGonzales.........................................................................................
Ward 2
KenWeir.........................................................................................................Ward
3
BobSmith......................................................................................................Ward
4
BruceFreeman.............................................................................................Ward
5
PattyGray......................................................................................................Ward
6
ManpreetKaur..............................................................................................Ward
7
Page 2 of 24
Table of Contents
Definitions..................................... . . . . . ...... - .............................................................................. 4
State of California Delegation ..................................... ........ .. .......
CityCouncil Strategic Goals .......................................... ............................................................................... 6
LegislativeProgram ...................................................................................................................................... 7
LegislativePrinciples ..................................................................................................................................... 9
2023 State Legislative Priorities ................................................................................................................ 10
1. Advocate for our fair share of State Funding ........................................................ ....................... 10
2. Advocate for policy and funding that supports efforts in serving and reducing the City's
homelesspopulation ..................................................................................................................... 11
3. Advocate for reasonable and measured relief from state regulations related to energy and
agriculture production and continue to support and pursue state programs or funding
opportunities to diversify the economy, inluding the regional Economic Prosperity Initiative. 12
4.. Advocate for and pursue State programs or funding initiatives in support of the City's
affordable housing and urban revitalization efforts .................................................................... 13
2023 State Legislative Positions ................................................................................................................ 15
Page 3 of 24
Definitions
Legislative Program
The Bakersfield City Council will adopt a Legislative Platform each calendar year. The Legislative
Platform sets forth the City of Bakersfield's legislative priorities and interests and provides
general authority and direction regarding advocacy efforts on behalf of the City to: the City
Manager's Office; City departments; and the City's state legislative advocate.
Legislative Principle
Legislative Principles are foundational statements of broad legislative objectives or philosophies
that form the basis for establishing Legislative Priorities and Positions.
Legislative Priority
Items receive designation as Legislative Priorities within the Legislative Program when it is
anticipated that they will (1) have a significant impact on the City of Bakersfield; (2) require
significant effort by City staff and/or the City's state advocate; and (3) have a strategic action
identified to address a high-level priority for the City.
Legislative Position
The City of Bakersfield has numerous areas of legislative interest beyond those that rise to the
surface as Legislative Priorities. The City prepares position statements for both the themes of
legislation and funding that regularly recur on the state level as well as new issues that arise each
year in the legislative process. Legislative Positions provide background as to the importance of
the issue to the City of Bakersfield and state the position of the City and any action that will be
pursued to address it.
Page 4 of 24
State of California Delegation
Senate
The Honorable Melissa Hurtado
District 16
State Capitol
Room 3070
Sacramento, CA 95814
The Honorable Shannon Grove
District 12
State Capitol
Room 305
Sacramento, CA 95814
Assembly
The Honorable Jasmeet Bains
District 35
P.O. Box 942849
Sacramento, CA 94249
The Honorable Vince Fong
District 32
State Capitol
Suite 2002
Sacramento, CA 94249
Page 5 of 24
City Council Strategic Goals
1. Economic Opportunity for All
Bakersfield fosters a diverse, thriving economy that sustains the quality of life desired
by our community.
2. Safety and Resilience
Residents feel safe and crime rates are low. Bakersfield is a City where homelessness
is infrequent and brief, and residents do not experience the impacts of homelessness.
3. Reliable Infrastructure
The City provides well -maintained infrastructure that supports quality of life and
economic development for the community today and plans for the infrastructure
needs of tomorrow.
4. Community Character & Qualify of Life
Neighborhoods are healthy, vibrant and full of opportunity, residents are attracted to
Bakersfield's affordability. Community members and visitors enjoy the City's
revitalized, modern and walkable downtown and business districts.
5. Innovative and Effident City Government
The City of Bakersfield is a professional, effective, and customer -oriented organization
that brings efficient solutions to the community. Our well -managed finances position
the City for a healthy and prosperous future.
Page 6 of 24
Legislative Program
Purpose
Throughout each year, the State Legislature proposes and enacts legislation, some of
which affects local municipal government. The League of California Cities and contracted
legislative advocacy firms keep the City of Bakersfield informed on proposed legislation
from these bodies. At times, it is in the interests of the City to take a position on proposed
legislation. The State Legislative Program establishes Legislative Principles, Priorities and
Positions that provide direction for advocating for the City of Bakersfield with the state
government.
