Asm.GreggHart
Local government officials in Santa Barbara County and across the state recognized Assemblymember Gregg Hart as their Legislator of the Year at an event held at the Montecito Fire Department featuring local special district leaders from throughout the region. Assemblymember Hart was honored for his support of local service specialists responsible for providing water, sanitation, healthcare, fire protection, parks, open space, resource conservation, mosquito abatement, and other essential services and infrastructure to communities throughout California.
The recognition is awarded annually by the California Special Districts Association (CSDA) and was presented Friday during a media conference at the Montecito Fire Department.
“Assemblymember Gregg Hart has been a real champion for special districts,” stated CSDA Board President Elaine Magner. “We are so fortunate Assemblymember Hart authored AB 557 that allows special district boards to continue operating safely during a state of emergency. He understands that special districts provide crucial services for millions of Californians that cannot be interrupted due to emergencies”.
Assemblymember Hart’s bill, AB 557, allows local agencies to continue meeting remotely during a declared state of emergency when it is unsafe to meet in-person. During the pandemic, the State Legislature approved remote meetings in recognition of safety, but the ability to meet remotely was set to terminate on January 1, 2024. AB 557 was signed into law and allows remote meetings to continue provided they are accompanied by a formal state of emergency declaration made by the Governor.
“I am very grateful to be recognized as the California Special District Association’s Legislator of the Year. Special districts provide critical services that directly impact Californians. From maintaining water systems to providing fire services, special districts honor their commitment to meeting the needs of the public every single day. I have worked closely with special districts in my region for years and I am excited to be a champion for special districts in the Legislature” said Assemblymember Gregg Hart.
“On behalf of our Board of Directors, we are happy to host this event today with CSDA as we honor Assemblymember Hart. His invaluable support for special districts has ensured our board members can continue to serve their constituents in a safe manner, even during a state of emergency”, said David Neels, Fire Chief of the Montecito Fire Protection District. “We are fortunate to have an Assemblymember that is willing to partner with special districts as we continue to provide for the safety of our communities.”
CSDA and special districts across the United States invite state legislative representatives and the public to get to know the special district leaders who provide essential services to local communities. The Association launched a public outreach campaign titled “Districts Make the Difference” to connect people with the special districts that help California thrive. Additional information can be found at: www.districtsmakethedifference.org.
California’s communities are served by just over 2,000 independent special districts. These local governments are led by a board of directors that are elected or appointed to a fixed term to serve diverse communities and regions throughout the state. Learn more at www.csda.net.
Well deserved.