HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem No. 07 - 2024 City of Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform7)2024 City of Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform
Review and approve the updated Legislative Platform; and reaffirm the Legislative Policy
400-14.
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REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL
To:Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From:Jason Simpson, City Manager
Prepared by:Gina Gonzalez, Director of Economic Development and Legislative Affairs
Date:June 11, 2024
Subject:2024 City of Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform
Recommendation
Review and approve the updated Legislative Platform; and reaffirm the Legislative Policy 400-14.
Background
On June 23, 2015 the Lake Elsinore City Council adopted Council Policy ”Legislative Program
Policy and Procedures,” now numbered as Policy No. 400-14. The purpose of the Policy is to
establish procedures to advance the City’s Legislative Platform by outlining a detailed and
streamlined process through which the City Council, staff, and the City’s legislative advocates can
act in a timely manner in response to municipal and community needs, grant opportunities, or
legislative alerts. The Platform, attached hereto as Attachment 1, is a compilation of general policy
statements and City-specific policy statements adopted by the City Council to identify specific
priority areas of interest for the City and region that would benefit the community. The Platform
is developed by a review of legislative priorities from Cal Cities and National League of Cities,
input from the City Council and staff (including reference to City legislative positions in the past),
research of current law and pending legislation, and discussions with local legislative staff. The
Platform may be updated from time to time by the City Council as necessary, to reflect legislative
changes and/or changes in City Council policies and priorities.
Discussion
Since the City’s incorporation, the Mayor and City Council have taken positions on legislation and
issues at the county, state, and federal levels. On June 23, 2015, the City Council adopted a
formal legislative program consisting of a Platform and City Council Policy to ensure that positions
on critical legislation could be addressed expeditiously. The Legislative Platform summarizes the
Mayor and City Council’s positions on priority issues and is used to guide city officials and staff in
responding to legislative proposals at the county, state, and federal levels throughout the year.
2024 Legislative Platform
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Legislative Platform
The Legislative Platform is designed to be a living document that evolves and enables city officials
and staff to quickly respond to issues impacting the City. The Platform was prepared based upon
the City’s history of legislative actions, departmental review, alignment with the City’s adopted
Strategic Plan, and review of priorities from the League of California Cities.
The Platform is divided into eight categories including:
➢Community Services
➢Environmental Quality
➢Governance, Transparency & Labor Relations
➢Housing and Community Development
➢Economic Development
➢Public Safety
➢Revenue & Taxation
➢Transportation, Communications & Public Works
The Platform has been updated to align with updates to the goals and objectives outlined in Lake
Elsinore 2040 Plan considered in combination with the regulatory changes that have occurred
since the Platform was last presented for review in June 2015.
The proposed changes to the Platform are summarized below.
➢Community Services
•Social Services: Provision updated to reflect support for regional partnerships on a
regional basis that provide for social services programs/initiatives that serve the needs of
the Lake Elsinore community.
•Homelessness: Section revised to reference support for legislation and funding to address
homelessness with comprehensive “regional strategies” for supportive services.
➢Public Safety
•Cybersecurity: Section added that addresses support for legislation that strengthens and
enhances cybersecurity efforts, helps protect against malicious cyber incidents, and
enhances the security and resilience of critical infrastructure.
➢Revenue & Taxation
•Contracting: Section added that addresses support for removing barriers to use in-house
staff for public support contracts over $5k and oppose barriers to contracting out and
limiting negotiation indemnification protections in public contracts.
•Prop 13: Section added that addresses opposition to legislation weakening taxpayer
protections or raise tax revenue at the expense of residential or business community.
•Tax-exempt Debt: Section added that addresses opposition to legislation that restricts or
limits that city’s use of tax-exempt debt or tax increment financing.
•Funding for AB 109, Prop 47, and Prop 57: Section added that supports legislation for
continued financial support to deal with the impacts of the Public Safety Realignment Act,
Proposition 47 (Reduced Penalties for Some Crimes Initiative), and Proposition 57 (Public
Safety and Rehabilitation), particularly lowered thresholds and penalties for theft-related
2024 Legislative Platform
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crime, as well as wrap around services for substance abuse counseling, mental health
services, and employment, medical, and housing assistance.
➢Transportation, Communications & Public Works
•Broadband: Section added to support grants and other funding opportunities that will help
the City implement its Broadband Master Plan and Smart City key initiatives.