Process
For proposed legislation, either consistent with the City's Legislative Program or
consistent with legislative positions the City has taken in the past, City staff shall be
authorized to prepare position letters for the Mayor or City Manager's signature. All
members of City Council shall receive copies of sent position letters. The City's advocacy
firm may also be authorized to express the City's position in person to legislative
representatives.
Items not addressed in the City's Legislative Priorities may require they be brought to the
City Council for consideration. These legislative priorities may only address issues directly
relevant to or impacting the provision of municipal services. Generally, the City will not
address matters that are not pertinent to the City's local government services such as
partisan, socially divisive or international issues.
The City's legislative positions, as further defined below, may be supported with
additional advocacy efforts, including but not limited to:
• Position letters, including updating said letters as legislation is amended and/ or
advances through the process, fact sheets, and other legislative advocacy support
materials.
• Preparing staff and councilmember testimony to legislative committees and other
legislative and regulatory bodies; and
• In person meetings and phone calls with members of legislative and regulatory
agencies.
Page 7 of 24
Possible position that can be adopted on legislation include:
• Support— A support position indicates to the legislature, regulatory agencies, and
other stakeholders, that the city is in favor of the legislation in question.
• Support if Amended — A support if amended position indicates to the
corresponding legislature, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders, that the
city is in favor of the legislation in question, if the requested changes are adopted.
• Oppose — An oppose position indicates to the legislature, regulatory agency, and
other stakeholders that the city is against the legislation in question.
• Oppose Unless Amended —An oppose unless amended position indicates to the
legislature, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders, that the City is against
the legislation in question, unless the requested changes are adopted.
• Neutral — A neutral position indicates to the corresponding legislature, regulatory
agencies, and other stakeholders, that the City is impartial on the legislation in
question and does not wish to take a position or has formally removed their prior
adopted position due to changes being made to the legislation or proposal (e.g., a
bill that the city had an 'oppose unless amended" position on was amended to
address concerns, therefore the City is formally withdrawing its opposition and
moving to a "Neutral" position).
• Watch — A watch is traditionally an internal position which indicates the City is
monitoring the legislation. Should the bill be amended the City reserves its right
to adopt a position as indicated above.
Page 8 of 24
Legislative Principles
In its relationship with the state government, the City will always:
• Seek the broadest authority for our citizens and the City Council to make decisions
locally
• Seek out, develop, and support legislative and budget efforts that protect and/or
maximize local governments revenues, maximize the City's access to funding,
and/or increase local funding flexibility
• Support legislative and budget action that will provide robust funding for domestic
infrastructure, public safety, community development and economic
development programs which support City efforts to maintain and enhance the
quality of life
• Oppose legislative or administrative actions that have negative fiscal impacts to
the City
• Oppose legislative or administrative actions which would create unfunded
mandates and/or preempt local decision -making authority
• Encourage and seek legislation to facilitate orderly and sustainable economic
expansion and growth, and increase the opportunity for discretionary revenues
and programmatic and financial flexibility for the City
• Seek opportunities to help our partners achieve success in order to further
improve the community
• Support legislation that furthers the adopted City Council Goals
It is within this philosophy that the attached state legislative priorities and positions are
adopted.
Page 9 of 24
2023 State Legislative Priorities
Items receive designation as Legislative Priorities within the Legislative Program when it
is anticipated that they will (1) have a significant impact on the City of Bakersfield; (2)
require significant effort by City staff and/or the City's state advocate; and (3) have a
strategic action identified to address a high-level priority for the City.
1. Advocate for our fair share of State Funding
2. Advocate for policy and funding that supports efforts in serving and reducing the
City's homeless population
3. Advocate for reasonable and measured relief from state regulations related to
energy and agriculture production and continue to support and pursue State
programs or funding opportunities to diversify to economy, including the regional
Economic Prosperity Initiative.
