Issue 162 - August 2025
NEWS: WORTHY
Traci Park to Present Closing Session at Risk Management Educational Forum
Traci Park, Los Angeles City Council member for District 11, will be the closing speaker at the 30th Annual Risk Management Educational Forum. In the session, she will explore the critical role of communication during regional emergencies, using the 2024 Los Angeles area wildfires as a case study.
The wildfires presented a unique communications challenge, requiring swift, accurate messaging to ensure public safety and minimize panic. Park will share insights on prioritizing information dissemination, ensuring that essential messages are delivered effectively without overwhelming stakeholders.
As crises unfold, the ability to balance urgency with clarity is essential. Councilmember Park will guide attendees through best practices for informing the public while managing priorities in real time. The session will highlight techniques such as issuing timely updates, leveraging social media, and coordinating with local authorities and media outlets—all vital tools for maintaining transparency and public trust.
Attendees will leave with actionable tools to strengthen their crisis communication plans and enhance their ability to lead during moments of uncertainty.
This year’s Forum, titled Class of ’95: Not So Clueless About Risk, will be held at the Omni La Costa Resort in Carlsbad from October 1 through 3, 2025. For questions about the Forum, please send us an email.
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Risk Reduction in Public Planning: The Role of Warrants and Design Immunity
In today’s litigious local government landscape, organizations must proactively protect their planning and construction choices. At the 2024 California JPIA Risk Management Education Forum, Mitchell Dean, owner and partner of Dean Gazzo Roistacher LLP, shared invaluable legal insights during his session “Finding the Clues: The Case of Missing Warrants, Signs of Trouble, and Vanishing Immunities.” The session underscored the importance of design immunity as a shield against potential liability claims and walked attendees through how to secure proper protection.
The session was informed by Dean’s expertise in navigating California’s government code section 830.6; this section shields public entities from liability when they follow approved design standards.
Dean began his presentation with warrants. Warrants are guidelines used to determine when specific traffic devices, like crosswalks, signals, and stop signs, are “warranted.” They’re based on state and national standards, and factor in traffic speed, pedestrian activity, crash history, and more to help create consistent, safe roadways.
After establishing the concept of warrants, Dean clarified the difference between basic and point warrants. Basic warrants outline the minimum requirements for consideration when mapping out traffic devices, like the number of pedestrians or the distance between marked crossings. Once these basic requirements are established, a location is further evaluated using point warrants, where additional, more specific factors help determine specific traffic device placement. “Warrants are not a substitute for an engineer’s judgment, nor do they equate to a dangerous condition,” he said. “A warrant merely indicates that the location should be further evaluated.”
Another essential resource imparted was the concept of design immunity—one of the strongest legal defenses available to public agencies. Design immunity is granted when a documented plan is pre-approved by either the city council, county board of supervisors, or an official with discretionary authority to make such approvals. These officials can include positions such as city engineers, traffic engineers, or other employees designated by public entity legislation, such as city codes and municipal codes.
Thorough documentation of the approval process is encouraged, as even small changes from approved designs can become points of litigation. Everything from detailed engineering drawings to annotated photos can serve as proof of approval. “Design immunity is broad, but it only works if it’s backed up by solid documentation of approval before construction,” he said.
To bolster design immunity, timing and authorization are everything. “The gold standard of design immunity is approval by a city council or board of directors,” said Dean. “Ideally, the resolution would explicitly state that the approval is for design immunity, that it’s occurring prior to construction, and that the proposed plan meets all requirements.” Then, what is built needs to match the approved design.
Dean advised that agencies carefully review their municipal codes to ensure that discretionary authority is granted to the right people, especially during department restructuring. Proactive discretionary approval and comprehensive documentation are the keys to a strong design immunity defense.
By understanding the ins and outs of warrants, securing proper pre-construction approval upon each round of design edits, and thoroughly documenting the process, agencies can proactively protect themselves from costly litigation. Design immunity lays the groundwork for responsible, safe public infrastructure planning. Learn how you can improve your planning process with your regional risk manager.
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Enhanced Mental Health Offerings from the California JPIA
The high-stress and demanding environments of police, fire, and first responder services expose these professionals to unique challenges, including traumatic events that can have lasting effects on their mental well-being. From witnessing accidents and violence to dealing with life-threatening situations, cumulative stress can lead to conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. It is crucial for these professionals to have access to mental health resources and support systems to help them cope with these challenges.
