15-G
TO: Honorable Members of the City Council
ATTENTION: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
FROM: Victor A. Sanchez, Mayor Pro Tem
SUBJECT: Consideration and possible action to receive and file Official Travel Report – California Joint Powers Insurance Authority Annual Risk Management Educational Forum, October 1 - 3, 2025 (Pursuant to AB 1234).
DATE: March 9, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
See attached Official Travel Report.
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL
1) Receive and file Official Travel Report for the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority Annual Risk Management Educational Forum, October 1 - 3, 2025 ; or
2) Alternatively, discuss and take other action related to this item.
ATTACHMENT
Official Travel Report ..................................................................................................... 2
TO: Honorable Members of the City Council
ATTENTION: Ryan Smoot, City Manager
FROM: Victor A. Sanchez, Mayor Pro Tem
SUBJECT: Official Travel Report – California Joint Powers Insurance Authority Annual Risk Management Educational Forum,
October 1 - 3, 2025 (Pursuant to AB 1234).
DATE: March 9, 2026
State law requires that local government officials report on their official travel acti vities when public funds are expended. Therefore, pursuant to California Government Code Sections 53232.2 and 53232.3 and Bellflower City Council Resolution No. 06-02, the following Travel Report is submitted to the City Council.
In October 2025, I traveled to Carlsbad, CA for the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority Annual Risk Management Educational Forum
Dates of the conference were October 1 - 3, 2025.
Attachment: Conference Program
C: City Clerk
Director of Finance
T RAVEL R EPORT
SumrI1 Iry AzenTim Speakers Event Feces Hotel
Registrants Capstone Award Sponsors Golf
Register Now
30th Annual California JP!A
Risk;Vlanagement Educational Forum ;.a y -. 1.
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ABOUT RISK
1-3,2025
Omni La Costa Resort.
Omni La Costa Resort • Carlsbad
Agenda
Here's what's scheduled for the event.
(October 1;, 2.025
Educational Forum Golf Tournament
8:30 AM -4:00 PM
Omni La Costa North Course
The Omni La Costa Resort is a legendary golf destination in Southern California. The resort, which opened in the 1950s, has hosted 37 elite PGA Tour events.
The North Course, redesigned by Gil Hanse and home to the NCAA Division l Championship, has been restored to its original glory and features a serene setting that meanders through peaceful wetlands and over landscaped bridges and rolling hills. The course offers a distinct set of thrilling challenges to test even the most experienced golfer, but don't forget to stop and take in the beautiful surroundings.
We are looking forward to a great day of golf and networking on the Omni's newly renovated North Course on Wednesday, October 1!
The event will kick off with registration and to -go breakfast at 8:30 a.m., with a 9:30 a.m. shotgun start time.
The $250 fee for this year's golf tournament will include breakfast, range balls, green fees, a cart, a sleeve of balls, and drink tickets. Don't miss this opportunity to play a great golf course and kick off your Forum experience with friends and colleagues!
Registration
11:00 AM -3:30 PM
Costa de la Luna Foyer
Check in at registration to pick up your attendee badge, get helpful information, and pick up your participant gift.
Welcome Lunch
12:00 PM -1:00 PM
Costa de la Luna Ballroom
Enjoy a full buffet lunch prior to the Forum's first session. Pre -registration is required. During the registration process, there is an option to add a guest.
All That and a Bag of Chips: Strengthening Youth Protection —The Praesidium-Pu... 1:00 PM -2:30 PM
Costa de Ia Luna Ballroom
Learn how the City of Santa Monica implemented a comprehensive youth protection program with the support of Praesidium services. Hear about the current climate of abuse claims and litigation costs across the public sector, and gain insights from subject matter experts at Praesidium and the Alliance of Schools for Cooperative Insurance Programs (ASCIP).
Target Audience: All Attendees
Slide presentation PDF
MCLE credit is not available for this session.
James Bourgeois
Senior Risk Consultant
Praesidium
Networking Break
2:30 PM -2:45 PM
Costa de b Luna Foyer
Join us for some wicked snacks in between sessions.
Thomas Carpenter
Volunteer Coordinator
City of Santa Monica
Stop, Collaborate, and Listen: Effective Tools for Building Trust in Local Governm... 2:45 PM -4:15 PM
Costa de Ia Luna Ballroom
Trust in government is a cornerstone of American society, yet at times it seems to be at risk. Trust is especially important at the local level where members of communities may feel more directly impacted by government decisions. Strengthening trust helps create and protect thriving communities. This session discusses several effective trust -building tools for local governments and includes examples of strategies.
