MUNICIPAL CLERKS INSTITUTE: ADVANCING EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE
A MESSAGE FROM YOUR BOARD SECRETARY, DEBRA BLACK
CMCA LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: SB 707 DEVELOPMENTS AND UPCOMING LEGISLATIVE WEBINARS
SCHOLARSHIPS & FUNDRAISING UPDATE DID YOU KNOW….
UPCOMING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
NOMINATING COMMITTEE CHAIR APPOINTED-FOCUSED ON IMPROVING CMCA VOTER TURNOUT
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SURVEY
THE CITY OF GILROY WELCOMES A NEWLY APPOINTED CITY CLERK–KIM MANCERA
CONNECT, COMMIT, AND EMPOWER –CMCA MERCH STORES
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
ASHTON R. AROCHO, MMC | PRESIDENT
“To all who come to this happy place, welcome.”
– Walt Disney
As we move into the final full month of summer, let us reflect on the progress we’ve made this year and talk about what lies ahead. August is often a busy time for communities –back to school, summer events, national night out, and preparing for all the transitions that come with fall. I can’t help but realize the similarities in how managing some of our communities is a lot like managing a theme park. There are moving parts everywhere, guests (or members of the public) with different expectations, and behind-the-scenes magic that keeps it all together. Guess who’s making that magic happen in your agency? You guessed it – YOU are.
Being a Municipal Clerk often requires you to wear multiple hats (or ears). Whether you’re helping resolve a resident’s issue, managing a magnitude of Public Records Requests, or guiding your department through important decisions – like an annual purge of citywide records – you’re creating an experience that matters.
Remember: Disney didn’t become “the happiest place on Earth” without consistency, creativity and commitment. As we prepare for the busy months ahead, take time to refill your teacup, reflect on how far you’ve come and lean into your strengths. You are the magic in your community. Keep leading with grace.
During the last week of July, your CMCA Board of Directors met at the Disneyland Hotel to hold the annual goal-setting meeting. This year, however, we decided to change it from setting goals, to planning for success. The dialogue was open, honest and collaborative. We homed in on the memberships need for connection, passion for continuing education, and overall, the dedication each member has towards the municipal clerk profession.
ASHTON R. AROCHO
The Board of Directors established a purpose statement and core values, identified priority initiatives for the upcoming year and the close out of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, discussed various bylaw amendments, established a professional development committee that will work on providing educational events throughout the entire state, established the three priority goals for the upcoming 2026-2029 Strategic Plan and then some. More information will soon come out, so please keep your eyes peeled for those updates.
CMCA has been known for our ability to adapt and lead with purpose. Whether it’s navigating changes in legislation, addressing fiscal and procedural concerns, or implementing new policy, our role as your Board continues to prioritize the vital need to build trust and create positive change.
As your president, I’ve had the privilege of hearing stories from many of you who are going above and beyond your role – strengthening public relationships, improving operations, and championing for continued education and professional growth. Your dedication and commitment to the profession and association is my ‘why’ and why it’s important for us to continue to grow together.
Looking ahead, I encourage each of you to stay connected – through educational trainings, legislative updates, board meetings and networking opportunities. If you aren’t already, take advantage of webinars, mentorship, and other resources afforded to you as a member. The value we bring to our communities starts with the knowledge we share with one another.
Let’s finish the summer strong, support each other like a team of Avengers (yes, I’m mixing Disney universes here), and keep finding joy in the important work that we do. Until then.
CMCA AUGUST 2025
VOLUME 26 ISSUE 7
MENTOR PROGRAM UPDATE
BY CANDICE ALVAREZ, MMC | MENTOR DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
August is here, and with it comes a new name for our newsletter—welcome to the California Clerks Connection! Just like summer, this change brings renewed energy and a fresh opportunity to connect, celebrate, and grow together.
NEW CMC AND MMC DESIGNEES
First, I am proud to recognize the following individuals who have earned their Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) and Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) designations since last month’s issue of The Official Word. These achievements represent significant dedication, hard work, and a commitment to professional growth.
