Special Districts: Improving Oversight & Transparency

Report #239, August 2017
Special Districts: Improving Oversight & Transparency

Full Report

Executive Summary

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 30, 2017

For Additional Information Contact:
Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
(916) 445-2125

Commission Calls for Special District Reforms

The Little Hoover Commission, in a report sent Wednesday to Governor Brown and the Legislature, recommended several measures to strengthen oversight of California’s 2,071 independent special districts.  The state should eliminate unnecessary hurdles for district dissolutions and consolidations to improve service delivery, expand transparency by requiring every district to have a website with basic information and standardize current reporting requirements on revenues, expenditures and reserves, according to the Commission’s report, Special Districts: Improving Oversight & Transparency.

“Special districts are the most common form of government in California, yet because there are so many performing so many different types of services, it is hard to draw conclusions on whether taxpayers would be better served if various districts merged or consolidated,” said Commission Chairman Pedro Nava.  “Current local government oversight of these districts is working in many places, but not all corners of California. To that end we are recommending some legislative changes that should lead to improved service delivery and greater efficiency.”

Special districts are the workhorses of government in California, providing vital services ranging from fire protection to water, cemeteries to sewers. Often it is special districts on the front lines of adapting to climate change and the Commission’s study focused on the important role districts can plan in both planning for change and educating their constituents. The Commission spent a year investigating whether California taxpayers are well-served by this little-understood layer of bureaucracy.  While they vary greatly in size and in servces provided, some common themes emerged.

The Commission found that the 58 Local Agency Formation Commission charged with oversight are not uniformly effective at initiating dissolutions and consolidations when necessary to improve service delivery and efficiency.  The Commission recommends several legislative modifications to strengthen these local bodies as well as a small one-time funding injection to initiate the most urgent dissolutions and consolidations, something that should save taxpayer dollars in the long run. 

Also in its review, the Commission found it difficult to find basic information on all special districts.  The Commission recommended requiring every special district to maintain a website outlining how to participate in decision making and an easy guide to revenue resources and expenditures, plus a published policy for financial reserves.

Additionally, the Commission focused on one type of district – healthcare districts – particularly those that no longer operate hospitals.  It found this segment needs to evolve to a modern preventative healthcare model, as some healthcare districts have.  As a start, the Commission recommends updating the outdated practice act that governs these districts.

The Little Hoover Commission is a bipartisan and independent state agency charged with recommending ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of state programs. The Commission’s recommendations are submitted to the Governor and the Legislature for their consideration and action. 

Fact Sheet

Study Description

The Commission reviewed California’s vast network of local governing agencies known as special districts. State government has oversight responsibilities for the formation of new districts and the operations of more than 4,500 existing local and regional districts which operate airports, harbors, cemeteries, hospitals, libraries and parks, while also providing fire-fighting and paramedic services, flood control and water delivery throughout California.

The Commission previously studied special districts in 1999 and issued a 2000 report titled, Special Districts: Relics of the Past or Resources for the Future? The Commission’s recommendations included empowering Local Agency Formation Commissions to help consolidate districts, finding ways to make special districts more transparent and accountable to the public, requiring more prudent management of their considerable financial reserves and making it tougher for special districts to simultaneously collect fees and property taxes.

The State Controller in 2014 counted 2,993 independent special districts in California run typically by elected or appointed boards with assistance of professional staffs. In 2014, these districts employed 143,180 people and paid approximately $9.5 billion in salaries and benefits. The Controller also tallied 1,500 county-run dependent special districts, which included more than 800 county service areas, to provide fire protection, flood control, highway lighting, road maintenance and other services. The Controller reported that another 254 city-run dependent special districts provided similar specialized functions. Collectively, these districts have issued $5.7 billion in debt since June 2015, according to the State Treasurer’s office.

This proliferation of more than 4,500 limited-purpose special districts, created to provide specific services in rural and urban areas as the state grew in population and developed infrastructure during recent decades, makes special districts the most common form of government in California. In contrast, 58 counties and 482 cities provide general-purpose government throughout the state.

While the strengths of special districts include their ability to provide specific, customized services and be responsive to local customers, their challenges include low civic visibility and limited oversight.


Previous Studies

Agenda

Overview

In this report, the Commission calls for special district reforms and recommends several measures to strengthen oversight of California’s 2,071 independent special districts.

During its review, the Commission found that the 58 Local Agency Formation Commissions charged with oversight are not uniformly effective at initiating dissolutions and consolidations when necessary to improve service delivery and efficiency. The Commission also found it difficult to find basic information on all special districts. 

The Commission recommends the state should eliminate unnecessary hurdles for district dissolutions and consolidations to improve service delivery, expand transparency by requiring every district to have a website with basic information and standardize current reporting requirements on revenues, expenditures and reserves.

    Print Agenda
    • August 24
      2017
      Business Meeting
      at approximately 12:30 p.m., Room 175, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
      Business Meeting
      Agenda

      AGENDA

      Business Meeting
      Thursday, August 24, 2017
      925 L Street, Room 175
      Sacramento, CA 


      The Commission will consider agenda items I-VI at approximately 12:30 p.m. The precise time will vary depending upon the testimony of witnesses and will be determined at the discretion of the chair. Members of the public will have an opportunity to make comments about Commission agenda items during the meeting.

      1. Business Meeting Minutes from June22, 2017
         
      2. Yountville - Draft Report for Possible Adoption
         
      3. Special Districts - Draft Report for Possible Adoption
         
      4. Subcommittee Reports and Project Selection
         
      5. Implementation
         
      6. Reports from the California State Auditor’s Office
      Public Notice

      PUBLIC NOTICE

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
      August 10, 2017

      For Additional Information Contact:
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
      (916) 445-2125

      Notice of Meeting

      On Thursday, August 24, 2017, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on forest management and examine strategies for long-term forest resilience. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

      At the hearing, the Commission will first hear from a panel consisting of members of the Dinkey Landscape Restoration Project. This panel will feature a representative from the U.S. Forest Service as well as a representative from Sierra Forest Legacy, who will discuss the Dinkey project as a potential model for collaboration in forest management. Next, the Commission will hear from a representative from CAL FIRE who will address the department’s participation in landscape-level collaborations, reforestation efforts and climate change adaptation. Also present at the hearing will be a researcher from the Water Policy Center at the Public Policy Institute of California who will discuss forested upper headwaters protection. The hearing also will include representatives from the California Air Resources Board and the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association who will address the impact of prescribed fire on air quality. Finally, the Commission will hear from a panel focusing on market development for California wood products. This panel will consist of a representative from the Tree Mortality Task Force’s Marketization Working Group and a representative from the California Natural Resources Agency. They will discuss the importance of market development in utilizing the 102 million dead trees and for long-term forest management.