City Council Policy
The Legislative Program Policy and Procedures (Attachment 2) outlines the procedure for City
staff to address, track, and act quickly in response to legislative proposals and regulations. The
procedure provides for the City Manager to review requests to take positions on an issue. For
approved requests in accordance with the Platform, a communication will be prepared for the
Mayor’s approval and signature, and shared with the members of the City Council. Requests
inconsistent with the Platform or silent on issues will continue to be placed on a City Council
agenda for consideration.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact with adoption of the 2024 City of Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform.
Attachments
Attachment 1- 2024 City of Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform
Attachment 2- Legislative Program and Policy Procedures Policy No. 400-14
Economic & Legislative Affairs
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Lake Elsinore
Legislative Platform 2024
DRAFT
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 2
District 1
Mayor Pro Tem
Brian Tisdale
Elected 2020
District 2
Mayor
Steve Manos
Elected 2020
District 3
Councilmember
Tim Sheridan
Elected 2022
District 4
Councilmember
Natasha Johnson
Elected 2020
District 5
Councilmember
Bob Magee
Elected 2020
City Manager
Jason Simpson
DISTRICT BOUNDARY MAP
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 3
PURPOSE
The primary purpose of a Legislative Platform is to adopt official City positions on matters affecting the City at
the local, regional, state and federal levels. The approved platform allows City staff and legislative advocates to
address and track issues in a timely manner pursuant to established procedures.
The platform was developed based on Lake Elsinore’s historical actions (resolutions, minutes, letters) on
legislative issues, policies, and guiding principles from the League of California Cities, and departmental review.
This platform supplements existing City Council established goals and policies in various documents including
the City’s General Plan.
The following eight categories have been utilized incorporating related topics.
•Community Services
•Environmental Quality
•Governance, Transparency & Labor Relations
•Housing, and Community Development
•Economic Development
•Public Safety
•Revenue & Taxation
•Transportation, Communications & Public Works
OVERARCHING GUIDELINES
The following guidelines represent the City of Lake Elsinore’s overarching principles and will be reflected in all
aspects of the legislative platform and accompanying issue positions.
1. Preservation of Local Control
Support measures that preserve and protect the City’s general law powers and duties to enact legislation
and policy direction concerning local affairs. Oppose measures that reduce, eliminate, preempt local
control or authority, or conflict with other legislative priorities. In the spirit of local control, the City will
also refrain from taking positions on issues that do not directly correlate with the City’s operations.
2. Promotion of Fiscal Stability
Support measures that promote fiscal stability, predictability, and financial independence. Support
measures that preserve and promote the City’s revenue base. Oppose measures that shift local funds to
the County, State, or Federal government without offsetting benefits or impose penalties on cities or
create an unfunded mandate.
3. Support Funding Opportunities
Support measures that allow the city to compete for its fair share of regional, State, and Federal funding including
competitive grants and other funding programs. Support measures that promote dedicated funding streams at
the regional, State, and Federal levels allowing the city to maximize local revenues, offset and leverage capital
expenditures, and maintain City goals and standards. However, the city will not support funding that relies on new
state or federal taxes or fees that will impact Lake Elsinore residents and/or businesses.
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 4
LOCATION
The City of Lake Elsinore, California, established in 1888 as a city, is on the shore of Lake Elsinore, a freshwater
lake about 3,000 acres in size. The city has grown from a small resort town in the late 19th or 20th century to a
suburban city that is roughly 43 sq miles with close to 80,000 residents (2024). Lake Elsinore is in the southwestern
region of Riverside County, approximately 17 miles north of the City of Temecula and 23 miles south of the City of
Corona, along Interstate Highway 15.
Incorporated on April 9, 1888, the City of Lake Elsinore includes the communities of:
•Country Club Heights
•East Lake
•Lake Edge District
•Downtown
•Lake Elsinore Hills
•Lake View and
•Riverview
CITY ANCHORS
As part of the City of Lake Elsinore’s Dream Extreme 2040 Plan, the city’s Anchors are assets that make the city
unique—they are what make Lake Elsinore special and what will drive the future of our community. While a
wide range of possibilities can be imagined for Lake Elsinore’s future, structuring the vision plan around the
following three anchors helps to guide the City’s decision making, policies, and efforts, which focus on the assets
that matter most to the Lake Elsinore community.