Target Audience: All Attendees
Slide presentation PDF
MCLE credit is not available for this session.
Jacob Houghton
Senior Consultant
34th Street Consulting
Dinner Check -in and Forum Registration
5:30 PM -7:30 PM
Legends Lawn & Valley PromenadeNue Patio
Check -in for the homecoming dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. If you have already picked up your name badge, don't forget to bring it with you. If you have yet to pick up your name badge, you can do so at this time.
Homecoming Dinner
5:30 PM -8:30 PM
Legends Lawn & Valley PromenadeNue Patio
Welcome Back! Join us for a Homecoming Dinner!
Let's gather together for an evening full of Authority spirit and enjoy great eats while we kick back, reconnect, and celebrate what makes our community special! Join us at 5:30 p.m. for a dinner buffet with mouthwatering options for every appetite.
Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the squad, this is your chance to share a meal, some memories, and the magic of Homecoming with the Authority. Bring your friends, bring your appetite, and bring your Homecoming pride. We can't wait to welcome you!
Pre -registration for this event is required. During the registration process, there is an option to add a guest.
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Thursday Breakfast
7:00 AM -8:00 AM
Costa de la Luna Ballroom
Join us for a full breakfast buffet and get energized before a full day of learning opportunities! Registration
7:00 AM -4:00 PM
Costa de la Luna Foyer
Check in at registration to pick up your attendee badge and other helpful information, including your participant gift.
Welcome and Capstone Award Presentation
8:00 AM -8:30 AM
Costa de la Luna Ballroom
A warm welcome from the Authority's Chief Executive Officer will be followed by the 2025 Capstone Award ceremony.
The Authority will spotlight individuals from member organizations who have excelled in the practice of risk management and present one of them with the prestigious Capstone Award, signifying someone who exemplifies the best in risk management practice.
Alex Smith
Chief Executive Officer
California JPIA
Nikki Salas
Chief Administrative Officer
California JPIA
Keynote: Energize, Inspire, and Empower Your Government Team 8:30 AM -9:30 AM
Costa de la Luna Ballroom
Government organizations are the backbone of communities, providing vital services and solutions that impact lives daily.
But with increasing demands, evolving challenges, and public scrutiny, burnout among government leaders and teams is on the rise. Without the right tools to navigate stress, productivity, morale, and innovation can take a hit. Erin Stafford is here to change that. Her dynamic, actionable message is tailored to the unique challenges of government professionals, empowering them to achieve sustainable success while staying connected to their purpose. With Erin on stage, your team will leave refreshed, recharged, and ready to make an even greater impact.
Immediately following the keynote presentation, there will be a meet and greet and book signing with Erin in the foyer.
Click here to view a video from Erin previewing her session Target Audience: All Attendees
MCLE credit is not available for this session.
Erin Stafford
Social Psychologist & Author
The Stafford Company
Keynote Speaker Meet and Greet
9:30 AM -10:00 AM
Costa de la Luna Foyer
This is your opportunity to meet keynote speaker, Erin Stafford, and to get your copy of Erin's book signed by the author.
Networking Break
10:00 AM -10:45 AM
Costa de la Luna Foyer
Stretch your legs and grab a snack!
You've Got Access: The 411 on Your ADA Self -Evaluation and Transition Plan 10:45 AM -12:15 PM
Luna 5
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the requirements to complete a self -evaluation and transition plan can be intimidating. What is self -evaluation? What is a transition plan? How do these two connect? What items should my jurisdiction include in each? Where do we begin? Should we complete them on our own or hire a consultant? This session will cover the who, what, when, and how of completing a self -evaluation and transition plan. Participants will learn:
• What items are part of a self -evaluation, and the process used to complete one • How the self -evaluation connects to the transition plan • What a transition plan should include and how to complete one • Whether staff should complete self -evaluations and transition plans or hire a consultant • When we must complete these documents by, and how long they must be retained • Who can or must review these documents from inside and outside my jurisdiction • What best practices should be used for completing and updating these documents Target Audience: Administration, Public Works, Human Resources, Risk Managers Slide presentation PDF
MCLE credit is not available for this session.
Savannah Bradley
Community Outreach and Programs .. .
