2023 CSMFO Conference Agenda - Print Friendly

About Your Badge

Your name badge will be necessary to gain access to all official events. Be sure to wear it at all times. Full Conference registrants are entitled to attend all business sessions, all Conferencesponsored meal functions, and all Conference social events. Daily registrants are entitled to attend the general sessions, concurrent sessions, breakfast, and lunch on the day they are registered to attend, where applicable. If a daily registrant is attending on Wednesday, they are also able to attend the exhibitor reception event. The Thursday evening event is not included for a Thursday daily registrant. However, a ticket to the event may be purchased at the registration desk for $125.

Your name badge is enabled for RFID tracking. This is used not only for CPE-tracking purposes, but also to give us information about the number of attendees at any given session to assist with planning for future conferences. It is important that you wear your badge at all times, and that you enter sessions using a door that is covered with a RFID truss.

CPE Credit

The California Society of Municipal Finance Officers is a provider for the California State Board of Accountancy continuing professional education (CPE) programs for Certified Public Accountants and for GFOA’s Certified Public Finance Officers. Following the conference, attendees will receive an email containing a link to their CPE certificate. Please be sure to “white list” or approve emails received from office@staff.csmfo.org in order to ensure delivery of your CPE certificate.

Conference App

CSMFO is mobile! We strongly encourage you to download our mobile guide to enhance your experience at the 2023 CSMFO Annual Conference. You’ll be able to plan your day with a personalized schedule; browse exhibitors, maps, and general Conference information; message other attendees; and even share photos! New this year – we’ll be using Guidebook to gather feedback about each session you attend, so please be sure to complete the related form in the app at the conclusion of that session. The app is compatible with iPhones, iPads, iPod Touches, and Android devices. To get the guide, download “Guidebook” from the Apple App Store or the Android Marketplace. Once downloaded, search for “CSMFO.”

Conference Presentations

Any presentations received in advance of the conference will be available for download through the Guidebook app at the conference. Presentations will also be posted to the CSMFO website after the conference.

CONFERENCE AGENDA

TUESDAY, JANUARY 31, 2023

Pre-Conference Sessions – 9:00 am – 4:15 pm

Registration Open – 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm

PRE-CONFERENCE SESSIONS

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Leading, Learning, and Growing the Team for Tomorrow

Leadership & Management (6 CPE – Non-Technical)

Location: Regency A (Hyatt Hotel)

Many would say that 2023 will be the year of the human – and we agree. It is one thing to have money and another to have strategy, but without the right skillsets on your team, the mission is near impossible. Government finance is as unique as it is common when it comes to leading, learning, and growing a team. How will you assess what you have? How will you grow a team for the future? How will you lead the right way? This workshop will be an interactive experience where the attendees will gain best practices on how to assess the team and culture, build the team towards a goal, and prepare the next generation of leaders for the future. This is a workshop you will not want to miss, so bring your future challenges and goals for success!

Speakers: Phil Bertolini, Senior Vice President, e.Republic

Drew Corbett, City Manager, City of San Mateo

Karan Reid, Director of Finance, City of Concord

Ernie Reyna, Deputy City Manager, City of Perris

Fundamentals of Municipal Taxation: Property, Sales, and Other Local Taxes

Financial Management (6 CPE – Technical)

Location: Regency B (Hyatt Hotel)

In this session, Michael will explain the basics of key California local tax sources, beginning with an overview of California local government revenues and in-depth coverage of property tax. From there, the focus will shift to sales tax, including a discussion on tax rate components and allocations, and how sales tax revenues are administered. Finally, the day will wrap up with a review of other taxes and fees that are important revenue sources for public agencies, such as documentary transfer and property transfer taxes, hotel occupancy taxes, utility users taxes, franchises, royalties, rents and licenses. This is your opportunity to learn everything you ever wanted to know about local taxes – but were afraid to ask!

Speaker: Michael Coleman, Principal Fiscal Policy Advisor, California Society of Municipal Finance Officers and League of California Cities

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

9:00 am – 12:00 pm

It’s Your Close, Marty! Something’s Gotta be Done about Your Close! Accounting & Financial Reporting (3 CPE – Accounting & Auditing, Government)

Location: Regency C (Hyatt Hotel)

The financial audit happens only once a year, but now it’s just around the corner. No need to panic like Doc Brown! With all of the processes and procedures that go into closing the books and preparing the financial statements, including staying current on the ever-changing GASB accounting and reporting requirements, it is easy to lose sight that preparation can and should happen throughout the fiscal year. Unanticipated retirements and departures can also wreak havoc on the Finance Department. Developing monthly processes and closing procedures can improve interim reporting and ensure you are always audit-ready, even with staff turnover. This session will include an interactive discussion of good accounting and closing practices and what a successful closing looks like – it is not only about the debits and credits, Marty!

Speakers: Alberto Preciado, Accounting Manager, City of Citrus Heights

David Alvey, Partner, Maze & Associates

Amy Meyer, Partner, Maze & Associates

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

1:15 pm – 4:15 pm

Pension Basics: Everything You Need to Know to be Comfortable Communicating Core Mechanics and Risks Regarding Your Defined Benefit Plan

Financial Management (3 CPE – Technical)

Location: Regency C (Hyatt Hotel)

This half-day preconference session will equip the finance professional with an overview of defined benefit plans in California, specifically covering everything you need to know about pension basics (what are defined benefit plans, and why and how should you fund them?). We will discuss actuarial valuations and how to read them, and the role of actuarial assumptions and methods in building the valuations and setting costs over time. This session will go beyond CalPERS valuations, and help you understand how the work of the actuaries ultimately connects to the contribution rates your entity pays for your pensions, including key risks and tips on communicating to your stakeholders.

Speakers: Debby Cherney, Chief Executive Officer, San Bernardino County Employees’ Retirement Association

Todd Tauzer, Vice President and National Public Sector Retirement Practice Leader, Segal

AGENDA

CalPERS ACTUARY MEETINGS

(by appointment only)

Wednesday, February 1 – 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm

Thursday, February 2 – 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Location: Regency C (Hyatt Hotel) ******************

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2023

Registration Open – 7:30 am – 5:30 pm

Capitol Park Run/Walk – 7:30 am – 8:30 am

Early Bird Concurrent Sessions – 8:30 am – 9:45 am Exhibit Hall Opens – 8:30 am

Opening General Session & Featured Speaker – 10:00 am – 11:15 pm Lunch & Dessert in Exhibit Hall – 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Concurrent Sessions – 1:00 pm – 3:45 pm

Beverage Break in Exhibit Hall – 3:45 pm – 4:15 pm Concurrent Sessions – 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm Exhibitor Reception – 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm

CAPITOL PARK RUN/WALK

Wednesday, February 1, 2023 7:30 am – 8:30 am Location: Meet at West Lobby

EXHIBIT HALL OPENS – 8:30 am Coffee Available Location: Hall A

EARLY BIRD SESSIONS

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

8:30 am – 9:00 am

“This is Heavy!” A How-To Session on Navigating Your First CSMFO Conference

Location: Meeting Room 3-4

If this is your first time attending the Conference, join this session to learn the layout of the event and get insider tips on navigating sessions, events, and exhibitors. This is a great opportunity to meet other first timers as well as CSMFO leadership while getting answers to any questions you might have.