CERTIFIED MUNICIPAL CLERKS (CMCS)
Kevin Patterson Deputy City Clerk
Jennifer Janzer Deputy City Clerk
Adilia Keller City Clerk Technician II
Lauren Hull Sr. Management Analyst
MASTER MUNICIPAL CLERKS (MMCS)
Abigail Palsgaard City Clerk
Suzanne Guzzetta City Clerk
Dina Manis, MMC City Clerk
Stephanie Roseen City Clerk
Anne Hsu, MMC City Clerk
Congratulations to each of you on reaching these incredible milestones! Your accomplishments inspire others in our community to pursue their own professional goals.
NEW MENTORS AND NEXT NEW MENTOR TRAINING
I’m proud to share that we have six new mentors who are ready to support and inspire the next wave of professionals! Please join me in welcoming and thanking Dayna Williams-Hunter, Jennifer Farris, Joey Blaine, Kami Noriega, Maritza Sanchez, Nichole Fiez, and Roxanne Breceda!
I’d also like to extend an invitation to all CMCs and MMCs interested in becoming mentors to join the next New Mentor Training, scheduled for Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. This online training session is required to become an official mentor. Click here to register!
DEPUTY MENTOR DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
I’m honored to share that we received several thoughtful and enthusiastic applications for the new Deputy Mentor Development Director position. I’m reviewing them now and will be making a determination shortly. Thank you to everyone who expressed interest in helping shape the future of our mentor program!
SOAK UP THE SEASON
To all our mentors, mentees, and colleagues committed to professional development: thank you. As we move into the final weeks of summer, let’s keep the momentum going. Together, we’re not only growing as individuals—we’re helping to EMPOWER the future of our profession.
CANDICE ALVAREZ
MUNICIPAL CLERKS INSTITUTE: ADVANCING EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE
RANDI JOHL | MCI INSTITUTE DIRECTOR
The Municipal Clerks Institute proudly closed out another milestone with the successful completion of the MMC Series 200 in June 2025. This advanced training session brought together clerks from across the state for an intensive week focused on understanding our organizations, strategic planning, workplace culture, organizational change, generational communication gaps, and more. Participants left the session with renewed energy, expanded skillsets, and a stronger network of professional peers committed to public service.
This session is part of the Institute’s ongoing commitment to its Strategic Plan: Educate • Engage • Elevate—known as the 3 E’s.
Through this framework, we strive to educate our clerks with the knowledge and tools they need to perform at the highest level, engage them with one another and their communities to foster collaboration and shared learning, and elevate the profession by developing public servants who are informed, empowered, and future-ready.
Now, all eyes are on the upcoming CMC Series 400 scheduled for October 2025. This core training series is designed for entry and mid-level clerks and will continue building technical knowledge of the profession. October’s session will also mark a historic moment for the Municipal Clerks Institute. For the first time, a graduation ceremony will be held to honor the first group of students who have successfully completed all four series of the CMC curriculum with the Institute. These dedicated individuals will be recognized as the OG Class of the newly restructured Institute—trailblazers who attended all four series with the Institute and have demonstrated a deep commitment to their professional growth and the vital role of municipal clerks in local government.
The continued success of the Institute is a testament to the passion, professionalism, and perseverance of our clerks. Together, we are raising the standard for municipal service and shaping the future of local leadership.
RANDI JOHL
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A MESSAGE FROM YOUR BOARD
SECRETARY,
DEBRA BLACK
DEBRA BLACK | RECORDING SECRETARY
BLACK
Dear Members,
On behalf of the Board, I’m pleased to share the latest updates in this edition of California Clerks Connection. The actions summarized in the attached memo reflect our collective efforts to strengthen programs, enhance transparency, and support the evolving needs of our membership.
From the exciting rebranding of our newsletter to the launch of a new Deputy Mentor Development Director role and improvements to our scholarship and policy frameworks, each decision is rooted in our shared commitment to collaboration, service, and growth.
We hope these changes will further empower you in your roles and foster a stronger, more connected community of clerks across California. As always, we welcome your feedback and engagement. Thank you for your continued dedication and service.
The Board has approved a new name for our monthly newsletter: “California Clerks Connection.” A small subcommittee will refine the details to ensure a seamless transition.
