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Home My WebLink About12/07/23 LEGISLATIVE & LITIGATION MEETINGd BAKERSFIELD THE SOUND OF5 wte{,frjMfVe#f Staff: Anthony Valdez, Assistant to the City Manager ROLL CALL POSTED ON I/Al . 3 by City Clerk's Office City of Bakersfield Committee Members: Councilmember, Bruce Freeman - Chair Councilmember, Andrae Gonzales Councilmember, Manpreet Kaur Regular Meeting of the Legislative and Litigation Committee of the City Council - City of Bakersfield Thursday, December 7, 2023 10:00 a.m. City Hall North, First Floor, Conference Room A 1600 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield CA 93301 2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS A. Agenda Item Public Statements. B. Non -Agenda Item Public Statements. 3. ADOPT November 8, 2023, SPECIAL AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT 4. NEW BUSINESS A. Discussion of the City's Recent Selection of Federal Legislative and Funding Advocate Summit Strategies. (Information item only, staff recommends receive and file presentation.) B. Discussion of Quarterly Legislative Update from the City's State Legislative and Funding Advocate Renne Public Policy Group. (Information item only, Staff recommends receive and file presentation.) 5. COMMITTEE COMMENTS ADJOURNMENT i � • �s fir , Staff: Anthony Valdez, Assistant to the City Manager Committee Members: Councilmember, Bruce Freeman - Chair Councilmember, Andrae Gonzales Councilmember, Manpreet Kaur Special Meeting of the Legislative and Litigation Committee of the City Council - City of Bakersfield Wednesday, November 8, 2023 12:00 p.m. City Hall North, First Floor, Conference Room A 1600 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield CA 93301 Agenda Summary Report Meeting called to order at 12:03 p.m. 1. ROLL CALL Committee members present: Councilmember Bruce Freeman Councilmember Andrae Gonzales Councilmember Manpreet Kaur City Staff: Christian Clegg, City Manager Ginny Gennaro, City Attorney Ashley Zambrano, Deputy City Attorney Julie Drimakis, City Clerk Tammy Davis, Animal Control Sandra Alvarez, Animal Control Joe Conroy, Crystal Rubio, City Manager's Office Additional Attendees: Members of the public and other City Staff 2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS a. Agenda Item Public Statements None. b. Non -Agenda Item Public Statements None. 3. ADOPT JUNE 8, 2023, REGULAR AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT Motion by Councilmember Gonzales to adopt the June 8, 2023, Regular Agenda Summary Report. Motion unanimously approved. 4. NEW BUSINESS A. Staff update on City Animal Control issues and options for possible Municipal code amendments concerning the same for Committee discussion and direction. (Staff recommends receive and file presentation and committee direction.) City Manager Clegg made staff comments. Deputy City Attorney Zambrano and Assistant to the City Manager Rubio, Animal Control Supervisor Davis, Animal Control Senior Officer Alvarez, Animal Care Center Shelter Director Buck, made staff comments and provided a PowerPoint presentation. City Attorney Gennaro made additional comments. Motion by Councilmember Gonzales to receive and file the presentation and propose the four ordinance options presented to full Council for adoption. Motion unanimously approved. 5. COMMITTEE COMMENTS None. 6. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 12:43 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 Special Meeting November 8, 2023, Agenda Page 2 RPPG City of Bakersfield: Positioned Bills As of November 7, 2023 Bill Number Summary Position/Date Legislative Platform Status ,u .o..., Taken AB 33 (Bains) Establishes the Fentanyl Addiction and Support Council d rection. Increase Chaptered Fentanyl Addiction Overdose Prevention Task Force and requires, planning and coordination to and Overdose on or before or before January 1, 2025, the task May 31, 2023 address the state's opioid crisis. Prevention Task force to submit an interim report to the Force Governor and the Legislature. AB 474 (Rodriguez) Requires the State Threat Assessment Center Support Council direction. Increase Vetoed State Threat (STAG) and the California Office of Emergency planning and coordination to Assessment Center: Services (Cal OES) to prioritize, to the greatest May 31, 2023 address the state's opioid crisis. transnational extent possible, cooperation with state and criminal local efforts to disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations networks trafficking opioid drugs that pose a threat to California. AB 531 (Irwin) The Would, if approved by the voters, authorize the Support Support measures that provide Chaptered Behavioral Health issuance of bonds in the amount of $4.68 resources to address the mental Infrastructure Bond billion to be used to finance grants for August 11, 2023 health needs of persons Act of 2023 community -based treatment, care, and housing experiencing homelessness. for people experiencing homelessness, at risk of homelessness, or living with a behavioral health challenge. RPPG AB 675 (Soria) Adds a substance containing a heroin analog, a Pending Support Support legislation that increases Bill died in Controlled substance containing fentanyl, and a substance penalties for the sale and Assembly Substances containing a fentanyl analog to the list of May 31, 2023 distribution of fentanyl. Appropriations controlled substances for which possession of before a support those substances while armed with a loaded letter could be and operable firearm is a felony punishable in submitted state prison by two, three, or four years. AB 701 (Villapudua) This bill would impose that additional term Support Support legislation that increases Chaptered Controlled upon, and authorize a fine against, a defendant penalties for the sale and substances: who violates those laws with respect to a May 31, 2023 distribution of fentanyl. fentanyl substance containing fentanyl. By increasing the penalty for a crime. AB 894 (Friedman) Requires public agencies to allow proposed and Support Council direction. Increase Chaptered Parking existing developments to count underutilized parking options in the downtown requirements: and shared parking spaces toward a parking June 20, 2023 and other areas. shared parking requirement imposed by the agency. AB 1708 This bill would refine the definition of Support Support legislation that Bill died in (Muratsuchi) Theft shoplifting and would specifically exclude strengthens the ability of the City Assembly Public certain offenses from prosecution as April 10, 2023 to create safe environments and Safety shoplifting, including, among others, the theft well-being for all. of a firearm or vehicle, identity theft, and credit card fraud. SB 4 (Wiener) Enacts the Affordable Housing on Faith and Support Council Direction. Increase Chaptered Planning and Higher Education Lands Act of 2023 to affordable housing construction. zoning: housing streamline housing production on land religious June 19, 2023 development: and independent higher education institutions higher education own. institutions and religious institutions SB 14 (Grove) This bill would include human trafficking of a Support Support legislation that Chaptered Serious felonies: minor within the definition of a serious felony strengthens the ability of the City human trafficking March 27, 2023 RPPG for all purposes, including for purposes of the to create safe environments and Three Strikes Law. well-being for all. SB 43 (Eggman) Modernize the definition of "gravely disabled" Support Support measures that provide Chaptered Behavioral Health within the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act to resources to address the mental provide for the needs more accurately and March 21, 2023 health needs of persons comprehensively of individuals experiencing a experiencing homelessness. substantial risk of serious harm due to a mental health or substance use disorder. SB 326 (Eggman) will rename the Mental Health Services Act to Support Support measures that provide Chaptered The Behavioral the Behavioral Health Services Act, expand its resources to address the mental Health Services Act scope to include the treatment of substance health needs of persons use disorders, and revise the distribution of its experiencing homelessness. funds. SB 363 (Eggman) This bill requires the State Department of Support Support measures that provide Bill died in Facilities for Health Care Services in consultation with the resources to address the mental Assembly inpatient and State Department of Public Health and the March 27, 2023 health needs of persons Appropriations residential mental State Department of Social Services, to develop experiencing homelessness. health and a real-time, internet-based database to collect, substance use aggregate, and display information about beds disorder: database to identify the availability of inpatient and residential mental health or substance use disorder treatment. The bill requires the database to be operational by January 1, 2025. SB 423 (Wiener) This bill would authorize the Department of Support Council Direction. Increase Chaptered Land use: General Services to act in the place of a locality affordable housing construction. streamlined or local government, at the discretion of that June 21, 2023 housing approvals: department, for purposes of the ministerial, multifamily housing streamlined review for development on developments property owned by or leased to the state. Extends sunset date for SB 35 (Wiener, 2017) to 2036, makes changes to the SB 35 approval process, and revises SB 35 labor standards. RPPG SB 747 (Caballero) This bill makes several changes to the Surplus Support Support legislation to provide Chaptered Land use: economic Land Act (SLA), including, but not limited to, exemptions to the Surplus Lands development: amending key definitions, modifying April 10, 2023 Act to benefit economic surplus land procedures, modifying the Department of development. Housing and Community Development's (HCD) authority, and amending the Economic Opportunity Law, with the intent of promoting economic development. RPPG 403 Grant Activity Report: 11/30/2023 Proposals submitted with assistance from RPPG. Upcoming Funding Opportunities — Vetting/Tracking Grant Name Agency Amount Deadline Notes - _ Lead Potential need for planning funding. Railroad Crossing U.S. DOT 7BU Fall 2023 Gregg Grade separation Elimination Program project on Truxtun Avenue. Fire safety grants that fund critically needed resources to equip and Assistance to FEMA Up to $1,000,000. Winter 2024 Paul train emergency Firefighters Grant personnel, enhance efficiencies, and support community resilience. Funding that will increase publicly Broadband Adoption CPUC TBD 1/1/2024 TBD available or after - Account school broadband access and digital inclusion. Deploy, install, and Advanced operate advanced Transportation FHWA Up to $12,000,000 Q1 2024 TBD transportation Technologies and technologies to Innovation improve transit system RENNE PUBLIC POLICY GROUP 1 1127 111h Street, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95814 1 www.publicpolicygroup.com RPPG performance. This is a program from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Funding for fire prevention projects Wildfire Prevention CAL FIRE Up to $3,000,000 1/10/2024 TBD and activities in and Grants Program near fire threatened communities Small -Scale Water U.S. BoR Maximum of $100,000 per 1/16/2024 TBD Potential funding for Efficiency Projects applicant. 7/9/2024 water conservation. Funding for Sustainable Sustainable Minimum $50,000. Communities, Climate Transportation Caltrans Maximum 1/18/2024 TBD Adaption Planning, and Planning Grants $1,500,000. Strategic Partnerships grants. Funding to accelerate the deployment and adoption of proven Accelerated Innovation Minimum innovative practices Deployment $100,000. 1/23/2024 and technologies in Demonstration FHWA Maximum 5/28/2024 TBD highway transportation Program $1,000,000. projects. This is a program from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Program established Outdoor Recreation NPS $300,000 - 1/31/2024 Rick & through the Land and Legacy Partnership $15,000,000 Walter Water Conservation Fund. Funding for projects that result in quantifiable water Water and Energy U.S. BoR Up to $5,000,000 2/23/2024 TBD savings, implement Efficiency Grants 10/30/2024 renewable energy components, and support broader sustainability benefits. Extreme Heat and Minimum Funding for planning $100,000. and implementation Community Resilience OPR Maximum Spring 2024 TBD projects to reduce the Program $5,000,000. impacts of extreme RENNE PUBLIC POLICY GROUP 1 1127 111h Street, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95814 1 www.publicpolicygroup.com KPPG Renne Public Policy Groulf heat and build community resilience. Preparing for FY 24 cycle. At least one Active Transportation CalTrans TBD June 2024 Gregg project in design Program (Tentative) currently. Monitor Street. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis for 12 months (starting Fall 2023). Funding for projects Community Change No maximum that support U.S. EPA Fall 2024 Jason Grants amount. environmental and climate justice for disadvantaged communities. Wanting to target Niles - Monterey area. Funding to provide housing relocation and stabilization services Minimum: and short- and/or Emergency Solutions $75,000 medium -term rental Grant —Homelessness CaIHCD Ongoing TBD assistance. Must have Prevention Maximum: HCD approved $200,000 Homeless Prevention policies and procedures. Potential opportunity Public Works and Jason & to support economic Economic Adjustment EDA TBD Ongoing Jenni development goals and Assistance CEDS strategies. Second funding Flood Mitigation FEMA TBD TBD TBD opportunity for flood Assistance risk mitigation projects. Potential application Maximum of RAISE U.S. DoT $10,000,000 TBD 2024 TBD for SR-204 conversion w/ High -Speed Rail. RENNE PUBLIC POLICY GROUP 1 1127 1111 Street, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95814 1 www.publicpolicygroup.com RPPG Potential application Reconnecting U.S. DoT No maximum TBD 2024 TBD for SR-204 conversion Communities amount. w/ High -Speed Rail. Statewide Park CA Dept. of Cancelled this year. Development and Parks and Maximum of TBD Rick & Anticipated application Community Rec $8,000,000. Walter cycle in 2024. Revitalization Program Potential opportunity Land and Water CA Dept. of Maximum of Rick & for MILK Park Master Conservation Fund Parks and $6,000,000. TBD Walter Plan. Looking to apply Rec in 2024. Potential opportunity Community Resilience Maximum of Rick & for MLK Park Master Centers SGC $10,000,000. TBD Walter Plan. Looking to apply in 2024. Planning funds for projects that will apply Transit -Oriented $250,000 - for FTA Capital Development Planning U.S. DOT TBD $2,000,000 TBD Investment Grants Pilot Program Program funding. Targeting for 2024. Pending Grant Submissions Gr t Name = Agency - Amount r _ Submitted : 'Itn Notes rd .Date Submitted vehicle Assistance to FEMA $1,436,523 2/7/2023 Summer/ acquisition Firefighters Grant Fall 2023 application for a new Heavy Rescue Vehicle. Transformative Submitted proposal Climate Communities SGC $29,500,000 8/1/2023 Dec. 2023 for Southeast Strong — Round 5 initiative. RENNE PUBLIC POLICY GROUP 1 1127 111h Street, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95814 1 www.publicpolicygroup.com RPPG Pending Budget/Earmark Requests [A'- Gram e"` wmaker � d Amount ` ,.. Submitted Antics aced Award Date , dotes Funding for complete streets improvements Federal to MILK Blvd. between Community Project Rep. $S,000,000 3/15/2023 Budget California and Funding Valadao Adoption Brundage. Has been forwarded to Appropriations. Grant Awards Grant Name Agency Amount ' �� Submitted "Wbwfication Notes Date Fiscal Year 21-22 Funding will support City Hall Fellowship Youth Workforce CA $5,354,257 12/31/2021 March 2022 program. RPPG Development Program Volunteers assisted with proposal development. Funding will support the Garces Memorial Clean California Grant Caltrans $1,491,250 2/1/2022 March 2022 Circle Enhancement Program project. Proposal reviewed by RPPG prior to submission. $2,950,000 Proposal for H Street. Active Transportation Caltrans 6/15/2022 January Prepared by Bruce. Program (Original ask: 2023 Partially funded by $8,454,000) Kern COG. Submitted application for Citadel project with enhanced tree Urban Greening CNRA $1 419 099 3/28/2022 March 2023 Planting and Program reactivation of the abandoned soccer field adjacent to MLK Jr. Elementary. RENNE PUBLIC POLICY GROUP 1 1127 11th Street, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95814 1 www.publicpolicygroup.com RPPG Submitted application Emergency Medical OTS $267,182 1/31/2023 July 2023 for battery -powered Services Program extrication equipment. Applying for funding Rebuilding America for Chester AvenueComplete with Sustainability and U.S. DoT $10,000,000 2/28/2023 June 2023 Streets Equity (RAISE) project. Submitted to fund Water and Energy U.S. BoR $497,117 7/28/2022 April 2023 Automated Metering Efficiency Grants Infrastructure (AMI) installations. Funding availability Homeless Housing, supported by lobbying Assistance, and CaIICH $4,283,320 11/29/2022 January efforts undertaken by Prevention (HHAP) — 2023 Big City Mayors and Round 4 RPPG on behalf of the City of Bakersfield. Fiscal Year 23-24 CoC submitted Encampment Cal ICH $7,048,875 6/30/2023 August 2023 application w/ City Resolution Grant* support. Formula funding Climate Pollution EPA $1,000,000 7/31/2023 August 2023 allocated for Reduction Grant*Bakersfield for climate adaptation planning. Submitted application Organized Retail Theft BSCC $6,203,009 7/6/2023 Sept. 2023 to support ORT Unit Prevention Grant operations Formula funding Edward Byrne allocation. PD would Memorial Justice U.S. DOJ $156,045 8/31/2023 Sept. 2023 like to use funding for Assistance Grant body armor and load bearing vests. RENNE PUBLIC POLICY GROUP 1 1127 11th Street, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95814 1 www.publicpolicygroup.com RPPG Renne Public Policy Group' Earmark Approved RENNE PUBLIC POLICY GROUP 1 1127 11" Street, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95814 1 www.publicpolicygroup.com PPG Renne Public Policy Group' Submitted/Not Funded . 