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

9:15 am – 9:45 am

Capitalize on Your CSMFO Membership Benefits

Location: Meeting Room 3-4

Would you like to learn how your CSMFO membership benefits can help you to be more successful in your current position and/or grow into your next position? Join fellow members in roundtable discussions to hear about the many ways to leverage your membership in CSMFO through our fantastic annual conferences, our informative webinars and timely specialized trainings, peer networking, and so much more.

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

8:30 am – 9:45 am 1.5 CPE

California’s Budget Condition and Fiscal Outlook

(T – Technical)

Location: Regency A/B/C (Hyatt Hotel)

California’s non-partisan Legislative Analyst will provide an overview of California’s budget condition and fiscal outlook. The Legislative Analyst’s Office provides fiscal and policy advice to the Legislature with an eye toward program sustainability and California’s fiscal resilience. High inflation and the Federal Reserve’s response to it have contributed to heightened economic uncertainty. This session will describe the LAO’s updated economic outlook and the LAO’s assessment of the Governor’s 2023-24 budget proposal in light of the broader economic landscape.

Speakers: Gabriel Petek, Legislative Analyst, State of California Michael Coleman, Fiscal Policy Advisor, CSMFO and League of California Cities Moderator: Scott Catlett, 2022 CSMFO President

CONFERENCE AGENDA

OPENING GENERAL SESSION & FEATURED SPEAKER

Wednesday, February 1, 2023 10:00 am – 11:15 am

Brett Culp

Filmmaker and Speaker Who Documents the Positivity of the Human Experience (1 CPE – N – Non-Technical)

Location: Ballroom A1-A6

Brett Culp is an award-winning documentary filmmaker and founder of the not-for-profit, The Rising Heroes Project. He is known for the films, Legends of the Knight, and his latest, Look to the Sky, both of which explore the power of heroic stories and heroic individuals to inspire us to believe in a better tomorrow. Brett’s newest film, A Voice That Carries, follows the relationships between fathers and daughters and premiered in early June 2021. His films are featured on Netflix, iTunes, Hulu, and other top digital platforms. Through his groundbreaking non-profit documentary work, Brett has pioneered the art of creating “mini-movements” that inspire the super-human spirit in us all. His unique approach to community-building and relationship-driven engagement invite people to connect with a noble vision and make a difference together. Brett Culp inspires us to engage in a passionate, meaningful mission that leaves a positive impact on the world and brings out the heroic spirit in us all.

COMPLIMENTARY HEADSHOT STATION

Wednesday, February 1 – 12:30 pm – 5:30 pm Thursday, February 2 – 7:30 am – 11:30 am and 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm

LUNCH & DESSERT IN EXHIBIT HALL 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Location: Hall AB

AGENDA

CONCURRENT SESSIONS

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

1:00 pm – 2:15 pm 1.5 CPE

Affordability’s Hidden Price Tag

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 1

In the wake of the COVID pandemic, the “affordability” of water has been thrust into the political and media limelight. However, as we attend a conference themed “Back to the Capital,” we are confronted with the challenging reality of addressing significant infrastructure deficiencies within the economic realities. How are we to adequately invest and renew failing infrastructure if we are paralyzed by looming rate impacts? Because California defines water as “a basic human right,” how should water be valued when or if it’s not available?

Whether it’s last year’s Texas Freeze or the Oroville Dam Crisis, there is a clear and extraordinary economic cost and risk to life should infrastructure fail – a hidden cost if (short-term) affordability is the sole focus of decision makers. Proper maintenance leads to the lowest cost of ownership. Just like with a house or a car, maintenance requires time, effort, and money – but that investment historically pales in comparison to the cost and hardship endured should systems fail. Because utilities are the lifeblood to everything we do, when there is no water, when there is no power, nearly all economic activity ceases. This cost, while significant, is too often ignored when discussing affordability - inevitably leading to less affordable, less reliable utility costs.

Speakers: The Honorable Bill Dodd, State Senator for District 3, California State Legislature

Pierce Rossum, Rate & Debt Manager, San Diego County Water Authority

Sophia Skoda, Finance Director, East Bay Municipal Utility District

Moderator: Stephanie Reimer, Assistant General Manager/Chief Financial Officer, Monte Vista Water District

Investing Strategies for California Agencies

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 2

Financial markets have evolved quickly in 2022, which has encouraged some public entity investors to reevaluate existing investment strategies or develop a healthy curiosity about alternatives. This session is two-fold whereby we will highlight and discuss fixed income asset classes permitted by the California Government Code, and discuss investment strategies relevant in the current market environment.

Speakers: Barbara Martin, Administrative Services Director, City of Chico

Vanessa McMichael, Director-Head of CPE Strategy, Wells Fargo Securities LLC

John Williams, Institutional Representative, Wells Fargo Securities LLC

Moderator: Donald Patterson, Director of Finance & Administration, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Recession Readiness: Act Now to Prepare for the Coming Storm

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 3-4

Even before the pandemic, California municipalities faced structural challenges such as growing pension costs and legal limitations on their ability to raise revenue. Meanwhile, spending on public safety is under continued scrutiny while communities are simultaneously working to tackle homelessness and meet State housing goals. With chances of a future recession increasing and the impact of pension system underperformance likely to soon add renewed budget pressure, this session will offer guidance on how cities can address the existing and emerging challenges to fiscal stability.

Putting together the available funding puzzle pieces, including federal sources such as the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), to optimize capital investments, leverage partnerships, and improve budget sustainability – including managing a return to rising retirement costs given FY2022 investment performance – is highly complex and subject to important limitations, such as the prohibition on use of certain federal dollars for pension costs. Governments must plan strategically to make the best use of all available sources by weaving a range of funding and financing streams into a single financial plan that addresses key challenges – or risk missing out on an unprecedented opportunity to best position themselves to weather the financial storm that’s in the forecast.

Speakers: Alan Alton, Chief Financial Officer, City of Santa Rosa Sarah Hollenbeck, Managing Director, PFM Financial Advisors LLC Ryan McNeely, Director, PFM Group Consulting LLC

Moderator: Jasmin Bains, Deputy City Manager, City of Selma

CalPERS Actuarial Information/Valuations 101

(T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A7

With the recent increased attention to the unfunded accrued liabilities of pension plans, pension obligation bonds (POBs), and other financing options, finance practitioners need to become well-versed in how to read actuarial reports, including basic terms, methodology, and information essential to determining your pension plan contribution requirements and funded status. This session will explain what you need to know in clear terms and will help you translate this complex information for decision makers, employees, bargaining units, and the public.

Speaker: Julian Robinson, Senior Pension Actuary, California Public Employees’ Retirement System

Moderator: Nick Kurns, Finance and Customer Service Manager, Scotts Valley Water District

AGENDA

New Accounting Guidance on Compensated Absences and Recent Trends in Paid Time-Off

(A – Accounting & Auditing, G – Government)

Location: Ballroom A8-A9

In June 2022, the GASB issued Statement No. 101, Compensated Absences, which updates guidance that has been in place for three decades. In this session, the panel will discuss the following:

• The new recognition and measurement requirements, and related financial statement disclosures.

• Exceptions to the requirement to recognize a liability for certain types of leave.

• Implementation strategies, including a case study with illustrative examples.

This session will also cover recent trends in paid time-off.