Pacific ADA Center
Jan Garrett
Deputy Director of ADA Programs
Pacific ADA Center
Everybody Hurts: Critical and Traumatic Incident Response —A Case for Mental H...
10:45 AM -12:15 PM
Luna 6
Traumatic incidents can occur anytime and without warning, often leaving those involved with heavy physical and psychological burdens to bear. What types of response mechanisms do you have in place for when this happens? This session will discuss the types of reactions that can occur after a critical incident and offer evidence -based models for disaster response, with guidance on how to foster peer support and self -care for everyone involved.
Target Audience: Administration, Public Safety, Human Resources, Risk Managers Slide presentation PDF
MCLE credit is not available for this session.
Natasha Charleston
Behavioral Health Specialist
Carisk Partners
As If: Managing Complaints Made Against Local Officials 10:45 AM -12:15 PM
Luna 4
Managing Complaints Made Against Local Officials dives into the real -world challenges of handling high -stakes investigations involving appointed and elected local officials with integrity and confidence. This session offers a clear, practical roadmap for conducting fair and thorough investigations —covering everything from fact-finding and interviews to maintaining discretion under pressure. Just as crucial, it tackles what comes next: how to communicate outcomes, restore trust, and turn tough situations into opportunities for growth. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies to lead with transparency and strengthen public confidence when it matters most.
Target Audience: Chief Executives, Administration, Elected Officials, Human Resources, Risk Managers Slide presentation PDF
MCLE Credits = 1.50
Eli Makus
Managing Partner
Van Dermyden Makus Law Corporate...
Matthew Rose
Senior Attorney Investigator
Van Dermyden Makus Law Corporati...
I Like the Way You Work It: Crime vs. Cyber—Understanding the Overlaps and Min... 10:45 AM -12:15 PM
Luna 7
Cyberattacks can be financially devastating for local governments. This session explores how traditional crime concerns (e.g., theft, fraud, and embezzlement) overlap with modern cyber threats (like ransomware and data breaches), offering practical guidance for identifying vulnerabilities and implementing proactive safeguards. Attendees will learn essential strategies to mitigate risk, protect municipal assets, and foster resilience in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.
Target Audience: Administration, Finance Managers, Risk Managers Slide Presentation PDF
ybereason 11 Essential Cybersecurity Controls PDF
MCLE credit is not available for this session.
Devon Ackerman
Global Head of Digital Forensics and...
Cybereason Consulting
Donna Maddux
Partner
Constangy, Brooks, Smith, and Prop...
Sponsor Recognition Lunch
12:30 PM -1:45 PM
Luna Lawn
The sponsor recognition lunch is an opportunity for the Authority to thank this year's sponsors, who play a significant role in making the Forum a no -cost event for members.
Golf awards will also be presented.
Paul Zeglovitch
Claims and Insurance Director
California JPIA
Alex Smith
Chief Executive Officer
California JPIA
Show Me the Money: Securing Municipal Financial Systems —Preventing Fraud, D... 2:00 PM -3:30 PM
Luna 6
As local governments increasingly rely on digital financial systems, ensuring their security against cyber threats and fraud is paramount. Experts will delve into the critical aspects of safeguarding financial infrastructures within municipalities. This session will explore the latest strategies, technologies, and best practices for protecting municipal financial data, maintaining public trust, and complying with regulatory standards.
Target Audience: Administration, Finance Managers, Risk Managers Slide Presentation PDF
MCLE credit is not available for this session.
Akshay Dhawan
Managing Director
Ankura
Ankur Sheth
Senior Managing Director
Ankura
Talk to the Hand: Governing in Contentious Times
2:00 PM -3:30 PM
Luna 7
This interactive panel discussion will examine the increasingly contentious and high -stakes environment faced by local government chief executives —and its implications for organizational risk. As public discourse becomes more polarized and external pressures intensify, agency leaders are navigating complex dynamics that can expose agencies to reputational, operational, and even legal risk. This session will bring together experienced local government executives to explore real - world scenarios, identify emerging threats, and share practical strategies for mitigating risk while maintaining effective leadership. Attendees will gain insights into how proactive communication, internal alignment, and strong governance practices can help their organizations remain resilient, compliant, and mission -driven in challenging times.
Target Audience: Chief Executives, Administration, Elected Officials, Human Resources, Risk Managers Slide Presentation PDF
MCLE credit is not available for this session.