      There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. The Commission also encourages written comments. 

      The Commission will convene a business meeting in room 175 of 925 L Street in Sacramento at approximately 12:30 p.m. An additional teleconference location accessible to the public during the biomass meeting will be: 15 Henry Street, Southampton, NY 11968.

      If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Commission Executive Director Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, August 17, 2017.

    • June 22
      2017
      Special Districts
      1:30 p.m., BMG Conference Room, Lower Level, 925 L Street, Sacramen
      Roundtable Discussion
      Agenda

      AGENDA

      Roundtable Discussion on Special Districts
      Thursday, June 22, 2016, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
      BMG Conference Room, Lower Level
      925 L Street, Sacramento, CA


      Meeting Goals: To understand the feasibility of potential recommendations being considered for the Little Hoover Commission’s special districts study.

      1:30 – 1:40 p.m.

      Welcome & Introductions
      Pedro Nava, Chair, Little Hoover Commission

      Study Process and Purpose of the Roundtable
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director, Little Hoover Commission

      1:40 – 3:30 p.m.

      Discussion: Meeting participants will discuss potential recommendations developed by the Little Hoover Commission over the course of its special districts study process. These include recommendations on governance, specifically opportunities to bolster existing oversight and recommendations to improve transparency.

      There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the roundtable discussion. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. Please notify Commission staff if you would like to make a comment.

      Public Notice

      PUBLIC NOTICE

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
      June 9, 2017

      For Additional Information Contact:
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
      (916) 445-2125

      Notice of Meeting 

      On Thursday, June 22, 2017, the Little Hoover Commission will hold a roundtable discussion with stakeholders to understand the feasibility of potential recommendations being considered for the Commission’s special districts study. The meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the BMG conference room located on the lower level of 925 L Street in Sacramento.

      Witnesses at Little Hoover Commission’s August and October 2016 public hearings and participants at the November 2016 advisory committee proposed numerous recommendations for consideration. At various business meetings in 2017, the Commission discussed these and other potential recommendations.

      The June 22 roundtable discussion is designed to consider if these recommendations are helpful, can be implemented or might have unintended consequences if implemented. The Commission also welcomes discussion on alternative suggestions.

      There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the roundtable discussion. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. The Commission also encourages written comments.

      If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Commission Executive Director Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, June 15, 2017.

    • November 16
      2016
      Special Districts
      1:30 p.m., 925 L Street, Lower Level, Sacramento, CA
      Advisory Committee Meeting
      Agenda

      AGENDA

      Advisory Committee Meeting on Special Districts
      Wednesday, November 16, 2016, at 1:30 p.m.
      925 L Street, Lower Level
      Sacramento, CA


      Welcome and Introduction to Study 
      Pedro Nava, Chair, Little Hoover Commission 

      Commission Study Process and Advisory Committee Role 
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director, Little Hoover Commission

      Discussion

      • How healthcare districts are rethinking their roles and relevance in an Affordable Care Act era that favors preventative care over traditional hospital care.
         
      • An assessment of the appropriate role of healthcare districts that no longer own or operate hospitals.
         
      • A look at ways healthcare districts without hospitals are modeling and offering a new menu of healthcare services.
         

      Final Comments

      Public Comments

      Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

      Public Notice

      PUBLIC NOTICE

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
      November 2, 2016

      For Additional Information Contact:
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
      (916) 445-2125 

      Notice of Public Meeting

      On Wednesday, November 16, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will convene an advisory committee meeting to discuss special districts. The meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the BMG Conference Room in the lower level at 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. The discussion will focus on healthcare districts, including how healthcare districts are rethinking their roles and relevance in the post-Affordable Care Act era, as well as an assessment of what is appropriate for healthcare districts that no longer own or operate hospitals.

      All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s website, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Wednesday, November 9, 2016. 

    • October 27
      2016
      Special Districts
      State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
      Public Hearing
      Agenda

      AGENDA

      Public Hearing on Special Districts
      Thursday, October 27, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.
      State Capitol, Room 437
      Sacramento, CA


      Opening Remarks

      Climate-Challenged California: An Overview of What's Here and Coming

      1. Louise Bedsworth, Deputy Director, Governor's Office of Planning and Research (Written Testimony)
         

      Investments for Uncertainty: Tomorrow's Climate Infrastructure

      1. Wendy Ridderbusch, Director of State Relations, Association of California Water Agencies (Written Testimony)
         

      Water/Wastewater Agencies: Preparing for Too Little or Too Much Precipitation

      1. Alexander Coate, General Manager, East Bay Municipal Utility District (Written Testimony)
         
      2. Jeffrey Armstrong, General Manager, Rancho California Water District (Written Testimony)
         
      3. Philip Friess, Department Head, Technical Services, Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (Written Testimony)
         

      Storms and Sea Level Rise: Infrastructure Investments for Flood Control

      1. Melanie Richardson, Interim Chief Operating Officer - Watersheds, Santa Clara Valley Water District (Written Testimony)
         
      2. Alan Hofmann, General Manager, Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District (Written Testimony)
         

      Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

      Public Notice

      PUBLIC NOTICE

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
      October 13, 2016

      For Additional Information Contact:
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
      (916) 445-2125

      Little Hoover Commission to hold Hearing on Special Districts' Climate Change Adaptation Efforts

      On Thursday, October 27, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a second public hearing on California’s 4,700 special districts, with a focus on how these local and regional government entities are preparing for the impacts of climate change. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in California.

      The October hearing will focus the special districts’ study on costly infrastructure investments described by special district representatives at the Commission’s first hearing in August. The hearing will specifically review three public services – water supply and delivery, wastewater treatment and flood control – all exposed to the effects of climate change. The Commission will hear from seven witnesses, who will discuss the impacts that climate change is already having on special districts, including California’s historic drought. Witnesses also will describe their current plans to adapt to climate change at the local level, and what assistance they need from state government to broaden their range of defensive options.