Speakers: Jason Al-Imam, Finance Director, City of Newport Beach

Peter Brown, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore

Jennifer Farr, Partner, Davis Farr

Moderator: Karla Romero, Finance Director/Treasurer, City of Brawley

ERPs and Integrating with Your Bank

(T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A10-A11

This session will provide an overview of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)/accounting systems and what organizations need to consider as they embark on a change or upgrade. We will also cover the importance of internal communications and ensuring everyone’s voice is heard to have the best integration possible between the organization and its banking partner. Ensuring all applicable areas are represented and communication lines are open is integral to a successful conversion or upgrade. Otherwise, it may translate to missed enhancements/improvements that could have been addressed and potential ways your banking partners could assist in the project.

Speakers: Harjot Sangha, Finance Director, City of Gilroy

Andrew Leal, Lead Treasury Management Consultant, Wells Fargo Bank

Zina Monroe, Vice President, Senior Relationship Manager, Wells Fargo Bank

Moderator: Alberto Preciado, Accounting Manager, City of Citrus Heights

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Trust is Our Most Valuable Asset: How to Increase It with GFOA’s Code of Ethics

(N – Non-Technical)

Location: Regency A/B (Hyatt Hotel)

GFOA’s code of ethics outlines the values that are essential to building trust in the finance office and in our local governments. Citizens’ trust in government is under stress. Trust, however, is essential for the finance officer and local government to do their jobs well. In this session, we will present GFOA’s research on how trust can be improved, including real-life examples of how finance officers have built up trust even under adverse circumstances. You will walk away with ideas for what you can do in your own professional life to build your reputation for trustworthiness.

Speakers: Laura Allen, President-Elect, Government Finance Officers Association

Shayne Kavanagh, Senior Manager, Research, Government Finance Officers Association

Chris Morrill, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer, Government Finance Officers Association

Moderator: Craig Boyer, Assistant Controller, County of Alameda

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

2:30 pm – 3:45 pm 1.5 CPE

Public Speaking for Financial Folks

(N – Non-Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 1

Impactful and memorable public speaking is both an art and a skill. Without it, your message can be ignored, diluted, or not taken as seriously. In addition, it is an essential part of leadership! Learn what it takes to overcome your fear of public speaking and to be more effective at it. And as a financial professional, you need people to listen to you! This presentation breaks down into bite-size and actionable chunks what to do. The session is engaging with exercises that move you around and interact with others. Here are some major take-aways from the session:

• Master how to be more calm and confident before, during, and after a presentation.

• Understand what your body is conveying to the audience without you even realizing it.

• Do these three things before every presentation to feel more confident.

• Learn how to express yourself as a leader that others will want to follow.

Learn, master, and have fun!

Speaker: Steve Yu, Chief Financial Officer, UCLA School of Law

Moderator: Viki Copeland, Finance Director, City of Hermosa Beach

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Talent Shortage in Finance – What Now?

(N – Non-Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 3-4

Every city and organization throughout California is struggling with filling vacancies with experienced individuals – Finance Departments are no different. This panel of seasoned finance professionals from across the state will delve into new strategies for not only developing the personnel within your organization, but also finding ways of attracting that new talent to take your department to the next level. Leading the discussion will be a former city manager, now executive recruiter, who can provide insight on the current job market, tips to get you ready for that next promotion, and how to put your department in the best position to succeed. Critical topics to be discussed by the panel include the importance of cross-training, creating finance-savvy staff throughout the organization, creative ways to find talent, and strategies to make your vacancy irresistible to job seekers.

Speakers: Jennifer Lampman, Director of Finance, City of Placentia

Karin Schnaider, Assistant City Manager, City of Tracy Bob Hall, Founder, Bob Hall and Associates

Moderator: Laura Nomura, Deputy General Manager, Eastern Municipal Water District

Competitive vs. Negotiated Methods of Bond Sale: A Fresh Look

(T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A7

Which method of sale is appropriate for your next bond issuance? The decision can have a significant impact on borrowing cost and the overall success of your financing ... and clearly “one size” does not fit all. This panel will offer a fresh look at this age-old debate. The speakers, will consider this critical decision in the context of emerging trends in municipal finance, including recent extreme interest rate volatility and the emergence of “ESG” bonds. The panelists will share lessons learned from scores of financings to aid you in selecting the best method of sale for your financing and discuss approaches to addressing method of sale in your agency’s debt policy. They also will provide strategies for managing your sale and finance professionals amidst extreme interest rate volatility and shed light on the recent emergence of ESG bonds and how they may impact this important decision.

Speakers: Blake Fowler, Director, Public Finance Division, State of California Treasurer’s Office

David Leifer, Senior Managing Director, KNN Public Finance, LLC

Moderator: Mike Sung, Director of Finance, City of Millbrae

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Have a Garbage Franchise Fee? Municipal Legal Update, with a Focus on Zolly v. Oakland and the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act (T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A8-A9

This session will provide a legal update on cases and a proposed ballot proposition affecting municipal revenues. In Zolly v. City of Oakland, the California Supreme Court created a new legal framework for evaluating the legality of fees or charges paid by waste hauling franchisees to local governments. In its August 2022 decision, the Court ruled that the definition of “tax” in Proposition 26 (Art. XIIIC of the California Constitution) applies to franchise fees charged to waste haulers, that the haulers’ customers have standing to challenge the franchise fees, and that Oakland had not established, as a matter law, that any of the exceptions from the definition of “tax” applied. The panel will unpack the Court’s rulings and implications, and provide options and suggestions for complying with fee and tax obligations after Zolly.

The panel will also discuss other pertinent cases and propositions that may negatively impact city revenues. For example, the California Business Roundtable has proposed the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act, which is targeted for the 2024 ballot and would, if passed, impose new restrictions on government revenues and strongly hamper a government agency’s ability to raise future revenues.

Speakers: Megan Burke, Partner, Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP

Michael Colantuono, Managing Shareholder, Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley, PC Kevin Siegel, Partner, Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP

Moderator: Margaret O’Brien, Director of Finance, City of Alameda

Putting Principles into Practice: Using Internal Control to Achieve Specific Objectives (A – Accounting & Auditing, G – Government)

Location: Ballroom A10-A11

This session will review GFOA’s best practices on internal control, including control over grants, separation of duties in smaller governments, and the use of internal control checklists. Audience participation and questions will be encouraged!

Speaker: Michele Mark Levine, Director of Technical Services, Government Finance Officers Association

Moderator: Dennis Kauffman, Assistant City Manager/Chief Financial Officer, City of Roseville

CONFERENCE AGENDA

CalPERS Update: Staying Strategic in Volatile Times

(T – Technical)

Location: Regency A/B (Hyatt Hotel)

The past year has seen global financial markets rocked by unprecedented volatility. Geopolitics, monetary policy, supply chain issues, and inflation have all impacted the investment returns that drive pension costs up for employers. In this session, CalPERS will share how the Fund is adjusting its asset allocation to increase resiliency while implementing new, innovative strategies to capture returns. We will explore the challenges and opportunities ahead. Participants will hear about current employer cost projections, policy issues, recent and upcoming Board of Administration decisions, health care administration, and CalPERS’ approach to implementing sustainability as a core ethos in how it operates in the market-place.