2. Deputy Mentor Development Director Position Approved
To support the expansion of our mentorship program, the Board approved a new Deputy Mentor Development Director position. This non-voting volunteer will work alongside the Director during their term.
3. Scholarship Program Update
Efforts are underway to enhance scholarship effectiveness, increase participation, and strengthen funding strategies.
Here are a few things to look out for:
• Open application period earlier (target: mid-August)
4. Policy 122: Logo Use Policy Update
To protect the association’s brand, the Board is drafting a new Logo Use Policy. A subcommittee of the (2nd Vice-President, Director of Legislative Affairs, Association Director) will present draft to Board in September.
5. Policy 120: Credit Card Processing Fee
To align with current financial practices, the Board approved a $5 payment processing fee for credit card transactions, effective immediately.
6. Policy 121: Credit Card Issuance and Use
Recent updates to the policy include:
• Authorization for the President to send memorial flowers on behalf of the association
• Requirement for cardholders to sign acknowledgment of the credit card policy
• These provisions are now included in the policy for improved clarity and accountability
DEBRA
CMCA AUGUST 2025
VOLUME 26 ISSUE 7
CMCA LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: SB 707 DEVELOPMENTS AND UPCOMING LEGISLATIVE WEBINARS
KERRY BIGELOW, MMC | DIRECTOR OF LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS
Thank you to everyone who joined our recent legislative update webinar, where 287 members participated. We appreciate your engagement as we navigate critical legislation impacting our profession. For those who could not attend or wish to revisit the session, the recording, revised slides, and a template opposition letter to SB 707 are now available on the CMCA website for members here. (Member login required).
CMCA LEGISLATIVE ENGAGEMENT ON SB 707
On August 4, members of CMCA’s Legislative Team met with the author’s office to express our concerns regarding SB 707. In addition, CMCA has submitted a formal letter of opposition unless amended, which details our key concerns with the bill. This letter will be posted on the Legislative Updates page for member review here. (Member login required). While concerns remain, this ongoing dialogue is vital as we continue advocating for amendments to mitigate operational and fiscal impacts on local agencies.
UPDATED INFORMATION ON SB 707
Following up on the recent webinar, we want to clarify that the remote public comment requirement at all meetings—regardless of whether legislative body members participate remotely—applies under the current version of SB 707 only to certain “eligible legislative bodies,” specifically:
A. A city council of a city with a population of 30,000 or more.
B. A county board of supervisors of a county, or city and county, with a population of 30,000 or more.
C. A city council of a city located in a county with a population of 600,000 or more.
D. The board of directors of a special district whose boundaries include a population of 200,000 or more and that maintains an internet website.
Importantly, this means that not all subsidiary boards and commissions are subject to the remote public comment requirement for all meetings, alleviating one of the more significant implementation challenges we previously identified. While certain concerns with the bill remain, this clarification provides meaningful relief and helps guide our ongoing advocacy efforts.
KERRY BIGELOW
SAVE THE DATES: UPCOMING LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM WEBINARS
• Legislative Priorities Member Input Session
October 1, 2025 | 10:00 AM Free, members-only webinar to share your priorities and help shape CMCA’s advocacy focus for 2026.
• Legislative Process & Regulatory Research Workshop
October 30, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM Deep dive into navigating the legislative process and conducting regulatory research. Fee: $125 Member | $225 Non-Member Approved for 1.1 CMC/MMC Points.
LOOKING AHEAD: KEY LEGISLATIVE DATES
• August 15: Last Day of Summer Recess
• September 12: Last day for the Legislature to pass bills; end of the 2025 legislative session
• October 12: Last day for the Governor to sign or veto bills
• January 1: Effective date for legislation signed into law in 2025, unless otherwise specified
• January 5: Legislature reconvenes for the second year of the 2025-26 session
We encourage all members to stay informed and engaged as the legislative process continues. If you have any questions or need assistance accessing resources, please contact me at kbigelow@chulavistaca.gov
CMCA AUGUST 2025 VOLUME 26 ISSUE 7
SCHOLARSHIPS & FUNDRAISING UPDATE
SYLVIA M. BERMUDEZ, MPA, MMC, DIRECTOR OF SCHOLARSHIPS
The Scholarship Committee awarded 99 scholarships in FY 2024–2025, including 68 CMC scholarships totaling $15,200 and 31 MMC scholarships totaling $4,450.