'grant Narrr ;� �. Agency amount Submitted Otl ICa Ion Date Notes Submitted application Assistance to FEMA $1 207 955 12/17/2021 December for an Urban Search Firefighters Grant 2022 and Rescue Rig. Active Transportation Caltrans $9,940,944 6/15/2022 January Proposal submitted Program 2023 for Arvin -Edison Canal. Reviewed/Not Pursued Paint ofW"' �. ant Name Agency ° Amount Smbrnission Contact Not s Unable to complete Organics Grant Program CalRecycle TBD 4/20/2023 Renee Project scoping within the time constraints of the grant solicitation. Explored opportunity to apply for Monterey/Niles Clean California Local Caltrans TBD 4/28/2023 Gregg Corridor project. City Grant Program will instead implement pilot project and prepare for future funding opportunities. Funding opportunity did not align with CRISES Pilot Program CDSS TBD 7/17/2023 TBD concept for co - responder model for DV cases. Infrastructure for Explored Hageman Rebuilding America U.S. DoT TBD Spring 2023 Gregg Flyover application. (INFRA) Revisit for FY 24. Water Department Notices of indicated interest at Hazard Mitigation CMO 1/19 meeting. Assistance Grants FEMA TBD Interest due TBD Related to recent 5/10/2023 flooding and water infrastructure. RENNE PUBLIC POLICY GROUP 1 1127 111h Street, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95814 1 www.publicpolicygroup.com RPPG Renne Public Policy Group' Potential opportunity for MLK Park Master Range of $5M - Plan. Will target for Community Resilience SGC $10M for 9/18/2023 Rick & future funding cycle, Centers implementation. Walter but project is not currently ready to move forward. Potential project for SR 204 conversion to Highways to Boulevard Caltrans $149 million total 9/20/2023 Gregg support HSR station. Program available Caltrans anticipates awarding three communities. Funding to reconnect communities divided by transportation infrastructure. Public Works working on an Reconnecting U.S. U.S. DOT -- 9/28/2023 Winter application for Union Communities Program* Street. Caltrans was doing work along the corridor that was similar, so the City did not apply. Energy Efficiency and Formula funding Conservation Block EPA $379,310 7/31/2023 Fall 2023 allocated for Grant* Bakersfield. Withdrawn. RENNE PUBLIC POLICY GROUP 1 1127 11t' Street, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95814 1 www.publicpolicygroup.com 2023 END OF YEAR REPORT City of Bakersfield Prepared By: Sharon Gonsalves Director of Government Affairs Phone: (916) 849-5536 sgonsalves@publicpolicygroup.com RPPG TABLE OF CONTENTS TRANSMITTAL LETTER...................................................................................... 3 2023: YEAR IN REVIEW.......................................................................................5 RPPG/CITY OF BAKERSFIELD HIGHLIGHTS 2023.......................................... 7 KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS...................................................................8 CLIENT COMMUNICATION...............................................................................11 OTHER RPPG EFFORTS..................................................................................11 LOOKING AHEAD: 2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION .......................................... 13 CHANGE IN COMMITTEE CHAIRS...................................................................13 LOOMING BUDGET DEFICIT............................................................................13 A SLOWDOWN IN HOUSING LEGISLATION... NOT SO FAST .......................14 GOVERNMENT TRANSPARENCY ACT...........................................................14 CLIMATE BOND................................................................................................ 15 WILDFIRE INSURANCE....................................................................................15 GRANT WRITING SERVICE: STATUS UPDATE..............................................16 LOOKING AHEAD: 2024 GRANT FUNDING ..................................................... 19 TRANSPORTATION..........................................................................................19 PARKS AND RECREATION..............................................................................23 FIRE RESPONSE AND WILDFIRE MITIGATION..............................................24 HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS.................................................................... 25 SUSTAINABILITY AND CLIMATE ADAPTATION ............................................ 27 WATER QUALITY AND CONSERVATION....................................................... 29 ECONOMIC AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT .......................................... 30 PUBLIC SAFETY AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE....................................................31 COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE....................................................................33 HAZARD MITIGATION.......................................................................................33 2 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG TRANSMITTAL LETTER November 15, 2023 To: Christian Clegg City Manager City of Bakersfield From: Sharon Gonsalves Director of Government Affairs Renne Public Policy Group Dear Mr. Clegg, On behalf of the Renne Public Law Group, LLP [DBA Renne Public Policy Group (RPPG)I, I want to thank you, your team, and the City of Bakersfield City Council for engaging our firm for state legislative advocacy services. This end of year report provides an overview of the services provided by our firm to the City of Bakersfield during the 2023 legislative year, as well as insights and potential next steps in preparation for the 2024 legislative year. Additionally, this report provides a recap on efforts currently underway for the 2024 legislative session and our firm's initial assessment of eligible grant funding opportunities. Over the past year, RPPG has worked with your staff to take an aggressive approach to raise the City's profile and to build relationships with the Administration, state agencies, and Members of the Legislature. 2023 proved to be a productive year in continuing the City's presence and educating decision makers about the City's top priorities. RPPG continued to work with your staff to provide clarity on issues through the following mechanisms: drafting memos, providing information on administrative actions, and providing detailed policy and political analysis on dozens of items of interest to the City. RPPG engaged on state legislative measures in the areas of housing, land use, mental health, climate, homelessness, elections, political reform, as well as on governmental operations and employment issues with specific applicability to the City. This resulted in over 410 individual "touch points", either with the City or on behalf of the City. Deliverables included drafting memos, providing legislative analysis, advising City staff, meeting with state lawmakers or their staff, drafting state and federal position letters, etc. In 2023, RPPG monitored and/or engaged on over 1,490 pieces of state legislation. In total, the City of Bakersfield officially positioned on 13 pieces of state legislation in 2023. We are proud that our team was able to deliver favorable outcomes most notably on AB 531 (Irwin) and SB 326 (Eggman), which will overhaul the existing Mental Health Services System and SB 14 (Grove) which will include human trafficking of a minor to the list of offenses subject to the Three Strikes Law. While these are all solid accomplishments, my team and I are especially proud of working with Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains in helping secure $2 million for the Martin Luther King Jr Park rehabilitation project. City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Moreover, we worked closely with departmental staff, providing ongoing research and support on a variety of state and federal grant programs. As detailed further in this report, in addition to assisting on grants, RPPG worked with City staff on how to prepare for upcoming grant opportunities to ensure applications are competitive. RPPG's Grant Services team worked closely with staff to screen potential projects for Community Project Funding (CPF) requests to Rep. Valadao's office for the FY 23 federal budget development cycle. This included a thorough review of CPF program guidelines and assessment of which available funding accounts aligned with the different project concepts. Rep. Valadao forwarded the City's $5 million funding request for MLK Boulevard Complete Streets Improvements to the House Appropriations Committee, which is pending final federal budget adoption. This marks the first time in recent history that Bakersfield has received federal earmark funding. RPPG Grant Services Division assisted the City in securing $16,626,236 in grant funding this year, with two signature awards coming through the U.S. Department of Transportation for $10 million in RAISE grant funding and $6.2 million in funding from the Board of State and Community Corrections Organized Retail Theft Prevention Program. We are grateful that the City will continue its relationship with RPPG moving into the 2024 legislative session. Despite our team's success on behalf of the City, we believe there is still much more work to be done, and we certainly do not take this responsibility lightly. Thank you once again for the opportunity to serve the City of Bakersfield. We look forward to continuing our partnership and building on the success we have achieved. Sincerely, Sharon Gonsalves Director of Government Affairs Renne Public Policy Group CC: Anthony Valdez, Assistant to the City Manager, City of Bakersfield City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Renne Public Policy Group' 2023: YEAR IN REVIEW The 2023-2024 session of the California State Legislature began with both houses convening in early December 2022 for an organizational session. During this time, Members in each house took their oaths of office and passed their respective chamber rules. The first formal action taken by the Assembly was to adopt a leadership transition plan (House Resolution H.R. 1) which solidified the transition of Assembly Speakership from Anthony Rendon (D, Lakewood) to Robert Rivas (D, Hollister) effective July 1, 2023. In the Senate, Toni Atkins (D, San Diego) was re-elected President pro Tempore and Mike McGuire (D, Healdsburg) was re-elected as Majority Leader. However, there was a changing of the guard on the Senate Republican side with Brian Jones (R, Santee) replacing Scott Wilk (R, Santa Clarita) as Minority Leader. Additionally in December, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a special legislative session to introduce a gasoline price gouging measure in response to rapidly rising prices at the pump throughout the state during 2022. The measure, SBX1-2, was carried by Senator Nancy Skinner (D, Berkeley) and authorizes the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission to set a maximum gross gasoline refining margin and to establish a penalty if this margin is exceeded. The measure was signed into law by the Governor on March 28 and went into effect on June 26. While this measure did not have a direct impact on local government authority or operations, RPPG closely monitored this action to ensure that there was momentum to modify SB 1 allocations. The Legislature reconvened for the regular 23-24 legislative session the first week of January 2023. With 35 newly elected Members coming to Sacramento (25 Assemblymembers and 10 Senators), California saw the largest number of new state -elected representatives join the Legislature since modified constitutional term limits for state lawmakers were approved by the voters in 2012. While historically new legislators tend to ease into their newly minted roles —introducing only a handful of new legislation in year one —this new class took a different approach. As a result, we saw more than 3,000 individual legislative and budgetary measures introduced in 2023 alone. This was the most in the first year of session in more than a decade. Major themes and priorities of the 2023 session included: • Major overhaul of the state's behavioral health system and its funding. • Policies that further streamlined housing production and fast -tracked critical infrastructure projects. • Significant labor dispensations and extensions. • Attempts to address the ongoing fentanyl crisis. • Preparation and mitigation for climate change. • Advancement of several constitutional amendments and statewide funding measures for voter consideration in 2024. In early January, Governor Newsom unveiled his proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) 2023-2024. Contrary to the historic budget surpluses in the previous fiscal years, the Governor confirmed that the state was projecting a $22 billion deficit moving into the new year. Factors the Administration cited included a drop in anticipated personal income tax revenues, a generally slowing economy, high inflation, and Federal Reserve interest rate increases. Despite these negative drags on the economy, the Administration did not project a recession in the budget. In response, the Administration proposed a combination of triggered spending cuts, funding delays, shifts in funding sources, and the issuance of bonds to close the gap and pass a balanced budget. City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report PPG Renne Public Policy Group' Given the sheer volume of legislation introduced, the spring of 2023 was a remarkably hectic time for the Legislature and advocates alike. All told there were more than 150 legislative, fiscal, and budgetary hearings dispensing with measures that directly impacted local government. The timing of these policy hearings coincided directly with Governor Newsom's "May Revise" in which the Administration proposed an increase of $9 billion in total spending along with an increase in the state's projected deficit —now surpassing $30 billion. All told the final FY 23-24 budget consisted of $310 billion in total spending. The final budget advanced by the Legislature contained appropriate cuts to close the $31.5 billion deficit and was signed by the Governor on June 27 to adhere to constitutional deadlines. The Administration's and Legislature's priorities in the FY 23-24 budget were consistent with previous years which dedicated funding to homelessness, climate change, healthcare, education, and housing. Governor Newsom, along with Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D, Thousand Oaks) and Senator Susan Eggman (D, Stockton), announced in mid -June a behavioral health policy package. The two measures that comprise this behavioral health package, AB 531 (Irwin) and SB 326 (Eggman), were signed into law on October 12 and will be put to voters on the March 2024 ballot as Proposition 1. AB 531 will provide $6.38 billion in new funding for behavioral health infrastructure efforts. In response to a strong lobbying effort from local government advocates, the measure was amended in the eleventh hour to increase the total funding amount and to provide direct allocation to cities. SB 326 will rename and modernize the Mental Health Services Act passed by the voters as Proposition 63 in November 2004. AB 531 and SB 326 received bipartisan support on both the Assembly and Senate Floors. Robert Rivas was sworn in as the 711t Speaker of the State Assembly on June 30. He made several changes to Assembly leadership on July 3, including appointing Isaac Bryan (D, Los