4. Advocate for and pursue State programs or funding initiatives in support of the
City's affordable housing and urban revitalization efforts
1. Advocate for our fair share of State Funding
Background: The City of Bakersfield has been successful in receiving state funding
through both project specific earmarks and competitive funding application processes.
However, there are opportunities to develop more positive working relationships with
state agencies and explain our unique needs. In addition, the City has experienced
reduction in funding from the state as a result of direct removal of revenues previously
remitted to municipalities examples of which include Vehicle License Fee revenues and
Redevelopment Agency revenues.
Position: The City of Bakersfield should more aggressively target earmark funding when
available by establishing priority projects and advocating for available funding to our state
delegation. Priority projects will be identified each year based on the strategic needs of
the City while taking into consideration the eligibility of projects for the funding sources
available and the likelihood of funding advocacy efforts being successful. The City of
Bakersfield should also leverage the Sacramento presence of our state advocate to
develop positive working relationships with key state agency executives. The City should
also advocate for maintaining funding levels for priority state agency programs. In
addition, the City should target funding opportunities that will have the most beneficial
impact to General Fund operations. Furthermore, the City should oppose any state
actions that reduce funding to municipalities or create unfunded mandates.
Action: Advocate for the following priority project list for consideration in grant
applications and for direct funding when available:
o Gang prevention, intervention, and suppression
o Youth services and programs
o Recovery of Vehicle License Fee (VLF) revenues taken by the state and revenue
loss due to SB 89.
Page 10 of 24
o Projects or programs that would support implementation of the Bakersfield
Economic Development Strategic Plan.
o Rehabilitation or development of new park or open spaces in underserved
areas or in disadvantaged communities with limited options for active lifestyles.
o Infrastructure improvement and the development of complete streets.
Action: Advocate for programs providing additional funding for public safety and
violence prevention
o Pursue grant funding in support of violence reduction and gang intervention
o Advocate for funding for early diversion and deflection programs
o Advocate for funding programs designed to outreach to at -risk youth for
education and training
Action: Advocate for equitable processes and equitable sharing of resources related to
new State funding sources or State Bond issuances. Advocate for equity in allocating
new funding for transportation, floodplain management, affordable housing,
homelessness and public park infrastructure.
Action: Oppose legislation or executive action that reduces funding to the City or
creates an unfunded mandate.
2. Advocate for policy and funding that supports efforts in serving and reducing the
City's homeless population
Background: In recent years, the State of California has experienced an increase in the
number of homeless individuals throughout the State, including within the City of
Bakersfield. The annual 2022 "Point in Time Count" showed 1,603 homeless individuals
in Kern County with 1,356 (or 85%) located within the Metropolitan Bakersfield area. 744
homeless individuals in the City were in some sort of shelter while 612 individuals were
unsheltered and living in a location that is not habitable. Based on data in both the Point
in Time Count and the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), the City and
State are experiencing an inflow of individuals into homelessness that is growing
increasingly larger than the number of individuals the City and service providers are able
to move into permanent housing. This point to a state-wide systemic problem that is
creating a flow of individuals into homelessness.
To address this crisis, the City of Bakersfield has engaged in a number of initiatives to
address homelessness, through implementation of federal HUD funds, local Public Safety
& Vital Services (PSVS) Measure funds, and state Homeless, Housing, Assistance and
Prevention (HHAP) funds for creative new programs.
As the City has addressed this crisis more proactively, it has become clear that there are
service gaps that are beyond the policy purview and funding capacity of the City and our
local partners. The issue of homelessness requires State and Federal intervention and
resources.
Page 11 of 24
Position: The City of Bakersfield supports state programs that provide funding to local
governments for addressing homelessness, permanent supportive housing and
affordable housing. The City of Bakersfield supports legislation and State policy making
that provides for flexibility in allocating state fu nding for local programs designed to assist
individuals experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, homelessness. Bakersfield supports
legislation and policy making that allows service providers greater access to funding in
support of individuals experiencing homelessness. The City also supports legislation and
policy making that balances the needs of the homeless population with the quality of life
impacts experienced by the community, providing the City with tools to care for our
vulnerable populations and place them in service rich environments. Bakersfield has
allocated significant local funding to this issue, is collaborating with the state and local
partners and is well positioned to benefit from policy and funding that addresses the
systemic issues around homelessness.