Marshall Goodman
Educator and Former Mayor, City of ...
Thaddeus McCormack
City Manager
City of Lakewood
The Usual Suspects: Managing Third -Party Investigations 2:00 PM -3:30 PM
Luna 4
Managing workplace investigations is a major task for Human Resources and supervisors. It might feel, like, totally bogus and overwhelming at first, but don't freak out —there are some totally rad ways public agencies can make the whole thing way more manageable. In this session, we're going to "get our act together" and talk about proactive steps agencies can take before an investigation is even needed. It's all about making things go smoother when the need arises —no sweat, no drama. Think of it like getting ahead of the game, so you're not totally stuck when it's crunch time. We'll also dish out the best practices for retaining an investigator —because finding the right one is so important —and setting up the investigation from the very beginning. That way, you can avoid any major disruptions down the road. It's like having a plan so everything goes off without a hitch —no mess, no stress.
Target Audience: Administration, Human Resources, Risk Managers Slide Presentation PDF
MCLE Credits = 1.50
Monica McQueen
Partner
Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP
Kelly Trainer Poiicity
Employment Practices Manager
California JPIA
U Can't Touch This: How to Avoid Special Event Liability 2:00 PM -3:30 PM
Luna 5
We're throwing it back —kind of. While risk management has come a long way since the '90s, some things never go out of style. Join us for an interactive, cross -disciplinary panel exploring challenges and best practices in managing special events.
This session will:
- Highlight practical strategies for reducing exposure
- Include lessons learned from actual incidents
- Explore the legal and operational consequences of everyday decisions - Include scenario -based exercises
So come as you are (bonus points for '90s flair) and join the conversation.
Target Audience: Administration, Chief Executives, Risk Managers, Parks & Recreation, Public Safety, Public Works, Elected Officials
Slide Presentation PDF
Special Event Guidelines Word Document
Special Event Risk Management Checklist PDF
Parade Guidelines Word Document
MCLE Credits = 1.50
Rachel Boden
Partner
Behar Gibbs Savage Paulson LLP
Networking Break
3:30 PM -3:45 PM
Maria Galvan
Senior Risk Manager
California JPIA
Costa de la Luna Foyer
Take a break and mingle with your peers!
Mo Data, Mo Problems: Public Sector Incident Response —Minimizing Downtime a... 3:45 PM -5:15 PM
Luna 6
A rapid response to a cyber incident is crucial for maintaining operations and public confidence. This session covers how to build an incident response team, essential communication strategies, and technical best practices to help municipalities recover quickly and securely.
Target Audience: Administration, Finance Managers, Risk Managers Slide Presentation PDF
Incident Response Planning Do's and Don'ts PDF
MCLE credit is not available for this session.
Devon Ackerman
Global Head of Digital Forensics and...
Cybereason Consulting
Donna Maddux
Partner
Constangy, Brooks, Smith, and Prop...
I'll Be There for You: Homeless Camping & Storage —Regulations, Enforcement, a... 3:45 PM -5:15 PM
Luna 4
The U.S. Supreme Court's 2024 ruling in Johnson v. City of Grants Pass changed how public agencies can enforce ordinances relating to homeless camping, personal property storage, and overnight vehicle camping. Since that SCOTUS ruling, other court decisions and executive orders from the Governor have continued to modify the legal landscape. Public agencies have regulatory and enforcement options to consider and risks to weigh. This session will include a comprehensive discussion on the Grants Pass ruling, subsequent court rulings, the Governor's executive order, and their impact.
Topics include:
Prior ruling in Martin v. City of Boise and the roadmap to the current ruling • Subsequent court rulings and executive orders
What the rulings mean for public agencies
Potential ordinance and policy changes
Overview of code enforcement tools for enforcing public camping ordinances Potential future legal challenges in light of the ruling Managing risk and legal liability
Target Audience: Administration, Public Safety, Human Resources MCLE Credits = 1.50
Larry Breceda
Director of Public Safety Services
City of Duarte
Mathew Silver
Founding Partner
Civica Law Group
My Bad: Top 12 Return -To -Work Pitfalls To Avoid
3:45 PM -5:15 PM
Luna 7
Returning an employee to work after an industrial or non -industrial injury is a complicated process. Employers need to be aware of both the legal requirements and the best practices to keep in mind. This session will highlight some of the problems to avoid in order to maintain legal compliance and assist employees on their road to recovery.