Angeles) as the new Majority Leader and Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D, Winters) as the new Speaker pro Tempore. Additionally, Juan Carrillo (D, Palmdale) was appointed the new chair of the Local Government Committee. Speaker Rivas was elected to the Legislature in 2018 and with 12-year term limits could potentially hold his leadership position until he terms out in 2030. Senator Atkins announced in late August that the Senate Democratic Caucus had determined that Senator McGuire will be the Pro Tem "Designee," with a specific transition date to be announced in January 2024. Senator Atkins has served in the Legislature since 2012. As an Assemblymember she rose to power — becoming Speaker of the Assembly from 2014-2016 before running for State Senate. Senator Atkins then became the Pro Tern of the Senate in 2018. She terms out of the Legislature in 2024. Senator McGuire was elected to the Senate in 2014 and has served as Majority Leader since 2022. He terms out of the Legislature in 2026 and has filed paperwork to run for Insurance Commissioner. By the evening of September 14, the legislature had advanced a total of 1,046 bills to the Governor for his consideration. By October 14, the Governor had signed 890 measures into law and vetoed 156—an approximate rate of 85% to 15%. The Legislature is now adjourned and will resume the second year of the two-year legislative session on January 3, 2024. City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Renne Public Policy Group° RPPG/CITY OF BAKERSFIELD HIGHLIGHTS 2023 PIECES OF LEGISLATION TRACKED ON BEHALF OF THE CITY Legislation tracked and assessed for impacts on City operations, legal and/or local decision making. SUCCESS RATE ON LEGISLATIVE ENGAGEMENT — MAKING THE CITY'S VOICE HEARD RPPG achieved the desired outcome for 10 of the 13 positioned bills. One support positioned bill was vetoed and the two remaining bills were held in committee as two-year support bills that will continue to be moving forward in 2024. IN STATE AND FEDERAL FUNDING SECURED Combined funds that RPPG secured for the City from state and federal grants and from direct state funding in the fiscal year 2023-2024 budget. COMBINED DELIVERABLES AND TOUCHPOINTS PROVIDED TO AND ON BEHALF OF THE CITY Legislative updates, legislative and budgetary position letters, policy, and political analysis, meetings with City and/or state legislature on behalf of the City. *As of October 31 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS At its core, legislative advocacy is working with individual lawmakers (both within the City's legislative district and out), committee staff, the Governor's administration, and regulatory officials to support the City's policy goals. Equally important is the ability to work with those same stakeholders to mitigate legal, operational, or fiscal impacts that state legislation may have on the City of Bakersfield. Successful legislative advocacy is predicated on raising awareness and education. Being able to empower City Council, staff, and the City's advocacy team are critical in any effort to advance legislative efforts. In Sacramento, direct advocacy can range from working personally with a legislator, an aide, policy committee staff, and/or the Administration on the wording of a bill, to mobilizing broad coalitions that align with the City's cause. This work includes educating legislators, supporters, and the public about the issue, working with the media, and continuously seeking out allies and being persistent over long periods of time. Over time, a sustained legislative advocacy effort will help the City form strong allies. Working with lawmakers and familiarizing them with your concerns often results in lawmakers, even those outside of your legislative district, becoming champions for your specific issues. Establishing personal relationships with legislators, both in the City's legislative district and outside of its district, provides the City with the credibility needed to have a meaningful impact during the legislative process. While there is no guarantee that a sustained effort will lead to success on any particular issue of importance, a lack of a sustained effort will lead to state policies that will remove local decision making and create new financial, legal, or operational challenges for the City of Bakersfield. Below is a condensed narrative outlining many of the highlights and key performance indicators of success during the 2023 legislative session. Highlights: Legislative Advocacy Success ✓ AB 33 (Bains) Fentanyl Misuse and Overdose Prevention Task Force (City Position, Support) Assemblywoman Dr. Jasmeet Bains introduced AB 33 as a promise she made when running for office to combat the opioid crisis that is occurring not only in the state, but nationwide. AB 33 will create a statewide Fentanyl Addiction and Overdose Prevention Task Force. Initially the bill faced a hurdle as the Assembly Public Safety decided against hearing any fentanyl related legislation this year. RPPG was part of the large group made up of local agencies, public safety and concerned parents who pushed the committee to reconsider their stance and ultimately the bill secured a hearing and passed with bipartisan support. Additionally, RPPG worked to support the Assemblywoman's efforts to obtain funding for the task force in the State Budget. On October 13, Governor Newsom signed AB 33 into law. ✓ AB 531 (Irwin) The Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond Act of 2023 (City Position, Support) With the passage of the Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Court in 2022, additional resources will continue to be necessary to provide the required housing to those who are receiving treatment. AB 531 is a $6.38 billion bond and one piece in Governor Newsom's proposed mental health overhaul. Appearing on the March 2024 ballot as Proposition 1, if approved it will provide funding to build more than 10,000 new behavioral health beds and housing and 26,700 outpatient treatment slots - filling critical needs across the state for homeless Californians with severe behavioral health issues. RPPG worked with the City to draft relevant support letters, provided testimony in a handful of Assembly and Senate committees, and expressed the City's support to the Newsom administration once the measure advanced out of the Legislature. City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Renne Public Policy Group° On October 13, Governor Newsom signed AB 531 into law. ✓ AB 701 (Villapudua) Controlled substances: fentanyl (City Position, Support) As mentioned above under AB 33, fentanyl related legislation faced an uphill battle this legislative session, particularly in the Assembly Public Safety Committee. AB 701 adds fentanyl to the list of controlled substances, which currently includes cocaine, and heroin, for which sentencing enhancement and stiffer penalties may be levied against dealers. Leveraging our close relationships with the Calfirona Police Chiefs Association and the California Peace Officers Association, we worked collectively to garner support among the members of the legislature to ensure this bill continued to move and ultimately signed by the Governor. On October 8, Governor Newsom signed AB 701 into law. ✓ AB 894 (Friedman) Parking requirements: shared parking (City Position, Support) AB 894 requires public agencies to count underutilized and shared parking spaces toward a parking requirement as a creative way to meet parking minimums which can be challenging for local agencies and developers to meet as the future of housing moves to increased density and more transit oriented. RPPG drafted support letters, testified in all relevant policy committees, and met with the Governor's office to express Bakersfield's strong support for the bill. On October 12, Governor Newsom signed AB 894 into law. ✓ SB 4 (Wiener) Planning and zoning: housing development: higher education institutions and religious institutions (City Position, Support) The bill seeks to make it easier to build affordable homes on land owned by religious and nonprofit higher - education institutions. The City recognizes for California to achieve its goal of increasing the availability of affordable housing, it needs to encourage the construction of housing for all income levels. Higher education institutions and religious institutions offer large parcels of land in populated areas ideal to meet existing housing needs. RPPG drafted and submitted letters of support and testified in various committees. The bill moved swiftly through the legislative process and had broad bi partisan support. On October 13, Governor Newsom signed SB 4 into law. ✓ SB 14 (Grove) Serious felonies: human trafficking (City Position, Support) For a number of years, Senator Grove has been championing efforts to add trafficking of a minor to the State's Three Strike's Law, providing enhanced penalties for repeat offices. SB 14 was the most current reiteration of the bill and supported by a large coalition including 63 members of the Legislature who signed on as coauthors. Despite the broad support, Assembly Democrats in the Public Safety Committee originally blocked the bill. Given the original opposition by the Assembly Public Safety Committee, RPPG worked closely with the Senator's office to proactively engage other stakeholder groups including victims rights organizations to reach out to lawmakers, the press and the Administration to ensure the bill continued to move through the process. On September 26, Governor Newsom signed SB 14 into law. ✓ SB 43 (Eggman) Behavioral health (City Position, Support) Creating solutions to address extreme mental illness was a priority for the City Council. On the heels of the passage of CARE Court in 2022, SB 43 authored by Senator Eggman proposed to broaden the definition of gravely disabled under the Lanterman-Petris Short Act (LPS). The law was originally passed when Ronald Reagan was Governor and despite over a decade of advocating for updates and City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Renne Public Policy Group' modernization, efforts continued to fall short. On the heels of the homelessness crisis in the State, for the past two years RPPG worked with the Administration, Department of Public Health, and a large coalition of local government stakeholders, including the "Big 13 City Mayors" and League of California Cities to help advance this major piece of legislation. In addition, RPPG drafted support letters, testified in all relevant policy committees, and met with the Governor's office to express Bakersfield's strong support for the bill. On October 12, Governor Newsom signed SB 43 into law. ✓ SB 326 (Eggman) The Behavioral Health Services Act (City Position, Support) This legislation is tied to AB 531 and will appear as one ballot measure on the March 5, 2024 ballot as Proposition 1. Both bills are critical to Governor Newsom's efforts to address mental health, substance abuse and homelessness. SB 326 is designed to transform the state's Mental Health Services Act into the Behavioral Health Services Act and reallocating an existing tax on millionaires to treat the most seriously mentally ill and to increase programs for substance use disorders. There were concerns that reallocating funds in the Mental Health Services Act would threaten funding for existing outpatient mental health services. In addition to submitting letters in support, RPPG attended several hearings testifying in support of the bill and met with many lawmakers who initially had concerns to outline the benefits of the bill. On October 13, Governor Newsom signed SB 326 into law. ✓ SB 423 (Wiener) Land use: streamlined housing approvals: multifamily housing developments (City Position, Support) SB 423 will extend by ten years the sunset on SB 35 (2017) which created a by -right approval process for infill projects with two or more residential units in localities that have failed to produce sufficient housing to meet their Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA). Additionally, SB 423 would apply to areas originally exempt from the underlying legislation. Such housing development not only helps address the housing crisis, it does so without exacerbating the risks of climate change. RPPG worked with Senator Wiener's staff to ensure amendments addressed concerns from the opposition without diluting the intent of the bill. On October 12, Governor Newsom signed SB 423 into law. ✓ SB 747 (Caballero) Land use: surplus land (City Position, Support) Every year the legislature hears a number of bills looking to make exemptions to the Surplus Lands Law. Senator Caballero set out to address this by introducing SB 747 which would allow exemptions necessary for jurisdictions to enhance economic development. Her bill conflicted with Assemblymember Ting's AB 480 to have housing continue take priority on surplus lands that a local agency is looking to dispose of. After extensive negotiations between the proponents of SB 747 and AB 480 and agreement was reached. RPPG offered real life examples of the complications and ambiguity with the SLA and the rationale for change with the Senate Governance and finance committee. On September 30, Governor Newsom signed SB 747 into law. Highlights: State Budget Earmarks Apart from timing deadlines enshrined in California's constitution, the state budget process is a nuanced and often convoluted process. Timing for when requests are made is often dependent upon each individual legislator. Some legislators prefer that requests come to their capitol office, while others prefer that all 10 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG budget earmarks are submitted through their district office. With respect to Bakersfield's legislative delegation, each office used a combination of approaches outlined above. Working with your legislative delegation and with the help of City staff, RPPG worked quickly to provide a set of project specific narratives highlighting how state budget dollars —if awarded —would be used to close the gap on shovel ready projects while providing tremendous community benefit. As a result, were able to secure the following state budget earmarks: Prajer, Lawmaker Amount MLK Jr. Park Rehabilitation Project Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains $2M Client Communication Client communication is a critical component of our overall advocacy approach. The better informed our clients are, the better the advocates we can be for them. One way to achieve this goal is to provide memos which include client -specific analyses of legislation, of regulatory matters, and of the overall legislative process, as needed. RPPG has sent more than 83 memos to your team in 2023 which have detailed legislative analyses that illustrate client -specific impacts and/or potential funding sources for the City and which keep it apprised of specific legislation and policies that may be of interest to the City or impact City operations, including but not limited to the following areas: • State budget, including infrastructure trailer bills. • Constitutional amendments. • Ballot measures. • Regulatory actions. • Transportation and public works. • Housing, ADUs, land use, and homelessness. • Public employer -employee relations and conditions. • Potential state and federal grant opportunities. In 2023, RPPG continued to conduct bi-weekly Zoom meetings with the City to keep it updated on what is happening in Sacramento. We call these check -in meetings the "bookends;" in between these meetings, our team connects with City staff almost daily via calls and emails. We have also presented slide decks to staff and Council, as needed, on legislative developments and on the City's engagement in the legislative process. RPPG has also provided the City with a legislative summary each month which informs the City Council and staff of key developments in the Legislature and of announcements by the Administration, and which updates the City on any positioned legislation. Additionally, our team has provided Monthly Activity Reports, which detail every touchpoint RPPG has had with and on behalf of the City. Other RPPG Efforts At RPPG, the job does not begin and end with state legislative advocacy. We worked tirelessly throughout this year to assist the City of Bakersfield in any way we were able. This includes helping to solve local 11 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG issues that have a state nexus, working with City staff on new policies of relevance, and providing education and awareness to City Council and staff. Modification of the City of Bakersfield's Legislative Platform: The legislative platform is a set of guiding principles that reflects the overarching ideals and vision of the Council. This document is critical in an overall legislative advocacy program as it provides broad policy statements that enable the City and its legislative advocacy firm to sift through the thousands of legislative proposals introduced each