E-bikes Friend or Foe
2023-2024 Orange County Grand Jury Page 19
OC Bike, E-Bikes
https://octa.net/getting-around/active/oc-bike/e-bikes/ Orange County Public Works, E-Bike Safety in the County of Orange https://ocip.ocpublicworks.com/e-bike
Orange County Sheriff’s Department, E-bike Safety The focus for National Bike Safety Month https://www.ocsheriff.gov/news/e-bike-safety-focus-national-bike-safety-month Orange County Sheriff’s Office Training Bulletin, Jan 4, 2023 https://www.ocsheriff.gov/sites/ocsd/files/2023-01/Bulletin%2023- 01%20Enforcement%20and%20Handling%20of%20Electric%20Bicycles%2C%20Motor cycles%20and%20Motorized%20Scooters_Redacted.pdf
Pimental, Joseph, “In Los Alamitos students will need a permit to ride e-bikes to and from school”, Spectrum News Jan 23,2023 https://spectrumnews1.com/ca/lawest/public-safety/2023/01/20/in-los-alamitos—students-will-need-a-permit-to-ride-ebikes-to—from-school
E-bikes Friend or Foe
2023-2024 Orange County Grand Jury Page 20
GLOSSARY
CNBCA Central Newport Beach Community Association
CVC California Vehicle Code
E-bike Electric bicycle
HVE High Visibility Enforcement
OCGJ Orange County Grand Jury
OCSD Orange County Sheriff’s Department
OCTA Orange County Transportation Authority
E-bikes Friend or Foe
2023-2024 Orange County Grand Jury Page 21
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1
Current County of Orange E-Bike Laws - Unincorporated Areas 1 • All E-bikes are required to have a label that describes classification, top assisted speed, and motor wattage.
• Helmets are recommended for all E-bike users. If you are under 18, it’s required! • It is illegal to carry passengers on your E-bike unless your bike has an extra permanent seat or when using a child safety seat.
• E-bikes shall not be operated in excess of their designed speed or the speed limit, whichever is lower, on the road, and in no event in excess of 10 miles per hour on paved trails.
• E-bike shall not be operated in excess of 5 miles per hour on sidewalk. • Riding on the road against the flow of traffic is prohibited. 1 Orange County Public Works. 2024. "E-bike Safety in the County of Orange." Accessed May
22. 2024. https://www.ocgov.com .
E-bikes Friend or Foe
2023-2024 Orange County Grand Jury Page 22
APPENDIX 2
California Vehicle Code Section 312.5 as of December 23, 2023 An electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. Three classes of electric bicycles have been established:
• Class 1: A low speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle equipped with a motor which provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when a speed of 20 mph is reached.
• Class 2: A low speed throttle-assisted electric bicycle equipped with a motor used exclusively to propel the bicycle and NOT capable of providing assistance when a speed of 20 mph is reached.
• Class 3: A low speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle equipped with a speedometer, and a motor which provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when a speed of 28 mph is reached.
The operator of a Class 3 electric bicycle:
• Must be 16 years old or older.
• Must wear a bicycle safety helmet.
• Must not transport passengers.
• May ride an electric bicycle in a bicycle lane if authorized by local authority or ordinance.
All electric bicycle classes are exempt from the motor vehicle financial responsibility, driver’s license, and license plate requirements (CVC § 24016).
E-bikes Friend or Foe
2023-2024 Orange County Grand Jury Page 23
APPENDIX 3
California Assembly Bills
Listed below are some of the bills introduced into the State legislature, as published by LegiScan, that have a variety of proposed regulations regarding E-bikes. This is by no means a comprehensive list, and in the interest of brevity we do not include the text of each bill.
AB 458 10/08/2023 Chaptered-Regulation of insurance requirements for businesses renting micro mobility vehicles, a category which includes E-bikes.
AB 1773 04/01/2024 In committee-Where E-bikes are permitted to operate.
AB 1774 04/09/2024. This bill would prohibit a person from selling a product or device that can modify the speed capability of an electric bicycle such that it no longer meets the definition of an electric bicycle.
AB 2234 04/01/2024 In committee: The bill will require anyone over the age of 12 without a valid driver’s license to take an online e-bike safety training course and pass a written test to prove they understand traffic safety rules. Those without a valid driver’s license must have a state-issued ID to operate an E-bike.
SB 295 06/16/2023 In committee. Allows Public Agency authority to regulate E-bikes, et. al. on public property.