Speakers: Marcie Frost, Chief Executive Officer, California Public Employees’ Retirement System

David Teykaerts, Assistant Chief, Stakeholder Relations, California Public Employees’ Retirement System

Moderator: Marcus Pimentel, Budget Manager, County of Santa Cruz

BEVERAGE BREAK IN EXHIBIT HALL

Wednesday – 3:45 pm – 4:15 pm

Location: Hall A

CONCURRENT SESSIONS

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

4:15 pm – 5:30 pm 1.5 CPE

Surfing the Liquidity Wave in Any Market Environment

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 1

If we’re going “Back to the Capital,” let’s get back to the basics! Liquidity is the second most important tenet of public investing and California is brimming with liquidity options for public agencies, from pooled investment options to individual securities as permitted by the California Government Code. You may be wondering when or how to use what, and how to factor in your agency’s cash flow needs, the market environment, best practices, and regulatory requirements. This session will walk you through each of these considerations necessary for building a liquidity sleeve tailored for your agency’s needs.

Speakers: Lauren Warrem, Chief Deputy Treasurer, County of San Diego

Sarah Meacham, Managing Director, PFM Asset Management LLC

Moderator: Debbie Rosales, Financial Analyst II, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Future Focused: Understanding the Perspectives and Benefits of a Mentoring Relationship (N –

Non-Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 2

We all have had informal mentors in our life who have helped us along with our personal or professional life. Whether you are new to the profession or an experienced professional, mentorship relationships provide an outlet to discover how one can learn and grow with input from an external perspective. In 2022, CSMFO launched its Mentorship Program with a program mission to connect interested mentees with mentors to collaborate on achieving desired mentee career goals, share best practices, or provide valuable input on sensitive topics. This session will start with an introspection of the mentee advantages of participating in a professional mentorship program and will describe the valuable knowledge, advice, and relationships that are a result of a formal or informal program. We will also dive into the many benefits of being a mentor and being a positive influence in a mentee’s path to success.

Speakers: Sara Cowell, Finance Director, City of Tracy

Nicolas Romo, Legislative Affairs Lobbyist, Revenue and Taxation, League of California Cities

Jennifer Ustation, Finance Director, City of Beaumont

Cindy Byerrum, Partner, Eide Bailly LLP

Moderator: Jennifer Ustation, Finance Director, City of Beaumont

Empty Home/Vacant Property Tax – One Housing Crisis Fix

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 3-4

Many California cities and counties are struggling to increase local housing supply, improve housing affordability, and address blight in their downtown and neighborhoods. As the State and local governments continue to look for ways to address these challenges, many jurisdictions are considering or have implemented an “empty home,” “vacant property,” or “vacancy” tax (“VPT”) as a viable solution. Session attendees will learn how a VPT can incentivize landowners to develop their vacant properties, sell or rent their unoccupied housing units, lease their unused commercial space, and potentially construct new housing for the market. The annual tax revenues can fund various related initiatives such as affordable housing development, housing assistance and services, code compliance, and illegal dumping remediation.

Speakers: Carmen Mac, Revenue Operations Supervisor-Audit Section, City of Oakland

Blair Aas, Director, SCI Consulting Group

Chris Coulter, Senior Consultant, SCI Consulting Group

Moderator: Ross McCarthy, Senior Accountant, City of Alameda

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Advanced Tools for Managing Pension Costs and UAL

(T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A7

CalPERS pension costs for local government employers present a challenge to even the most skilled and disciplined financial professionals. The topic is complex, with an array of terms, gray-areas, and differing viewpoints on the best strategic approach. What may work well for one employer may be entirely wrong for another, based on their plans’ particular demographics or economic circumstances. In this session, two CalPERS actuaries will dive into the deeper waters of pension cost management and strategy. The goal is to equip employers with the technical acumen and tools they need to make the best decision for their particular agency, members and plans. Special attention will be given to two tools CalPERS has developed to help agencies make the most informed decisions possible:

• Pension Outlook tool, which models rates based on variable discount rates, investment returns, and Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act (PEPRA) membership, and

• Managing Employer Contributions, a customized spreadsheet that incorporates all of your plans’ actuarial bases and options like early pay-offs, additional discretionary payments (ADPs), and “soft fresh starts.”

This will be a highly valuable session for those who have already built a firm foundation and understanding of pension costs, and are now focused on positioning their agencies to best manage those costs.

Speakers: Fritzie Archuleta, Deputy Chief Actuary-Special Programs, California Public Employees’ Retirement System

Randall (Randy) Dziubek, Deputy Chief Actuary, California Public Employees’ Retirement System

Moderator: Karan Reid, Director of Finance, City of Concord

Back in Business – Funding Public Infrastructure and Services (T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A8-A9

With ever increasing costs, budgetary constraints are a common challenge for many public agencies. Need a new road or road improvements? Are your revenues budgeted for maintenance and public safety unable to keep up with demand from new development? Perhaps there is a solution to allow new development to fund the infrastructure requirements and services they are creating through Special Tax Financing Districts! Public agencies, including cities, counties, and special districts throughout California, are utilizing special districts such as Community Facilities Districts to fund critical public infrastructure and service needs for new developments, including roads, road maintenance, traffic signals, lighting, water and sewer facilities, maintenance of facilities, storm drainage, park improvements, park and parkway maintenance services, public safety services, and so much more!

Speakers: Thomas Hays, Assistant Chief Financial Officer, Eastern Municipal Water District

Brad Neal, Shareholder, Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth

Anna Sarabian, Ph.D., Principal, Fieldman, Rolapp & Associates, Inc.

Heidi Schoeppe, President/Managing Director, Webb Municipal Finance, LLC

Moderator: Thomas Hays, Assistant Chief Financial Officer, Eastern Municipal Water District

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Insights from SBITA Implementation

(A – Accounting & Auditing, G – Government)

Location: Ballroom A10-A11

GASB Statement No. 96, Subscription-Based Information Technology Arrangements (aka SBITA), is only a few short months away from implementation!!! Are you prepared? Do you know what to expect?!? A SBITA is defined as a contract that conveys control of the right to use another party’s information technology (IT) software, alone or in combination with tangible capital assets (the underlying IT assets), as specified in the contract for a period of time in an exchange or exchange-like transaction. Does that definition sound familiar? It should, ... it’s a mirror image of the recently adopted lease standards, only the assets are IT assets. Join us for insights on SBITA implementation. We will share our collective experiences navigating through the challenges of implementing the new requirements. We will cover everything from identifying SBITA contracts to reporting them in the annual comprehensive financial statements.

Speakers: Craig Boyer, Assistant Controller, County of Alameda

Rick Bruneau, Controller, City of San Jose David Bullock, Partner, Macias Gini & O’Connell LLP

Moderator: Grace Castaneda, Finance Director, City of Belmont

Meeting Demand for Public Finance Jobs

(N – Non-technical)

Location: Regency A/B (Hyatt Hotel)

Demand for state and local public finance officers is far outstripping the current supply of workers in the sector, creating a staffing crisis at a time when demands on finance departments are high. Increasing the pace of hiring and the breadth of recruitment will be necessary to reverse the growing gap between supply and demand. GFOA has recently released a report that identifies the causes of the problem and offers ways that public finance organizations can leverage their strengths and take specific actions to meet demand within the sector.