legislative session to evaluate those measures that fall within the scope of the platform. Working in conjunction with City staff, RPPG met with every department director and will receive feedback from the Legislative and Litigation Committee to make major changes to the City's legislative platform. Detailed Legislative Analysis: RPPG provided detailed analyses of several pieces of legislation. These analyses have been critical in helping the City assess potential implications that pending legislation may have on operations, local discretion, and/or authority. Examples include but are not limited to: • Standalone Analysis of the Implementation of CARE Courts request by the City • Standalone analysis of ACA 1 (Aguiar-Curry) • Standalone analysis of ACA 13 (Ward) • ACA 1 and ACA 13 and Interfacing with the CBRT measure, Combined Analysis • Standalone analysis of the proposed Government Transparency Act • Standalone analysis of Proposition 1: Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond Act of 2024 • Standalone analysis of AB 309 (Lee) • Enacted Housing and Transportation Bills • Summary of Enacted 2023 Surplus Land Act Bills, specifically SB 747 (Caballero), AB 480 (Ting), SB 229 (Umberg), SB 34 (Umberg), AB 129 (Budget Trailer Bill), AB 1734 (Jones -Sawyer), and AB 1469 (Kalra) Updates on the Legislative and Fiscal Process: RPPG provided timely informational updates during critical stages of the budget and policy processes. These updates provided the City with the necessary situational awareness of statewide trends, fiscal updates, what the City is positioned on, and how RPPG is engaging on its behalf. Examples include but are not limited to reports on: • Bill introduction deadline • House of Origin deadline • Suspense file updates • End of session legislative update • Budget updates: January proposal, May -Revise, June budget update, and final budget update • Budget Trailer bill update: Governor's infrastructure package Sacramento Lobby Day: RPPG organized a lobby day for the City during April 13-14 when Mayor Karen Goh and members of the Bakersfield city manager's office were in Sacramento for the League of California Cities' City Leaders Summit. Mayor Goh and the city manager's office, accompanied by Sharon Gonsalves, met with the City's legislative delegation and the following agency officials to discuss the City's legislative and grant funding priorities: • Department of Transportation • Department of Parks and Recreation • Office of the California State Treasurer Additionally, during the Cal Cities' Annual Conference, September 20-22, members of the Bakersfield city manager's office and Councilmembers Eric Arias, Andrae Gonzales, and Bob Smith were in Sacramento and conducted meetings with RPPG to discuss the City's legislative and grant funding priorities. 12 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Client -Specific Webinar on 2023 New Housing Laws: In an effort to provide unique value to the City. Our team hosted a client -specific "new housing law" webinar on November 9, 2023. The 75-minute session aimed to drive awareness on the most impactful pieces of legislation, provide insight on implementation and answer any questions clients may have on a specific issue. Our team also provided a comprehensive power point presentation as well as additional analysis on recent changes to the surplus lands act. LOOKING AHEAD: 2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION Change in Committee Chairs With one of the most publicly contentious Assembly leadership changes in recent memory, it is a forgone conclusion that there will be major turnover in committee chairs. Upon the official transition, Speaker Rivas made swift changes to empower his closest allies —replacing Speaker Emeritus Rendon's entire team. However, given the timing of the transition, committee chairs have mostly stayed in place. As previously mentioned, the only two policy committee chair changes both have big impacts to local agencies with Isaac Bryan, the former Elections chair, elevated to Majority Leader and Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, former Local Government chair, elevated to Assembly Speaker pro Tempore. It is likely we will see major turnover in other committees directly impacting local government including Appropriations, Revenue and Taxation, Transportation, and others. Any such changes could potentially impact the pathway of priority legislation, either by creating new opportunities or further obstacles. It is widely anticipated that committee appointments will be announced sometime this month. At his inaugural ceremony in the Capitol, Speaker Rivas spoke to tackling the state's housing and homelessness crises, improving public services and infrastructure, and combating climate change as his priorities. At the end of session, the current Chair of the Assembly Labor Committee credited the leadership of Rivas "for making labor legislation a priority and helping position it to pass." Given the Speaker's agricultural roots and strong personal lived experiences and ties to the labor movement, we can expect the Speaker to continue to put his power behind these proposals in 2024 and into the future. Just prior to the Assembly adjournment of the 2023 Legislative session, Speaker Rivas indicated 2024 would include a focus on homeowners' insurance, housing, public safety, homelessness, and the fentanyl crisis. In late October, Speaker Rivas announced the formation of a new Select Committee on Retail Theft, chaired by Assemblymember Rick Zbur (D, Los Angeles). In the announcement, the Speaker stated his "expectation that the retail theft select committee will act with focus and urgency." We also may see changes to committee chairs in the Senate due to the President pro Tempore change from Senator Atkins to Senator McGuire, who are also similarly ideologically aligned. Senate committees for which turnover is most likely to impact local governments include Governance and Finance, Appropriations, and Judiciary. Although no changes in the Senate have yet been made, we can expect announcements in January after the leadership change becomes official. Given that Senator McGuire's district is heavily affected by wildfires, it is likely that we will see this continue as a priority for the Legislature. Looming Budget Deficit As projected in the final budget released in June, 2024 will see continued budgetary problems and likely additional cuts. The Legislature's non -partisan Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO) recently released a report estimating that the FY 23-24 budget solved a $27 billion deficit, which is notably below the $31.5 billion deficit that the budget closed. The LAO attributes this difference to policies that had originally been 13 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG projected to be included in the FY 23-24 budget but were ultimately not enacted. The LAO had previously projected a $9 billion deficit for the next couple of budget cycles, though these forecasts may change when Governor Newsom releases his FY 24-25 budget proposal in January. It was projected in the May revision of the FY 23-24 budget that in a recession scenario and depending on the circumstances, general fund revenues could shrink up to $100 billion below current projections through FY 26-27. For local government, an extended period of state fiscal uncertainty has the potential of cutting both ways. On the one hand, polices that aim to reduce local authority by mandating a new program have the potential of being held due to the state's budgetary concerns associated with new state reimbursable mandates. On the other hand, the Legislature has a long history of raiding local budgets to close that gap on its own budgetary challenge. We have already seen the elimination of redevelopment agencies and the redirection of local property taxes to the Educational Revenue Augmentation Fund in order to close state budget gaps. Local governments need to remain vigilant in aggressively fighting any attempts by the state to reduce local funding formulas, or other longstanding tools that local agencies rely on to provide critical services. A Slowdown in Housing Legislation... Not so Fast Over the past four years we have seen well over 120 new housing laws that are designed to increase the production of housing at all income levels. In 2023 alone we saw more than 150 housing -related measures introduced and about half of them were signed into law. Despite these legislative efforts, California has yet to realize the production boom that Governor Newsom has hoped for. Local government planning and land use is often easier for legislators to focus on rather than grappling with the realities of private markets, allocating major funding for subsidized housing, and challenging developers, environmental organizations, and other powerful interest groups. While local governments certainly have a responsibility to set the table and streamline local approval processes, it is arguable that much of this has already been addressed by layers of state laws, including many recently approved laws that local agencies are working diligently to implement. To that end, an October 13, 2023 LA Times Editorial, Jason Elliot, the Governor's Deputy Chief of Staff and the Administration's unofficial "Housing Czar", was quoted saying, "The next challenge is implementing the ambitious housing laws that have been passed over the last seven years. All the pieces are in place. It is now time for California to put those pieces to work, to permit the housing, to say yes to new housing and to hold local governments accountable for their responsibilities." So, will this mean a slowdown in the sheer volume of housing and homelessness -related legislation introduced next year? Likely not. It is expected that we will continue to see measures that aim to further bolster oversight and enforcement authority to the Attorney General and the Housing and Community Development Department. Moreover, it is likely that we will see more focus on measures that require local agencies to prioritize infill streamlining that fit within a jurisdiction's Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS), resulting in increased heights and densities near transit. Measures such as AB 68 (Ward), which did not advance this year, would have required local governments to demonstrate the necessity for housing growth in suburban areas in order to meet housing mandates. These policies will be a top priority for housing advocates. Government Transparency Act Earlier this year, nonprofit Consumer Watchdog proposed a ballot measure that, if passed by voters, would require a considerable increase in both state and local agency responsibility and cost, and would likely result in a high volume of frivolous litigation filed under the California Public Records Act. Titled the 14 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report PPG Renne Public Policy Group' "Government Transparency Act," it is currently in the process of qualifying for the November 2024 ballot. Due to the severe costs that the requirements of the Act would impose on all public agencies, it is expected to face strong response from the Legislature and the Administration. The measure has until June 28, 2024, to qualify for the November ballot. Should this occur, we have major concerns that Legislature may cut a deal with ballot proponents by passing legislation which exempts the state while enacting the same or similar provisions currently being proposed impacting local government. Should a deal be reached, this would happen quickly, and we be in exchange for the proponents withdrawing the measure from the ballot. Should this happen, local governments are at risk of being left "holding the bag." We saw a similar process occur in 2018 when the California Business Roundtable pulled its tax measure in exchange for the state banning the ability of local governments to enact local soda taxes for 12 years. Climate Bond Given that Governor Newsom balanced the FY 23-24 budget on a future resources bond, and that climate remains a top priority for the Governor and the Legislature, we anticipate such a bond to continue to advance next year and to be put to voters on the November 2024 ballot. The bond authors, currently Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D, Coachella) and Senator Ben Allen (D, Malibu), and other stakeholders, are currently aiming for a bond in the $10-12 billion range. Both resources bonds, AB 1567 (Garcia) and SB 867 (Allen), are currently around $15 billion, but the determination of the final amount, what's included, and which vehicle will carry the final package are all still under deliberation. Administration priorities will play a large role in shaping the end product. The expectation is that legislative leaders may push a bond through the legislative process much faster than usual in January so that stakeholders have ample time for voter outreach to be successful on the ballot. However, starker economic conditions may shape the final outcome and may change the overall debt load that the Governor is willing to endorse at the ballot box. Given the delay in income tax return collections due to IRS filing extensions, the Administration has warned the Governor's January budget proposal may have to be premised on significantly limited revenue data. Timing of the bonds may be impacted and unable to move as quickly as legislative leaders hope while the state is forced to play catch up on determining updated projections based on final returns. Wildfire Insurance Governor Newsom signed an executive order on September 21 which requested that the Insurance Commissioner take regulatory action in the state's insurance market. That same day, the Insurance Commissioner announced a package of executive actions "aimed at improving insurance choices and protecting Californians from increasing climate threats while addressing the long-term sustainability of the nation's largest insurance market." Additionally, on October 9, the Assembly Insurance Committee and the Assembly Select Committee on Wildfire Prevention held an informational hearing on the state of the homeowner insurance market in California. Leaders agreed on the need for mitigation and for insurers to adjust rates based on mitigation efforts that homeowners have taken. However, there was disagreement whether insurance companies were taking an appropriate response to the wildfires. It is likely that this will be a hot topic in 2024, particularly given the new Senate President Pro Tempore, Mike McGuire, has a personal connection to the issue as his district has experienced multiple catastrophic wildfires in recent years. We anticipate we may see legislation in 2024 related to the homeowner insurance market, that may include measures relating to streamlining regulations, incentives for homeowners to take mitigation actions, or funding for communities to build additional defensible spaces. 15 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG GRANT WRITING SERVICE: STATUS UPDATE Over the past year, RPPG's Grant Services Team has worked with the City of Bakersfield to provide information on potential grant opportunities, monitor funding cycles, and prepare competitive grant applications in collaboration with staff on behalf of the City. Each month, the RPPG Grants team sends out a comprehensive Funding Opportunities Catalog. The purpose of the Catalog is to inform clients of upcoming, current, and forecasted grants opportunities. The Catalog is sorted by subject area (Sustainability, Transportation, Hazard Mitigation, etc.). In addition to the Catalog, RPPG sends targeted Grant Alerts highlighting recently announced programs. The Funding Catalog in addition to the Grant Alerts keep our clients up to date on all grant funding opportunities impacting the public sector. To date, 10 Grant Funding Catalogs and 38 Grant Alerts have been sent to clients in 2023. RPPG's Director of Grant Services, Jake Whitaker attends monthly City Manager's Office Grant Liaison meetings to review the City's list of tracked funding opportunities. This work includes successful efforts to apply for funding for the Chester Avenue Improvements Project through the federal RAISE program and funding from the BSCC to combat organized retail theft. Furthermore, RPPG's team directly supported the City's Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) application. development by reviewing each component narrative and providing constructive feedback. More information regarding specific funding opportunities being tracked, pending application submittals, and federal earmark awards can be found in the tables below. Upcoming Funding Opportunities — Indicated Interest & City Priorities Grant Name, Anenc,;Amount Deadline . ;.Department „Note, Railroad Potential need for Crossing Public planning funding. Elimination U.S. DOT TBD Fall 2023 Works Grade separation Program project on Truxtun Avenue. Fire safety grants that fund critically needed resources to Assistance to Upto Winter equip and train Firefighters FEMA $1,000,000. 