SB 381 10/13/2023 Chaptered-Comprehensive study of E-bikes.
SB 1271 04/11/2024. This bill would clarify that an electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor with continuous rated mechanical power of not more than 750 watts. The bill would, if an electric bicycle is capable of operating in multiple modes, require a manufacturer and distributor to include on the label the classification number of the highest classes of which it is capable of operating. Also requires lab accreditation of micro mobility batteries.
E-bikes Friend or Foe
2023-2024 Orange County Grand Jury Page 24
APPENDIX 4
County of Orange Ordinance No. 18-002
AN ORDINANCE OF THE COUNTY OF ORANGE, CALIFORNIA AMENDING SECTION 2-5-29(n) OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE COUNTY OF ORANGE, REGARDING PROHIBITED MOTORIZED WHEELED CONVEYANCES.
The Board of Supervisors of the County of Orange ordains as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 2-5-29(n) of the Codified Ordinances of the County of Orange is hereby amended to read as follows:
Sec. 2-5-29.- Vehicle regulation.
(n) Motorized Wheeled Conveyance prohibited. No person shall operate or drive any electric or combustible motorized skateboard, scooter, dirt bike, mini bike, mini motor bike, mini motorcycle, go-kart, go-ped, all-terrain vehicle, quad runner, dune buggy or any similar electric or combustible motorized conveyance in any park, beach or recreational area, with the exception of Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles, as defined by the California Vehicle Code, on those regional paved, off-road bikeways designated for such use by the Director of OC Parks, with the approval of the Board of Supervisors.
www.cityoflapalma.org PHONE
714 690 3350
7821 Walker Street FAX
La Palma, CA 90623-1771 714 522 2967
386353.2
January 21, 2025
The Honorable Maria Hernandez
Presiding Judge of the Superior Court
700 Civic Center Drive West
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Re: 2023-2024 Orange County Grand Jury report “E-Bikes: Friend or Foe” Dear Judge Hernandez:
The City of La Palma (“City”) is pleased to provide the below required responses to the Orange County Grand Jury’s findings and recommendations for our city, outlined in its June 20, 2024 report titled “E-Bikes: Friend or Foe.” The original Grand Jury findings and recommendations are repeated below in bold typeface, and the City’s responses thereto are in italics.
FINDINGS
F1. The majority of Orange County’s 34 cities do not have ordinances or policies in place, which makes it difficult to address the safe operation and regulation of E-bikes leading to confusion.
The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding, in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor.
The City lacks knowledge and information sufficient to reach this conclusion. The City does not know what ordinances or policies related to the operation and regulation of E-bikes have been enacted by the majority of Orange County cities.
F2. Due to the increasing incidence of E-bike injuries and deaths, there is a need for consistent and accurate tracking by law enforcement and first responders, which does not exist now.
www.cityoflapalma.org PHONE
714 690 3350
7821 Walker Street FAX
La Palma, CA 90623-1771 714 522 2967
386353.2
The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding, in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor.
The City lacks knowledge and information sufficient to reach this conclusion. The City is not fully informed as to the existing, if any, tracking by other law enforcement agencies and first responders of E-bike-related injuries and deaths.
F3. Training and education on E-bike use and safety varies from city to city causing confusion amongst bike riders.
The respondent agrees with the finding.
RECOMMENDATIONS
R1. Each Orange County city should have specific policies that define the rules of the road for use of E-bikes in their communities by December 1, 2024.
The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a timeframe for implementation.
City staff will research and review existing E-bike policies from Orange County cities, and, if deemed appropriate, draft a policy to be prepared for presentation to the City by June 30, 2025.
R2. Each Orange County city should have a mechanism in place to report accidents, injuries and deaths involving E-bikes by December 1, 2024.
The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a timeframe for implementation..
Rather than initially creating a stand-alone solution, the City will review its existing forms used by the La Palma Police Department and revise as appropriate by March 31, 2025.
R3. Each Orange County city should research and develop outreach and education programs regarding the safe operation of E-bikes for their
www.cityoflapalma.org PHONE
714 690 3350
7821 Walker Street FAX
La Palma, CA 90623-1771 714 522 2967
386353.2
residents by December 1, 2024.
The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a timeframe for implementation.
The City will research and develop outreach and education programs by June 30, 2025.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Grand Jury report.