      At the hearing the Commission will first hear from the deputy director of the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR), who will first provide a brief overview of climate change threats in California. The second witness is the director of state relations for the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), who will give an overview of how special district water, wastewater and flood control agencies are beginning to incorporate climate change adaptation into their infrastructure plans. The third panel will feature the general manager of the East Bay Municipal Utility District, the general manager of the Rancho California Water District and the technical services department head for the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County. They will provide information on what measures they are taking at the local level to address climate change impacts. The final panel will include the interim chief operating officer for the Santa Clara Valley Water District and the general manager of the Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District, who will talk about their work on climate change adaptation in flood plain areas.

      There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A formal agenda and other documents related to this study can be viewed and downloaded from the Commission’s website at www.lhc.ca.gov.

      Immediately following the hearing, the Commission will hold a business meeting in in the lower level conference room at 925 L Street in Sacramento. 

      Video
    • August 25
      2016
      Special Districts
      1020 N Street, Room 100, Sacramento, CA
      Public Hearing
      Agenda

      AGENDA

      Public Hearing on Special Districts
      Thursday, August 25, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.
      1020 N Street, Room 100
      Sacramento, CA


      Opening Remarks

      Celebrated and Cussed: An Overview of Special Districts in California

      1. Kyle Packham, Advocacy and Public Affairs Director, California Special Districts Association (Written Testimony)
         

      Missions for Changing Times: Healthcare and Fire Protection Districts

      1. Amber King, Senior Legislative Advocate, Association of California Health Care Districts (Written Testimony)
         
      2. Michael Schwartz, Fire Chief, North Tahoe Fire Protection District (Written Testimony)
         

      Who's in Charge Here? Local Agency Formation Commissions

      1. Pamela Miller, Executive Director, California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions (Written Testimony)
         
      2. John Leopold, Chair, California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions, Santa Cruz County District 1 Supervisor and Santa Cruz County Local Agency Formation Commission member
         
      3. Stephen Lucas, Executive Officer, California Local Agency Formation Commission and Butte County Local Agency Formation Commission
         

      Defing "Prudent:" What's a Fair Share of Property Taxes and Reserves?

      1. Michael Coleman, Principal, CaliforniaCityFinance.com (Written Testimony)
         
      2. Jon Coupal, President, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association (Written Testimony)
         

      Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

      Public Notice

      PUBLIC NOTICE

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
      August 11, 2016

      For Additional Information Contact:
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
      (916) 445-2125

      Little Hoover Commission to hold Hearing on California's 4,700 Special Districts

      On Thursday, August 25, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on special districts, the 4,700 local and regional government entities that provide water, sewer and other services, run parks and hospitals and collect taxes and fees. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. 1020 N Street, Room 100, in Sacramento.

      The November hearing is the Commission’s first look at special districts since its 2000 report, Special Districts: Relics of the Past or Resources for the Future? At this hearing, the Commission will largely focus on the nearly 3,000 independent special districts run by elected or appointed boards with assistance of professional staffs. The Commission will hear from six witnesses to set the stage for its exploration of state policy toward special districts. Witnesses will discuss the basics of special district organization, address criticisms of special districts and offer assessments of the Commission’s 2000 report. The Commission also will hear from witnesses on what has and has not changed since 2000, explore new challenges and opportunities facing special districts and consider what new areas can be investigated by this study.

      At the hearing the Commission will first hear from the advocacy and public affairs director for the California Special Districts Association to gain an overall view of special districts in the state. The second panel includes representatives from the Association of California Healthcare Districts and the North Tahoe Fire Protection District, to discuss how changing times are affecting special districts. The third panel features the executive director of the California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions (CALAFCO), to address the role of LAFCOs in governing special districts. The final panel includes the principal at CaliforniaCityFinance.com and the president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. They will discuss the role of property taxes and fees in funding special districts.

      There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A formal agenda and other documents related to this study can be viewed and downloaded from the Commission’s website at www.lhc.ca.gov.

      Immediately following the hearing, the Commission will hold a business meeting in in the lower level conference room at 925 L Street in Sacramento. An additional teleconference location accessible to the public for the business meeting will be at 15 Henry Street, Southampton, NY 11968. 

      Video
    August 24
    2017
    Business Meeting
    at approximately 12:30 p.m., Room 175, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
    Business Meeting
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Business Meeting
    Thursday, August 24, 2017
    925 L Street, Room 175
    Sacramento, CA 


    The Commission will consider agenda items I-VI at approximately 12:30 p.m. The precise time will vary depending upon the testimony of witnesses and will be determined at the discretion of the chair. Members of the public will have an opportunity to make comments about Commission agenda items during the meeting.

    1. Business Meeting Minutes from June22, 2017
       
    2. Yountville - Draft Report for Possible Adoption
       
    3. Special Districts - Draft Report for Possible Adoption
       
    4. Subcommittee Reports and Project Selection
       
    5. Implementation
       
    6. Reports from the California State Auditor’s Office
    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    August 10, 2017

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meeting

    On Thursday, August 24, 2017, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on forest management and examine strategies for long-term forest resilience. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    At the hearing, the Commission will first hear from a panel consisting of members of the Dinkey Landscape Restoration Project. This panel will feature a representative from the U.S. Forest Service as well as a representative from Sierra Forest Legacy, who will discuss the Dinkey project as a potential model for collaboration in forest management. Next, the Commission will hear from a representative from CAL FIRE who will address the department’s participation in landscape-level collaborations, reforestation efforts and climate change adaptation. Also present at the hearing will be a researcher from the Water Policy Center at the Public Policy Institute of California who will discuss forested upper headwaters protection. The hearing also will include representatives from the California Air Resources Board and the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association who will address the impact of prescribed fire on air quality. Finally, the Commission will hear from a panel focusing on market development for California wood products. This panel will consist of a representative from the Tree Mortality Task Force’s Marketization Working Group and a representative from the California Natural Resources Agency. They will discuss the importance of market development in utilizing the 102 million dead trees and for long-term forest management.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. The Commission also encourages written comments. 

    The Commission will convene a business meeting in room 175 of 925 L Street in Sacramento at approximately 12:30 p.m. An additional teleconference location accessible to the public during the biomass meeting will be: 15 Henry Street, Southampton, NY 11968.

    If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Commission Executive Director Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, August 17, 2017.

    June 22
    2017
    Special Districts
    1:30 p.m., BMG Conference Room, Lower Level, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
    Roundtable Discussion
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Roundtable Discussion on Special Districts
    Thursday, June 22, 2016, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
    BMG Conference Room, Lower Level
    925 L Street, Sacramento, CA


    Meeting Goals: To understand the feasibility of potential recommendations being considered for the Little Hoover Commission’s special districts study.