Action: Advocate for increased State oversight of behavioral health and substance abuse
treatment for individuals experiencing homelessness; advocate for ongoing flexible State
funding to cities for homeless services.
Support legislation or policy making that offers greater flexibility in allocating funding for
locally designed programs that address the needs the of the homeless population and
high -risk sub -populations.
Support legislation that reforms the state's behavioral health and substance abuse
policies and programs.
Support legislation or policy making that provides greater access to MediCal for providers
serving the homeless population.
Oppose legislation and policy making that limits local control and the ability to design
programs that help vulnerable populations access services and programs that address
homelessness and the impacts of homelessness.
3. Advocate for reasonable and measured relief from state regulations related to
energy production and agriculture production and continue to support and pursue
State programs or funding opportunities to diversify the economy, including the
regional Economic Prosperity Initiative.
Background: Historically, Bakersfield's two main industries have been oil and
agriculture. Kern County has the most oil production in the United States and is in the top
five most productive agricultural counties in the nation. Kern County produces over 250
crops including cotton, potatoes, pistachios, grapes, pomegranates and roses. The
economic agricultural industry also includes dairies, poultry farms and cattle ranches.
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant economic impacts to the nation, State
and the City of Bakersfield. Supporting the economic recovery of our businesses is a high
priority for the City as well as diversifying the City's economic foundation. On September
Page 12 of 24
15, 2021 the Bakersfield City Council adopted a Five Year Economic Development
Strategic Plan.
Position: The City of Bakersfield should be proactive in engaging the Newsom
Administration on the funding and resources necessary to transition employees to new
industries. A top priority of the State is to phase out oil production in California including
action to end the issuance of new (racking permits by 2024, phase out oil extraction by
2045 and by ending the sale of new gas -powered cars by 2035. The City must be part of
ongoing discussions regarding the state's aggressive climate goals and those impacted to
the local economy.
Action: Advocate for increased State and Federal funding opportunities and policies that
position Bakersfield as a "destination for innovation' attractive to technology
workers/talent, targeted technology industries, and technology -oriented business
startups.
Support legislation that promotes retention, transition, and advancement of the region's
traditional mainstay industries of oil production and agriculture.
Support legislation that increases the region's economic resiliency through industry
diversification, a focus on inclusivity, and support for transition of traditional sectors.
Support legislation that provides a comprehensive workforce development system
focused on full -spectrum career pathways to meaningful jobs and expanded interface
between educational/training entities and private employers
Support investments in infrastructure, education, and community amenities in support of
the City's economic development objectives
Support the maintenance of Kern County retaining regional status due to its diversity
4. Advocate for and pursue State programs or funding initiatives in support of the
City's affordable housing and urban revitalization efforts
Background: The cost of housing in the City of Bakersfield continues to rise and since the
elimination of redevelopment in 2011, development of affordable housing has diminished
significantly. The City has been proactive on addressing affordable housing and urban
revitalization through various efforts including:
o Transformative Climate Communities Planning Grant
o SB 2 Planning Grant to develop an affordable housing strategy
o Establishing an affordable housing trust fund
Position: The City of Bakersfield is poised to leverage State programs that facilitate
downtown urban renewal, neighborhood transformation and development of affordable
housing. State funding related to sustainable infrastructure and planning that has been
Page 13 of 24
allocated in recent years should remain a priority to allow fort hese programs to continue
the revitalization of communities like Bakersfield. The City of Bakersfield is also well
positioned to leverage investments through Opportunity Zones. The City of Bakersfield
should receive an equitable share of funding supporting affordable housing. The City of
Bakersfield should receive an equitable share of funding supporting sustainable
infrastructure and development, if not a greater share as a disadvantaged community.