For FY 2025–2026, the scholarship application period is expected to open in mid-to-late August. We encourage all members to apply and take advantage of these valuable opportunities. Watch for upcoming announcements with more details.
The Committee is committed to a transparent, fair process that promotes access and participation for all members. To further support this program, we will launch new fundraising initiatives ahead of the 2026 Annual CMCA Conference and invite every member to get involved.
If you have received a scholarship, please consider giving back to help future recipients. For more information or to volunteer on the Fundraising Committee, contact the Director of Scholarships at scholarship@calclerks.org
SYLVIA M. BERMUDEZ
DID YOU KNOW….
HOLLY M. CHARLÉTY, MMC | PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Did you know that CMCA members can contribute to education for municipal clerks in multiple ways? Did you know that some of those ways can earn you points towards your MMC designation or EPP hours? Want to see more education opportunities? Volunteer your time to fulfill one of the roles below! Anyone interested can contact pdd@calclerks.org
1. HOST a Region Education Event
a. Provide a location to hold a training
b. Help with room logistics, parking and food
c. Invite your City Manager or Mayor to welcome the group
Interested?? Complete the Host Interest Form today!
2. TRAIN for a Region Education Event
a. Develop content to teach what you already know! Share your practical knowledge and best practices in an area of municipal clerk’s responsibility
b. Deliver training to attendees
Not sure? Check out the list of suggested topics
Interested?? Completing the Trainer Interest Form This is a resource used by those planning education events.
3. FACILITATE a Region Education Event
a. Find a HOST and TRAINER and manage the planning process including:
i. IIMC Points Approval
ii. Manage the registration process
iii. Coordinate logistics with host and trainer
iv. Communicate with attendees
v. Process assessments
Interested? Reach out to the Professional Development Director for more information pdd@ccalclerks.org
HOLLY M. CHARLÉTY
CMCA AUGUST 2025 VOLUME 26 ISSUE 7
UPCOMING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
HOLLY M. CHARLÉTY, MMC | PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Check out these upcoming education opportunities through CMCA! You can always find up-to-date information on the CMCA website community calendar. For questions, please feel free to email pdd@calclerks.org
Mountain View 8/22/2025
Virtual 11/19-21/2025
San Marcos 2/13 (virtual day) & 2/17-20/2026
Athenian Dialogue: Lead it Like Lasso Registration Closes 8/8/2025
Nuts and Bolts Registration opens mid-September 2025
Municipal Clerks Institute: CMC Series 100 Registration opens 11/17/2025
HOLLY M. CHARLÉTY
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
CHAIR APPOINTED-FOCUSED
ON IMPROVING CMCA VOTER TURNOUT
SUSAN BLANKENSHIP | NOMINATING COMMITTEE CHAIR
SUSAN BLANKENSHIP
THANKS:
I am honored to have been selected to serve as Chair of the CMCA Nominating Committee. I extend my sincere thanks to CMCA President Ashton Arocho for this appointment, and to former Chair Leilani Brown for her exemplary service and for maintaining such meticulous records in support of the Committee’s work.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE DUTIES:
The Nominating Committee is responsible for soliciting nominations for CMCA Board positions, coordinating election activities, and certifying the election results.
VOTING:
Did you know that only 5% of CMCA Members Voted Last Year? If we truly believe in the democratic process, we must lead by example. As clerks, your expertise, insights, and dedication contribute significantly to our profession’s advancement. Voting isn’t just a right, it’s your opportunity to influence leadership, strategy, and policies that affect every decision made in our field.
2026 ELECTION:
We are six months away from the opening of the nomination period. There are nine Officers with expiring terms: (One-Year Terms) President, 1st Vice President, 2nd Vice President, (TwoYear Terms) Treasurer, Director of Mentor Development, Director of Networking, Director of Scholarships, Director of Conferences, and Director of Communications.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS DUTIES:
Are you interested in learning more about the duties and responsibilities for each position? Log into your CMCA member account on the CMCA website and navigate to ABOUT US > CMCA GOVERNING DOCUMENTS
The next Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for September 16, 2025, via ZOOM and is open to the public. Attend a meeting to see how the CMCA Board operates!