Respectfully,
Conal McNamara
City Manager
CC: Orange County Grand Jury
La Palma City Council
Ordinance No. 2025-__
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-__
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF LA
PALMA AMENDING CHAPTER 40 (VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC)
OF THE CITY OF LA PALMA MUNICIPAL CODE
WHEREAS, the popularity of electric bicycles, scooters, skateboards and similar electric mobility devices ("Electric Mobility Devices") as a means of transportation or recreation has increased significantly in recent years resulting in a corresponding increase in accidents involving operators of Electric Mobility Devices and other vehicles and pedestrians utilizing sidewalks, streets, and public rights-of-way;
WHEREAS, because of the increased weight and speed capacity of Electric Mobility Devices, persons involved in Electric Mobility Device accidents suffer serious injuries when compared to traditional bicycle accidents, and collisions between Electric Mobility Devices and motor vehicles result in greater damage to the vehicles and other property when compared to traditional bicycle accidents;
WHEREAS, the La Palma Police Department has observed an increase in calls for service and incidents related to Electric Mobility Devices being operated in an unsafe and dangerous manner, including but not limited to Electric Mobility Devices being operated in public parks and other areas not intended for that use, riding against the flow of traffic, operators failing to yield to pedestrians or vehicles, operating at high rates of speed on sidewalks or roads, carrying passengers on devices not designed or intended for that purpose, and juveniles operating Electric Mobility Devices without appropriate protective helmets or licensing; WHEREAS, the Orange County Grand Jury for 2023-2024 recently issued a report summarizing the health and safety risks associated with the unregulated operation of Electric Mobility Devices, and recommending that local jurisdictions adopt appropriate regulations intended to protect the health and safety of operators and riders of Electric Mobility Devices and the general public;
WHEREAS, the City of La Palma ("City") is a California general law city vested with the police powers to enact and enforce local ordinances necessary to protect and advance the general health, safety, and welfare of the community;
WHEREAS, the California Vehicle Code authorizes local authorities, like the City of La Palma, to regulate the use and operation of Electric Mobility Devices so long as such local regulations do not conflict with state law;
WHEREAS, the City of La Palma Municipal Code currently regulates the use and operation of bicycles in various locations and the City Council for the City of La Palma ("City Council") desires to add to and update the Municipal Code with regulations governing Electric Mobility Devices; and
WHEREAS, all legal prerequisites to the City Council's adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of La Palma does ordain as follows:
Ordinance No. 2025-__
SECTION 1: The above recitals are true and correct and incorporated herein as part of the findings.
SECTION 2: Chapter 40 (Vehicles and Traffic) of the City of La Palma Municipal Code is amended by adding a new Article (Article IX) to Chapter 40 to read as follows:
“CHAPTER 40, Article IX: ELECTRIC MOBILITY DEVICES”
Section:
40-310 - Purpose
40-311-- Definitions
40-312 - Operation of Electric Mobility Devices
40-313 - Enforcement
40-314 - Exemptions
Sec. 40-310 - Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of City of La Palma residents, businesses, and visitors by regulating the operation of electric mobility devices. The City of La Palma supports the usage of electric mobility devices as an alternative mode of transportation, but recognizes that increased usage has created safety concerns among operator interactions with other pedestrians and bicyclists, warranting a higher level of regulation.
Sec. 40-311 - Definitions.
A. "Electric mobility device" includes the following, each as defined in the California Vehicle Code, as it may be amended from time to time:
1. "Electric bicycle" as defined in California Vehicle Code Section 312.5, and shall also be known and is sometimes referred to herein as “e-bike.”
2. "Electric personal assistive mobility device" as defined in California Vehicle Code Section 313.
3. "Electrically motorized board" as defined in California Vehicle Code Section 313.5.
4. "Motorized scooter" as defined in California Vehicle Code Section 407.5.
5. “Pocket bike” as defined in California Vehicle Code Section 473(a).
B. “Operator" means a person who owns, operates, and/or controls an electric mobility device.
C. "Public area" means any outdoor area that is open to the public, whether publicly or privately owned.
D. "Vehicle" has the same meaning as in California Vehicle Code Section 670.
E. "Bicycle" as defined in California Vehicle Code Section 231 (which expressly includes e-bikes).
Ordinance No. 2025-__
F. Electric bicycle classifications and restrictions (see California Vehicle Code Section 312.5).
1. “Electric bicycle" is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.
2. “Class one electric bicycle," or "low-speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle," is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
3. "Class two electric bicycle," or "low-speed throttle-assisted electric bicycle," is a bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
4. "Class three electric bicycle," or "speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle," is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour and is equipped with a speedometer.