    1:30 – 1:40 p.m.

    Welcome & Introductions
    Pedro Nava, Chair, Little Hoover Commission

    Study Process and Purpose of the Roundtable
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director, Little Hoover Commission

    1:40 – 3:30 p.m.

    Discussion: Meeting participants will discuss potential recommendations developed by the Little Hoover Commission over the course of its special districts study process. These include recommendations on governance, specifically opportunities to bolster existing oversight and recommendations to improve transparency.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the roundtable discussion. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. Please notify Commission staff if you would like to make a comment.

    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 9, 2017

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meeting 

    On Thursday, June 22, 2017, the Little Hoover Commission will hold a roundtable discussion with stakeholders to understand the feasibility of potential recommendations being considered for the Commission’s special districts study. The meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the BMG conference room located on the lower level of 925 L Street in Sacramento.

    Witnesses at Little Hoover Commission’s August and October 2016 public hearings and participants at the November 2016 advisory committee proposed numerous recommendations for consideration. At various business meetings in 2017, the Commission discussed these and other potential recommendations.

    The June 22 roundtable discussion is designed to consider if these recommendations are helpful, can be implemented or might have unintended consequences if implemented. The Commission also welcomes discussion on alternative suggestions.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the roundtable discussion. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. The Commission also encourages written comments.

    If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Commission Executive Director Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, June 15, 2017.

    November 16
    2016
    Special Districts
    1:30 p.m., 925 L Street, Lower Level, Sacramento, CA
    Advisory Committee Meeting
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Advisory Committee Meeting on Special Districts
    Wednesday, November 16, 2016, at 1:30 p.m.
    925 L Street, Lower Level
    Sacramento, CA


    Welcome and Introduction to Study 
    Pedro Nava, Chair, Little Hoover Commission 

    Commission Study Process and Advisory Committee Role 
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director, Little Hoover Commission

    Discussion

    • How healthcare districts are rethinking their roles and relevance in an Affordable Care Act era that favors preventative care over traditional hospital care.
       
    • An assessment of the appropriate role of healthcare districts that no longer own or operate hospitals.
       
    • A look at ways healthcare districts without hospitals are modeling and offering a new menu of healthcare services.
       

    Final Comments

    Public Comments

    Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    November 2, 2016

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125 

    Notice of Public Meeting

    On Wednesday, November 16, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will convene an advisory committee meeting to discuss special districts. The meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the BMG Conference Room in the lower level at 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. The discussion will focus on healthcare districts, including how healthcare districts are rethinking their roles and relevance in the post-Affordable Care Act era, as well as an assessment of what is appropriate for healthcare districts that no longer own or operate hospitals.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s website, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Wednesday, November 9, 2016. 

    October 27
    2016
    Special Districts
    State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Public Hearing on Special Districts
    Thursday, October 27, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.
    State Capitol, Room 437
    Sacramento, CA


    Opening Remarks

    Climate-Challenged California: An Overview of What's Here and Coming

    1. Louise Bedsworth, Deputy Director, Governor's Office of Planning and Research (Written Testimony)
       

    Investments for Uncertainty: Tomorrow's Climate Infrastructure

    1. Wendy Ridderbusch, Director of State Relations, Association of California Water Agencies (Written Testimony)
       

    Water/Wastewater Agencies: Preparing for Too Little or Too Much Precipitation

    1. Alexander Coate, General Manager, East Bay Municipal Utility District (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Jeffrey Armstrong, General Manager, Rancho California Water District (Written Testimony)
       
    3. Philip Friess, Department Head, Technical Services, Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (Written Testimony)
       

    Storms and Sea Level Rise: Infrastructure Investments for Flood Control

    1. Melanie Richardson, Interim Chief Operating Officer - Watersheds, Santa Clara Valley Water District (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Alan Hofmann, General Manager, Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District (Written Testimony)
       

    Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    October 13, 2016

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Little Hoover Commission to hold Hearing on Special Districts' Climate Change Adaptation Efforts

    On Thursday, October 27, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a second public hearing on California’s 4,700 special districts, with a focus on how these local and regional government entities are preparing for the impacts of climate change. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in California.

    The October hearing will focus the special districts’ study on costly infrastructure investments described by special district representatives at the Commission’s first hearing in August. The hearing will specifically review three public services – water supply and delivery, wastewater treatment and flood control – all exposed to the effects of climate change. The Commission will hear from seven witnesses, who will discuss the impacts that climate change is already having on special districts, including California’s historic drought. Witnesses also will describe their current plans to adapt to climate change at the local level, and what assistance they need from state government to broaden their range of defensive options.

    At the hearing the Commission will first hear from the deputy director of the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR), who will first provide a brief overview of climate change threats in California. The second witness is the director of state relations for the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), who will give an overview of how special district water, wastewater and flood control agencies are beginning to incorporate climate change adaptation into their infrastructure plans. The third panel will feature the general manager of the East Bay Municipal Utility District, the general manager of the Rancho California Water District and the technical services department head for the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County. They will provide information on what measures they are taking at the local level to address climate change impacts. The final panel will include the interim chief operating officer for the Santa Clara Valley Water District and the general manager of the Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District, who will talk about their work on climate change adaptation in flood plain areas.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A formal agenda and other documents related to this study can be viewed and downloaded from the Commission’s website at www.lhc.ca.gov.

    Immediately following the hearing, the Commission will hold a business meeting in in the lower level conference room at 925 L Street in Sacramento. 

    Video
    August 25
    2016
    Special Districts
    1020 N Street, Room 100, Sacramento, CA
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Public Hearing on Special Districts
    Thursday, August 25, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.
    1020 N Street, Room 100
    Sacramento, CA


    Opening Remarks

    Celebrated and Cussed: An Overview of Special Districts in California

    1. Kyle Packham, Advocacy and Public Affairs Director, California Special Districts Association (Written Testimony)
       

    Missions for Changing Times: Healthcare and Fire Protection Districts

    1. Amber King, Senior Legislative Advocate, Association of California Health Care Districts (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Michael Schwartz, Fire Chief, North Tahoe Fire Protection District (Written Testimony)
       

    Who's in Charge Here? Local Agency Formation Commissions

    1. Pamela Miller, Executive Director, California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions (Written Testimony)
       
    2. John Leopold, Chair, California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions, Santa Cruz County District 1 Supervisor and Santa Cruz County Local Agency Formation Commission member
       
    3. Stephen Lucas, Executive Officer, California Local Agency Formation Commission and Butte County Local Agency Formation Commission
       

    Defing "Prudent:" What's a Fair Share of Property Taxes and Reserves?