2024 Fire emergency Grant personnel, enhance efficiencies, and support community resilience. Preparing for FY 24 Active June 2024 Public cycle. At least one Transportation CalTrans TBD (Tentative) Works project in design Program currently. Monitor Street. 16 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis for 12 months (starting Fall 2023). Funding for projects Community U.S. EPA No maximum Fall 2024 ECD that support Change Grants amount. environmental and climate justice for disadvantaged communities. Wanting to target Niles -Monterey area. Funding to provide housing relocation and stabilization Emergency Minimum: services and short - Solutions Grant CaIHCD $75,000 Ongoing ECD and/or medium -term — Homelessness Maximum: rental assistance. Prevention $200,000 Must have HCD approved Homeless Prevention policies and procedures. Potential opportunity Public Works to support economic and Economic EDA TBD Ongoing ECD development goals Adjustment and CEDS Assistance strate ies. Potential application RAISE U.S. DoT Maximum of TBD 2024 Public for SR-204 $10,000,000 Works conversion w/ High - Speed Rail. Potential application Reconnecting U.S.oT No maximum TBD 2024 Public for SR-204 Communities . amount. Works conversion w/ High - Speed Rail. Statewide Park Cancelled this year. Development CA Dept. Maximum of Anticipated and Community of Parks $8,000,000. TBD Parks application cycle in Revitalization and Rec 2024. Program Outdoor Program established Recreation NPS $300,000 - TBD Parks through the Land and Legacy $10,000,000 Water Conservation Partnership Fund. 17 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Land and Water Conservation Fund CA Dept. of Parks and Rec Maximum of $6,000,000. TBD Parks Potential opportunity for MLK Park Master Plan. Looking to apply in 2024. Community Potential opportunity Resilience SGC Maximum of TBD Parks for MLK Park Master Centers $10,000,000. Plan. Looking to apply in Round 2. Planning funds for Transit -Oriented projects that will Development U.S. DOT $250,000 - TBD Public apply for FTA Capital Planning Pilot $2 000,000 Works Investment Grants Program Program funding. Tar etin for 2024. Proposals Submitted and Pendin Grant Name Transformative Agency Amount Submitted Award Date Project Description w . Submitted proposal Climate SGC $29,500,000 8/1/2023 Dec. 2023 for Southeast Strong Communities — initiative. Round 5 Funding for complete streets improvements Community Rep. Federal to MLK Blvd. between Project Funding Valadao $5,000,000 3/15/2023 Budget California and Adoption Brundage. Has been forwarded to A ro riations. Grants Awarded Grant Nam � :.... Agency Amount S�� ubmitted pate Project Description Emergency Purchasing new Medical OTS $267,182 1/31/2023 July 2023 battery -powered Services extrication Program equipment. 18 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Renne Public Policy Group' Rebuilding America with Chester Avenue Sustainability U.S. DoT $10,000,000 2/28/2023 June 2023 Complete Streets and Equity project. (RAISE) Organized Retail Theft BSCC $6,203,009 7/6/2023 Sept. 2023 Funding for ORT Unit Prevention operations. Grant Edward Byrne Memorial Purchasing body Justice U.S. DOJ $156,045 8/31/2023 Sept. 2023 armor and load Assistance bearing vests. Grant Key Stats for Grant Service LOOKING AHEAD: 2024 GRANT FUNDING Over the past several years, we have seen unprecedented levels of discretionary spending at the state and federal levels. However, due to the state budget deficit, trends in state spending will begin to decline. California faces a $31.7 billion deficit to be addressed through various strategies such as funding delays, triggers, and reductions. Programs involving water conservation, climate action, parks, and libraries have been particularly impacted. Major programs involving transportation, public safety, housing, homelessness, and community infrastructure remain stable, and proposed solutions to close the deficit aim to make as little impact on discretionary spending as possible. In tandem with state spending strategies, funding programs at the federal level, specifically from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), will help mitigate the budget deficit. Funding for these programs remains stable but may be impacted by the upcoming 2024 Presidential Election. It remains critically important that local governments prepare themselves to take advantage of these opportunities sooner rather than later. RPPG will continue to monitor new developments in the coming year as we look at these potential changes in the grant funding opportunity landscape. However, we encourage all clients to proactively begin considering potential projects that align with these grant programs to prepare for solicitation releases throughout the upcoming year. AL Transportation State Highway Operations and Protection Program 19 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Through the 2023 State Budget, Caltrans will continue delivering over $20 billion in planned state highway repair and rehabilitation projects in the State Highway Operations and Protection Program (SHOPP) over the next five years. SHOPP is a four-year document of projects that is adopted by the California Transportation Commission after holding at least two public hearings and a finding of consistency with the Transportation Asset Management Plan (TAMP). The adopted SHOPP is submitted to the Legislature and the Governor not later than April 1 of each even -numbered year. • Deadline:12/7/2023 • More information: https://catc.ca.gov/programs/state-highway-operation-and-protection-program State Transportation and Improvement Program STIP supports the implementation of regional Sustainable Community Strategies, as well as interregional travel. STIP is the biennial five-year plan adopted by the California Transportation Commission for future allocations of certain state transportation funds for state highway improvements, intercity rail, and regional highway and transit improvements. Guidelines for the 2024 STIP were released on August 16, 2023. • Deadline:12/15/2023 • More information: https://catc.ca.goy/programs/state-transportation-improvement-program Transit and Intercity Rail Passenger Program The Intercity Rail Passenger Program helps to reduce highway congestion and automobile fuel consumption while improving air quality and environmental protection by providing leadership in the planning and implementation of a passenger rail transportation system. Funding from this program will be disturbed by the California Transportation Agency through a population -based formula to regional transportation agencies. Informal Draft Guidelines for the program were released on September 1, 2023, and include allocation projections for each regional agency (pg. 4). • Funding Cycle: TBD March 2024 • More information: https:Hcalsta.ca.ciov/subject-areas/transit-intercity-rail-capital-proq Bridge Investment Program The Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Act contains a $36.7 billion appropriation to establish the competitive Bridge Investment Grant Program. Funding will support projects that replace, rehabilitate, preserve, or protect one or more bridges on the National Bridge Inventory or projects that replace or rehabilitate culverts for the purpose of improving flood control and improved habitat connectivity for aquatic species. Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. NOFA release scheduled for November 2023. More Information: httr)s://www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/bip/ Note: The BIP — Large Bridge Projects application (separate from BIP Planning & Bridge Projects) is due November 27, 2023. This opportunity is for projects over $100 million. Railroad Crossing Elimination Program 20 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report PPG Renne Public Policy Group' The Railroad Crossing Elimination Program is a competitive grant program created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Act. This program will provide funds for the elimination of hazards at railway - highway crossings. Funding will be available for both Construction Grants and Planning Grants. The Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Act allocates $500 million per fiscal year from FY 22 — FY 26, for a total of $2.5 billion in funding. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. NOFA release scheduled for November 2023. • More Information: hftps://railroads.dot.gov/grants-loans/competitive-discretionary-grant- programs/railroad-crossing-elimination-grant-program Active Transportation Program The Active Transportation Program (ATP) was created by Senate Bill 99 to increase the proportion of trips accomplished by walking and biking, increase the safety and mobility of non -motorized users, advance efforts of regional agencies to achieve greenhouse gas reduction goals, enhance public health, and provide a broad spectrum of projects to benefit many types of users including disadvantaged communities. This year, the 2023 State Budget allocates $500 million for the next round of funding. Kick -Off meetings for ATP Cycle 7 have begun as of August 16, 2023. • Funding Cycle: Application scheduled to open March 2024 with a due date of June 2024. • More information: hftps:Hcatc.ca.gov/programs/active-transportation-program Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Formerly known as the BUILD or TIGER grant, the RAISE program provides funds for capital investments in surface transportation infrastructure that have a significant local or regional impact. RAISE applications can support either Planning Projects or Capital Projects. Research, demonstration, or pilot projects are only eligible if they will result in long-term, permanent surface transportation infrastructure that has independent utility. The Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Act allocated $7.5 billion in funding for the RAISE Grant Program over five fiscal years. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024 • More information: https://www.transportation.gov/RAISEgrants Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) The Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant program awards competitive grants for multimodal freight and highway projects of national or regional significance to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of freight and people in and across rural and urban areas. The Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Act allocated $8 billion in funding for the INFRA Grant Program over the next five fiscal years. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024 • More information: https://www.transportation.gov/qrants/infra-grants-program Reconnecting Communities Program In 2022, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law created a $1 billion program at the Department of Transportation to reconnect communities divided by transportation infrastructure — particularly historically disadvantaged 21 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report communities too often nearly destroyed or cut in half Program provides dedicated funding to state, local, governments for planning, design, demolition, and infrastructure to address these legacy impacts. PPG Renne Public Policy Group' by a highway. The Reconnecting Communities metropolitan planning organizations, and Tribal reconstruction of street grids, parks, or other Funding Cycle: TBD — $200 million authorized for FY 24 funding. FY 23 closed on September 28, 2023. More information: hftps://www.transportation.gov/grants/reconnecting-communities Clean California Local Grant Program The Clean California Local Grant Program is a competitive statewide program created to beautify and clean up local streets and roads, tribal lands, parks, pathways, transit centers, and other public spaces. Projects that can be accessed through the multimodal transportation network are encouraged. The program's goals are to reduce the amount of waste and debris within public spaces, beautify and improve public spaces, enhance public health, cultural connection, and community placemaking, and advance equity for underserved communities. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on May 31, 2023. • More Information: hftps://cleancalifornia.dot.ca.gov/local-qrants/local-grant-program Safe Streets and Roads for All The Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) discretionary program provides funding to support local initiatives to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets, commonly referred to as "Vision Zero" or "Toward Zero Deaths" initiatives. The development and establishment of a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan is a key component of this program. Applications covering several entities are encouraged to apply. To apply for an Implementation Grant, an organization must have in place a Safety Action Plan that satisfies program requirements. The BIL allocates $200 million annually for FY 22-26. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on July 10, 2023. • More Information: https://www.transportation.goy/qrants/SS4A PROTECT Program The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided $8.7 billion in funding to create the Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost -Saving Transportation (PROTECT) discretionary grant program. Most of the funds ($7.3 billion) will be distributed by formula, and the remainder ($1.4 billion) will be distributed by competitive grant. Specifically, the program provides federal funding to projects to help communities address vulnerabilities due to weather, natural disasters, and climate change. The program also provides funds to plan transportation improvements and emergency response strategies to address those vulnerabilities. • Funding Cycle: TBD Spring 2024. FY 23 closed on August 18, 2023. • More Information: https://dot.ca.gov/programs/local-assistance/fed-and-state-programs/protect Congested Corridors Programs 22 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG The 2023 State Budget allocates over $3.5 billion for congested corridors, state/local partnerships, and trade corridor enhancement projects through 2027-28. CTC has allocated funding for the following programs: $1.1 billion for the Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP); $507.4 million for the Solutions for Congested Corridors Program (SCCP); and $142.4 million for the Local Partnership Program (LPP). TCEP and SCCP are formula funding grants that have been allocated. LPP has a competitive component and will be funding 11 projects that support counties, cities, districts, and regional transportation agencies where voters have approved fees or taxes dedicated solely to transportation. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024 • More information: https://catc.ca.gov/programs/sbl/local-partnership-program Parks and Recreation Outdoor Equity Grants Program The 2023 State Budget allocates $25 million for the Outdoor Equity Grants Program, making $50 million available for Round Two funding. This program improves the health and wellness of Californians through new educational and recreational activities, service learning, career pathways, and leadership opportunities that strengthen a connection to the natural world. OEP's intent is to increase the ability of residents in underserved communities to participate in outdoor experiences within their community, at state parks, and other public lands. • Deadline: 12/14/2023. Future funding TBD. • More information: hftps://www.parks.ca.gov/?page id=30443 Habitat Conservation Fund The Habitat Conservation Fund allocates approximately $2 million each year to cities, counties, and districts. Eligible projects include nature interpretation programs to bring urban residents into park and wildlife areas, protection of various plant and animal species, and acquisition and development of wildlife corridors and trails. Funding Cycle: Anticipated deadline of June 2025 More information: hftps://www.parks.ca.gov/?page id=21361 Recreational Trails Program The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) administered by the Office of Grants and Local Services (OGALS) provides funds annually to develop non -motorized recreational trails and trails -related facilities. The 2023 State Budget allocates $25 million to this program for future funding cycles. • Funding Cycle: Anticipated deadline of July 2025 • More information: hftps://www.parks.ca.gov/?page id=24324 Statewide Parks Program 23 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Statewide Park Program (SPP) competitive grants will create new parks and new recreation opportunities in critically underserved communities across California. The 2023 State Budget allocated $53.5 million for future rounds of funding. Note: the FY 23 Round 5 cycle was cancelled due to the budget deficit. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024 • More information: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page id=29939 Urban and Community Forestry Program (Inflation Reduction Act) The U.S. Forest Service's Urban and Community Forestry Program supports urban tree -planting, urban forest planning and management, and related activities, particularly in disadvantaged communities. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on June 1, 2023. • More information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/urban-forests/ucf 4 Fire Response and Wildfire Mitigation Wildfire Prevention Grants Program The Wildfire Prevention Grants Program provides funding for fire prevention projects and activities in and near fire threatened communities. Funded activities include hazardous fuels reduction, wildfire prevention planning, and wildfire prevention education with an emphasis on improving public health and safety while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. • Funding Cycle: 1/10/2024 • More Information: https://www.fire.ca.gov/grants/wildfire-prevention/ Community Wildfire Defense Grant The purpose of the Community Wildfire Defense Grant is to assist at -risk local communities and Indian Tribes with planning for and mitigating against the risk created by wildfire. There are two primary project types for which the grant provides funding: The development and revising of Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPP), and the implementation of projects described in a CWPP that is less than ten years old. The program prioritizes at -risk communities that are in an area identified as having high or very high wildfire hazard potential, are low-income, and/or have been impacted by a severe disaster. This program is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 applications were due October 31, 2023. • More Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/fire/grants Assistance to Firefighters Grant The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) focuses on enhancing the safety of the public and firefighters with respect to fire and fire -related hazards. Agencies can submit applications under three designations: Operations and Safety, Vehicle Acquisition, or Regional Projects. For Operations and Safety applications, agencies may voluntarily designate their proposal as a "Micro Grant" (no more than $50,000). A mainstay of the annual competitive grant cycle, FEMA typically releases AFG applications in the early Winter. 24 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report PPG Renne Public Policy Group • Funding Cycle: Anticipated release Q1 2024. • More Information: https://www.fema.gov/qrants/preparedness/firefighters Staffing for Adequate Fire Emergency Response (SAFER) The Staffing for Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant program provides funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to assist in increasing the number of firefighters to help communities meet industry minimum standards and attain 24-hour staffing to provide adequate fire protection from fire and fire -related hazards, and to fulfill traditional missions of fire departments. The SAFER grants are typically available in the early Winter, after the AFG. • Funding Cycle: Anticipated release Q1 2024. • More Information: https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters/safer Fire Prevention and Safety Grant Program (FP&S) The Fire Prevention and Safety Grant Program (FP&S) provides financial assistance for fire prevention programs and programs that support firefighter health and safety research and development. Organizations can apply under one of two categories: Fire Prevention and Safety or Research and Development. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on March 31, 2023. • More Information: https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/frefighters/safety-awards Housing and Homelessness Infill Infrastructure Grant Program (IIG) The Infill Infrastructure Grant (IIG) program's primary objective is to promote infill housing development by providing financial assistance for Capital Improvement Projects that are an integral part of or necessary to facilitate the development of a Qualifying Infill Project or a Qualifying Infill Area. All applications must include a Qualifying Infill Project. This program is part of the Multifamily Finance Super NOFA published by CaIHCD. • Deadline: Tentative deadline July 2024. • More Information: https://www.hcd.ca..qov/qrants-and-fundinq/programs-active/infill- infrastructure-grant Multifamily Housing Program This program supports low -interest, long-term deferred -payment loans for new construction, rehabilitation, and preservation of permanent and transitional rental housing for lower -income households. The 2023 State Budget allocated $100 million for future rounds of funding. • Deadline: Tentative deadline July 2024. • More information: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/grants-and-fundinq/programs-active/multifamily- housing-program 25 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report PPG Rennc Public Policv Gruup' Veterans Housing and Homelessness Prevention Program (VHHP) VHHP provides loans to support affordable multifamily housing for veterans and their families. Applicants must demonstrate clear market demand for the proposed project and target population. VHHP loans have an initial term of 55 years or longer. Projects cannot use funds from multiple CalHCD grant or loan programs to support development. This program is part of the Multifamily Finance Super NOFA published by CalHCD. • Deadline: Tentative deadline July 2024. • More Information: hftps://www.hcd.ca.gov/qrants-and-fundinq/programs-active/veterans- housing-and-homelessness-prevention Farmworker Housing Grant Program (FWHG) The Farmworker Housing Grant Program (FWHG) finances the new construction, rehabilitation, and acquisition of owner -occupied and rental units for agricultural workers, with a priority for lower income households through deferred -payment loans. New Construction or Rehabilitation Loans: Lien restrictions for assisted units are required for 55 years. Loans may be made in conjunction with low-income tax credit financing. This program is part of the Multifamily Finance Super NOFA published by CalHCD. • Deadline: Tentative deadline July 2024. • More Information: hftps://www.hcd.ca.gov/grants-and-fundinq/programs-active/ioe-serna-ir- farmworker-housing-grant Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) Grant Program HHAP provides flexible funding to local jurisdictions to continue efforts to end and prevent homelessness in their communities. HHAP is a formula -based grant using point -in -time counts provided by each jurisdiction. These funds will be contingent on local jurisdictions developing regionally coordinated homelessness action plans. Note: AB 129, known as the Housing and Homeless trailer bill, makes significant changes to the HHAP program, including new requirements for regional coordination, comprehensive plan development, and identification of roles and responsibilities. The bill language can be found here. Deadline: 3/27/2024 More information: hftps:Hbcsh.ca.gov/calich/hhap program.html Encampment Resolution Grants Encampment Resolution Grants are awarded on a competitive basis to counties, cities of any size, and Continuums of Care to assist in moving persons from homeless encampments into safe and stable housing. These competitive grants were first available in 2021 and have so far provided over $350 million in one-time General Fund to local jurisdictions. The 2023 State Budget allocated $400 million for future funding rounds. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024 • More information: https://bcsh.ca.gov/calich/erf program.html 26 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Project Homekey 4.0 Project Homekey provides funding to rapidly sustain and expand the inventory of housing for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. Homekey is an opportunity for local public agencies to purchase motels and a broad range of other housing types to increase their community's capacity to respond to homelessness. Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on July 28, 2023. More Information: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/qrants-and-funding/homekey Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) The AHSC Program is designed to implement GHG emissions reductions through a reduction of vehicle miles travelled (VMT), or fewer and shorter auto -trips. The AHSC Program will fund integrated land use and transportation projects supporting low -carbon transportation options. Promoting mode shift to low - carbon transportation will require strategies that link residential areas, major employment centers and other Key Destinations to accessible, reliable, affordable, safe, and comfortable transit, and active transportation options. • Deadline: NOFA scheduled for release in January 2024. Applications due March 2024. • More Information: https://sgc.ca.gov/programs/ahsc/ ;�; Sustainability and Climate Adaptation Zero -Emission Vehicle Transit Funding The 2023 State Budget includes a $1.1 billion appropriation to the new Zero -Emission Transit Capital Program to be distributed through 2026. Zero -emission transit equipment, transit facility and network improvement projects such as those that support replacing aging vehicle fleets with Zero -Emission Vehicles (ZEVs), and associated fueling or charging infrastructure or facility modifications, are eligible projects. ZEVs include heavy- and light -rail vehicles, buses, and other ZEVs used for transit service. Funding from this program will be disturbed by the California Transportation Agency through a population - based formula to regional transportation agencies. Informal Draft Guidelines for the program were released on September 1, 2023, and include allocation projections for each regional agency (pg. 4). Deadline: 12/31/2023 More information: https://calsta.ca.gov/subject-areas/transit-intercity-rail-capital-prog Climate Pollution Reduction Grants The Inflation Reduction Act provides $5 billion in funding to provide grants for developing plans to reduce GHG air pollution and implement projects identified in qualifying GHG air pollution reduction plans. As such, Implementation Grants are open to entities that received planning grants to develop Priority Climate Action Plans (PCAPs) under phase 1 of the CPRG program, as well as entities that did not directly receive a planning grant that are applying for funds to implement measures included in an applicable PCAP. • Deadline:4/1/2024 27 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG • More information: hftps://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/climate-pollution-reduction-grants Adaptation Planning Grant Program The Adaptation Planning Grant Program (APGP) will provide $25 million to help fill local, regional, and tribal planning needs, provide communities the resources to identify climate resilience priorities, and support the development of a pipeline of climate resilient infrastructure projects across the state. • Funding Cycle: TBD Winter 2023. FY closed on March 31, 2023. • More Information: https://www.opr.ca.gov/climate/icarp/grants/adaptation-planninq-qrant.html Urban and Community Forestry Program (CAL FIRE) The Urban and Community Forestry Program provides funding for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve functionality of urban forests, arrest the decline of urban forest resources, address climate change resilience, improve the quality of the environment in urban areas, and optimize co -benefits to urban residents. Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. More Information: hftps://www.fire.ca.gov/qrants/urban-and-community-forestry-grant-programs/ Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grants The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law creates a new competitive grant program to strategically deploy publicly accessible electric vehicle charging infrastructure and other alternative fueling infrastructure along designated alternative fuel corridors. The Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grants is composed of two categories: Community Charging and Corridor Charging. The Community Charging Grant can be used to install electric vehicle charging and alternative fuel in locations on public roads, schools, parks, and in publicly accessible parking facilities. The Corridor Charging Grant will be used to Deploy electric vehicle charging and hydrogen/propane/natural gas fueling infrastructure along designated alternative fuel corridors and in communities. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on June 13, 2023. • More Information: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/cfii/ Low or No Emission Transit Vehicle Program The purpose of the Low -No Program, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is to support the transition of the nation's transit fleet to the lowest polluting and most energy efficient transit vehicles. The Low -No Program provides funding to state and local governmental authorities for the purchase or lease of zero -emission and low -emission transit buses, including acquisition, construction, and leasing of required supporting facilities. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024 • More Information: https://www.transit.dot.gov/lowno Assistance for the Latest and Zero Building Energy Code Adoption 28 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG The Inflation Reduction Act provides $670 million in grants for states and local governments to adopt building codes that meet or exceed zero energy provisions in the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code or an equivalent stretch code. Deadline: TBD 2024 More information: hftps://www.energy.gov/scep/technical-assistance-adoption-building-enerQy- codes Clean Heavy -Duty Vehicles Program The Inflation Reduction Act invests $1 billion to replace dirty heavy-duty vehicles with clean, zero -emission vehicles, support zero -emission vehicle infrastructure, and to train and develop workers. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024 • More information: hftps://www.epa.gov/inflation-reduction-act/clean-heavy-duty-vehicle-program Water Quality and Conservation Drought Resiliency Project (DRP) The Drought Resiliency Projects (DRP) program supports projects that build long-term resilience to drought and reduce the need for emergency response actions. These projects are generally in the final design stage —environmental and cultural resources compliance may have been initiated, and the non-federal funding, necessary permits, and other required approvals have been secured. This is an annual funding competition from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. • Deadline: TBD 2024 • More Information: hftps://www.usbr.gov/drought/ Water Reclamation and Reuse Program (WRRP) Through the Water Reclamation and Reuse Program (WRRP), known also as the Title XVI program, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation identifies and investigates opportunities to reclaim and reuse wastewaters and impaired ground and surface water in the 17 Western States and Hawaii. Title XVI includes funding for the planning, design, and construction of water recycling and reuse projects in partnership with local government entities. • Deadline: Two submission deadlines: 12/7/2023 and 9/30/2024. • More Information: hftps://www.usbr.gov/watersmart/title/ WaterSMART Planning and Project Design Grants Through Planning and Project Design Grants, Reclamation provides funding for collaborative planning and design projects to support water management improvements. This includes funding for: (1) Water Strategy Grants to conduct planning activities to improve water supplies (e.g., water supplies to disadvantaged communities that do not have reliable access to water, water marketing, water conservation, drought resilience, and ecological resilience); (2) Project Design Grants to conduct project -specific design for projects to improve water management; and (3) comprehensive Drought Contingency Plans. 29 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG • Deadline:4/2/2024 • More information: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppld=349785 Water and Energy Efficiency Grant (WEEG) The Water and Energy Efficiency Grants (WEEG) program provides funding for projects that result in quantifiable water savings, implement renewable energy components, and support broader sustainability benefits. These projects conserve and use water more efficiently, increase the production of renewable energy, mitigate conflict risk in areas at high risk of future water conflict, and accomplish other benefits that contribute to sustainability in the western United States. Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 awards were announced on April 28, 2023. More Information: https://www.usbr.gov/watersmart/weeg/ Small -Scale Water Efficiency Projects (SWEP) Through the WaterSMART Small -Scale Water Efficiency Projects Reclamation provides 50/50 cost share funding to irrigation and water districts, tribes, states and other entities with water or power delivery authority for small water efficiency improvements that have been identified through previous planning efforts. Projects eligible for funding include installation of flow measurement or automation in a specific part of a water delivery system, lining of a section of a canal to address seepage, or other similar projects that are limited in scope. Deadline: 1/16/2024, 7/9/2024, 1/14/2025, and 7/8/2025 More Information: https://www.usbr.gov/watersmart/swep/index.html : I Economic and Workforce Development Community Economic Resilience Fund The Community Economic Resilience Fund (CERF) was created to promote a sustainable and equitable recovery from the economic distress of COVID-19 by supporting new plans and strategies to diversify local economies and develop sustainable industries that create high -quality, broadly accessible jobs for all Californians. CERF funding will be distributed regionally to projects that support the goals of the CERF Regional Plan. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024; varies regionally. • More Information: https:Hopr.ca.gov/economic-development/ Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance (PWEAA) EDA funds Public Works (PW) projects to meet the construction and/or infrastructure design needs of communities to enable them to become more economically competitive. Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) projects should catalyze public -private partnerships to foster collaboration, attract investment, create jobs, and promote economic resiliency and prosperity. Projects must be related to a current Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). All EDA projects should advance bottom -up economic development and prioritize the creation of living wage jobs. 30 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Funding Cycle: Applications are accepted and approved on an ongoing basis. It is recommended to submit a project prior to 3/15 for consideration for that fiscal year. More Information: hftps://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/public-works & https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/economic-adjustment-assistance Build to Scale Program (62S) EDA's Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (OIE) leads the Build to Scale (B2S) program. Under the Build to Scale program, EDA manages a portfolio of national grant competitions that further increase the capacities of regions to plan and implement ecosystems that support innovators, entrepreneurs, and startups that are growing technology -driven businesses, creating high -skill, high -wage jobs, and building the industries of the future. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on July 28, 2023. • More Information: https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/build-to-scale High Road Training Partnerships The 2023 State Budget allocates $45 million to the High Road Training Partnerships (HRTP) program. Ranging from transportation to health care to hospitality, the HRTP model embodies the sector approach used by the Californica Workforce Development Board — industry partnerships that deliver equity, sustainability, and job quality. • Deadline: Spring 2024 More information: https://cwdb.ca.gov/initiatives/high-road-training-partnerships/ California Youth Apprenticeship Grant Program This program, run by the California Department of Industrial Relations, supports apprenticeship programs for youth between the ages of 16-24 that combine academic and technical classroom instruction with paid work experience through a proven earn -and -learn model. • Deadline: TBD 2024 • More information: https://www.dir.ca.gov/DAS/Grants/California-Youth-Apprenticeship- Grant.html Public Safety and Criminal Justice Local Law Enforcement Gun Buyback Grant Program $21 million in one-time funding has been allocated to the California Office of Emergency Services (CaIOES) for this program. CalOES will be working with local law enforcement agencies to expedite targeted, coordinated gun buybacks in their communities. • Deadline: TBD 2023 • More information: https://www.bscc.ca.gov/local-law-enforcement-gun-buvback-grant-program/ COPS Hiring Program 31 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG The goal of the COPS Hiring Program (CHP) is to provide funding directly to law enforcement agencies to hire and/or rehire additional career law enforcement officers to increase their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. Any budget cuts contributing to the need for CHP funding must be unrelated to the receipt of CHP award funds to avoid supplanting. Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on May 11, 2023. More Information: https://cops.usdoa.goy/chp School Violence Prevention Program The goal of the School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) is to improve security at schools and on school grounds through the implementation of evidence -based school safety programs and technology. Funds cannot be used to pay for salaries and benefits of sworn officers or civilian security guards. Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on May 17, 2023. More Information: https://cops.usdoa.gov/svpp Community Policing Development Microgrants Program Community Policing Development (CPD) Microgrants Program funds are used to develop law enforcement's capacity to implement community policing strategies by providing funding to local, state, tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies. When properly applied, community policing improves the identification and prioritization of community problems; builds trust and relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve; and enables an agency to build a culture toward accountability, transparency, open communication, and mutual trust. Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on May 11, 2023. More Information: https://cops.usdo*.gov/cpdmicrogrants Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) Program The Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) program will fund projects that develop knowledge; increase awareness of effective mental health and wellness strategies; increase the skills and abilities of law enforcement; and increase the number of law enforcement agencies and relevant stakeholders using peer support, training, family resources, suicide prevention, and other promising practices for wellness programs. Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on April 21, 2023. More Information: https://cops.usdow.gov/lemhwa 32 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report PPG Renne Public policy Group' ]I Community Infrastructure Building Forward Library Facilities Improvement Program This equity -based grant program helps pay for capital projects for public library buildings that address critical maintenance needs, improve energy efficiency and sustainability, extend digital access, and expand physical access to library facilities. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024. FY 23 closed on May 18, 2023. • More information: https://www.library.ca.gov/grants/buiIdingforward/ Middle -Mile Broadband Initiative The 2023 State Budget allocates $300 million for the Middle -Mile Broadband Initiative. This program is the first step to creating an open -access, middle -mile network that will build infrastructure to bring high-speed broadband service to unserved and underserved communities, regardless of technology used, on equal economic and service terms. The program is run by the California Department of Technology (CDT). • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024 • More information: https://middle-mile-broadband-initiative.cdt.ca.gov/ *For Bakersfield Only: The Arts Council has allocated $1 million to the City of Bakersfield for the Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater Restorations. 16 Hazard Mitigation Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) The Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program makes federal funds available for pre -disaster mitigation activities. The program seeks to encourage and enable innovation, promote partnerships, provide a significant opportunity to reduce future losses, and support high -impact investments. Applicants must provide a Benefit -Cost Analysis for infrastructure proposals. Applicants must be covered under an active Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to apply for funding. Project scoping funding can be requested to prepare for a future BRIC implementation grant proposal. • Funding Cycle: TBD 2024/2025 • More Information: https://www.caloes.ca.gov/office-of-the-director/operations/recovery- directorate/hazard-mitigation/bric/ Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program makes federal funds available to states, U.S. territories, tribal governments, and local communities to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings and structures insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Applicants must provide a Benefit -Cost Analysis for infrastructure proposals. Applicants must be covered under an active Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to apply for funding. Project scoping funding can be requested to prepare for a future BRIC implementation grant proposal. 33 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RPPG Renne Public Policy Group? Funding Cycle: TBD 2024/2025 More Information: https://www.caloes.ca..qov/office-of-the-director/operations/recovery- directorate/hazard-mitigation/flood-mitigation-assistance/ END OF REPORT 34 City of Bakersfield 2023 End of Year Report RECEIVE AND PLACE ON FILE AT (-*L L MEETING OF BAKERSFIELD .HE SOUND oF5WAkf gym, 2024 State Legislative Program Page 1 of 26 3113 00 33AJ9 014A 3V1303R 30 r3NIT343M TA Bakersfield Mayor & City Council KarenGoh..................................................................................................... Mayor EricArias........................................................................................................Ward 1 Andrae Gonzales......................................................................................... Ward 2 KenWeir.........................................................................................................Ward 3 BobSmith......................................................................................................Ward 4 BruceFreeman.............................................................................................Ward 5 PattyGray......................................................................................................Ward 6 ManpreetKaur..............................................................................................Ward 7 Page 2 of 26 Table of Contents Definitions.....................................................................................................................................................4 Stateof California Delegation.......................................................................................................................5 CityCouncil Strategic Goals...........................................................................................................................6 LegislativeProgram.......................................................................................................................................7 2024 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 homeless population.......................................................................................................................................11 3. Advocate for reasonable and measured relief from state regulations related to energy production, agriculture production, and goods movement. Continue to support and pursue State programs or funding opportunities to diversify the economy, including 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 5. Advocate for and pursue State programs or funding initiatives in support of improved social determinatesof health....................................................................................................................14 2024 State Legislative Positions..................................................................................................................16 1. Protect Local Control..........................................................................................................................16 2. Protect Local Revenues and Funding for Vital Community Services..................................................16 3. Public Safety.......................................................................................................................................17 4. Infrastructure Investment..................................................................................................................19 5. Improve the Quality of Life and Sustainability of the City.................................................................21 6. Employment and Labor Relations.....................................................................................................24 7. Protection of the agriculture and energy production industries.......................................................25 8. Public Health, Economic Relief and Employee Health........................................................................25 Page 3 of 26 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 26 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 26 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 Efficient 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 26 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 26 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 26 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 26 2024 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 production, agriculture production, and goods movement. 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 5. Advocate for and pursue State programs or funding initiatives in support of improved social determinates of health. 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 26 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 2023 "Point in Time Count" showed 1,948 homeless individuals in Kern County with 1,755 (or 90%) located within the Metropolitan Bakersfield area. 902 homeless individuals in the City were in some sort of shelter while 853 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 points 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 26 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 funding 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. Support legislation or policy making that offers flexible and permanent 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, agriculture production, and goods movement. Continue to support and pursue State programs or funding opportunities to diversify the economy, including the regional Economic Prosperity Initiative. Background: Historically, Bakersfield's major industries have been oil, agriculture, and goods movement. 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 County also serves as a major hub of state and inter -state logistics and goods movement along Interstate 5 and California State Routes 99, 58 and 178. Page 12 of 26 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 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 fracking 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 which impact the local economy. Action: Advocate for increased State 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, agriculture and goods movement. 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 o Implementing the City's affordable housing strategy o Establishing an affordable housing trust fund Page 13 of 26 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 allocated in recent years should remain a priority to allow for these 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: Support the redevelopment and clean-up efforts of the City's target properties identified under the City's Brownfields Site Reuse & Revitalization Program. 