Sec. 40-312 – Operation of Electric Mobility Devices.
A. Operation of Electric Mobility Devices Where Prohibited. No person shall operate or ride or operate an electric mobility device in public areas where this Code, or any other law prohibits such operation of such device. Nothing herein shall be deemed to prohibit operation of any e-bike upon any bicycle path or bicycle trail.
B. No Operating or Riding Electric Mobility Devices on Sidewalks and Public Facilities. No person shall operate or ride an electric mobility device: (i) upon any sidewalk; (ii), in any public drainage facility, culvert, ditch, or channel; (iii) outside of any roadway or other paved public area; (iv) in or upon any public athletic field, athletic/sports court, or gymnasium in the City; or (v) over any equestrian trail, or hiking or recreational trail.
C. Duty to Operate Electric Mobility Devices with Due Care and Reduced Speed.
1. The operator of an electric mobility device shall exercise all due care and shall reduce the speed of the device, obey all traffic laws, traffic control devices, and take all other actions relating to the operation of the device under the California Vehicle Code as necessary to protect the safety of the operator, passengers, and any persons or other vehicles or devices in the vicinity. In no case shall an operator operate an electric mobility device faster than 28 miles per hour in any public area.
2. No person shall ride a bicycle, e-bike, moped, motorized scooter, or any other electric mobility device, in an unsafe manner in any public area. “Unsafe manner” means and includes operating a device in any manner whatsoever that displays a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of the operator or other persons or property.
3. No person shall transport a passenger on an electric mobility device designed for a single person.
4. No person operating an electric mobility device shall cling or attach to any moving vehicle, or other moving motorized or non-motorized wheeled device.
Ordinance No. 2025-__
5. Electric mobility device operators who are under the age of 16 shall not ride "double" or "tandem," or otherwise transport any other person, regardless of the device's capacity or ability to do so.
D. Electric mobility device operators shall allow the inspection of such device while in any public area, upon request by any police officer to determine if the rider is legally allowed to operate the device, and/or when an officer has a reasonable suspicion that the device has been unlawfully modified, or otherwise as authorized by law.
Sec. 40-313 – Enforcement.
A. This chapter does not prohibit any officer, in their discretion, from issuing a citation whereby the violator promises to appear in court for any violation of this Chapter or the California Vehicle Code. In the event an observed violation is not a violation of the California Vehicle Code, but is a violation of this Chapter, an administrative citation may be issued pursuant to Chapter 2, Article XI of this Code. The amount of administrative fines imposed for violations of this Chapter are as follows:
1. First offense - $100
2. Second offense within 12 months - $200
3. Third and subsequent offenses within 12 months - $500 B. In the event the operator of the electric mobility device is a juvenile, officers will make a reasonable effort to contact the parent(s) or responsible guardian(s) of the operator and advise them of the nature of the violation. This shall occur as soon as practical.
C. In lieu of a fine or administrative citation as authorized by this Chapter, and in lieu of filing charges in any court having jurisdiction over a violation, the Police Chief or designee may allow a juvenile violator and parents of the juvenile violator to complete a Police Department diversion safety program, if available, at their expense, as assigned by the Police Department designee.
D. Each parent or legal guardian having custody and control of a minor who is issued an administrative citation for violation of this Chapter shall be jointly and severally liable with such minor for payment of the administrative fine.
Sec. 40 - 314 – Exemptions.
A. Public Agency Personnel. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter or any other section of this Code, City personnel may operate electric mobility devices or other vehicles at any place in the City to perform their duties.
B. Disability. This Chapter does not apply to or otherwise restrict persons with mobility disabilities utilizing a wheelchair or other power-driven mobility device in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. Section 12101, et seq.) and Section 36.311 of Title 28 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Ordinance No. 2025-__
SECTION 3. CEQA. The City Council finds and determines that there is no possibility that the adoption of this Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. Accordingly, this Ordinance is not subject to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines.
SECTION 4. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of any competent jurisdiction, or by any preemptive legislation, such decision or legislation shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance, and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase not deemed or declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to whether any portion of the Ordinance would be subsequently deemed or declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 5. CERTIFICATION. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of La Palma at a regular meeting on the 5th day of August 2025.
_____________________________
Mark Waldman
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
Norma Alley, CMC
City Clerk
Ordinance No. 2025-__
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) SS.