    1. Michael Coleman, Principal, CaliforniaCityFinance.com (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Jon Coupal, President, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association (Written Testimony)
       

    Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    August 11, 2016

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Little Hoover Commission to hold Hearing on California's 4,700 Special Districts

    On Thursday, August 25, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on special districts, the 4,700 local and regional government entities that provide water, sewer and other services, run parks and hospitals and collect taxes and fees. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. 1020 N Street, Room 100, in Sacramento.

    The November hearing is the Commission’s first look at special districts since its 2000 report, Special Districts: Relics of the Past or Resources for the Future? At this hearing, the Commission will largely focus on the nearly 3,000 independent special districts run by elected or appointed boards with assistance of professional staffs. The Commission will hear from six witnesses to set the stage for its exploration of state policy toward special districts. Witnesses will discuss the basics of special district organization, address criticisms of special districts and offer assessments of the Commission’s 2000 report. The Commission also will hear from witnesses on what has and has not changed since 2000, explore new challenges and opportunities facing special districts and consider what new areas can be investigated by this study.

    At the hearing the Commission will first hear from the advocacy and public affairs director for the California Special Districts Association to gain an overall view of special districts in the state. The second panel includes representatives from the Association of California Healthcare Districts and the North Tahoe Fire Protection District, to discuss how changing times are affecting special districts. The third panel features the executive director of the California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions (CALAFCO), to address the role of LAFCOs in governing special districts. The final panel includes the principal at CaliforniaCityFinance.com and the president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. They will discuss the role of property taxes and fees in funding special districts.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A formal agenda and other documents related to this study can be viewed and downloaded from the Commission’s website at www.lhc.ca.gov.

    Immediately following the hearing, the Commission will hold a business meeting in in the lower level conference room at 925 L Street in Sacramento. An additional teleconference location accessible to the public for the business meeting will be at 15 Henry Street, Southampton, NY 11968. 

    Video
    Print Agenda
    • August 24
      2017
      Business Meeting
      at approximately 12:30 p.m., Room 175, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
      Business Meeting
      Agenda

      AGENDA

      Business Meeting
      Thursday, August 24, 2017
      925 L Street, Room 175
      Sacramento, CA 


      The Commission will consider agenda items I-VI at approximately 12:30 p.m. The precise time will vary depending upon the testimony of witnesses and will be determined at the discretion of the chair. Members of the public will have an opportunity to make comments about Commission agenda items during the meeting.

      1. Business Meeting Minutes from June22, 2017
         
      2. Yountville - Draft Report for Possible Adoption
         
      3. Special Districts - Draft Report for Possible Adoption
         
      4. Subcommittee Reports and Project Selection
         
      5. Implementation
         
      6. Reports from the California State Auditor’s Office
      Public Notice

      PUBLIC NOTICE

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
      August 10, 2017

      For Additional Information Contact:
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
      (916) 445-2125

      Notice of Meeting

      On Thursday, August 24, 2017, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on forest management and examine strategies for long-term forest resilience. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

      At the hearing, the Commission will first hear from a panel consisting of members of the Dinkey Landscape Restoration Project. This panel will feature a representative from the U.S. Forest Service as well as a representative from Sierra Forest Legacy, who will discuss the Dinkey project as a potential model for collaboration in forest management. Next, the Commission will hear from a representative from CAL FIRE who will address the department’s participation in landscape-level collaborations, reforestation efforts and climate change adaptation. Also present at the hearing will be a researcher from the Water Policy Center at the Public Policy Institute of California who will discuss forested upper headwaters protection. The hearing also will include representatives from the California Air Resources Board and the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association who will address the impact of prescribed fire on air quality. Finally, the Commission will hear from a panel focusing on market development for California wood products. This panel will consist of a representative from the Tree Mortality Task Force’s Marketization Working Group and a representative from the California Natural Resources Agency. They will discuss the importance of market development in utilizing the 102 million dead trees and for long-term forest management.

      There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. The Commission also encourages written comments. 

      The Commission will convene a business meeting in room 175 of 925 L Street in Sacramento at approximately 12:30 p.m. An additional teleconference location accessible to the public during the biomass meeting will be: 15 Henry Street, Southampton, NY 11968.

      If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Commission Executive Director Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, August 17, 2017.

    • June 22
      2017
      Special Districts
      1:30 p.m., BMG Conference Room, Lower Level, 925 L Street, Sacramen
      Roundtable Discussion
      Agenda

      AGENDA

      Roundtable Discussion on Special Districts
      Thursday, June 22, 2016, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
      BMG Conference Room, Lower Level
      925 L Street, Sacramento, CA


      Meeting Goals: To understand the feasibility of potential recommendations being considered for the Little Hoover Commission’s special districts study.

      1:30 – 1:40 p.m.

      Welcome & Introductions
      Pedro Nava, Chair, Little Hoover Commission

      Study Process and Purpose of the Roundtable
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director, Little Hoover Commission

      1:40 – 3:30 p.m.

      Discussion: Meeting participants will discuss potential recommendations developed by the Little Hoover Commission over the course of its special districts study process. These include recommendations on governance, specifically opportunities to bolster existing oversight and recommendations to improve transparency.

      There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the roundtable discussion. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. Please notify Commission staff if you would like to make a comment.

      Public Notice

      PUBLIC NOTICE

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
      June 9, 2017

      For Additional Information Contact:
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
      (916) 445-2125

      Notice of Meeting 

      On Thursday, June 22, 2017, the Little Hoover Commission will hold a roundtable discussion with stakeholders to understand the feasibility of potential recommendations being considered for the Commission’s special districts study. The meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the BMG conference room located on the lower level of 925 L Street in Sacramento.

      Witnesses at Little Hoover Commission’s August and October 2016 public hearings and participants at the November 2016 advisory committee proposed numerous recommendations for consideration. At various business meetings in 2017, the Commission discussed these and other potential recommendations.

      The June 22 roundtable discussion is designed to consider if these recommendations are helpful, can be implemented or might have unintended consequences if implemented. The Commission also welcomes discussion on alternative suggestions.

      There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the roundtable discussion. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. The Commission also encourages written comments.

      If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Commission Executive Director Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, June 15, 2017.

