COUNTY OF SAN MATEO

Inter-Departmental Correspondence

County Manager’s Office

DATE:

January 3 2007

BOARD MEETING DATE:

January 9, 2007

SPECIAL NOTICE/HEARING:

None

VOTE REQUIRED:

Majority

TO:

Honorable Board of Supervisors

FROM:

John Maltbie, County Manager

SUBJECT:

County Manager’s Report #1—2007-2008 State Legislative Session Program for San Mateo County

RECOMMENDATION:

Adopt a resolution approving the 2007-2008 State Legislative Session Program for San Mateo County.

VISION ALIGNMENT:

Commitment: Responsive, effective and collaborative government.

Goal(s): 20 – Effectively communicate, collaborate and develop strategic approaches to issues affecting the entire County.

BACKGROUND:

The 2007-2008 State Legislative Session Program (Legislative Program) articulates San Mateo County’s goals and objectives as they relate to the 2007-2008 state legislative session, which began in late 2006. The proposals, priorities and policies in combination with other positions adopted by the Board of Supervisors guide the County’s legislative advocacy efforts. The Legislative Committee in coordination with County staff, departments and the County’s advocates developed the Legislative Program.

The Legislative Program is divided into three general categories (proposals, priorities and policies). Legislative proposals are those ideas and issues, for which the County will pursue legislation. Priorities are those areas of concern that warrant heightened attention and advocacy. Policies are those positions on issues that are either non-controversial or that the County has taken in the past.

DISCUSSION:

While the Legislative Program attempts to cover the breadth and depth of legislative issues that may have an impact on San Mateo County, it is not comprehensive, complete or final. Staff anticipate that the Legislative Program will be amended throughout the session.

While the Legislative Program only includes two legislative proposals at this time, it is expected that additional proposals will be amended into the Legislative Program. Possible areas of future legislative interest include housing, women’s corrections and administrative streamlining.

As in past years, protecting County funding and operations will remain a top Legislative Program priority. In addition, staff anticipates that corrections reform and health care coverage will receive considerable legislative attention. In response, the Legislative Program includes policy language in these areas.

The Legislative Committee has reviewed the proposed amendments to the Legislative Program and recommends approval by the Board of Supervisors.

FISCAL IMPACT:

While the outcome of the 2005-2006 Legislative session could have significant fiscal impact, adoption and implementation of the Legislative Program can be accommodated with current staff and resources.