The California City Management Foundation (CCMF) hosted three panel discussions at the 2026 League of California Cities City Managers Conference in Napa. These panels brought together experienced leaders to share their expertise on critical aspects of city management, such as crisis management, approachability and statewide city manager trends.

Crisis Communications: Being Prepared When Every Second Counts

This session combined actionable preparedness tactics with firsthand experience to provide city managers with a comprehensive perspective on crisis communications. Panelists discussed developing concise, pre-approved messaging, strengthening secure communication channels and rehearsing response procedures ahead of time — and explained how these efforts enable quicker, more effective public communication when emergencies arise. The discussion was moderated by CCMF Board Member and El Cerrito City Manager Karen Pinkos and featured panelists:

  • Kindon Meik, City Manager, City of Calabasas 
  • Ara Mihranian, City Manager, City of Rancho Palos Verdes 
  • Alexis Gillam, Director, Tripepi Smith

Approachability as a City Manager: How to Build an Authentic Circle

In this session, panelists examined how leaders can foster strong, genuine relationships while maintaining clear authority and sound judgment. Participants gained actionable approaches for creating trust, defining expectations and confidently managing complex or difficult situations. Indian Wells City Manager Chris Freeland moderated the discussion, featuring panelists:

  • Heather Abrams, Town Manager, Town of Fairfax
  • Jim Lewis, City Manager, City of Atascadero

Who are We? A Profile of the Profession: Insights from the 2025 Survey Update

In collaboration with the Rose Institute of State & Local Government, this session highlighted important demographic insights and statewide trends identified in the most recent survey of California city managers, providing a current overview of the profession. The panel was moderated by CCMF Vice President and Burbank City Manager Justin Hess, featuring panelists:

  • Karen Pinkos, City Manager, City of El Cerrito
  • Bipasa Nadon, Assistant Director for Research and Publications, Rose Institute of State & Local Government

CCMF thanks everyone who participated and helped shape these meaningful discussions. The sessions created space for city managers to reflect on their professional paths, share best practices and engage in thoughtful conversations about the future of leadership in local government.