Western City November 2013

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CONTENTS 2 Calendar of League Events 3 Executive Director’s Message Can Art and Emotion Inspire Effective Leadership?

By Chris McKenzie

Artist and speaker Erik Wahl’s performance at the League’s recent annual conference inspired city officials to think creatively about personal skills that can be put to work in serving the public.

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City Forum

Property Assessed Clean Energy Financing for Commercial Building Upgrades

By James Hamill

Efforts to achieve greater energy efficiency in commercial and industrial buildings are often hampered by substantial upfront costs. To help businesses overcome these cost barriers, California cities and counties can take advantage of an innovative solution.

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News from the Institute for Local Government

Resources to Help Promote Public Trust And Confidence in Local Government The competency of both local officials and staff provides a basis for establishing public trust and confidence. Elements of ethics, public input and transparency also play a key role.

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Sustainable Cities

By Yvonne Hunter

Financial Resources to Support Energy Efficiency California’s energy utilities and state agencies offer rebates, zerointerest loans, grants and other types of financing incentives to cities, residents and businesses.

10 What Local Officials

Need to Know About New Elements in GASB Financial Statements

By Gary M. Caporicci Two new elements required for government financial statements may seem complicated at first glance, but will improve the accuracy of reporting by including future commitments.

11 California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence

alnut Creek Takes W A Graphic Approach To Its Budget

he city did something dramatically T different to capture the community’s attention about a looming deficit.

14 Job Opportunities 19 Professional Services Directory

Cover Photo: Denemmanuel/ Shutterstock.com


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