The California JPIA recognizes the importance of mental health in public safety and has implemented a comprehensive program to help support our members’ efforts. This program includes identifying resources and providing funding for qualifying services. Services will typically fall into one of the following categories:
Proactive Mental Health Services*
- Mental health screenings, assessments, counseling, and wellness checks
- Technology, including mental health and wellness apps and programs (e.g. Cordico)
Mental Health-Related Training
- Training programs focused on leadership, groups, and individuals to enhance behavioral health, resiliency, and readiness
Peer Support Program Development and Maintenance
- Basic and advanced peer support consulting and training services, including program development, check-ups, and revisions
Critical and Catastrophic Incident Intervention
- On-call, 24/7 critical incident stress management debriefs
- Ongoing intervention services related to a catastrophic incident
Services must be provided by professional mental health providers, and members are responsible for directly selecting and contracting with those providers who best meet their specific needs. Other relevant services designed to enhance mental health resiliency and readiness may also qualify for funding. Funding is subject to approval by the California JPIA and should be discussed with a regional risk manager.
For more information, members can contact their regional risk manager.
*Services funded at 50 percent of actual cost.
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MAGNUS Leadership Training for Public Safety
We live in a rapidly changing world, and as culture changes, leaders must adapt. Daily, public agency personnel face volatility and uncertainty while on the job. As a result, they are experiencing increased stress levels from the heightened criticism they face from the public. This new reality requires that staff develop stronger leadership, performance, and well-being skills to better maneuver and navigate challenges.
The California JPIA is partnering with National Command and Staff College to provide our member agency staff access to MAGNUS Leadership and Resiliency Training. This two-day, in-person classroom training—provided at no cost to members—will take place October 21–22, 2025, at the Authority’s campus in La Palma. This training course is a theoretical, scientific, and practical approach to increasing leadership capacity, taught by instructors Dr. Mitch Javidi, retired Chief David Dominguez, and retired Chief Mark Garcia. The course teaches attendees about positive tactical intelligence and psychological triggers to activate deeper self-awareness, self-control, and resilience techniques for enhanced performance and well-being.
Course outcomes include:
- Increased understanding of agency culture and dealing with volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity
- An understanding of expectancy and reversal theories for enhanced leadership, resiliency, and well-being
- Improved comprehensive emotional intelligence and cognitive learning tools to enhance leadership and resiliency
This member-only training is limited to 50 attendees. Breakfast and lunch will be provided during both training days, and discounted hotel rooms are available for those traveling. Visit the information page to register.
Sworn officers in attendance will receive 16 hours of Continuing Professional Training (CPT) for the State of California Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) upon completion.
For more information about the MAGNUS program, contact Senior Training Specialist Monique Moctezuma. For registration information, please contact Training Coordinator Michelle Aguayo.
Print ArticleRE: MEMBERS
Authority Members Taking Action to Reduce Wildfire Risk
The threat of wildfire seems ever-present in California, presenting unique challenges for jurisdictions throughout the state. As risk mitigation is at the heart of wildfire prevention, the California JPIA recognizes members who have taken various actions, including initiating directives, implementing cutting-edge technology, and using traditional methods to mitigate wildfire risks.
Ordinance
Recently, the City of Hidden Hills enacted Ordinance No. 393, becoming the first city in California to legally restrict high-risk outdoor activities during Red Flag Warnings. The ordinance, which the Los Angeles County Fire Department supports, bans outdoor grilling, open flame fires, spark-generating tools, and smoking when fire danger is elevated due to weather conditions like strong winds and low humidity. These measures aim to prevent wildfire ignition during the most hazardous periods.
“The City of Hidden Hills has demonstrated commendable leadership in public safety and risk mitigation by adopting Ordinance No. 393. By restricting high-risk outdoor activities during Red Flag Warnings, the City is taking a critical step to reduce wildfire ignition risks during vulnerable conditions,” said California JPIA Senior Risk Manager Toni Consolo. “This ordinance reflects a proactive approach to protecting lives and property and serves as a model for other communities facing similar wildfire threats.”
Technology
The City of Hidden Hills has a history of taking proactive measures to curtail wildfire hazards. Along with Authority members, Big Bear, Malibu, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Clarita, the city is a member of ALERTCalifornia and has installed perimeter wildfire detection cameras. The cameras are part of the statewide Cal Fire and UC San Diego network, which uses thousands of interconnected cameras for early wildfire detection and real-time monitoring. ALERTCalifornia is a public safety program that uses advanced technology to monitor and respond to wildfires and other natural disasters. It operates a statewide network of over 1,190 cameras and sensors, delivering real-time, open-source data to support emergency response, environmental research, and public safety decisions.