CITY OF LA PALMA )
I, Norma Alley, City Clerk of the City of La Palma, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of La Palma, held on the 5
th day of August, 2025, and was finally passed at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of La Palma on the 2 day of September, 2025, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAINED:
_____________________________
Norma Alley, CMC
City Clerk
Agenda Item No. 10 August 5, 2025 | 1
City of La Palma
Agenda Item No. 10
MEETING DATE: August 5, 2025
TO: City Council
FROM: Interim City Manager
SUBMITTED BY: Norma Alley, City Clerk
AGENDA TITLE: League of California Cities Voting Delegates and Resolutions RECOMMENDED ACTION:
It is recommended that the City Council take the following actions:
1. Designate Council Member V. Patel as the City of La Palma’s Voting Delegate at the League of California Cities’ Annual Conference;
2. Designate Council Member Baker as the City of La Palma’s Alternate Voting Delegate at the League of California Cities’ Annual Conference; and
3. Authorize the City of La Palma delegation the discretion to vote on any resolutions taking into consideration the information they receive at the conference.
SUMMARY:
Each year, the League of California Cities (Cal Cities) convenes a member-driven General Assembly at the Cal Cities Annual Conference and Expo. This General Assembly provides a crucial opportunity for City officials to directly influence Cal Cities' policy.
On October 10, 2025, the Cal Cities General Assembly will convene, consisting of voting delegates appointed by each member City; each City has one voting delegate. La Palma's appointed voting delegate plays a vital role by representing the City and voting on resolutions.
In order to participate in the voting process during the General Assembly, the La Palma City Council must designate a voting delegate and up to two alternate voting delegates. An alternate may vote if the designated voting delegate is unable to serve.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact as a result of receiving this report.
ATTACHMENTS:
Agenda Item No. 10 August 5, 2025 | 2
1. 2025 Voting Delegate Information Packet
2. 2025 City Council Legislative Platform
1400 K Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814 • 916.658.8200 • calcities.org
DATE: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
TO: Mayors, Council Members, City Clerks, and City Managers RE: DESIGNATION OF VOTING DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES
League of California Cities Annual Conference and Expo, Oct. 8-10, 2025 Long Beach Convention Center
Every year, the League of California Cities convenes a member-driven General Assembly at the Cal Cities Annual Conference and Expo. The General Assembly is an important opportunity where city officials can directly participate in the development of Cal Cities policy.
Taking place on Oct. 10, the General Assembly is comprised of voting delegates appointed by each member city; every city has one voting delegate. Your appointed voting delegate plays an important role during the General Assembly by representing your city and voting on resolutions.
To cast a vote during the General Assembly, your city must designate a voting delegate and up to two alternate voting delegates, one of whom may vote if the designated voting delegate is unable to serve in that capacity. Voting delegates may either be an elected or appointed official.
Action by Council Required. Consistent with Cal Cities bylaws, a city’s voting delegate and up to two alternates must be designated by the city council. Please note that designating the voting delegate and alternates must be done by city council action and cannot be accomplished by individual action of the mayor or city manager alone.
Following council action, please submit your city’s delegates through the online submission portal by Wed., Sept. 24. When completing the Voting Delegate submission form, you will be asked to attest that council action was taken. You will need to be signed in to your My Cal Cities account when submitting the form.
Submitting your voting delegate form by the deadline will allow us time to establish voting delegate/alternate records prior to the conference and provide pre-conference communications with voting delegates.
Conference Registration Required. The voting delegate and alternates must be registered to attend the conference. They need not register for the entire conference; they may register for Friday only. Conference registration is open on the Cal Cities website.
Council Action Advised by September 24, 2025
For a city to cast a vote, one voter must be present at the General Assembly and in possession of the voting delegate card and voting tool. Voting delegates and alternates need to pick up their conference badges before signing in and picking up the voting delegate card at the voting delegate desk. This will enable them to receive the special sticker on their name badges that will admit the voting delegate into the voting area during the General Assembly.
Please view Cal Cities’ event and meeting policy in advance of the conference.
Transferring Voting Card to Non-Designated Individuals Not Allowed. The voting delegate card may be transferred freely between the voting delegate and alternates, but only between the voting delegate and alternates. If the voting delegate and alternates find themselves unable to attend the General Assembly, they may not transfer the voting card to another city official.
Seating Protocol during General Assembly. At the General Assembly, individuals with a voting card will sit in a designated area. Admission to the voting area will be limited to the individual in possession of the voting card and with a special sticker on their name badge identifying them as a voting delegate.