Action: Facilitate lasting revitalization of and reinvestment in key older neighborhoods
Action: Bring light to numerous barriers to housing production beyond the control of local
governments and have significant impacts on what types of, and how many, housing units
are built. Including:
o Construction costs
o New building codes
o CEQA costs and delays
o Financing
o State interjection into local housing ordinances, rules and regulations
Page 14 of 24
2023 State Legislative Positions
1. Protect Local Control
2. Protect local Revenues and Funding for Vital Community Services
3. Public Safety
4. Infrastructure Investment
5. Improve the Quality of Life and Sustainability of the City
6. Employment and Labor Relations
7. Protection of the agriculture and energy production industries
8. Public Health Response and Recovery
1. Protect Local Control
• 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.
• Oppose legislation that negatively impacts the City Council's authority to manage
and control the public right-of-way and for the City to receive compensation for
its use.
2. Protect Local Revenues and Funding for Vital Community Services
• The City will oppose efforts that capture or divert local revenue or efforts which
shift responsibility for State services or programs to local government without
commensurate revenue.
• Support full reimbursement to cities for all State mandates.
• Oppose legislation that eliminates or restricts the taxing authority of cities;
weakens existing Government Code section 66000 fee authority; or redefines any
development tax, condition, or other monetary change as development fees.
• Support legislation that protects the ability of cities to recover the costs of
mandated programs through fees that are exempt from Proposition 218 as well
as potential exemptions for stormwater infrastructure projects.
• Support efforts to restore local authority and control over revenues, governance,
and service delivery as well as protect local governments against unfunded
mandates.
• Monitor and evaluate Proposition 13 and city and county tax apportionment
proposals.
Page 15 of 24
• Monitor and evaluate all proposals that include an unfunded mandate to local
governments.
• Oppose any amendment to the redistribution of sales and use taxes which will
affect the city and its ability to provide city services and thereby cause a negative
fiscal impact.
• Oppose any legislation that attempts to allocate additional general liability
exposure to cities or that seeks to prohibit the ability of cities to seek maximum
indemnification from other parties in the contractual process.
• Support efforts to allocate State revenues to local government projects that fund
affordable housing.
• Advocate for grants or loans to upgrade municipal irrigation systems and install
smart controls. Advocate for further grants to upgrade and maintain the urban
forest.
• Advocate for state taxation policies and procedures that ensure that taxing
authorities and services provided by the City are fairly and adequately funded.
• Support legislative efforts that maximize reimbursement to local governments for
medical transport and fire responder paramedic services to individuals that are
beneficiaries of state and federal medical coverage.
3. Public Safety
Police
• Support legislation that strengthens local law enforcement
• Support funding for local law enforcement equipment, services, wellness or
personnel.
• Support legislation that allows use of state public safety grants for intervention
and prevention efforts to curb gang crime and youth violence.
• Support legislation that would provide cities with a greater share of fines and
forfeitures.
• Support legislation that allows law enforcement to better combat gun violence
through investigation, interdiction, and prevention of firearm related crimes.
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• Support legislation that allows use of state public safety grants for maintenance
efforts in addition to service increases.
• Support legislation and administrative actions that protect the City's interests
related to the AB 109 public safety realignment initiative including but not limited
to equitable distribution of funding and policies that do not unfairly impact
Bakersfield and Kern County.
• Support legislation that strengthens penalties for chronic low level offenses
including drug, property crime and violent offenders.
• Support legislation that increases penalties for the sale and distribution of
fentanyl.
• Support legislation that addresses accountability and transparency among law
enforcement agencies and personnel.
Fire Services
• Ensure local discretion in the adoption and implementation of health and safety
standards contained in the building and fire codes.
• Oppose legislation that mandates local building and fire code standards that
negatively impact the health and safety of the community and add undue
burden and investment in the City.
• Support funding for local emergency operations including equipment, services,
and personnel.
Emergency Services
• Oppose legislation that would restrict a local government from revising the
delivery of emergency medical service to its citizens and support measures that
broaden these powers.
• Support legislation that would enhance cost recovery or provide funding for
emergency medical services and pre -hospital care.
• Support legislation that would strengthen community and disaster preparedness,
public health, safety, and resiliency.
• Support legislation that provides state and federal emergency funding and
regulatory relief that allows cities to devote the necessary resources and meet the
operational challenges of protecting the public health, safety and welfare in
response to a declared State of Emergency.
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4. Infrastructure Investment
General Principles
• Support equitable long-range, statewide infrastructure investment.