Speakers: Shayne Kavanagh, Senior Manager, Research, Government Finance Officers Association Chris Morrill, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer, Government Finance Officers Association

Moderator: Jennifer Wakeman, Assistant Administrative Services Director, City of Lafayette

EXHIBITOR RECEPTION

Wednesday, February 1, 2023 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm Location: Hall A

AGENDA

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023

Yoga/Stretching – 7:00 am – 7:45 am

Registration Open – 7:30 am – 5:00 pm

Breakfast in Exhibit Hall – 8:00 am – 9:00 am

Chapter Chair Breakfast – 8:00 am – 9:00 am

Featured Speaker – 9:00 am – 10:00 am

Concurrent Sessions – 10:15 am – 11:30 am

Exhibit Hall Open –11:30 am – 3:15 pm

Lunch & Dessert in Exhibit Hall – 11:30 am – 1:30 pm

Concurrent Sessions – 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm

Beverage Break in Exhibit Hall – 2:45 pm – 3:15 pm

Concurrent Sessions – 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm

Thursday Night Event – 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm

YOGA/STRETCHING

Thursday, February 2, 2023

7:00 am – 7:45 am

Location: Regency C (Hyatt Hotel)

CHAPTER CHAIR BREAKFAST

Thursday, February 2, 2023 8:00 am – 9:00 am

Location: Capitol View (Hyatt Hotel)

FEATURED SPEAKER

Thursday, February 2, 2023

9:00 am – 10:00 am

Christopher Thornberg, Founding Principal Beacon Economics

(1 CPE – T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A1-A6

Christopher Thornberg founded Beacon Economics LLC in 2006. Under his leadership, the firm has become one of the most respected research organizations in California serving public and private sector clients across the United States. In 2015, Dr. Thornberg also became Director of the UC Riverside School of Business Center for Economic Forecasting and Development and an Adjunct Professor at the School. An expert in economic and revenue forecasting, regional economics, economic policy, and labor and real estate markets, Dr. Thornberg has consulted for private industry, cities, counties, and public agencies. He became nationally known for forecasting the subprime mortgage market crash that began in 2007, and was one of the few economists on record to predict the global economic recession that followed. Dr. Thornberg holds a Ph.D in Business Economics from The Anderson School at UCLA, and a B.S. degree in Business Administration from the State University of New York at Buffalo.

AGENDA

CONCURRENT SESSIONS

Thursday, February 2, 2023

10:15 am – 11:30 am 1.5 CPE

Focus on Fees: How Long Beach Responded to the Spotlight

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 1

Similar to many other local agencies, the City of Long Beach manages and routinely updates its user fees and charges. However, in recent years (and particularly during the pandemic), there was a renewed focus on fees and charges – including a City Council directive to initiate a Citywide Cost of Service Study. The City of Long Beach’s Budget Office team will discuss its unique centralized role in managing the citywide user fees and charges process involving multiple departments, and how it uses strategic collaboration to strengthen its work in this new environment.

The session will provide a brief overview of the City’s user fees and charges process and highlight key elements that have changed to further engage stakeholders, including City Council, Executive Management, and the public. It will also highlight considerations that were evaluated when making recommendations on setting a fee or user rate, because it may not always be recommended to set it at full cost recovery. Furthermore, the Long Beach Budget Office will discuss how it collaborates with various departments to develop new tools and strategies to communicate complex information related to Cost of Service study recommendations and significant fee adjustments.

Speakers: Geraldine Alejo, Revenue Management Officer, City of Long Beach

Fiahna Cabana, Budget Analyst, City of Long Beach

Grace Yoon, Budget Manager, City of Long Beach

Moderator: Maura Ventura, Administration Bureau Manager, City of Long Beach

How the Finance Department can be Effective during Labor Negotiations

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 2

Most public agency employees are members of labor organizations that collectively bargain their wages and benefits. The most effective agencies in collective bargaining are those whose teams have recognized the important roles Human Resources and Finance play – at the table, in preparation for bargaining, and with the agency’s governing body. Understanding the best way to use your finances to be most effective in making proposals can make the difference in whether agreements can be reached. This session will discuss how important the Finance Department’s role is in the success of labor negotiations and will provide proven strategies to improve upon your current process.

Speakers: Arn Andrews, Assistant Town Manager, Town of Los Gatos

Lisa Charbonneau, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore

Moderator: Amber Johnson, Chief Financial Officer, Central Contra Costa Transit Authority

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Developing Financial Resiliency Strategies in Uncertain Times

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 3-4

Water and wastewater agencies are facing unprecedented financial challenges. These financial challenges are affecting both revenues and expenditures. It is anticipated that these challenges will only increase in severity. This session will discuss policy options available for water and wastewater agencies to enhance financial resiliency in these uncertain times. Besides articulating the different policy options available, the panel will provide two case examples of agencies that have successfully implemented financial resiliency strategies that have withstood the current challenges we face. This panel will help agencies understand which financial resiliency tools are best suited for their agencies and how to communicate the importance of developing a plan to elected officials and stakeholders.

Speakers: Donald Patterson, Director of Finance & Administration, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District

Jonathan Wunderlich, Director of Finance & Administration, Alameda County Water District

Sanjay Gaur, Principal Consultant, Water Resources Economics, LLC

Moderator: John Adams, Chief Financial Officer, Eastern Municipal Water District

What Your City Council Needs to Know About Cyber Risk

(T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A7

In an age when cyber-attacks are a daily occurrence, senior leadership teams and policymakers want assurances that their cyber security programs are doing what is required to defend their organization. Cyber risk is critical for local governments to understand, especially for top elected or appointed officials. Cyber risk is the responsibility of elected or appointed officials, not IT. According to the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), top officials are not engaged in cybersecurity, not sufficiently informed, or not committed to cybersecurity. At the same time, IT and security teams are struggling to quantify cyber risk or find effective strategies for communicating that risk to leadership in a way that clearly conveys the reality of the risk an organization is accepting. In this presentation, we will share lessons learned from research into cyber risk management and experiences communicating with elected and appointed officials. We will present specific strategies to consider when measuring risk, communicating risk, and helping IT or cybersecurity teams realistically set expectations with stakeholders.

Speakers: Donald Hester, Cybersecurity Manager, City of Livermore

Ron Puccinelli, Chief Information Officer, City of Menifee

Moderator: Veronica Bustillos, Senior Finance Manager, Eastern Municipal Water District

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Washington DC Legislative and Regulatory Update

(T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A8-A9

The year 2023 ushers in a new Congress and the first year of the 118th Congress. However, there are still legacy effects from the last Congress that may still be a part of the work we do in our communities. This includes the American Rescue Plan Act, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. In this session, you will learn about GFOA’s priorities for the 118th Congress and expectations from California’s congressional delegation. Come to this session to learn the most up-to-date information from this Congress, as well as the administration’s closing out of some of the programs of the spending bills of the recent past.

Speaker: Emily Brock, Director, Federal Liaison Center, Government Finance Officers Association

Moderator: Margaret Moggia, Executive Manager of Finance, West Basin Municipal Water District

Your Remote Work Policy – Critical Now More than Ever

(N – Non-Technical)

Location: Ballroom A10-A11

Remote work is now a part of our “normal.” Because remote work is being viewed less as a temporary or emergency measure, and more as an important employee option, having a clear and comprehensive remote work policy is critically important. We will cover key terms for a remote work policy to help agencies successfully navigate the remote work option and related workplace environment. We will also cover key areas related to remote work, including performance management expectations, accountability, exempt/non-exempt employee features, and labor negotiations-related considerations. We will have a town hall style discussion and question and answer segment that covers the challenges management has faced in managing the remote work environment.