The voting delegate desk, located in the conference registration area of the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, will be open at the following times: Wednesday, Oct. 16, 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 17, 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. On Friday, Oct. 18, the voting delegate desk will be open at the General Assembly, starting at 7:30 a.m., but will be closed during roll calls and voting.
The voting procedures that will be used at the conference are attached to this memo.
Please share these procedures and this memo with your council and especially with the individuals that your council designates as your city’s voting delegate and alternates.
Once again, thank you for submitting your voting delegate and alternates by Wednesday, Sept. 24. If you have questions, please contact Zach Seals at [email protected].
Attachments:
• General Assembly Voting Guidelines
• Information Sheet: Cal Cities Resolutions and the General Assembly
1400 K Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814 • 916.658.8200 • calcities.org General Assembly Voting Guidelines
1. One City One Vote. Each member city has a right to cast one vote on matters pertaining to Cal Cities policy.
2. Designating a City Voting Representative. Prior to the Cal Cities Annual Conference and Expo, each city council may designate a voting delegate and up to two alternates; these individuals are identified on the voting delegate form provided to the Cal Cities Credentials Committee.
3. Registering with the Credentials Committee. The voting delegate, or alternates, may pick up the city's voting card at the voting delegate desk in the conference registration area. Voting delegates and alternates must sign in at the voting delegate desk. Here they will receive a special sticker on their name badge and thus be admitted to the voting area at the General Assembly.
4. Signing Initiated Resolution Petitions. Only those individuals who are voting delegates (or alternates), and who have picked up their city’s voting card by providing a signature to the credentials committee at the voting delegate desk, may sign petitions to initiate a resolution.
5. Voting. To cast the city's vote, a city official must have in their possession the city's voting card and voting tool; and be registered with the credentials committee. The voting card may be transferred freely between the voting delegate and alternates but may not be transferred to another city official who is neither a voting delegate nor alternate.
6. Voting Area at General Assembly. At the General Assembly, individuals with a voting card will sit in a designated area. Admission to the voting area will be limited to the individual in possession of the voting card and with a special sticker on their name badge identifying them as a voting delegate.
7. Resolving Disputes. In case of dispute, the credentials committee will determine the validity of signatures on petitioned resolutions and the right of a city official to vote at the General Assembly.
Sixty days before the
Annual Conference
and Expo, Cal Cities
members may submit
policy proposals on
issues of importance
to cities. The resolution must
have the concurrence of at least
five additional member cities or
individual members.
How it works: Cal Cities
Resolutions and the General Assembly
General Assembly
General Resolutions Policy Committees
Developing League of California Cities policy is a dynamic process that engages a wide range of members to ensure Cal Cities represents cities with one voice. These policies directly guide Cal Cities’ advocacy to promote local decision-making, and lobby against statewide policies that erode local control.
The resolutions process and General Assembly is one way that city officials can directly participate in the development of Cal Cities policy. If a resolution is approved at the General Assembly, it becomes official Cal Cities policy. Here’s how resolutions and the General Assembly work.
The petitioned
resolution is an
alternate method
to introduce policy
proposals during
the annual conference. The
petition must be signed by
voting delegates from 10% of
member cities, and submitted to
the Cal Cities President at least
24 hours before the beginning
of the General Assembly.
Petitioned Resolutions
The Cal Cities
President assigns
general resolutions
to policy committees
where members
review, debate, and recommend
positions for each policy proposal.
Recommendations are forwarded
to the Resolutions Committee.
Who’s who
The Resolutions Committee
includes representatives
from each Cal Cities
diversity caucus, regional
division, municipal
department, and policy
committee, as well as
individuals appointed by
the Cal Cities president.
Voting delegates
are appointed by each
member city; every city
has one voting delegate.
The General Assembly is a
meeting of the collective
body of all voting
delegates —one from
every member city.
Seven policy committees
meet throughout the year
to review and recommend
positions to take on bills
and regulatory proposals.
Policy committees include
members from each Cal
Cities diversity caucus,
regional division, and
municipal department,
as well as individuals
appointed by the Cal
Cities president.
During the General Assembly, voting delegates
debate and consider general and petitioned
resolutions forwarded by the Resolutions
Committee. Potential Cal Cities bylaws
amendments are also considered at this meeting.
Cal Cities policy
development is a memberinformed process,
grounded in the voices and
experiences of city officials
throughout the state.