• Advocate for fair implementation and distribution of state infrastructure bond
funds to assure the City receives an adequate share for local improvements and
programs.
• Support legislation that streamlines federal and state environmental review
processes and limits court reviews of environmental documentation.
Public Works
• Advocate for state funding and transportation re -authorizations that support City
infrastructure projects and City programs including projects adopted in the Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP).
• Support increased funding to enhance existing public transportation programs.
• Advocate for state funding for street, road, and alleyway repair within the City of
Bakersfield.
• Advocate that fundamental responsibility for transportation decision making
should be at the local level.
• Oppose any state reductions to existing transportation grants and programs.
• Advocate for ongoing funding to enhance and beautify state right of ways,
including State Route 99, State Route 58 and State Route 178 corridors.
• Oppose legislation that limits and/or decreases the existing amount of retention
proceeds withheld from any payment by a public entity to a contractor on a public
project.
Parks
• Advocate for trails and landscape grants consistent with landscape, street scape
and public access improvement plans of the City.
• Support legislation and regulations that provide addition funding for public parks
and advocate that Bakersfield receive equitable funding from statewide revenues.
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Technology Services
• Advocate for state funding opportunities that support energy efficient technology
initiatives (i.e. green data center) or those that support digital City initiatives.
Water
• Support measures that provide for the equitable allotment and distribution of
preferential water rights.
• Support legislation that protects and improves the reliability, affordability, self-
sufficiency, quality and security of local and imported water supplies.
• Support legislation that supports regional projects through Integrated Regional
Water Management Planning
• Support legislation that streamlines environmental review processes for water
and wastewater infrastructure projects and provides exemptions for emergency
activities when the continued delivery of safe and clean water is threatened.
• Support measures that increase water supply and storage facilities within the
region and allow for economically feasible water transfers within the system.
• Oppose additional mandated storm water pollution prevention measures that are
not accompanied by funding or a mechanism to provide for funding.
• Support legislation creating sustainable funding sources to assist local
governments with obligations under federal storm water regulations.
• Support legislation that provides a mechanism to fund the construction,
operations, maintenance, and administration of storm water programs and
projects that improve quality, minimize runoff, maximize infiltration and
beneficial uses, and maximize flooding protection.
• Oppose additional mandated storm water pollution prevention measures that are
not accompanied by funding or a mechanism to provide for funding.
High Speed Rail
• Advocate for a world class High -Speed Rail station.
• Advocate for dollars that mitigate the cost to the City in supporting the High Speed
Rail viaduct and station.
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S. Improve the Quality of Life and Sustainability of the City
General Principles
• Support efforts that impact the City's ability to enhance the well-being, quality of
life, health, and safety of residents; and stabilize and enhance jobs and economic
growth.
• Support legislation that provides economic development and redevelopment
tools and programs for municipalities, particularly tools to assist urban
revitalization.
• Support legislation and State funding that is consistent with the City's Economic
Development Strategic Plan.
Education
• Support legislation and State funding that would support educational efforts in
the City of Bakersfield and improve educational outcomes.
• Support legislation and State funding that would increase access to higher
education for Bakersfield residents.
Housing (Planning, Zoning, Homelessness)
• Support legislation that provides financial support and incentives for programs
that provide affordable housing for disabled and low-income residents, families,
and senior adults.
• Support legislation that provides incentives (tax benefits, grants, loans, credits for
affordable units) to local agencies, private developers and non-profit groups in
order to rehabilitate residential units and commercial properties.
• Support legislation that would provide additional funding for rental subsidy
assistance programs (such as Section 8) via more vouchers or certificates.
• Oppose legislation that would diminish local control to set and assess
development review and building inspection fees.
• Oppose legislation or governance that attempts to supersede adopted planning
documents or projects that have already been approved through appropriate
processes.
• Support state legislation that strengthens local inclusionary housing programs.
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• Support measures that would establish a formula -based Regional Housing Needs
Assessment allocation methodology that reflects the unique needs and practical
capacity of local communities.
• Support funding and legislation that provides resources for local agencies to
provide referral services for persons experiencing homelessness.