Traditional Methods
Several California JPIA members, including the cities of La Cañada Flintridge, Ojai, Paso Robles, Palos Verdes Estates, and San Clemente, have used goats, sheep, and other livestock to graze on dry brush and vegetation in open areas, canyons, and hard-to-reach hillside areas this year. Grazing is a method used to reduce fuel loads, establish defensible space, and promote community safety.
Whether first of its kind or traditional, the California JPIA recognizes member actions to reduce wildfire risk. If your agency is working to decrease wildfire exposure, send us an email. We may feature your actions in an upcoming newsletter article.
Print ArticleRISK SOLUTIONS
New Ergonomic Self-Assessment Tool
Staff working in office environments often sit for extended periods of time, making it important for them to have ergonomic solutions for their desk setup. A new Office Ergonomic Self-Assessment Tool is available for member staff looking to improve comfort and productivity at their workstation. The tool is courtesy of Safety National, one of the Authority’s excess/reinsurance partners, and is now available in myJPIA.
This interactive 30-minute module starts with a quick training session and then guides you through a personalized self-assessment to help you fine-tune your workspace for better posture, reduced strain, and overall well-being.
A proper ergonomic setup can increase productivity by up to 17 percent and reduce musculoskeletal discomfort by 59 percent,* proving that minor adjustments can make a big difference.
Log in to myJPIA and learn how you can improve your desktop setup—your body will thank you.
*Review conducted by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.
Print ArticlePRO: FILES
California JPIA Recognizes 10-Year Anniversary for Lyndsie Buskirk
The California JPIA congratulates Administrative Analyst Lyndsie Buskirk on her 10th anniversary with the Authority.
Buskirk joined the Authority as a part-time employee in 2014 and expanded her responsibilities as a full-time office assistant in 2015. She earned a promotion to administrative assistant in December 2019, followed by her current role as administrative analyst in 2022.
“Reaching this 10-year milestone with the California JPIA is both humbling and meaningful. I’m grateful for the journey, the growth, and everything our staff has accomplished together,” said Buskirk. “We’re here to help our members, and I find that very rewarding knowing that we’re making a positive impact.”
During her tenure at the Authority, Buskirk’s role has evolved from traditional administrative support to ensuring the accuracy and availability of member Memoranda of Coverage (MOC) documents each fiscal year to managing Authority sponsorships and conference logistics.
She has further grown within the organization by becoming a key member of the communications team. In her role, she continues to work on member MOCs and conferences. She also enhances the Authority’s member communications by designing and drafting emails, editing newsletter articles, creating short-form videos and social media graphics, and writing content.
“We’re lucky to have Lyndsie on the communications team. She’s always learning new programs and software and brings a wonderful creativity to the table,” said Olga Berdial, communications director. “That, combined with her attention to detail, ensures that her projects are well thought out, inventive, and accurate.”
“What I love most about my job is finding creative ways to inform and engage with our members and business partners. Whether designing graphics, creating videos, or crafting messages, I like producing content that’s easy to understand and connect with. I’m proud of what the communications team has accomplished, and I’m even more excited about what’s ahead,” said Buskirk. “Outside the office, I enjoy interacting with members and colleagues at conferences and events. I value the relationships I’ve built over the past decade.”
Berdial notes that while Buskirk is methodical and approaches her work seriously, she can also lend an air of lightheartedness to meetings. “Lyndsie brings a sense of humor to work, making projects not only better but also more enjoyable,” said Berdial. “I’m proud to be on her team and celebrate this milestone alongside her.”
Congratulations, Lyndsie, on your 10th anniversary!
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The California JPIA Celebrates Grazyna Buchowiecki’s Retirement After 22 Years of Service
Senior Accountant Grazyna Buchowiecki retired in June after more than two decades of service at the California JPIA. Buchowiecki, who joined the Authority as a junior accountant in May 2003, has been vital to the organization’s financial operations, maintaining accounting data in the general ledger, running payroll, and providing accounting support to the finance director.
“Grazyna embodies the best qualities of public service,” said Smith. “She truly cares about the impact of her work on our members and their communities, and that commitment has been evident every day for over 22 years. She has contributed to the Authority’s success by providing excellent and timely service to members and staff.”
Buchowiecki’s career trajectory reflects her commitment to going above and beyond. “After joining the Authority as a junior accountant, I was promoted to accounting specialist in July 2006, and to senior accountant in July 2013,” she said. “I can credit my career advancement to the willingness to learn and my supervisors’ recognition and encouragement.”
