Institute for Local Government

The Institute is distributing two new publications that are the first in a series of resources that will provide local officials and community residents with information and tools to plan and develop healthy communities that are socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable.

The Institute's new guide on climate change and public engagement provides local officials with information, resources, and examples to involve their residents and businesses to develop local policies, programs, and action plans to address climate change.

League of California Cities President Robin Lowe explains the resources available to newly elected local officials, including the Institute for Local Government's "Understanding the Basics" series.  The publications are available as part of the Institute's "Local Government 101" program.

Census Day (April 1, 2010) is less than six months away. Our 2010 Census pages provide local officials with information and resources about local and statewide efforts to ensure a complete count of all Californians. Find information here from the US Census Bureau, California Complete Count and other groups working to ensure that all residents in the state are counted.

The Institute for Local Government is profoundly saddened by the passing of one of its beloved leaders and former Board Chair, Harriet Miller. 

Harriet received many honors over her long an distinguished career in public service.  Among them was the League of California Cities' Past Presidents’ Lifetime Achievement Award. 

In accepting that award, Harriet offered this advice to local elected officials.

As part of its effort to help local agencies conserve resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Institute just released an annotated sample commercial recycling ordinance. The ordinance and related resources are available in the Commercial Recycling Resource Center.