The Northern California Chapter is pleased to announce that Scot VanBuskirk has accepted the position of Labor Relations Representative. Scot joined us March 2, 2015. He will assist in negotiating the terms and conditions of labor agreements, assist in the grievance resolution process, and sit on various trusts and committees. Scot graduated from Cal Berkeley with a degree in Media Studies. Prior to joining the NorCal NECA team, he served as a Production/Analyst Supervisor with BeneSys Administrators. We are confident that Scot will be an excellent addition and strong asset to our team. Scot can be reached at scotv@norcalneca.org, (925) 404-4040. Please join us in welcoming Scot to our Chapter. 

The California Supreme Court issued a long-awaited ruling regarding categorical exemptions under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) reversing a court of appeal decision that would have sharply curtailed the use of such exemptions and made them easier to challenge. While the case involves a challenge to the approval of a single home, the decision has broad implications. A wide range of development projects are approved using categorical exemptions designed to address situations involving a low risk of adverse environmental impacts. The Supreme Court's decision provides critical guidance for local agencies and developers regarding the proper analysis and standard of review to determine if there is an exception to an exemption.  Read More

Pete Halver and IBEW Local 684 Business Manager Billy Powell recently attended the State of the City address and Business Expo sponsored by the Modesto Chamber of Commerce. Mayor Garrad Marsh discussed his accomplishments over the past year and noted that this was the first year in a long-long time that the City has a balanced budget and a ten-year, look ahead budget. In addition, the City is leading the state in pension reform, and has hired a new City Manager, Chief of Police, and Fire Chief. After his remarks, the mayor participated in a panel discussion with these new hires, answering many questions from the audience. A business expo followed with the theme of "Learn, Connect, GROW" where 52 different businesses participated.