Last month, community leaders, policy experts, and advocates gathered at the Fresno Art Museum for an event hosted by the Budget Center and Power California that offered a deep dive into how decisions made at the state and federal levels ripple down to local communities — shaping policies, services, and the daily lives of Californians. This event was part of the Budget Center’s 30th anniversary celebrations, marking three decades of demystifying the state budget and serving as a trusted source of information and analysis to advance equitable public policy in California.
Connecting State Budget Knowledge with Local Impact
The event kicked off with an informative budget training session with our own Scott Graves and Nishi Nair, designed to demystify the complexities of the California state budget. Attendees learned about the state budget process and how it directly influences local government funding and policy priorities. The session provided details on how community members can advocate for their communities and engage effectively in local and state budget conversations.
Panel Discussion: Navigating Federal Policy Threats
The panel discussion focused on federal policy threats and their potential impacts on California’s local communities. Panelists, including Chris Hoene from the California Budget & Policy Center, Marisa Moraza from Power California, and Jovana Morales from Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, shared insights on how recent and proposed federal budget cuts could jeopardize critical programs and services and answered thoughtful audience questions. They also explored strategies for local governments and advocacy groups to respond proactively, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and united.
Event takeaways
- Understanding the state budget is essential for influencing local policies and ensuring resources reach the community effectively.
- Federal budget decisions have significant downstream impacts on local programs and services.
- Collaboration and communication among stakeholders across sectors strengthen advocacy efforts.
- Community events provide crucial spaces for learning, networking, and building momentum for positive change.
Looking Ahead
Our event, Working Together: How the State Budget Affects Local Budgets and Policy, was one small step toward closing the gap between state budget decisions and local realities. We look forward to continuing this conversation through more in-person events throughout 2025 and fostering partnerships that support California’s diverse communities.
Stay connected with us for updates on future events and resources to help you stay informed and engaged. Together, we can build a more just and equitable California.
