Returning Attendees (Monterey)

Sunday

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Registration and Networking Reception


Monday

8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

Who Does What and Why? A Master Class on Good Governance

Best Best & Krieger, LLP

Effective government at the local level relies on many people playing specific roles. This session will take a deeper dive into applicable laws and best practices for developing positive and effective relationships between elected board members and their staffs, including a discussion of legal sta\ndards and practical tips to ensure good and productive government.


10:00 – 10:30 a.m.

BREAK 


10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Future-Proofing Your District: Technology Planning for Board Members and Trustees

VC3

In this session, special district directors and trustees will explore the critical role of technology in enhancing district operations and services. Participants will gain insights into assessing current technology infrastructure, identifying future needs, and developing strategic plans to integrate new technologies.

This session will cover:

  • Understanding Technology Trends: Learn about the latest advancements and how they can benefit your district.
  • Assessing Current Infrastructure: Evaluate your district's existing technology setup and identify areas for improvement.
  • Strategic Planning: Develop a comprehensive technology plan that aligns with your district's goals and budget.
  • Cybersecurity Essentials: Understand the importance of cybersecurity and how to protect your district's data.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Learn how to effectively communicate and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure successful technology implementation.
  • Join us to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to lead your district into a technologically advanced future.

12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Networking Luncheon


1:45 – 3:00 p.m.

General Manager Evaluations: A Strategic Approach that Works

Rauch Communication Consultants, Inc.

A well-executed general manager performance evaluation is crucial for both the manager's success and the board's effectiveness. But many boards tend to fumble, ignore, or mishandle this critical activity. Learn a proven process that will improve communication and understanding between the manager and board; incorporate both subjective and objective criteria for a well-rounded assessment; understand how to align the evaluation with clear policy directions and how to connect the evaluation process to the broader strategic plan and the manager's annual goals. There will be time for questions and answers. Join us to learn how a robust performance evaluation can drive excellence and mutual understanding among your board and staff leadership team.


3:00 – 3:30 p.m.

BREAK


3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Working with Oversight Organizations: LAFCos, Grand Juries and More

Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley, PC and Grand Jurors Association

Navigating the landscape of oversight organizations can be challenging but essential for effective governance. This breakout session will provide a comprehensive overview of key oversight bodies such as Local Agency Formation Commissions (LAFCos), Grand Juries, and other regulatory entities. Attendees will learn how to effectively collaborate with these organizations to ensure compliance, enhance transparency, and improve organizational performance.

Key topics include:

  • Understanding Oversight Organizations: Gain a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of LAFCos, Grand Juries, and other oversight bodies.
  • Building Effective Relationships: Learn strategies for fostering positive and productive relationships with oversight organizations.
  • Compliance and Accountability: Discover best practices for ensuring compliance with oversight requirements and maintaining accountability.
  • Case Studies and Practical Insights: Explore real-world examples of successful interactions with oversight organizations and apply these lessons to your own context.
  • Join us to enhance your knowledge and skills in working with oversight organizations, ensuring your organization meets its governance and accountability goals.

5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

SIP AND SAVOR EVENING RECEPTION

Tuesday

8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

Protecting Public Funds: Financial Policies for Effective Board Governance

Eide Bailly CPAs

In this breakout session, we will explore the critical role of financial policies in safeguarding public funds and ensuring effective board governance. Participants will gain insights into best practices for developing and implementing robust financial policies that enhance transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility.

Key topics include:

  • Establishing Clear Financial Policies: Learn how to create comprehensive financial policies that align with your organization's mission and regulatory requirements.
  • Enhancing Financial Oversight: Discover strategies for improving board oversight and monitoring of financial activities to prevent fraud and mismanagement.
  • Promoting Transparency and Accountability: Understand the importance of transparency in financial reporting and how to foster a culture of accountability within your organization.
  • Case Studies and Practical Applications: Examine real-world examples of successful financial governance and apply these lessons to your own board practices.
  • Join us to equip your board with the tools and knowledge needed to protect public funds and ensure effective governance.

10:00 – 10:30 a.m.

BREAK


10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Don't Confuse Kindness with Weakness: How to Handle Disruptive Public Meetings

Richards Watson Gershon

Learn how to handle disruptive meetings online and offline without losing your cool! This presentation will cover how cities can meet their legal obligations to allow open, honest discourse while navigating free speech concerns. The discussion will include important safety tips, with an emphasis on techniques to handle the most combative public speaker. Role-playing scenarios will allow you to put these tips and tricks into immediate practice!


12:00 – 1:00 p.m.

Networking Luncheon


1:15 – 2:45 p.m.

The Role of AI in Special Districts: Legal Risks and Governance Solutions

Liebert Cassidy Whitmore

This comprehensive presentation will explore the evolving legal landscape surrounding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). We will examine key labor and employment implications related to the use of AI tools and technology, including AI-driven hiring decisions, performance evaluations, and surveillance. The session will include a discussion of AI use by employees in the workplace, highlighting relevant personnel policies and best practices to mitigate legal risks associated with such use of AI.


2:45 – 3:00 p.m.

BREAK


3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Strategic Investment Options and Policies for Special Districts

CSDA

In this breakout session, we will explore the diverse investment options available to special districts and the policies that can guide these investments. Attendees will gain insights into best practices for managing funds, understanding risk, and maximizing returns. We will also discuss the regulatory landscape and how to develop robust investment policies that align with the unique needs and goals of special districts. This session is designed for directors and trustees looking to enhance their financial strategies and ensure the long-term fiscal health of their districts.


4:00 p.m.

Conference Ends for Returning Attendees


4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

CSDA Benefits B-I-N-G-O! (optional, all attendees welcome)

Sponsored by California Class

We love maximizing the benefits we offer. You love winning prizes! Let’s all do what we love at the Special District Leadership Academy Conference. We start with an exploration of membership benefits to make sure your district is taking full advantage of all we provide. Along the way, you’ll win prizes and enjoy refreshing beverages!