    • November 16
      2016
      Special Districts
      1:30 p.m., 925 L Street, Lower Level, Sacramento, CA
      Advisory Committee Meeting
      Agenda

      AGENDA

      Advisory Committee Meeting on Special Districts
      Wednesday, November 16, 2016, at 1:30 p.m.
      925 L Street, Lower Level
      Sacramento, CA


      Welcome and Introduction to Study 
      Pedro Nava, Chair, Little Hoover Commission 

      Commission Study Process and Advisory Committee Role 
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director, Little Hoover Commission

      Discussion

      • How healthcare districts are rethinking their roles and relevance in an Affordable Care Act era that favors preventative care over traditional hospital care.
         
      • An assessment of the appropriate role of healthcare districts that no longer own or operate hospitals.
         
      • A look at ways healthcare districts without hospitals are modeling and offering a new menu of healthcare services.
         

      Final Comments

      Public Comments

      Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

      Public Notice

      PUBLIC NOTICE

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
      November 2, 2016

      For Additional Information Contact:
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
      (916) 445-2125 

      Notice of Public Meeting

      On Wednesday, November 16, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will convene an advisory committee meeting to discuss special districts. The meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the BMG Conference Room in the lower level at 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. The discussion will focus on healthcare districts, including how healthcare districts are rethinking their roles and relevance in the post-Affordable Care Act era, as well as an assessment of what is appropriate for healthcare districts that no longer own or operate hospitals.

      All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s website, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Wednesday, November 9, 2016. 

    • October 27
      2016
      Special Districts
      State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
      Public Hearing
      Agenda

      AGENDA

      Public Hearing on Special Districts
      Thursday, October 27, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.
      State Capitol, Room 437
      Sacramento, CA


      Opening Remarks

      Climate-Challenged California: An Overview of What's Here and Coming

      1. Louise Bedsworth, Deputy Director, Governor's Office of Planning and Research (Written Testimony)
         

      Investments for Uncertainty: Tomorrow's Climate Infrastructure

      1. Wendy Ridderbusch, Director of State Relations, Association of California Water Agencies (Written Testimony)
         

      Water/Wastewater Agencies: Preparing for Too Little or Too Much Precipitation

      1. Alexander Coate, General Manager, East Bay Municipal Utility District (Written Testimony)
         
      2. Jeffrey Armstrong, General Manager, Rancho California Water District (Written Testimony)
         
      3. Philip Friess, Department Head, Technical Services, Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (Written Testimony)
         

      Storms and Sea Level Rise: Infrastructure Investments for Flood Control

      1. Melanie Richardson, Interim Chief Operating Officer - Watersheds, Santa Clara Valley Water District (Written Testimony)
         
      2. Alan Hofmann, General Manager, Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District (Written Testimony)
         

      Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

      Public Notice

      PUBLIC NOTICE

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
      October 13, 2016

      For Additional Information Contact:
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
      (916) 445-2125

      Little Hoover Commission to hold Hearing on Special Districts' Climate Change Adaptation Efforts

      On Thursday, October 27, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a second public hearing on California’s 4,700 special districts, with a focus on how these local and regional government entities are preparing for the impacts of climate change. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in California.

      The October hearing will focus the special districts’ study on costly infrastructure investments described by special district representatives at the Commission’s first hearing in August. The hearing will specifically review three public services – water supply and delivery, wastewater treatment and flood control – all exposed to the effects of climate change. The Commission will hear from seven witnesses, who will discuss the impacts that climate change is already having on special districts, including California’s historic drought. Witnesses also will describe their current plans to adapt to climate change at the local level, and what assistance they need from state government to broaden their range of defensive options.

      At the hearing the Commission will first hear from the deputy director of the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR), who will first provide a brief overview of climate change threats in California. The second witness is the director of state relations for the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), who will give an overview of how special district water, wastewater and flood control agencies are beginning to incorporate climate change adaptation into their infrastructure plans. The third panel will feature the general manager of the East Bay Municipal Utility District, the general manager of the Rancho California Water District and the technical services department head for the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County. They will provide information on what measures they are taking at the local level to address climate change impacts. The final panel will include the interim chief operating officer for the Santa Clara Valley Water District and the general manager of the Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District, who will talk about their work on climate change adaptation in flood plain areas.

      There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A formal agenda and other documents related to this study can be viewed and downloaded from the Commission’s website at www.lhc.ca.gov.

      Immediately following the hearing, the Commission will hold a business meeting in in the lower level conference room at 925 L Street in Sacramento. 

      Video
    • August 25
      2016
      Special Districts
      1020 N Street, Room 100, Sacramento, CA
      Public Hearing
      Agenda

      AGENDA

      Public Hearing on Special Districts
      Thursday, August 25, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.
      1020 N Street, Room 100
      Sacramento, CA


      Opening Remarks

      Celebrated and Cussed: An Overview of Special Districts in California

      1. Kyle Packham, Advocacy and Public Affairs Director, California Special Districts Association (Written Testimony)
         

      Missions for Changing Times: Healthcare and Fire Protection Districts

      1. Amber King, Senior Legislative Advocate, Association of California Health Care Districts (Written Testimony)
         
      2. Michael Schwartz, Fire Chief, North Tahoe Fire Protection District (Written Testimony)
         

      Who's in Charge Here? Local Agency Formation Commissions

      1. Pamela Miller, Executive Director, California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions (Written Testimony)
         
      2. John Leopold, Chair, California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions, Santa Cruz County District 1 Supervisor and Santa Cruz County Local Agency Formation Commission member
         
      3. Stephen Lucas, Executive Officer, California Local Agency Formation Commission and Butte County Local Agency Formation Commission
         

      Defing "Prudent:" What's a Fair Share of Property Taxes and Reserves?

      1. Michael Coleman, Principal, CaliforniaCityFinance.com (Written Testimony)
         
      2. Jon Coupal, President, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association (Written Testimony)
         

      Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

      Public Notice

      PUBLIC NOTICE

      FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
      August 11, 2016

      For Additional Information Contact:
      Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
      (916) 445-2125

      Little Hoover Commission to hold Hearing on California's 4,700 Special Districts

      On Thursday, August 25, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on special districts, the 4,700 local and regional government entities that provide water, sewer and other services, run parks and hospitals and collect taxes and fees. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. 1020 N Street, Room 100, in Sacramento.