• Support measures that provide resources to address the mental health needs of
persons experiencing homelessness
• Support legislation that seeks to streamline the annexation process for urbanized
unincorporated county islands in an effort to streamline local government services
and reduce costs to taxpayers.
Sustainability,
• Support legislation and funding for energy -efficiency projects and programs for
public buildings and facilities.
Parks and Recreation
• Support legislation providing funding for the acquisition and restoration of wildlife
habitat.
• Support statewide funding for rehabilitation, development and capital
improvements for local and state park and recreation agencies.
• Oppose legislation that has a negative impact on park and recreation agencies
including the sale of parks and open space.
• Support access for all Californians to physical activity and nutrition through parks
and open space, active transportation (bicycles and pedestrians, trails, complete
streets, use of easements), healthy foods, youth programs, and joint use of
schools
Economic Development
• Ensuring that funding and support for technology are present for workforce
development efforts, individual learning, entrepreneurial/business centers, and
lifelong learning.
• Support legislation that facilitates economic development efforts and encourages
businesses to locate or remain in California particularly in areas with transitional
economies and disadvantaged neighborhoods.
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• Oppose legislation or con st it utiona l amend ments that would restrict the power of
California cities to use eminent domain for redevelopment projects, including
economic redevelopment, where a prior finding of blight has been determined.
• Support legislation that would establish new tax increment financing tools.
• Support legislation that provides a reasonable threshold such as $100,000 or less
for project assistance (like facade improvements, replace older equipment, etc.)
where prevailing wage would not be required.
• Support legislation to provide exemptions to the Surplus Lands Act to benefit
economic development.
6. Employment and Labor Relations
Administration and Human Resources
• Support maximum flexibility for local government in contracting and contract
negotiations.
• Support legislation that would increase civic participation and engagement
including the continued allowance of non -decision -making subcommittees,
advisory committees, and commissions to participate virtually (post COVID-19
state of emergency) without physical location posting requirements under the
Ralph M. Brown Act.
• Support legislation that promotes efforts to advance workplace diversity, equity
and inclusion without hindering the City's ability to hire qualified employees.
• Support legislation that facilitates the ability of local government to share
resources to increase efficiencies and decrease costs, including local efforts to
address regional management of fire services.
• Oppose measures that reduce local control over employee relations issues or
mandate new or enhanced local government employee benefits.
• Oppose measures that impose compulsory and binding arbitration with respect to
employees.
• Support efforts to maintain fiscal solvency with respect to unfunded pension and
retiree healthcare liability. Support efforts that decrease local costs.
• Support legislation that provides flexibility to cities to determine retirement
benefits for employees into the future.
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• Oppose legislation that limits local control of hiring practices or the ability to
determine the terms and conditions of employment.
• Support legislation that creates a fair and balanced workers compensation
system for both employers and employees with an emphasis on cost
containment and returning employees to work as soon as possible
• Oppose legislation that puts either the employer or employee at a disadvantage
or increases the cost of workers compensation insurance in the State.
Risk Management
• Support legislation to establish maximum limitations on general damages
• Enhance the ability of public agencies to use periodic payments as satisfaction of
judgement.
• Support legislation to eliminate the application of the rule against collateral
sources as a means of reducing damages
7. Protection of the agriculture and energy production industries
• Oppose legislation or governance that has undue negative impacts to the
agriculture and energy production industries.
• Support legislation and governance that provides for protections and reasonable
accommodations forthe agriculture and energy production industries.
• Support legislation providing funding and other means development of water and
energy related technologies that support the agriculture and energy production
industries.
8. Public Health Economic Relief and Employee Health
• Support legislation that provides direct and flexible funding to local governments
for the costs incurred as a result of responding to a public health emergency.
• Support legislative and/or funding efforts to assist the City with employee
support programs, increased PPE and other programs that promote employee
wellness —particularly for the City's frontline essential workers.
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• Support legislation that promotes regional collaboration on public health
response including funding opportunities to support local businesses.
Support legislation and/or funding efforts to —provides financial relief to
residential and commercial landlords and tenants who have lost income
because of pandemic -related public health orders.
• Oppose efforts to mandate testing and vaccinations
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