Speakers: Ernie Reyna, Deputy City Manager, City of Perris T. Oliver Yee, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore

Moderator: Laura Nomura, Deputy General Manager, Eastern Municipal Water District

GASB Update—Implementation Continues

(A – Accounting & Auditing, G – Government)

Location: Regency A/B (Hyatt Hotel)

Challenges associated with the implementation of GASB Statements 87, 94, and 96 continue to be front and center issues for governments. This session will focus on these challenges, including recent guidance that governments should apply in the implementation of these standards. In addition, there were three GASB Statements issued in 2022 that should be on everyone’s radar. These standards and more will be addressed in this must attend session.

Speaker: Alan Skelton, Director of Research and Technical Activities, Governmental Accounting Standards Board

Moderator: Kofi Antobam, Director of Administrative Services, City of Rancho Mirage

AGENDA

LUNCH & DESSERT IN EXHIBIT HALL

11:30 am – 1:30 pm

Location: Hall AB

CONCURRENT SESSIONS

Thursday, February 2, 2023

1:30 pm – 2:45 pm 1.5 CPE

Tax Administration Reinvented: How to Increase Municipal Revenues and Avoid Tax Increases Through Code Modernization and Compliance

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 1

Administering local taxes such as Business License, Transient Occupancy and Utility Users Tax, isn’t easy for most agencies. Local codes are outdated and staff bandwidth for monitoring and compliance is low. Meanwhile, demand for seamless customer service and data privacy continues to surge. Building a strong foundation for your program is key to overcoming these challenges. In this session, you will discover today’s best practices in tax administration. Learn which tax codes, policies, and practices to modernize and ways to ensure compliance. Hear about agencies that saw dramatic improvements in revenues and compliance in important local revenues.

Speakers: Karin Schnaider, Assistant City Manager, City of Tracy Josh Davis, Director of Professional Services, HdL Companies Connor Duckworth, Client Advisor, HdL Companies

Moderator: Brian Mohan, Assistant City Manager/Chief Finance Officer, City of Moreno Valley

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Enterprise Applications Management Best Practices

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 2

This session addresses best practices in ongoing support and management of enterprise applications systems such as ERP, People Management, Utility Billing, Community Development, Maintenance and Asset Management, CAD/RMS, etc. Most agencies’ software applications are highly underutilized, resulting in loss of productivity due to manual processes, limited reporting, inefficient workarounds, and inefficient or unnecessary reconciliations. Learn a practical approach to assessing, prioritizing, and implementing continuous improvements, including the following:

• Departmental vs. IT roles and responsibilities

• Module and functional-area teams

• Ongoing assessment, process reviews, and improvements

• Return on investment justifications

• Application support specialists

We will discuss how to maximize the ongoing utilization and longevity of your ERP and other enterprise application software. Application management best practices are the key to high utilization and are the responsibility of the departmental users as much as they are the responsibility of your IT organization. Significant improvements can free up thousands of unnecessary labor hours per year across the organization.

Speakers: Doug Kappel, Enterprise Applications Manager, City of Carlsbad Zach Korach, Finance Director, City of Carlsbad

David Krout, Partner/Enterprise Applications Consulting Practice Leader, ClientFirst Technology Consulting

Moderator: Ryan Pham, Business Services Manager, City of Sacramento

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Change of Course: Master Plan Mini-Updates Using Internal Knowledge

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 3-4

How can your district make use of staff’s first-hand knowledge of district infrastructure? Come learn how one district completed an internal master plan “mini-update” to reevaluate its capital program. Staff have first-hand knowledge of a district’s infrastructure needs and vulnerabilities. In 2020, Monte Vista Water District (MVWD) put this knowledge to use in reevaluating and updating its capital improvement strategy. Through a series of structured workshops with field and administrative staff, MVWD developed a water system master plan “mini-update,” including a prioritized five-year capital improvement and pipeline replacement program. Staff then developed and presented to the Board of Directors funding options based on prioritized needs, resulting in an updated five-year financial master plan. Finally, the results of these updated plans were integrated into MVWD’s annual budget and five-year strategic plan, ensuring consistency between near- and long-term goals. The presenters will demonstrate how conducting a structured re-evaluation of master plans using internal knowledge led to a successful reorientation of its capital program.

Speakers: Stephanie Reimer, Assistant General Manager/Chief Financial Officer, Monte Vista Water District

Justin Scott-Coe, General Manager, Monte Vista Water District

Moderator: James Russell-Field, Director of Administrative Services, Fairfield-Suisun Sewer District

ESG Trends and Best Practices in the Public Finance Market

(T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A7

Over the past few years, government finance officers, along with other municipal securities market participants, have been grappling with how to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into the U.S. Public Finance market. ESG encompasses broad, complex concepts with little consistency in terminology, application or guidance. In response, the Government Finance Officers Association has drafted best practices around primary market and voluntary disclosure of ESG risk factors, as well as guidance on the issuance of so-called “designated bonds” (such as “Sustainability Bonds,” “Social Bonds,” etc.) in an effort to help streamline conversation, educate state and local government officials, and provide leadership in this burgeoning area of public finance. This session will strive to provide attendees with a background on ESG trends, tools to enhance disclosure of ESG-related risks to potential investors, and considerations around the issuance of designated bonds, which may attract new investors to your jurisdiction.

Speakers: Timothy Ewell, Chief Assistant County Administrator, County of Contra Costa

Nikolai J. Sklaroff, Capital Finance Director, San Francisco Public Utilities Commission

Anna Van Degna, Public Finance Director, City and County of San Francisco

Moderator: Onyx Jones, Chief Financial Officer, City of Culver City

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Michael Coleman & Friends

(T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A8-A9

Join Michael Coleman and his friends from the League of California Cities and the California Special Districts Association for an update on the latest in California local revenues, legislation, important legal cases, financial conditions, and other issues of critical concern to city, county, and special district finance professionals. Hear about the rules and trends in taxes, fees, and other city revenues, the relationship with the state budget, problems, and prospects for reform. Get your questions answered about pressing fiscal issues facing cities, counties, and special districts.

Speakers: Michael Coleman, Fiscal Policy Advisor, CSMFO and League of California Cities

Kyle Packham, Advocacy & Public Affairs Director, California Special Districts Association Nicolas Romo, Legislative Affairs Lobbyist, Revenue and Taxation, League of California Cities

Moderator: Ernie Reyna, Deputy City Manager, City of Perris

Professional Development in a Post-COVID World

(N – Non-Technical)

Location: Ballroom A10-A11

This session focuses on three specific topic areas: networking, communicating with superiors, and political acumen. Within the context of networking, not only will we address the “Why,” but also the “What” and “How.” Join in this exciting session for real-life examples, and some best practices and success stories from networking. We will also discuss key components of interacting with superiors in the workplace. Not only will we discuss basic communication for normal operations but also the do’s and don’ts of upward feedback. Pulling everything together, we will introduce the concept of political acumen and teach participants the value of developing political acumen and its benefit for continued career development.

Speakers: Tori Roberts, Assistant Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector, County of San Bernardino

Jennifer Wakeman, Assistant Administrative Services Director, City of Lafayette

Moderator: Kim Scott, Finance Manager-Accounting, City of Victorville

CONFERENCE AGENDA

GASB Update—The Big Three and Beyond

(A – Accounting & Auditing, G – Government)

Location: Regency A/B (Hyatt Hotel)

Re-deliberations continue for the financial reporting model reexamination and revenue and expense recognition projects, and the GASB recently issued Concept Statement No. 7 on the disclosure framework. This session will provide an up-to-the-minute status report on these key projects and on the main practice issues project, Certain Risk Disclosures, that the GASB expects to finalize during 2023. In addition, a brief look into the past and some insights into the future of governmental accounting and financial reporting will be provided in this session.

