We had a chance to sit down with several members of the Assembly Local Government Committee to discuss their perspectives on Local Government, being involved, and what it’s like to work in state government. Join us as we sit down with Assemblyman Brian Maienschein from San Diego.
1. What is your top priority as a member of the Local Government committee?
Before I came to Sacramento, I served on the San Diego City Council and was the first Commissioner on Homelessness. Homelessness continues to be one of my top priorities. I am especially passionate about reducing barriers that local governments face when finding viable solutions to help the homeless. I will continue to work to promote transparency, encourage public-private partnerships and make sure the state, counties and cities are able to collaborate in the bests interests of all Californians.
2. What do you think is the most critical issue facing local governments right now?
Local governments face a number of issues related to homelessness, development and public safety. One of the biggest challenges is to preserve local control. There are also difficult tasks at hand when municipal leaders need to determine viable solutions for problems in their communities. When the Legislature enacts new programs that require local compliance and participation, cities must be reimbursed for any related expenses.
It is also important that local governments be able to implement legislation in a way that best aligns with the needs of their communities.
For example, Governor Brown signed my bill, Assembly Bill 1403, in August 2015. AB 1403 builds on the success of Project 25, which I created in San Diego. Project 25 has saved taxpayer money through a public-private partnership that helped the population that used social services the most, the homeless.
My legislation will allow public agencies and private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations to form Joint Powers Agreements to meet the needs of the undeserved population. In order for public agencies and non-profits to form a JPA to help the homeless, the City Council and County Board of Supervisors will need to provide authorization or a legal resolution detailing the agreement. AB 1403 will help counties and cities to cut costs and combine public and private funding for homelessness programs.
3. What do you think is the biggest single thing local governments can do for their citizens?
Above all, local governments must be committed to transparency. In particular, it is important that local governments uphold the California Public Records Act and the Brown Act, California’s open meetings law.
In 2015, I introduced legislation to make it easier for local government agencies to share information with the public. Assembly Bill 169, which passed the Legislature, would help to streamline communication between local government agencies and improve accessibility for the public. Making information electronically searchable will also permit the public to assist in identifying efficient solutions for government, create economic opportunities and promote innovation and accountability at the local level.
4. What does 2016 look like for cities in relation to state government? Any new laws cities need to be aware of?
Once again, the Legislature passed a lot of bills, some of which did not permit sufficient time for feedback and input from all levels of government. Due to this, cities will need to be nimble during the implementation of newly enacted legislation.
5. What message do you have for the cities in your district?
In my experience as a City Councilmember and an Assemblymember, I know how important it is to have open lines of communication. A city should always make sure that the voice of its community is heard in Sacramento. Since cities are the closest in proximity to residents, they have a primary need to serve their constituents, although my staff and I are always available. I encourage the residents of my district to contact our Capitol or District Office if they have concerns or need any assistance.
6. What should city leaders be focused on in the coming year?
No matter the year or level of government, there are some priorities that should not change. It is incumbent upon city leaders that they continue to ensure there is trust between the citizens of California and local government. They also should keep members of the Legislature informed about their concerns and the issues they are facing. That is how a healthy democracy should work.
7. With 2/3rds of Legislators coming from a Local Government Background, what would you share, or what advice would you give, to those local leaders that are considering running for higher office?
As someone who has served in local government and now in the Legislature, I believe the most important piece of advice is to be true to your roots and not lose your local perspective. Whether you’re serving the public at the municipal level, in Sacramento or even in Washington, D.C., it is crucial that you remember what matters back home and not lose your voice.
Also, when you are making a vote, be sure not to put unnecessary limits on local governments. As tempting as it may be to tell others what to do, problems run uphill in government. If you make it easier for the city government to operate, your job will ultimately be easier.