The Lake - The Lake shapes the City’s identity, supports an ecosystem rich in natural beauty, and offers unique
recreational opportunities. The largest natural freshwater lake in Southern California, Lake Elsinore enables both
extreme activities and everyday recreation. As the terminus of the San Jacinto River, Lake Elsinore faces unique
ecological challenges. Protecting, enhancing, and celebrating the Lake is critical to Lake Elsinore’s City and
community health.
Downtown - Lake Elsinore’s Downtown is a vibrant central hub that brings the community together. Enhancing
the quality of the Downtown experience and building its strong sense of place will shape the City’s identity as a
unique place to live, work, and play.
Action AND Adventure - The city has long been a destination for action sports and extreme activities. The
community embraces life and dares to push the boundaries to achieve its goals. Lake Elsinore’s programs,
facilities, and natural environment will define the city as a destination for action and adventure for both visitors
and residents.
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 5
PARKS & RECREATION
Parks & Recreation
Support legislation and funding for acquisition,
development, master planning, operation and
maintenance of open space, recreation, parks,
libraries, and community services.
Imposition of Regulatory or Statutory
Requirements
Oppose legislation that has a negative impact on the
administration of park and recreation services and
resource management including the sale of park
lands and open space, relaxations of park dedication
fee requirements that provide no added protections
or benefit to California‘s recreational consumer.
CULTURAL
Art & Historical Sites
Support legislation that provides funding to support
visual and performing public art and historical sites.
HUMAN SERVICES
Social Services
Support collaborative partnerships on a regional basis
that provide for social services programs/initiatives
that serve the needs of the Lake Elsinore community.
Health & Wellness
Support legislation and funding for programs for the
physical and mental health and wellness of families,
including youth, seniors, and veterans, and promotes
the City of Lake Elsinore as an active lifestyle
community.
Homelessness
Support legislation and funding to address
homelessness with comprehensive regional
strategies for supportive services. Oppose legislation
limiting local authority and restricting enforcement to
address homelessness.
Access to Healthy Eating
Support legislation and local funding opportunities to
increase access to subsidized meal programs for older
adults and youth.
Access to Healthy Foods
Support legislation for community garden programs
that expand access to people of all ages to grow fresh
fruits and vegetables.
Active Living
Support legislation that encourages community
design to integrate walking, hiking, and cycling paths
and opportunities to recreate.
Aging in Place
Support legislation and strategies to foster
independence, well-being, and access to resources
for older adults.
Youth Programs
Support legislation and funding for overall youth
programs, after school education and recreational
programming.
Access to Accessible Recreation
Support for state and federal funding to provide
adaptive sports, fitness, recreation, and outdoor
activities for people with disabilities.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Parks, Recreation, Libraries, Arts, Youth, Senior, Community,
Healthy Communities, and Human Services
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 6
WATER
Lake
Support legislation and funding towards improving
Lake Elsinore’s natural resources and assets. Oppose
legislation that imposes mandates or punitive
measures on cities or unduly shifts costs entirely.
Watershed
Support legislation and funding addressing urban
runoff pollution and flood control improvements.
Water
Support legislation and funding for water efficiency
improvements, including conservation, adequate
supply of safe drinking water and desalination
programs. Oppose legislation that imposes mandates
or punitive measures on cities or unduly shifts costs.
Stormwater
Support the incremental revision of stormwater
regulation and permitting in a manner that retains
local flexibility to determine how best to meet the
State’s water quality objectives.
ENERGY
Energy
Support legislation and funding for local control of
renewable energy sources and balanced energy
efficient solutions proven to be cost efficient, as well
as construction of energy producing facilities needed
to meet increased demand.
AIR
Air Quality
Support legislation that promotes regional
improvement of air quality, recognizing that air
pollution does not follow jurisdictional boundaries.
Oppose legislation that restricts local and regional
authority.
Air Quality District
Support legislation maintaining Air Quality
Management District air credits. Oppose reduction
of local official representation on the South Coast Air
Quality Management Board.
ENVIRONMENTAL
California Environmental Quality Act
Support legislation that improves and streamlines the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and
provides funding to assist local agencies in
implementing CEQA.
Green
Support the National Environmental Policy Act and
green procurement and sustainable practices
policies. Oppose legislation that imposes undue
hardship on local agencies to implement
environmental regulations.
Waste Management
Support legislation and funding for local control to
regulate solid waste, single-use packaging, hazardous
waste, recyclable materials, siting waste treatment
facilities, and abandoned vehicles. Oppose legislation
burdening local businesses and cities with unfunded
mandates.