Speaker: Alan Skelton, Director of Research and Technical Activities, Governmental Accounting Standards Board

Moderator: Daniel Buffalo, Finance Director, City of Ukiah

BEVERAGE BREAK IN EXHIBIT HALL

Thursday – 2:45 pm – 3:15 pm

Location: Hall A

CONCURRENT SESSIONS

Thursday, February 2, 2023

3:15 pm – 4:30 pm 1.5 CPE

California Sales Tax Trends and Economic Drivers – LIVE

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 1

The HdL team will provide an up-to-date view on California’s retail economy based on current data. Because California’s allocation data trails actual sales activity by three to six months, HdL compensates for the lack of current information by reviewing the latest reports, statistics, and perspectives from fifty or more economists, analysts, and trade associations to reach a consensus on probable trends for coming quarters. The forecast can be used to help project revenues based on statewide formulas and can also provide a reference for tailoring sales tax estimates for your agency based on your agency’s specific demographics, tax base, and regional trends.

Speakers: Grace Yoon, Budget Manager, City of Long Beach

Tracy Vesely, Principal, HdL Companies

Bobby Young, Director of Client Services, HdL Companies

Moderator: Launa Jimenez, Financial Resources Division Manager, City of Moreno Valley

CONFERENCE AGENDA

When Luck Alone is Not Enough: Working Together with Your Risk Manager

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 2

Both the finance and risk management operations of a public agency provide services crucial to the success of the organization. Sometimes, the finance director and the risk manager can feel that they are working at cross purposes, but that is not the case. In fact, when Finance and Risk work cooperatively, they can accomplish great things. This session will help finance professionals better understand how risk managers think and why they do the things they do. Participants will learn the purpose of risk management, the risk management process, and the variety of risk management techniques available. Panelists will discuss how to make the two functions complement each other and provide tips on how best to work together.

Speakers: Tony Giles, General Manager, California Joint Powers Risk Management Authority

Tim Kirby, Director of Finance, City of Sunnyvale

Moderator: Pamela Arends-King, Assistant General Manager/Chief Financial Officer, South Coast Water District

No Flying DeLoreans? How to Utilize Capital Markets and Federal Legislation to Fund Your Community’s Transportation Needs

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 3-4

Transportation infrastructure is critical to the health and future of our communities. With expanding needs to maintain, improve, and expand our transportation infrastructure comes greater funding needs. This panel will explore these infrastructure needs and discuss funding opportunities provided in the capital markets as well as in recently enacted federal legislation.

Speakers: Andrew Oftelie, Chief Financial Officer, Orange County Transportation Authority

Julie Burger, Managing Director, Wells Fargo Corporate & Investment Banking

Darren Hodge, Director, PFM Financial Advisors LLC

Moderator: Margaret O’Brien, Director of Finance, City of Alameda

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Do What You Love for a Healthy Planet

(N – Non-Technical)

Location: Ballroom A7

Don’t despair about climate change and wait for someone else to take action. We can solve climate change, and there are opportunities for each of us in our daily activities. Most importantly, you can connect what you love to do with climate needs and find fulfilling opportunities. The key is a proven attraction model for engaging yourself and others. Stepping up on this issue can also expand your leadership experience and elevate you in your organization and community. Observe Don Maruska, founder of CSMFO’s Coaching Program and author of the new book, Solve Climate Change Now: Do What You Love for a Healthy Planet, demonstrate a quick and easy approach you can use for Climate Action Conversations. Learn from CSMFO President Rich Lee how other finance professionals have put it into practice. Try it out for yourself. Take what you experience home and help your team and organization enjoy working together for a healthy climate.

Speakers: Rich Lee, Finance Director, City of San Mateo

Don Maruska, Climate Health Leader, Master Certified Coach

Moderator: Ernie Reyna, Deputy City Manager, City of Perris

Maintenance Services Funding: A Finance/Public Works Conversation

(T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A8-A9

Maintenance of public infrastructure is a critical component of the work of any public agency. This often means that staff managing and doing the maintenance work (public works) are not the same as the people handling the accounting for the cost of the maintenance, and perhaps revenue, for such work from Special Financing Districts and other sources (finance). On the public works side, there is a need to efficiently manage maintenance staff/contractors, and on the finance side there is a need to account for costs and revenue in detail. The importance of tracking both costs and revenues will be discussed utilizing a case study from the City of Palmdale. Palmdale’s finance department manages hundreds of Special Financing Districts that fund maintenance services throughout the City, while the public works department executes those maintenance services. Staff from both departments will discuss their perspectives and tools for coordination of maintenance services within the City.

Speakers: Tim Carney, Engineering Technician, City of Palmdale

Janelle Samson, Director of Finance/City Treasurer, City of Palmdale

Sara Mares, Director, NBS

Moderator: Stephen Parker, Assistant City Manager, City of Upland

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Finding New Ways to Do the Same Work With Fewer People

(N – Non-Technical)

Location: Ballroom A10-A11

You can’t get people in fast enough to get the work done, so what can you do? It’s time to stop putting a band-aid over things and change the way you do things…permanently! This session will show you methods to address staffing issues and workflow bottlenecks while protecting the Finance Department from future challenges. Using this four-pronged approach, even the smallest organization can do more with less.

Speakers: Patricia Song, Finance Director, City of Garden Grove Kelly Telford, Partner, LSL CPAs and Advisors

Moderator: Joan Michaels Aguilar, 2019 CSMFO President

Are You

Challenged

by GASB? A Facilitated Conversation and a Way Forward (A – Accounting & Auditing, G – Government)

Location: Regency A/B (Hyatt Hotel)

As GASB reporting requirements have become increasingly complex, many are questioning whether lengthy technical financial reports, published months in arrears, are effective in building trust and informing decision makers. Questions have also been raised about the cost of compliance with GASB accounting standards at a time of unprecedented baby boomer retirements and mass resignations in the workforce. Finance departments are doing more now than ever with severe recruitment challenges and finance directors are questioning whether their time would be better spent on other pertinent matters. Ultimately, how do government agencies help GASB during this challenging time to address the lack of public trust while balancing the impact to the agencies required to meet their reporting requirements.

Come join the Executive Director of the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers in a candid conversation about your challenges and possible opportunities to streamline requirements and provide more useful information.