      The November hearing is the Commission’s first look at special districts since its 2000 report, Special Districts: Relics of the Past or Resources for the Future? At this hearing, the Commission will largely focus on the nearly 3,000 independent special districts run by elected or appointed boards with assistance of professional staffs. The Commission will hear from six witnesses to set the stage for its exploration of state policy toward special districts. Witnesses will discuss the basics of special district organization, address criticisms of special districts and offer assessments of the Commission’s 2000 report. The Commission also will hear from witnesses on what has and has not changed since 2000, explore new challenges and opportunities facing special districts and consider what new areas can be investigated by this study.

      At the hearing the Commission will first hear from the advocacy and public affairs director for the California Special Districts Association to gain an overall view of special districts in the state. The second panel includes representatives from the Association of California Healthcare Districts and the North Tahoe Fire Protection District, to discuss how changing times are affecting special districts. The third panel features the executive director of the California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions (CALAFCO), to address the role of LAFCOs in governing special districts. The final panel includes the principal at CaliforniaCityFinance.com and the president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. They will discuss the role of property taxes and fees in funding special districts.

      There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A formal agenda and other documents related to this study can be viewed and downloaded from the Commission’s website at www.lhc.ca.gov.

      Immediately following the hearing, the Commission will hold a business meeting in in the lower level conference room at 925 L Street in Sacramento. An additional teleconference location accessible to the public for the business meeting will be at 15 Henry Street, Southampton, NY 11968. 

      Video
    August 24
    2017
    Business Meeting
    at approximately 12:30 p.m., Room 175, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
    Business Meeting
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Business Meeting
    Thursday, August 24, 2017
    925 L Street, Room 175
    Sacramento, CA 


    The Commission will consider agenda items I-VI at approximately 12:30 p.m. The precise time will vary depending upon the testimony of witnesses and will be determined at the discretion of the chair. Members of the public will have an opportunity to make comments about Commission agenda items during the meeting.

    1. Business Meeting Minutes from June22, 2017
       
    2. Yountville - Draft Report for Possible Adoption
       
    3. Special Districts - Draft Report for Possible Adoption
       
    4. Subcommittee Reports and Project Selection
       
    5. Implementation
       
    6. Reports from the California State Auditor’s Office
    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    August 10, 2017

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meeting

    On Thursday, August 24, 2017, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on forest management and examine strategies for long-term forest resilience. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

    At the hearing, the Commission will first hear from a panel consisting of members of the Dinkey Landscape Restoration Project. This panel will feature a representative from the U.S. Forest Service as well as a representative from Sierra Forest Legacy, who will discuss the Dinkey project as a potential model for collaboration in forest management. Next, the Commission will hear from a representative from CAL FIRE who will address the department’s participation in landscape-level collaborations, reforestation efforts and climate change adaptation. Also present at the hearing will be a researcher from the Water Policy Center at the Public Policy Institute of California who will discuss forested upper headwaters protection. The hearing also will include representatives from the California Air Resources Board and the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association who will address the impact of prescribed fire on air quality. Finally, the Commission will hear from a panel focusing on market development for California wood products. This panel will consist of a representative from the Tree Mortality Task Force’s Marketization Working Group and a representative from the California Natural Resources Agency. They will discuss the importance of market development in utilizing the 102 million dead trees and for long-term forest management.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. The Commission also encourages written comments. 

    The Commission will convene a business meeting in room 175 of 925 L Street in Sacramento at approximately 12:30 p.m. An additional teleconference location accessible to the public during the biomass meeting will be: 15 Henry Street, Southampton, NY 11968.

    If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Commission Executive Director Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, August 17, 2017.

    June 22
    2017
    Special Districts
    1:30 p.m., BMG Conference Room, Lower Level, 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA
    Roundtable Discussion
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Roundtable Discussion on Special Districts
    Thursday, June 22, 2016, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
    BMG Conference Room, Lower Level
    925 L Street, Sacramento, CA


    Meeting Goals: To understand the feasibility of potential recommendations being considered for the Little Hoover Commission’s special districts study.

    1:30 – 1:40 p.m.

    Welcome & Introductions
    Pedro Nava, Chair, Little Hoover Commission

    Study Process and Purpose of the Roundtable
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director, Little Hoover Commission

    1:40 – 3:30 p.m.

    Discussion: Meeting participants will discuss potential recommendations developed by the Little Hoover Commission over the course of its special districts study process. These include recommendations on governance, specifically opportunities to bolster existing oversight and recommendations to improve transparency.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the roundtable discussion. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. Please notify Commission staff if you would like to make a comment.

    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 9, 2017

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Notice of Meeting 

    On Thursday, June 22, 2017, the Little Hoover Commission will hold a roundtable discussion with stakeholders to understand the feasibility of potential recommendations being considered for the Commission’s special districts study. The meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the BMG conference room located on the lower level of 925 L Street in Sacramento.

    Witnesses at Little Hoover Commission’s August and October 2016 public hearings and participants at the November 2016 advisory committee proposed numerous recommendations for consideration. At various business meetings in 2017, the Commission discussed these and other potential recommendations.

    The June 22 roundtable discussion is designed to consider if these recommendations are helpful, can be implemented or might have unintended consequences if implemented. The Commission also welcomes discussion on alternative suggestions.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the roundtable discussion. Public comments will be limited to three minutes per person. The Commission also encourages written comments.

    If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Commission Executive Director Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Thursday, June 15, 2017.

    November 16
    2016
    Special Districts
    1:30 p.m., 925 L Street, Lower Level, Sacramento, CA
    Advisory Committee Meeting
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Advisory Committee Meeting on Special Districts
    Wednesday, November 16, 2016, at 1:30 p.m.
    925 L Street, Lower Level
    Sacramento, CA


    Welcome and Introduction to Study 
    Pedro Nava, Chair, Little Hoover Commission 

    Commission Study Process and Advisory Committee Role 
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director, Little Hoover Commission

    Discussion

    • How healthcare districts are rethinking their roles and relevance in an Affordable Care Act era that favors preventative care over traditional hospital care.
       
    • An assessment of the appropriate role of healthcare districts that no longer own or operate hospitals.
       
    • A look at ways healthcare districts without hospitals are modeling and offering a new menu of healthcare services.
       

    Final Comments

    Public Comments

    Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    November 2, 2016

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125 

    Notice of Public Meeting

    On Wednesday, November 16, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will convene an advisory committee meeting to discuss special districts. The meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the BMG Conference Room in the lower level at 925 L Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. The discussion will focus on healthcare districts, including how healthcare districts are rethinking their roles and relevance in the post-Affordable Care Act era, as well as an assessment of what is appropriate for healthcare districts that no longer own or operate hospitals.