For more information visit www.calcities.org/general-assembly Prior to the Annual Conference and Expo
Resolutions Committee
The Resolutions
Committee considers
all resolutions. General
Resolutions approved1 by
either a policy committee
or the Resolutions Committee are next
considered by the General Assembly.
General resolutions not approved, or
referred for further study by both a
policy committee and the Resolutions
Committee do not go to the General
Assembly. All Petitioned Resolutions
are considered by the General
Assembly, unless disqualified.2
During the Annual Conference and Expo
1 The Resolution Committee can amend a general resolution prior to sending it to the General Assembly. 2 Petitioned Resolutions may be disqualified by the Resolutions Committee according to Cal Cities Bylaws Article VI. Sec. 5(f).
City of La Palma
2025 State and Federal Legislative Platform
Adopted by the City Council on January 14, 2025
The Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, and City Manager are authorized to submit advocacy letters on behalf of the City if the State or Federal legislation clearly follows the City’s adopted legislative platform.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
I. PRESERVE LOCAL CONTROL
Preserve and protect the City’s powers, duties, and prerogatives to enact legislation and policy direction concerning local affairs, and oppose legislation that preempts local authority.
Local agencies should preserve and enhance authority and accountability for revenues raised and services provided.
II. PROMOTE FISCAL STABILITY
Support measures that promote fiscal stability, predictability, and financial independence.
Support measures that preserve the City’s revenue base and local control over local government budgeting, recognizing that economic cost is a determinate in considering the merits and/or impacts of any proposed legislation or regulation. Oppose measures that make cities more dependent on the County, State, or Federal Governments for financial stability, such as mandated costs with no guarantee of local reimbursement or offsetting benefits.
Oppose measures that shift local funds to the County, State, or Federal Governments, without offsetting benefits.
III. PROMOTE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Support legislation and regulatory reforms that provide the City with the necessary tools and opportunity to continue to grow its economy and enhance economic development efforts.
Support measures that provide the City with the capability to attract and retain businesses, as well as encourage current businesses to expand and retain jobs locally.
IV. SUPPORT FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Support opportunities that allow the City to compete for its fair share of regional, state, and federal funding. Support funding for programs including, but not limited to, economic development, transportation projects, utility undergrounding, public works, water infrastructure, parks and recreation, public safety, and COVID-19 business and government recovery.
City of La Palma
2025 State and Federal Legislative Platform
POLICY STATEMENTS
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
1. Support legislation that preserves the ability of local governments to determine the appropriate type of election for their jurisdiction. A 2018 community survey found that 70% of residents indicated that they want to be able to vote for all five city council members.
2. Continue to support legislation that allows La Palma children to have a choice of attending schools within La Palma. Since the City is served by five school districts, the City has been actively advocating for La Palma children to be able to attend La Palma schools for some time. Due to the location of school district boundaries, some La Palma children are not eligible to attend a school located within the City limits and have to attend a school that is miles from their home.
3. Support legislation maintaining maximum local flexibility in all areas of the City’s responsibility and operations, and oppose legislation that imposes intrusive, unnecessary, or unfunded state-imposed mandates on the City or its residents or preempts local authority.
4. Oppose legislation that creates unnecessary regulations, and/or restricts the City’s capability to choose the most cost-efficient and effective form of providing essential services.
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
Finance
1. Oppose State or Federal efforts to “borrow” local revenues and encourage the State to find other methods of balancing its budget.
2. Support legislation that includes state, federal, and regional funding formulas that ensure equitable distribution of funds at the local level.
3. Support efforts that ensure the retention of existing local revenue sources.
4. Support the reimbursement of local governments and businesses for COVID-19 related expenses.
Human Resources
1. Oppose measures that reduce local control over employee relations issues.
2. Oppose legislation mandating new or enhanced local government employee benefits.
3. Support efforts to further reform pension benefits administered by California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) that would help protect the long-term solvency of local entities and CalPERS.
4. Support changes in state law or judicial precedent to allow employers to negotiate plan changes with classic CalPERS members.
City of La Palma
2025 State and Federal Legislative Platform
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Economic Development
1. Support efforts that are designed to provide local governments with the tools necessary to bolster economic development.
2. Support legislation and regulatory streamlining initiatives that would enhance the City’s ability to attract and retain businesses as well as encourage business expansion and job retention.
Housing & Land Use
1. Oppose legislation that imposes regional, state, or federal growth, development, or land use planning standards within the City.