“Grazyna’s attention to detail is unparalleled,” said Finance Director Jason McBride. “She approaches every task with precision and care, ensuring our financial records are always accurate and complete. Her unwavering reliability has been a cornerstone for our entire organization.”
When Buchowiecki started at the Authority, she was immediately drawn to its mission to provide innovative solutions for its members. “It amazed me that the California JPIA, with such a small staff, was able to help so many agencies,” Buchowiecki said. This dedication to the organization’s mission became a driving force throughout her career.
Buchowiecki highlighted the Authority’s teamwork and continuous learning opportunities as key factors that make it a great workplace. “My role and knowledge evolved while working at the Authority,” she said. “The Authority’s employees are experts in their fields, and I got to work with and learn from them.”
“What sets Grazyna apart is her genuine curiosity and desire to understand how all the pieces fit together,” said Chief Executive Officer Alex Smith. “She doesn’t just process numbers; she understands the story they tell and how her work supports our members’ success. That perspective has made her a valuable member of the team.”
Having earned a degree in economics from the University of Economics in Katowice, Poland, Buchowiecki brings a unique adaptability to her role, allowing her to adjust as the organization modernized its financial processes and systems.
Buchowiecki leaves behind a legacy of precision, dedication, and service excellence. The Authority extends its gratitude for her unwavering commitment and wishes her all the best in this new chapter.
Congratulations, Grazyna, on a remarkable career and a well-deserved retirement!
Print ArticleLEGAL MATTERS
Brown v. City of Inglewood
By Jennifer K. Berneking, Of Counsel; Ruth M. Bond, Partner, Jenica D. Maldonado, Partner; Irma Rodríguez Moisa, Partner; Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Originally published on July 16, 2025. Republished with permission from Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo.
On July 7, 2025, the California Supreme Court decided the issue of whether an elected official may rely on the protections offered whistleblowers under California Labor Code § 1102.5. The Supreme Court decided that an elected official is not considered an employee for purposes of Labor Code § 1102.5.
Wanda Brown was the elected City Treasurer of Inglewood since 1987. In her role as Treasurer, she reported possible financial misconduct to the City Council. After she raised these concerns, she alleged that the City and individual City Council members retaliated against her by stripping her duties and council seat, cutting her salary by 83% and locking her and her staff out of her office, among other things. Brown sued the City, the Mayor and the City Council members for violation of Labor Code § 1102.5 (whistleblower retaliation), defamation, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. In response, the Defendants filed a Special Motion to Strike Brown’s Complaint under California’s anti-SLAPP statute. The Trial Court denied the anti-SLAPP motion on the ground that Brown’s Labor Code § 1102.5 whistleblower retaliation claim did not implicate the anti-SLAPP statute because it arose from the alleged reprisals and not from Defendants’ speech-related activities pertaining to governance. Given its conclusion, the Trial Court’s anti-SLAPP ruling did not address whether Brown was an employee under Labor Code § 1102.5.
On appeal, the Court of Appeal reversed the denial as to the individual defendants relying on City of Montebello v. Vasquez (2016) 1 Cal.5th 409, 422, 426, which held that council members’ votes as well as statements made in the course of their deliberations at the city council meeting where the votes were taken qualify for protection under the anti-SLAPP statute. Since the Court of Appeal found that the anti-SLAPP statute applied, it had to address whether Brown had shown a probability that she would prevail on the merits of her claim. The Court of Appeal found that Brown could not show a probability of prevailing on the merits of her claim because as an elected official, Brown was not an employee who could invoke Labor Code § 1102.5’s whistleblower protections. The Court of Appeal reached this conclusion relying on Labor Code § 1106’s language which defines employee for purposes of section 1102.5 and does not mention elected officials as coming within that definition.
The California Supreme Court granted review of the matter and limited the issue under consideration only as to whether elected officials are employees for purposes of whistleblower protection under Labor Code § 1102.5(b). After considering the Legislative history of Labor Code § 1106, other public worker whistleblower statutes, and delving into the meaning of “employee,” the California Supreme Court adopted the Court of Appeal’s holding that elected officials are excluded from the definition of “employee” under Labor Code § 1102.5 and cannot seek protection under that statute. The importance of this ruling clarifies the limits of whistleblower protections under Labor Code § 1102.5 to apply to employees only and forces elected officials to seek remedies via other means.
This AALRR publication is intended for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon in reaching a conclusion in a particular area of law. Applicability of the legal principles discussed may differ substantially in individual situations. Receipt of this or any other AALRR publication does not create an attorney-client relationship. The Firm is not responsible for inadvertent errors that may occur in the publishing process.
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