    All public notices for meetings are on the Commission’s website, www.lhc.ca.gov. If you need reasonable accommodation due to a disability, please contact Carole D’Elia at (916) 445-2125 or littlehoover@lhc.ca.gov by Wednesday, November 9, 2016. 

    October 27
    2016
    Special Districts
    State Capitol, Room 437, Sacramento, CA
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Public Hearing on Special Districts
    Thursday, October 27, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.
    State Capitol, Room 437
    Sacramento, CA


    Opening Remarks

    Climate-Challenged California: An Overview of What's Here and Coming

    1. Louise Bedsworth, Deputy Director, Governor's Office of Planning and Research (Written Testimony)
       

    Investments for Uncertainty: Tomorrow's Climate Infrastructure

    1. Wendy Ridderbusch, Director of State Relations, Association of California Water Agencies (Written Testimony)
       

    Water/Wastewater Agencies: Preparing for Too Little or Too Much Precipitation

    1. Alexander Coate, General Manager, East Bay Municipal Utility District (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Jeffrey Armstrong, General Manager, Rancho California Water District (Written Testimony)
       
    3. Philip Friess, Department Head, Technical Services, Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (Written Testimony)
       

    Storms and Sea Level Rise: Infrastructure Investments for Flood Control

    1. Melanie Richardson, Interim Chief Operating Officer - Watersheds, Santa Clara Valley Water District (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Alan Hofmann, General Manager, Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District (Written Testimony)
       

    Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    October 13, 2016

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Little Hoover Commission to hold Hearing on Special Districts' Climate Change Adaptation Efforts

    On Thursday, October 27, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a second public hearing on California’s 4,700 special districts, with a focus on how these local and regional government entities are preparing for the impacts of climate change. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in California.

    The October hearing will focus the special districts’ study on costly infrastructure investments described by special district representatives at the Commission’s first hearing in August. The hearing will specifically review three public services – water supply and delivery, wastewater treatment and flood control – all exposed to the effects of climate change. The Commission will hear from seven witnesses, who will discuss the impacts that climate change is already having on special districts, including California’s historic drought. Witnesses also will describe their current plans to adapt to climate change at the local level, and what assistance they need from state government to broaden their range of defensive options.

    At the hearing the Commission will first hear from the deputy director of the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR), who will first provide a brief overview of climate change threats in California. The second witness is the director of state relations for the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), who will give an overview of how special district water, wastewater and flood control agencies are beginning to incorporate climate change adaptation into their infrastructure plans. The third panel will feature the general manager of the East Bay Municipal Utility District, the general manager of the Rancho California Water District and the technical services department head for the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County. They will provide information on what measures they are taking at the local level to address climate change impacts. The final panel will include the interim chief operating officer for the Santa Clara Valley Water District and the general manager of the Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District, who will talk about their work on climate change adaptation in flood plain areas.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A formal agenda and other documents related to this study can be viewed and downloaded from the Commission’s website at www.lhc.ca.gov.

    Immediately following the hearing, the Commission will hold a business meeting in in the lower level conference room at 925 L Street in Sacramento. 

    Video
    August 25
    2016
    Special Districts
    1020 N Street, Room 100, Sacramento, CA
    Public Hearing
    Agenda

    AGENDA

    Public Hearing on Special Districts
    Thursday, August 25, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.
    1020 N Street, Room 100
    Sacramento, CA


    Opening Remarks

    Celebrated and Cussed: An Overview of Special Districts in California

    1. Kyle Packham, Advocacy and Public Affairs Director, California Special Districts Association (Written Testimony)
       

    Missions for Changing Times: Healthcare and Fire Protection Districts

    1. Amber King, Senior Legislative Advocate, Association of California Health Care Districts (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Michael Schwartz, Fire Chief, North Tahoe Fire Protection District (Written Testimony)
       

    Who's in Charge Here? Local Agency Formation Commissions

    1. Pamela Miller, Executive Director, California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions (Written Testimony)
       
    2. John Leopold, Chair, California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions, Santa Cruz County District 1 Supervisor and Santa Cruz County Local Agency Formation Commission member
       
    3. Stephen Lucas, Executive Officer, California Local Agency Formation Commission and Butte County Local Agency Formation Commission
       

    Defing "Prudent:" What's a Fair Share of Property Taxes and Reserves?

    1. Michael Coleman, Principal, CaliforniaCityFinance.com (Written Testimony)
       
    2. Jon Coupal, President, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association (Written Testimony)
       

    Comments Submitted by Members of the Public

    Public Notice

    PUBLIC NOTICE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    August 11, 2016

    For Additional Information Contact:
    Carole D’Elia, Executive Director
    (916) 445-2125

    Little Hoover Commission to hold Hearing on California's 4,700 Special Districts

    On Thursday, August 25, 2016, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on special districts, the 4,700 local and regional government entities that provide water, sewer and other services, run parks and hospitals and collect taxes and fees. The hearing will begin at 9:30 a.m. 1020 N Street, Room 100, in Sacramento.

    The November hearing is the Commission’s first look at special districts since its 2000 report, Special Districts: Relics of the Past or Resources for the Future? At this hearing, the Commission will largely focus on the nearly 3,000 independent special districts run by elected or appointed boards with assistance of professional staffs. The Commission will hear from six witnesses to set the stage for its exploration of state policy toward special districts. Witnesses will discuss the basics of special district organization, address criticisms of special districts and offer assessments of the Commission’s 2000 report. The Commission also will hear from witnesses on what has and has not changed since 2000, explore new challenges and opportunities facing special districts and consider what new areas can be investigated by this study.

    At the hearing the Commission will first hear from the advocacy and public affairs director for the California Special Districts Association to gain an overall view of special districts in the state. The second panel includes representatives from the Association of California Healthcare Districts and the North Tahoe Fire Protection District, to discuss how changing times are affecting special districts. The third panel features the executive director of the California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions (CALAFCO), to address the role of LAFCOs in governing special districts. The final panel includes the principal at CaliforniaCityFinance.com and the president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. They will discuss the role of property taxes and fees in funding special districts.

    There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A formal agenda and other documents related to this study can be viewed and downloaded from the Commission’s website at www.lhc.ca.gov.

    Immediately following the hearing, the Commission will hold a business meeting in in the lower level conference room at 925 L Street in Sacramento. An additional teleconference location accessible to the public for the business meeting will be at 15 Henry Street, Southampton, NY 11968. 

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