Cap and Trade
Support legislation and policy that maintains the
“Cap and Trade” Program to support the Cal Recycle
Recycling Market Development Zone (RMDZ) Loan
Program. Oppose any legislation that proposes to
make significant and/or controversial changes to the
existing RMDZ Loan Program, up to and including
the elimination of the program or funding support.
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Lake, Water Quality, Water, Energy, Utilities, Air, Climate,
Environmental Regulations, and Waste Management
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 7
GOVERNANCE
Local Control
Support legislation maintaining and providing greater
local control by municipalities, including contracting
for city services, and opposing contrary legislation.
Elections
Support legislation reducing unnecessary and costly
procedures for conducting a municipal election and
oppose contrary legislation.
Ralph M. Brown Act
Support legislation allowing alternative methods of
meeting public notice and publication requirements
through the use of technology and cost-effective
communication.
California Public Records Act
Support legislation that enhances the public’s right to
access records while considering the real-world fiscal
and operational constraints of the City Clerk’s Office.
Political Reform Act
Support legislation to improve and streamline the
Political Reform Act and its implementation through
regulations.
Public Notices
Support alternative methods of meeting public
noticing requirements while enhancing public
outreach and awareness through cost-effective,
innovative, and technological methods of
communication.
Liability
Support legislation limiting exposure of local
governments to liability, including unimproved
natural conditions and design immunity.
TRANSPARENCY
Transparency
Support legislation for State and local government to
conduct public business openly with appropriate
access to public records. Oppose legislation to require
records disclosure processes resulting in increased
costs.
LABOR
Labor Relations
Oppose legislation imposing mandated employee
benefits and imposing restrictions over
employer/employee negotiations or disputes.
Pensions
Support legislation providing sustainable and secure
public pensions and other post-retirement benefits to
ensure responsive and affordable public services.
Workers’ Compensation
Support legislation streamlining the Workers’
Compensation system, including registered volunteer
disaster service workers. Oppose legislation
increasing employee Workers’ Compensation
benefits without system reform to offset increased
employer costs.
Disability
Oppose legislation providing presumptive eligibility
for the award of Workers’ Compensation or other
employee health benefits.
Unemployment Insurance
Oppose legislation increasing employer liability for
unemployment compensation.
GOVERNANCE, TRANSPARENCY & LABOR RELATIONS
Elections, Ralph M. Brown Act, California Public Records Act, Political Reform Act,
Conflict of Interest, Public Notices, Open and Transparent Government, Employee &
Labor Relations, Liability
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 8
LAND USE
Land Use
Support legislation that strengthens local control on
land uses, plans for responsible growth,
development, redevelopment, zoning, and
annexations. Oppose legislation that reduces local
control.
Local Control
Oppose legislation that would limit or restrict local
land use decision-making authority, including the
imposition of one-size-fits-all, land-use, parking,
residential, building and development guidelines.
Annexations
Oppose legislation that creates fiscal impediments to
future annexations.
Sphere of Influence
Support changes to Sphere of Influence legislation to
limit county development that would impact city and
allow cities to annex logical growth.
Habitat Conservation
Support legislation that provides funding for habitat
management planning, maintenance, and
administration.
Eminent Domain
Oppose legislation restricting the use of eminent
domain to acquire land not zoned for residential use
for redevelopment.
Right-of-Way
Support legislation allowing cities to manage public
right-of-way and receive compensation for its use.
Environmental Barriers
Support legislation and funding to reduce environ-
mental barriers to structure and land development
and to clean up brownfields.
Infrastructure
Support funding mechanisms encouraging
infrastructure development and fair distribution of
infrastructure bonds generally as well as filling the
revenue gap resulting from dissolution of
redevelopment.
Building
Support legislation and funding for State building
codes addressing safety, mitigation of natural
hazards, and cost-effective green building standards.
HOUSING
Housing
Support legislation and funding programs promoting
production and rehabilitation of safe, affordable, and
accessible housing; and support increasing the
maximum home sale price allowed under Federal and
State home ownership funded programs.
Housing Element
Support legislation and funding to allow regional
cooperation and establishing realistic housing goals
and oppose legislation imposing mandates or
penalties.
Road Funding
Oppose legislation unfairly tying road funding to local
decisions on density and affordable housing.
Mortgage Debt Tax
Support legislation for cancellation of mortgage debt
tax.
Foreclosed Properties
Support non-profits, i.e., Habitat for Humanity to
acquire and rehabilitate foreclosed properties in
blighted areas.