2. Oppose legislation that penalizes local governments for noncompliance with their housing element, or regional housing needs assessment requirements.
3. Support efforts to strengthen the legal and fiscal capability of local agencies to prepare, adopt, and implement plans for orderly growth, development, and conservation of local planning areas.
4. Support State and Federal legislation that would provide resources for the City to meet its housing needs as described in the Housing Element of the General Plan.
5. Support measures that provide municipalities with increased input in the development of the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA).
Regional Governance
1. Support proposals encouraging regional, sub-regional, or countywide cooperation in planning urban development strategies, especially those that provide funding for effective implementation of agreed-upon goals.
2. Support measures to achieve fair and proportionate representation on countywide and regional boards.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Parks and Recreation
1. Support legislation and funding for youth-related prevention and intervention programs, including after school educational and recreational programs.
2. Support efforts to provide an expedited process for the fair distribution of State bond funds and other grant opportunities.
City of La Palma
2025 State and Federal Legislative Platform
Public Works
1. Support legislation that would increase funding for local transportation projects.
2. Support legislation that affords local agencies greater discretionary authority to expend available transportation funds and affords local jurisdictions greater flexibility over transportation-related issues.
3. Support legislation that would require public utilities to underground power lines and support funding for undergrounding of utilities.
Solid Waste
1. Support measures that maintain and enhance local authority and economic flexibility to regulate solid waste and recyclables.
Water Supply
1. Support legislation that encourages strong water efficiency standards and increased water conservation strategies.
2. Support legislation that would increase the availability of, and funding for, water reuse technologies, water recycling, local water storage, and other water supply technologies.
3. Support measures to increase water supply and improve water quality in the region, including drought relief legislation.
PUBLIC SAFETY
1. Support measures that encourage community safety and well-being.
2. Support legislation and implementation of State programs and policies that promote pedestrian and bicycling safety.
3. Support legislation to provide a greater share of asset forfeiture funds and increased latitude for spending local funds.
4. Support legislative efforts to increase the amount of grant funding for local law enforcement operations, including school resource officers, body-worn camera system, and disaster preparedness initiatives.
5. Support legislation that discourages drivers from operating motor vehicles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol and maintain state funding to conduct sobriety checkpoints.
6. Support initiatives involving County, State, and Federal governments to reduce and prevent homelessness.
Agenda Item No. 11 August 5, 2025 | 1
City of La Palma
Agenda Item No. 11
MEETING DATE: August 5, 2025
TO: City Council
FROM: Interim City Manager
SUBMITTED BY: Joseph Cisneros, Deputy City Manager
jaNell Adams, Community Services Supervisor
AGENDA TITLE: Veteran's Day Event
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
It is recommended that the City Council receive the staff report and provide feedback on the Veteran's Day community event.
BACKGROUND:
At the July 9, 2025, Special City Council meeting, the City Council directed staff to begin planning efforts for a Veterans Day event scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025. Staff is now returning with event details and cost estimates, and is seeking Council feedback on the proposed event planning, program components, event start time, and estimated expenditures.
SUMMARY:
Staff is coordinating a special Veterans Day event on Saturday, November 8, 2025, in the Royal Palm Room. The event, limited to 150 RSVP-only guests, will honor and recognize all U.S. military veterans—individuals who have served in the United States Armed Forces—with special recognition given to those memorialized in La Palma’s Military Registry.
The proposed event will include three main components:
1. Guest Arrival and Welcome
2. Formal Ceremony
o Presentation of Colors by a local JROTC unit.
o National Anthem performed by a designated singer.
o Invocation delivered by a local pastor.
o Remarks from the Mayor and/or City Council Members.
o Guest Speaker coordinated by the Community Activities and Beautification Committee.
o Recognition of Veterans listed in the La Palma Military Registry. o Presentation of Challenge Coins, commemorating the City's 70th Anniversary, issued by the La Palma Police Department.
o Conclusion with a patriotic performance or ceremonial salute.
Agenda Item No. 11 August 5, 2025 | 2
3. Brunch or Lunch Social Period
Each element of the event is designed to provide a meaningful and respectful tribute to veterans while fostering community engagement.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The estimated total cost for the Veterans Day event is approximately $6,000, not including staff time.
This includes $3,500 for the catered brunch or lunch, approximately $1,500 for the production of commemorative 70th Anniversary PD challenge coins, and approximately $1,000 for patriotic decor and miscellaneous expenses.
ATTACHMENTS:
None