Questions about the election? Please contact me, I’d love to hear from you!
Susan Blankebship
City Clerk, City of South Lake Tahoe CMCA Nominating Committee Chair sblankenship@cityofslt.us 530-542-6005
CMCA AUGUST 2025 VOLUME 26
CMCA AUGUST 2025
VOLUME 26 ISSUE 7
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SURVEY
HOLLY M. CHARLÉTY, MMC | PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
It is exciting to have closed out the fiscal year and be looking toward the future. CMCA has a lot to look forward to this coming year….not JUST an exciting conference at the Disneyland hotel that the committee is beginning to focus on. As we move into the new fiscal year, it is important to refocus once again on the education needs of our members. The best way we can plan and deliver professional development that meets your needs is to first ask the question…..what do you want? Well, we want you to tell us!
Please take a few moments to provide us feedback on your future education needs. Responses will help drive the focus on upcoming education offerings. This is the best way to provide input on what education you are most in need of. The results will be used to help plan topics for region education events and Annual Conference sessions. It will also tell us what program areas to focus on in the coming year. The more we hear from you, the better we can meet membership needs. So please take a moment to complete the survey and share the survey with your colleagues and encourage them to respond as well.
Survey Link
HOLLY M. CHARLÉTY
CMCA AUGUST 2025 VOLUME 26 ISSUE 7
THE CITY OF GILROY WELCOMES A NEWLY APPOINTED CITY CLERK–KIM MANCERA
We are excited to congratulate Kim Mancera, the City of Gilroy’s newest City Clerk.
Kim Mancera was unanimously appointed as the Gilroy City Clerk on June 16, 2025. Kim entered the Clerk profession in November 2019, serving first as a Municipal Services Assistant and then Deputy City Clerk for the City of Morgan Hill. Prior to joining Morgan Hill, Kim worked in the private sector for 17 years but was always interested in serving the public. With the COVID-19 pandemic shutting City Hall just four months into her new position, Kim transitioned to working remotely and acted as Morgan Hill’s virtual call center, which helped her quickly learn how the city works and about each of the departments. An emphasis on all things remote during that time also allowed Kim to take advantage of many free virtual trainings. Kim earned the title of Deputy City Clerk in July 2022 and achieved her Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation in May 2024.
As Kim embarks on her new position, she hopes to build relationships with her new team and the City Council. She will also undertake several projects, including implementing a new agenda management system and transitioning Gilroy to district-based elections.
Kim credits her success as a clerk to the support she received from those around her. Morgan Hill provided her opportunities to grow as well as prioritizing continuing education. “I must thank my mentors and teammates in Morgan Hill that pushed me out of my comfort zone. They believed in me and helped me gain the confidence to do what I knew how to do.” Kim also thanks her husband and family for their love and support and for stepping in when she needed to attend out-of-town training and conferences.
On a personal note, I had the privilege of serving on the interview panel when Kim first joined the City of Morgan Hill. Even before Kim gained experience in the Clerk’s Office, the panel recognized her skills and abilities to tackle tough challenges and adapt to the everchanging landscape we encounter each day as clerks.
In addition to opportunities for lifelong learning that being a clerk provides, Kim’s favorite part about being a clerk is “the fact that every day is different. There is such a wide variety of hats that we wear as clerks, and it tends to keep things interesting.”
Congratulations Kim!
Connect, Commit, and Empower
SHOP CMCA’S NEW MERCH STORES!
CMCA now has two merchandise stores where you can purchase branded clothing, bags, and more! These items go beyond style—they’re a way to connect with fellow clerks, show your commitment to our profession, and strengthen the network that supports and uplifts us all.
Whether you’re at a conference, in the office, or out in the community, wearing CMCA gear is a simple yet powerful way to empower yourself and others by sparking conversations about the essential work we do.
HOW TO FIND THEM
Visit the CMCA website, go to the Resources tab, and select either the CMCA Apparel Store or the CMCA Bonfire Store. Then click, shop, and share your connection to the California Municipal Clerk community!