Group Homes
Support legislation that increases local control over
location of community care facilities/group homes.
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Land-Use, Annexation, Housing, Building Standards, Redevelopment,
Mobile Homes, Sign Regulations and CDBG
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 9
Mobile Homes
Support legislation enhancing lives for mobile home
residents, including requiring training for park
managers, and prohibiting park managers from
requiring residents to use a specific dealer or broker.
Inclusion
Seek a seat at the table with the state legislature and
the federal government on issues that impact the City
of Lake Elsinore.
Unrealistic Timeframes
Oppose mandates for unrealistic processing
timeframes for larger housing development projects.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
(CDBG)
Funding
Support the preservation of funding for the
Community Development Block Grant program and
increasing the funds available under the program.
Reporting
Support legislation that would consolidate and
streamline the administration and reporting
requirements of the Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) program. Advocate for greater
flexibility of local appropriation and use of funds.
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 10
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Business Attraction/Expansion
Support legislation and funding for business-friendly
principles to attract and expand new businesses and
retain existing businesses, including regional
economic efforts.
Jobs and Revenue
Support legislation providing tools and incentives
necessary for economic development (i.e. jobs,
revenue).
Tax Increment
Support legislation for financing programs
encouraging economic development including tax
increment financing.
Impact Fees
Oppose legislation that would inappropriately limit
local government authority to impose impact fees.
Operations/Construction
Support legislation that increases flexibility in the
development and building process and streamlines
environmental statutes.
Oppose legislation that would result in increased
costs for businesses to operate/construct facilities.
International Sales and Trade
Support legislation, including measures that remove
barriers, allowing local businesses and industries to
sell goods and services internationally.
Online Transient Occupancy Tax Bypass
Oppose efforts by online travel companies to
circumvent remittance of Transient Occupancy Taxes
(TOT) from hotel reservations purchased on the
internet.
Workforce Training and Development
Support legislation for training and development
initiatives that support the collaboration between
community partners (including, but not limited to
non-profits, Boards of Education, and the Workforce
Development Board) and seek additional funding to
train and develop youth, veterans, and
underemployed individuals for 21st century jobs
relevant to the City’s workforce.
Entrepreneurship
Support legislation that provides a funding
mechanism to accelerate innovation and
entrepreneurship in the region. Tourism Funding
Support legislation that protects and enhances
funding for tourism marketing and infrastructure to
support the strong, growing tourism industry in
California.
Tourism
Support legislation that protects and enhances
funding for tourism marketing and infrastructure to
support the strong, growing tourism industry in
California.
New Redevelopment Funding
Seek, promote, and implement any new or
alternative approaches that may replace
redevelopment funding mechanisms that deliver
positive benefits to Burbank.
Filming
Support incentives that promote filming within the
city and state
Online Purchases Sales Tax
Support legislation that changes the allocation of
sales tax for online purchases from the County pool
and reallocates it to the city where the purchase is
made.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Business Attraction/Expansion, Jobs/Revenue, Tax Increment, Impact
Fees. Operations/Construction, International Sales and Trade, Higher
Education, Occupational Programs, Airports, and Base Realignment
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 11
Occupational Programs
Support legislation, funding and policies that
promote Regional Occupation Programs, trade
schools, investment in research and development
technology, and tax incentives for manufacturing.
Higher Education
Support all attempts to bring higher education and
pathway opportunities to the region.
Airports
Support legislation and funding maintaining local
control over noise relief, curfews, improves public
safety and counter-criminal measures at and around
airport grounds, Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Encourage the Federal Aviation Administration to
develop clear rules and regulations for governing the
use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), while
preserving local control to regulate the use and
application of UASs for industry and City services.
Base Realignment
Oppose closure of regional military installations.
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 12
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Law Enforcement
Support legislation, funding, and efforts
strengthening State and local law enforcement
efforts directed towards crime prevention and public
safety to create a safer city.
Crime
Support legislation and funding to address crime
related to drug (including synthetics), alcohol,
burglary, assault, sex offenders, domestic violence,
gangs, mental health and juvenile-related (tobacco,
bullying) problems.
Crime Victims
Support legislation and funding to protect crime
victims.
Cost Recovery
Oppose legislation impeding local law enforcement
from addressing crime problems and recovering costs
resulting from the responsible party.
Early Release
Oppose legislation for early release of prisoners,
including low-risk serious and violent offenders
without sustained funding to ensure adequate post-
release supervision.