Target Audience: Administration, Human Resources, Risk Managers Slide Presentation PDF
MCLE Credits = 1.50
Jesenia Gutierrez
Claim Supervisor
Athens Administrators
Erik Peterson
President
NPA Return -to -Work Services
This Is How We Do It: Use of Force Case Study —The Impact of Supervision and C... 3:45 PM -5:15 PM
Luna 5
This engaging and thought -provoking session will examine real -world use of force case studies to explore how organizational culture and supervisory practices directly influence law enforcement outcomes. Through in-depth analysis, participants will gain insights into how leadership, training, and agency values shape officer decision -making in high -stress situations. The session will highlight lessons learned, identify warning signs of systemic issues, and offer practical strategies for fostering a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct. Ideal for law enforcement leaders, risk managers, and public safety professionals, this session encourages critical reflection on how internal dynamics impact public trust and operational effectiveness.
Target Audience: Administration, Public Safety, Human Resources Slide Presentation PDF
MCLE Credits = 1.50
Eugene "Gene" Ramirez
Partner
Manning & Kass, Ellrod, Ramirez, Trester LLP
Prom Night
6:00 PM -9:00 PM
Luna Lawn
Thirty years ago, the California JPIA had its first Educational Forum, so we're taking it all the way back to 1995 for a night to remember! You're totally invited to Prom Night this Thursday — and it's gonna be all that and a bag of chips! We've got live jams from Knyght Ryder, tons of photo booth fun, and plenty of yummy food to keep you fueled for the dance floor. Dress to impress — or just wear whatever makes you feel awesome. Whether it's prom glam or laid back, you're welcome just as you are. So grab your BFF, your dancing shoes (or sneakers), and join us for prom! `i
asr
Friday Breakfast
7:00 AM -8:00 AM
Costa de la Luna Ballroom
Join us for a full breakfast buffet before our Friday sessions.
Friday Welcome
8:00 AM -8:15 AM
Costa de la Luna Ballroom
Join the Authority's Chief Executive Officer as he welcomes members to our last day of learning opportunities.
Margaret Finlay
President
California JPIA
Alex Smith
Chief Executive Officer
California JPIA
Out of the Firestorm: Crisis Communications —Studying the L.A. Wildfires 8:15 AM -9:45 AM
Costa de Ia Luna Ballroom
Balancing the urgency of a regional crisis with the need for clear and concise communication is paramount in managing these challenging situations successfully. Join Traci Park, Los Angeles City councilmember (District 11), for an interactive session about keeping the public well-informed while maintaining priorities as a crisis unfolds. In this session, we will use the 2024 Los Angeles area wildfires as a case study to examine communications techniques such as real-time updates, social media, and coordinating with local authorities and media outlets. These approaches are essential in maintaining transparency and trust with the public during times of uncertainty. The wildfires presented a unique set of circumstances that required swift and accurate communication to the public, ensuring safety and minimizing panic while prioritizing emergency response efforts. We will discuss how to effectively prioritize information dissemination to ensure that critical messages are conveyed without overwhelming stakeholders. This session provides practical tools for professionals tasked with crisis communication. Whether you are involved in public relations, emergency management, or any related field, this discussion will offer valuable takeaways to enhance your communication strategies during critical situations.
Click here to view a video from Traci previewing her session Target Audience: All Attendees
Slide Presentation PDF
MCLE credit is not available for this session.
Traci Park
Councilwoman (District 11)
City of Los Angeles
Networking Break
9:45 AM -10:00 AM
Costa de Ia Luna Foyer
Get up, move around, and talk with your colleagues and peers.
The Fresh Precedence of Bel -Air: Liability Case Law Update 10:00 AM -11 :30 AM
Costa de la Luna Ballroom
Public agencies face a constantly changing legal environment that must be properly understood. This session will highlight information from recent case law and lessons learned from California JPIA cases.
Target Audience: All Attendees
Slide Presentation PDF
MCLE Credits = 1.50
Paul Zeglovitoh
Claims and Insurance Director
California JPIA
Daniel Barer
Partner
Pollak, Vida & Barer
Opportunity Drawing and Closing Comments
11:30 AM -11:45 AM
Costa de la Luna Ballroom
The Forum concludes with an opportunity drawing for those still present and closing remarks from the Authority's Chief Executive Officer, Alexander Smith.
Alex Smith
Chief Executive Officer
California JPIA
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