Speakers: David Persselin, Finance Director, City of Fremont Jean Rousseau, Executive Director, California Society of Municipal Finance Officers

Shayne Kavanagh, Senior Manager, Research, Government Finance Officers Association

Moderator: Jennifer Becker, Financial Services Director, City of Burbank

AGENDA

THURSDAY NIGHT EVENT

ROCK THE 80’S! THURSDAY GAME NIGHT

Thursday, February 2, 2023

6:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Location: Punch Bowl Social Sacramento Wrist Band Required for Entrance

Are you ready to rock n’ roll and have some RAD fun? Join your CSMFO colleagues and bring your “A” game to Punch Bowl Social Sacramento from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. We know how this year’s CSMFO conference is filled with interesting subjects, networking, and great speakers – but a little fun never hurt anybody! Choose your own adventure and join us for an evening of bowling, dancing, singing, and table games paired with delicious food and cocktails. We also encourage you to dress up in your favorite 80’s apparel – throw on your members-only jacket or all things neon! Meet up with other CSMFO colleagues and bring your “A” game to Punch Bowl Social Sacramento from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Main attractions include 8 bowling lanes, karaoke rooms, arcade games, and table games like Giant Scrabble, Giant Jenga, ping pong, and Foosball. And, let’s not forget the dance floor! Transportation to/from the convention center will be available.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2023

Registration Open – 7:30 am – 10:30 am Buffet Breakfast – 8:00 am – 9:00 am Concurrent Sessions – 9:00 am – 10:15 am Closing Session & Featured Speaker – 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

BREAKFAST

Friday, February 3, 2023

8:00 am – 9:00 am Location: Hall B

CONCURRENT SESSIONS

Friday, February 3, 2023 9:00 am – 10:15 am 1.5 CPE

Strategies to Manage Increasing Pension and OPEB Liabilities

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 1

The rising costs of pension and other postemployment benefits (OPEB) continue to create financial uncertainty for public agencies, many of which are forecasting that these costs will outpace their revenues in future years. With market volatility, changes to actuarial assumptions and accounting requirements, COVID, inflation, and other health care cost drivers, as well as and other unforeseen dynamics at play, what can agencies do now to address these concerns?

This session will discuss important questions that agencies should be asking about the future of their pension and OPEB obligations. This panel will also address the latest updates on actuarial valuations and how OPEB and pension liabilities may be impacted moving forward. A case study featuring the City of Tustin will highlight tools and strategies that they and other public agencies implemented to proactively manage these growing liabilities.

Speakers: David Faraone, Senior Budget Analyst, City of Tustin

Ryan Nicasio, Senior Vice President, PARS

Mary Beth Redding, Senior Consulting Actuary, Foster & Foster Consulting Actuaries, Inc. Moderator: Jason Al-Imam, Finance Director, City of Newport Beach

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Smart Cities Strategic Planning: The Future of IT

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 2

Smart City strategic planning tends to involve elected officials and citizen advisory boards to an unprecedented degree. Working with these groups can be challenging; however, developing a shared technology vision at this level can also be rewarding. Adding Smart City projects into an already full project portfolio requires expansion of agency technology capabilities into the community. This session includes the following:

• Discussion of why Smart City strategic planning is a unique planning process

• Real-world examples and “helpful hints” from Smart City strategic planning projects

• Why Smart City initiatives make infrastructure and cloud computing even more important

• Simple projects that make you look “Smart”

• Smart agencies and the use of analytics to unravel key issues and find unique solutions

• How cybersecurity affects the “Internet of Things”

We will discuss how elected officials, advisory boards, and agency management view IT, what they really want from the IT function, and how to deliver on those wants and needs.

Speakers: Garry Boswell, Deputy Director of Information Services, City of Simi Valley

Tom Jakobsen, Partner/IT Infrastructure and Operations Practice Leader, ClientFirst Technology Consulting

Moderator: Stephen Parker, Assistant City Manager, City of Upland

Right Sizing Your Investment Program for Your Agency

(T – Technical)

Location: Meeting Room 3-4

Investing is complex, but what do I really need? Do I need multiple portfolios, each with a different strategy? How do I integrate my investments in local government investment pools (LGIPs)? How do I handle the reporting? How do I effectively manage market and credit risk? What do I need to know to invest in passthrough securities? What resources do I need to achieve safety, liquidity, and return? This session is meant to help practitioners explore the different components needed to prudently manage their investment programs and to appropriately scale their program and resources for their agency’s needs.

Speakers: Monty Hanks, Chief Financial Officer, Northern California Power Agency

Carlos Oblites, Senior Portfolio Strategist, Chandler Asset Management

Alaynè Marie Sampson, Senior Portfolio Strategist, Chandler Asset Management

Moderator: Troy Grunklee, Director of Administrative Services, City of La Puente

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Best Practices in Budgeting: Budgeting is So Much More Than Numbers

(T – Technical)

Location: Ballroom A7

Performance management plays a key role in transparency. Performance measures for goals and objectives are now mandatory for GFOA budget documents, and GFOA recommends that your performance measures directly relate to goals. Along with clearly defined performance criteria is longterm financial planning, which is an important part of an organization’s continued financial sustainability. It is a tool for community planning and priority setting, and it can be used to create a shared basis for discussion of what our future community should look like and what actions can be taken to allow that future to take place.

This session will look at how your agency can manage the performance budgeting process along with tools for developing a practical and usable long-range planning document. We will share real life examples and provide practical approaches from measurement and reporting to management and improving your existing measurement framework. We will provide clear steps to developing your longrange plan and defining the key steps to a performance measurement based budget document. Join us for this hands-on practical session on performance budgeting and long-range financial planning presented by two long-time public sector finance practitioners.

Speakers: David Cain, Retired Finance Director/Treasurer, City of Fountain Valley Russ Branson, Founder, Russ Branson Consulting

Moderator: Karla Romero, Finance Director/Treasurer, City of Brawley

Avoidable Errors: Lessons Learned from Submissions to GFOA’s Certificate Program

(A – Accounting & Auditing, G – Government)

Location: Ballroom A8-A9

GFOA expert volunteers and technical staff review approximately 4,400 annual comprehensive financial reports (ACFRs) each year. In this session, we’ll review some of the more common deficiencies seen, including those pertaining to recently-implemented GASB pronouncements on fiduciary activities and leases.

Speaker: Michele Mark Levine, Director of Technical Services, Government Finance Officers Association

Moderator: Jennifer Wakeman, Assistant Administrative Services Director, City of Lafayette

CONFERENCE AGENDA

The Strategic Edge: Awesome Finance Customer Service

(N – Non-Technical)

Location: Ballroom A10-A11

We often think that customer service happens by the “operating departments,” and that internal service organizations like finance, human resources, and information technology only touch on the periphery of this mission at best. However, the fact is that internal service organizations should be the vanguard of any organization-wide customer service improvement efforts. Stated simply, no one in the organization is going to take “external” customer service efforts seriously if they receive poor customer service internally. This session provides tips on how finance organizations can lead the way in delighting their customers with the services they provide while also meeting internal control and fiscal health responsibilities.

Speaker: Bill Statler, Consultant/Retired Director of Finance & Information Technology, City of San Luis Obispo

Moderator: Michelle Bannigan, Finance Director, City of Stanton

CLOSING SESSION & FEATURED SPEAKER

Friday, February 3, 2023 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

Colette Carlson, Certified Speaking Professional (1.0 CPE – N – Non-Technical)

Location: Ballroom A1-A6

With a Master’s Degree in Human Behavior and more than 20 years of experience helping individuals change behaviors that impact their success, Colette understands the psychology, mindset, and skills required to make positive, long-lasting change. Colette teaches audiences how to transform relationships through the power of connected conversations. Her keynote programs are so personalized, attendees often assume Colette is one of them. She has the outstanding ability to connect through engaging content and laugh-out-loud humor. Colette is a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), a designation held by fewer than 10% of the members belonging to the International Federation for Professional Speakers. In 2017, Colette was inducted into the CPAE Speaker Hall Fame®, a lifetime award that honors professional speakers who have reached the top echelon of platform excellence. Trusted clients include Boeing, Microsoft, Procter & Gamble, Federal Express, Fidelity, Domino’s Pizza, Great Clips, and the United States Government.