Court
Support measures to provide adequate judicial and
court services.
Homeland Security
Support legislation and funding coordinating
homeland security programs and training to respond
to regional or national threats and adding security
measures to protect residents against terrorist
activity.
Immigration
Recognize existing immigration laws and support
legislation solving the immigration crisis that
adversely impacts local jurisdictions.
Federal Worker Eligibility
Support efforts to improve the federal worker
eligibility verification process to ensure employees
are hired by businesses in the most efficient manner
possible.
Asset Forfeiture
Support legislation providing a greater share and
increased latitude to spend asset forfeiture funds and
to reimburse cities for overtime costs paid to public
safety personnel who are required to appear in State
and/or County courts.
Peace Officer Compensation
Support legislation allowing local control of peace
officers’ salaries and benefits.
Community Oriented Policing/Special Enforcement
Teams
Oppose legislation that decreases funding to
Community Oriented Policing efforts.
Cybersecurity
Support legislation that strengthens and enhances
cybersecurity efforts, helps protect against malicious
cyber incidents, and enhances the security and
resilience of critical infrastructure.
Seismic Safety
Pursue and engage in legislation and regulation that
increases the seismic safety of buildings including
seismic retrofit, retrofit funding, or higher levels of
structural resiliency of buildings.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Law Enforcement, Fire and Life Safety, Emergency Communications, Emergency
Services, Disaster Preparedness, Nuisance Abatement, and Animal Control
Services
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 13
Emergency Preparedness
Support legislation that encourage disaster
preparedness and emergency planning, including
funding to develop a permanent Emergency
Operations Center (EOC) to further emergency
management preparedness efforts. Seek direct and
flexible funding to localities to sustain core services
and provide community recovery programs while
responding to public health emergencies and natural
disasters.
Fire Vegetation Management
Support well balanced legislation that allows
vegetation management to be done in a timely
manner by responsible parties to reduce risk of fire.
Local Control of Marijuana Operations
Maintain local control over the ability to regulate the
sales location of retail and medical marijuana
operations.
Funding to Regulate Recreational Marijuana
Support legislation for state financial assistance for
enforcement and regulation due to the passage of
Proposition 64 and legalization of recreational
marijuana.
FIRE
Fire and Life Safety Services
Support legislation and funding with local control for
strengthening fire and life safety services, including
fire suppression and prevention, hazardous materials
mitigation, emergency medical services and training,
and disaster preparedness. Oppose legislation that
restricts local control over the enforcement of fire
and life safety regulations.
Wireless Communications
Support legislation and funding for providing public
safety agencies greater access and adequate
frequencies to wireless communication necessary for
a multi-jurisdictional connectivity and national
wireless broadband network, free from intrusion.
Fire and Life Safety Codes
Support legislation increasing local control in
adopting Fire and Life Safety Codes and development
of the national fire code in an open, consensus-based
process.
Fire Prevention
Support legislation and funding for promoting
installation of fire sprinklers in new non-residential
buildings, requiring maintenance of defensible space
and undergrounding overhead utilities in wildfire-
prone areas.
Disaster Preparedness
Support disaster and civil defense master mutual aid
agreements and disaster relief and emergency
assistance act.
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 14
REVENUE
Revenue Protection
Support legislation to protect City revenue sources
and to strengthen and expand ongoing revenue and
independence for the City, including greater local
control over how funds are expended. Oppose
legislation that undermines or preempts local
authority over local taxes and fees.
City Revenue Sources
Oppose legislation seizing City tax funds or negatively
changing revenue allocations to cities, such as
property tax, street maintenance funds, vehicle
license fees, sales tax, public safety augmentation
funds, community-oriented policing (COPS) grants,
gas tax, transient occupancy tax, and Community
Block Grant funding.
Funding
Support legislation and funding for dedicated
revenue sources at all governmental levels, including
funding for public facilities, such as libraries and open
space. Allow the City to compete for its fair share of
grants and funding programs. Support federal
legislation requiring states to distribute federal pass-
through funds in an equitable manner to local
government.
Mandates
Support full cost reimbursement to the city for all
Federal, State and county mandates. Oppose
legislation imposing unfunded State mandates.
Contracting
Support legislation removing barriers to use in-house
staff for public works construction contracts over
$5,000. Oppose legislation limiting ability to contract
out for provision of services and opposing limiting
negotiation indemnification protection in public
contracts.
Municipal Bonds
Oppose legislation reducing or removing tax-exempt
status of municipal bonds.