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: • Construction costs • New building codes • CEQA costs and delays • Financing • State interjection into local housing ordinances, rules and regulations 5. Advocate for and pursue State programs or funding initiatives in support of improved social determinates of health. Background: Social determinants of health (SDOH) are the conditions in the environments where people are born, live, learn, play, worship, and age that affect a wide range of health, functioning, and quality -of -life outcomes and risks according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services. There are five major contributors to social determinants of health including economic stability, education access and quality, health care access and quality, neighborhood and built environment, and social and community context. The CalVIP program was initiated by the City to reduce gun violence was built on these same principles. The City of Bakersfield has been working with the Blue Zones Project, a community -wide, evidence -based approach to improving health and well-being that makes healthier choices easier for everyone living in in the City. According to the State's CalEnviroScreen 4.0 indicator map, much of Bakersfield scores in the 90th percentile of California census tracts for indicators such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, low educational attainment, and poverty. These indicators are particularly pronounced in low - Page 14 of 26 income and high -minority areas. There are troubling metrics associated with the built environment including a high level of traffic fatalities. In 2022, there were 66 traffic fatalities, half of which include a pedestrian, as compared to 26 traffic fatalities in 2018. The City suffers from higher -than -average quality of life and violent crimes. Following the initial implementation of CaIVIP in 2022, the City has seen a promising decline in violence however additional funded is needed to continue the program. Position: Bakersfield is poised to leverage state programs and funding that facilitates equitable and improved indicators for residents. Action: Facilitate investments to improve social determinates of health, particularly in underserved neighborhoods. Action: Facilitate investments in the built environment that reduce traffic fatalities. Action: Support legislation and funding for evidence -based gun violence reduction and crime prevention programs. Page 15 of 26 2024 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, energy production, and goods movement 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. • Monitor and evaluate all proposals that include an unfunded mandate to local governments. Page 16 of 26 • 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 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 the ability of the City to create safe environments and well-being for all. • Oppose legislation that erodes local control related to law enforcement. • Support legislation and 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. • 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. Page 17 of 26 • 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. • Support legislation and budget proposals that expand behavioral health treatment. • Inform and educate the legislature and Governor on the effective behavioral health responses and practices currently being used by law enforcement in partnership with local mental health clinicians. 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. • Support legislation and funding for firefighter wellness programs and resources. Emergency Medical 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. Disaster Preparedness • Support legislation that would strengthen community and disaster preparedness, public health, safety, and resiliency. Page 18 of 26 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. 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. • Oppose legislation that withholds funding dedicated to transportation purposes when proposed housing and air quality goals are not being met. • Support efforts and funding to Cal Recycle for education and implementation of SB 1383. • Support legislation and budget actions that support local agencies that funds the implementation of Advance Clean Fleet Regulations. Page 19 of 26 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 additional funding for public parks, public spaces and indoor community space. Advocate that Bakersfield receive equitable funding from statewide revenues. • 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. 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. Storm Water • Oppose additional mandated storm water pollution prevention measures that are not accompanied by funding or a mechanism to provide for funding. Page 20 of 26 • 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 multi -modal High Speed Rail station. Advocate for dollars that mitigate the cost to the City in supporting the High Speed Rail viaduct and station. • Advocate for economic and infrastructure investments in the downtown and station area. 5. 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. Page 21 of 26 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. na b6lildiRg 6R tier fe&5 9F projects that have already beeR appFeved thFeugh apprepFiate pFeeesses. • Support state legislation that strengthens local inclusionary housing programs. • 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. • Support legislation that promotes housing measures to preserve and rehabilitate existing affordable housing. • Support legislation that meets the State's planning goals while maintaining local control, ensuring communities evolve in a manner that reflects the resident's will and protects public health, safety and welfare. • Support legislation to increase affordable housing investment. Page 22 of 26 • In lieu of the loss of revenues generated by redevelopment agencies, support legislation and State funding that would enable the City to enter or extend local -affordability covenants. • Support housing measures that promote the preservation of existing affordable housing, including programs that facilitate qualified developers and tenant -/community -based groups to acquire existing housing units. • Support legislation that would provide additional time and resources to improve Housing Element processes. 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. • Support investments in the revitalization of urban areas and disadvantaged neighborhoods. Page 23 of 26 • Oppose legislation or constitutional amendments 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. • Oppose legislation that limits local control of hiring practices or the ability to determine the terms and conditions of employment. Page 24 of 26 • Oppose legislation that puts either the employer or employee at a disadvantage or increases the cost of workers compensation insurance in the State. • Support legislation that allows for the continued use of retired annuitants, specifically those with specialized certifications. 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 • 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 would result in increased litigation; excessive costs; expansion of injury "presumptions" for special classes of employees; or erosion of workers' compensation as the exclusive remedy for work -related injuries. 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 for the 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 and funding efforts that aim to reduce the City's public health disparities. • Support legislation that provides direct and flexible funding to local governments for the Page 25 of 26 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. • Support legislation that promotes regional collaboration on public health response including funding opportunities to support local businesses. Support legislation and/or funding efforts to-provide-s financial relief to residential and commercial landlords and tenants who have lost income because of pandemic -related public health orders. Page 26 of 26 RECEIVE AND PLACE ON FILE ATOL- MEETING OF al RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Vi ' WEE.114 0 OE -" — HECEIAE VWD brVCE OiA WE January 3: Legislature reconvenes January 10: Governor's 24-25 budget proposal announced January 19: Last day to submit bill requests to the Office of Legislative Counsel January 31: Last day for each house to pass bills introduced in that house in the odd -numbered year February 16: Last day to introduce bills in 2024 March 22-March 31: Spring Recess May 24: House of Origin Deadline RPPr Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Rennc : _ 1,500 Pieces Of Legislation Tracked On Behalf Of The City 10/13 Success Rate On Legislative Engagement X — X — �4 $18M In New Funding To The City (grants and state budget) $7M In New Funding for the local Continuum of Care $22M In Pending TCC Grant Funding $5M In Pending Federal Earmark Funding from Rep. Valadao 3 j& RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Renee Public Policy Group State Budget Earmark MLK Jr. Park Rehabilitation Project $2,000,000 (Assemblymember Jasmeet Bains) Emergency Medical Services Program Grant Rebuilding America with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant Organized Retail Theft Grant Byrne JAG Grant Encampment Resolution Grant* Vehicle Extrication Equipment Chester Avenue Complete Streets Project Funding for PD Organized Retail Theft (ORT) Unit PD Load Bearing Vest Acquisition Funding for Continuum of Care $267,182 $10,000,000 $6,203,009 $156,045 $7,048,875 4 J, RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Rennc r By the Numbers 3,000: Approximate number of all measures introduced in the 2023 session (not all march toward the Governor for potential enactment, such as constitutional amendments). 2,662: Number of policy bills introduced. 1,046: Number of bills that made it to the Governor's desk (enrollment). Fun Fact: This ratio of bills making it to enrollment is roughly congruent with all prior years that Governor Newsom has been in office, with generally fewer than 15% vetoed and approximately 85% signed into law. S RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Renne Public Policy Group Super Majority Leverage Democratic Leadership and the Governor to leverage its three -fourths -plus "Super Majority" in both houses to advance major ballot measures which will now be considered by the voters on the November 2024 ballot. These include: ACA 1 (Aguiar-Curry): Provides local governments the option to issue bonds or raise some local taxes at a 55% threshold for critical infrastructure and affordable housing projects. ACA 13 (Ward): A late year introduction, this measure requires that any initiative measure that attempts to increase the voter approval requirement to adopt any state or local measure would also need to be approved by the same voter percentage as they are aiming to increase. This was hotly contested by CBRT as their current ballot proposal would only require a majority vote to approve but would increase all state and local tax thresholds to two-thirds. Applies to all measures beginning January 1, 2024 (including the CBRT measure). Note: The City did not position on either of these measures. 6 Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.corn RPPG y GroLip "Hot Labor Summer" The influx of new legislators brought about a revived push to advance key legislative proposals sponsored by organized labor impacting public employers. Among others, these include: SB 525 (Durazo): Increases hospital worker minimum wage to $25 per hour by 2026 after reaching a last- minute agreement with the California Hospital Association on phased increases. SB 799 (Portantino): Allows workers to receive unemployment benefits after 14 days on strike. (Applies to both public and private sector labor groups.) AB 1484 (Zbur): Allows temporary workers to join the same bargaining unit as permanent employees. (Public Sector only. Significantly amended to clarify that contract services providers are not included.) AB 504 (Reyes): Permits sympathy striking as a human right. (Public sector only. Amended to exempt first responders.) 7 Note: The City did not position on any of these measures. RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Renne PuUl c olicy Group Second Year of Two -Year Session: Bills that did not make it out of their house this year have until January 31 It to pass their house of origin. Election Year: Being an election year, we will see turnover in the legislature and several important ballot measures on the March and November ballots. Assembly Leadership Changes: • Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D, Winters) is the new Majority Leader • Jim Wood (D, Santa Rosa) is the new Speaker Pro Tempore • Juan Carrillo (D, Los Angeles) is the new chair of Local Government • Kevin McCarty (D, Sacramento) is the new chair of Public Safety • Chris Ward (D, San Diego) is the new chair of Housing 8 KPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Renne Public Policy Group 2023-24 Budget Act: Included a $310 billion spending plan with a projected deficit of $31.7 billion. Governor's Infrastructure Package: The final deal was delayed over negotiations that eventually included 8 Budget Trailer Bills that focused on streamlining the permitting process among federal, state, and local governments, including limiting the time that courts must hear challenges on environmental reviews and increasing funding to state agencies. Deferred revenues from late federal collection: The budget process this year was made more complicated when many Californians were granted until October, instead of April, to file income tax returns because of storm -related disaster declarations. Note: December 7, LAO Released a Projection of $68B looming budget deficit 9 RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Renne Public Policy Group Bills That The Committee Has Positioned On 10 A& RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Renne Public; Policy Group AB 531 (Irwin) The Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond Act of 2023 This measure would, if approved by the voters, authorize the issuance of $6.38 billion in bonds to finance grants for community -based treatment, care, and housing for people experiencing homelessness, at risk of homelessness, or living with a behavioral health challenge. City Position: Support Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 789, Statutes of 2023 SB 326 (Egqman) The Behavioral Health Services Act This measure would, if approved by voters, rename the Mental Health Services Act to the Behavioral Health Services Act, expand its scope to include the treatment of substance use disorders, and revise the distribution of its funds. City Position: Support Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 790, Statutes of 2023 1 KPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Renne Publ;c Policy Group SB 423 (Wiener) Land use: streamlined housing approvals: multifamily housing developments This bill authorizes the Department of General Services to act in the place of a locality or local government, at the discretion of that department, for purposes of the ministerial, streamlined review for development in compliance with the above - described requirements on property owned by or leased to the state. The bill extends the sunset provisions of SB 35 to January 1, 2036. City Position: Support Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 778, Statutes of 2023 Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com RPPG AB 480 (Ting) and SB 747 (CaballeroA These bills define the term "dispose" to mean the sale of the surplus property or a lease of any surplus property entered into on or after January 1, 2024, for a term longer than 15 years, including renewal options, as specified. The bills provide that "dispose" does not include entering a lease for surplus land on which no development or demolition will occur, regardless of the term of the lease. City Position: No position on AB 480; Support for SB 747 Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapters 788 (AB 480) and 786 (SB 747), Statutes of 2023 13 A& RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Renne RubGc Policy Group AB 33 (Bains) Fentanyl Misuse and Overdose Prevention Task Force This bill establishes the Fentanyl Misuse and Overdose Prevention Task Force to undertake various duties relating to fentanyl misuse. The bill requires the task force to be cochaired by the Attorney General and the State Public Health Officer, or their designees. City Position: Support Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapters 887, Statutes of 2023 AB 474 (Rodriguez) State Threat Assessment Center: transnational criminal organizations The bill would have required the Office of Emergency Services to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks trafficking opioid drugs that pose a threat to California. City Position: Support Status: Vetoed 10108 14 j& RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Renne P_Ll c aolicy Group AB 701 (Villapludya) Controlled substances: fentanyl This bill increases sentencing requirements for fentanyl, heroin, or cocaine possession or sales, depending on the amount. City Position: Support Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapters 540, Statutes of 2023 SB 14 (Grove) Serious felonies: human trafficking This bill makes human trafficking of a minor included within the definition of a serious felony. City Position: Support Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapters 230, Statutes of 2023 15 Ak RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com Renne Public Policy Group RPPG Renne Public Policy Group I www.publicpolicygroup.com