TAXATION
Proposition 13
Oppose legislation weakening taxpayer protections
or to raise tax revenue at the expense of residential
or business community.
Tax-Exempt Debt
Oppose restrictions or limitations on the City to use
tax-exempt debt or tax increment financing for the
purchase or construction of public improvements.
Funding for AB 109, Prop 47, and Prop 57
Support continued financial assistance to deal with
the impacts of the Public Safety Realignment Act,
Proposition 47 (Reduced Penalties for Some Crimes
Initiative), and Proposition 57 (Public Safety and
Rehabilitation), particularly lowered thresholds and
penalties for theft-related crime. Support legislation
that addresses wrap-around services such as
substance abuse counseling, mental health services,
and employment, medical, and housing assistance.
Voter-Approved Taxes
Support legislation preserving and enhancing the
City’s ability to seek voter approval for taxes, i.e.,
transactions and use (sales) tax.
Information Sharing
Support participation in local government
information sharing with Franchise Tax Board.
Local Control
Engage in and advocate for legislation or ballot
measures to prevent the State from borrowing,
raiding, or otherwise redirecting local government
funds (i.e. – local taxes, sales tax, property taxes,
etc.).
REVENUE & TAXATION
Finance, Tax Reform, General and Special Revenue at Federal, State,
and Local Levels
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 15
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation
Support legislation and funding for multi-modal
transportation planning and Intelligent
Transportation System to achieve traffic efficiency,
reducing traffic congestion, and increasing safety of
City streets and arterials for vehicular, bicycle and
pedestrian paths/trails.
Transit
Support legislation and funding encouraging the use
of transit and non-motorized transportation,
including rail line, busses, reverse commute program,
electric vehicles, transportation service and rapid
transit.
Funding
Support legislation to protect dedicated revenue
sources for transportation and transit and insure
equitable distribution of funding with consideration
of population growth. Support legislation providing
additional funding opportunities, increasing vehicle
capacity, increasing local flexibility in allocation of
transportation funds, and enhancing City’s ability to
finance transportation/transit programs and facilities
and use of design-build standards.
Taxes/Fees
Oppose measures to raise Federal or State revenues
for transportation with fees, such as miles-traveled.
COMMUNICATIONS
Telecommunications
Oppose legislation limiting local authority for
telecommunications infrastructure and support
legislation to retain existing fees on
telecommunications services.
Broadband
Support grants and other funding opportunities that
will help the City implement its Broadband Master
Plan and Smart City key priorities.
PUBLIC WORKS
Infrastructure
Support legislation and funding for statewide
community infrastructure program, including
interchanges, flood control, watershed management,
wastewater, and exempting criteria for new septic
tank regulations.
Transportation, Communications & Public Works
Transportation, construction, telecommunications, and public works.
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 16
LAKE ELSINORE QUICK FACTS
City Incorporation: 1888
Population: 71,452 (2023 Department of Finance); 76,280 (Derrigo 2024)
2026 Projected Population: 82,285
Area: 43 sq miles
Higher Education (Bachelor’s degree or Higher): 22%
Households: 22,520
Average Household: 3.59 (2024 Derrigo)
Median Age: 30.6
Average Household Income: $97,080 (2024 Derrigo)
Median Income: $88,255 (2024 Derrigo)
Median Value of Housing: $527,297 (2024 Derrigo)
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 17
LEGISLATIVE OFFICES
Washington Office California Office
The Honorable Alex
Padilla
Washington Office
B03 Russel Senate Office
Building
Washington, DC 20510
Phone: 202-224-3553
Fax: 202-224-2200
Padilla.senate.gov
Fresno Office
2500 Tulare Street
Suite 5290
Fresno, CA 93721
Phone: 559-497-5109
Fax: 202-228-3864
The Honorable Laphonza
Butler
Washington Office
112 Hart Senate Office
Building
Washington, DC 20510
Phone: 202-224-3841
Fax: 202-228-3954
Butler.senate.gov
Los Angeles Office
111111 Santa Monica Boulevard
Suite 915
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Phone: 310-914-7300
Fax: 310-914-7318
U.S. Congress
Representative
Washington Office California Office
The Honorable Ken
Calvert
42nd District
Washington Office
2205 Rayburn
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: 202-225-1986
Fax: 202-225-2004
Corona Office
400 S. Vicentia Avenue
Suite 125
Corona, CA 92882
Phone: 951-277-0042
State Elected Officials Office Additional Information
The Honorable Governor
Gavin Newsom
State Capitol Building
1021 O Street, Suite 9000
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-445-2841
Gov.ca.gov
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 18
State Senators Office District Office
The Honorable Kelly
Seyarto
32nd District
State Capitol
1021 O Street
Room 7120
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-651-4032
24640 Jefferson Avenue
Suite 202
Murrieta, CA 92562
Phone: 951-894-2220
State Assembly
Representatives
Office District Office
The Honorable Bill Essayli
63rd District
Capitol Office
P.O. Box 942849
Sacramento, CA 94249-
0063
Phone: 916-319-2063
1223 University Avenue
Suite 230
Riverside, CA 92507
Phone: 951-369-6644
Riverside County Board
of Supervisors
Office Contact Information
The Honorable Kevin
Jeffries
1st District
County Administrative
Center
4080 Lemon Street
5th Floor
Riverside, California 92501
Phone: 951-471-4500
Rivcodistrict1.org
The Honorable Karen
Spiegel
2nd District
County Administrative
Center
4080 Lemon Street
5th Floor
Riverside, California 92501
Phone: 951-955-1020
Rivcodistrict2.org
2024 Lake Elsinore Legislative Platform 19
Contact regarding Legislative Program:
Gina M. Gonzalez, M-URP, CEcD, ACE
Director of Economic Development and Legislative Affairs
(951) 674-3124 ext 919
ggonzalez@lake-elsinore.org
CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA
COUNCIL POLICY MANUAL
SUBJECT: Legislative Program Policy No. 400-14
Policy and Procedures Effective Date: 6/23/2015
Page No. 1 of 2
PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to establish a Legislative Program to advance the City’s Legislative
Platform by outlining a detailed and streamlined process through which the City Council, staff
and the City’s legislative advocates can act in a timely manner in response to legislative
proposals and enhance the City’s ability to govern and provide essential municipal and
community services.
BACKGROUND
The Legislative Platform (“Platform”), attached hereto as Exhibit A, is a compilation of general
policy statements and City-specific policy statements adopted by the City Council to identify
specific priority areas of interest for the City and region that would benefit the community. The
Platform is developed by a review of legislative priorities from the League of California Cities
and National League of Cities, input from the City Council and staff (including reference to City
legislative positions in the past), research of current law and pending legislation, and discussions
with local legislative staff. The Platform may be updated from time to time by the City Council
as necessary to reflect legislative changes and/or changes in City Council policies and priorities.
POLICY
Federal and state legislation consistent with the Platform may be supported by the City.
Legislation inconsistent with the Platform may be opposed by the City. Positions taken by the
City in addition to “Support “or “Oppose” may include “Support if Amended” and “Oppose
Unless Amended”. The City may also provide a letter of concern or interest without taking a
formal position on a piece of legislation.
Initial requests to take positions on legislative matters will be reviewed and approved by the City
Manager. Approved requests that are consistent with the City’s Platform will be coordinated for
the Mayor’s [or designee] approval and signature. Requests that are inconsistent or silent in the
City’s Platform may be placed on an agenda for consideration by the City Council.
CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA
COUNCIL POLICY MANUAL
SUBJECT: Legislative Program Policy No. 400-13
Policy and Procedures Effective Date: 6/23/2015
Page No. 2 of 2
In addition to coordinating formal action through the City Council, staff will administer the
City’s Legislative Program by generally performing the following functions:
a. Work with Department Directors and staff to identify matters of legislative
importance and develop positions on federal and state legislative proposals and
general matters of legislative interest.
b. Communicate matters of legislative importance to the City Council through
periodic updates, and identify and coordinate positions for formal action by the
City Council.
c. Review positions and analysis prepared by the League of California Cities,
National League of Cities, legislative advocates, and local
government/professional associations in formulating positions.
d. Monitor and track key bills through the legislative process utilizing the City’s
advocacy services, legislative websites, and government/professional
associations.
e. Communicate the City’s positions to federal, state, and county legislators.
f. Participate as needed in the drafting and amending of legislative proposals that
significantly impact the City.
g. Work with the League of California Cities, National League of Cities, legislative
advocates, other cities and local government/professional associations on
legislative matters of mutual concern.
h. Participate and attend legislative briefings and meetings to actively engage and
stay apprised of legislative trends and upcoming legislation.
HISTORY
Adopted by Resolution No. 2015-___ 6/23/2015