Issuu

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026

V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

PARTNER HIGHLIGHT – NETFILE

SCHOLARSHIPS & FUNDRAISING UPDATE

SUMMER NUTS & BOLTS SESSIONS CONTINUE TO DRAW IN NEW CLERKS

YOUR FALL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAYLIST CLERKS, COLLABORATION, & A LITTLE COACHELLA VALLEY CAMARADERIE SIX DECADES OF SERVICE: CELEBRATING CAROLYN STEFFAN

2027 CMCA ANNUAL CONFERENCE: CALL FOR PROPOSALS MENTOR PROGRAM UPDATE SHOP CMCA’S MERCH STORES! THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS!

P resident ’ s M essage

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

SUZANNE GUZZETTA, MMC | CMCA PRESIDENT At the end of August, the Board met in Sacramento to work on the Association’s Strategic Plan for the next three years. SUZANNE GUZZET TA It’s one of those things that sounds straightforward, but anyone who has ever worked on a strategic plan knows it’s not as easy as it sounds.

is to step into a new role when someone has prepared for the transition. Our time on the CMCA Board is so limited. Directors serve three-year terms, and while the presidential succession is a multi-year commitment, you have just one year in each role. It goes by quickly and there isn’t much opportunity to find your footing before another election comes around or it’s time for the next changeover in leadership. You’re expected to quickly assume the responsibilities of the role and make the most of what you have. That was one of the things we spent time talking about in Sacramento: how can we better prepare the people stepping into these roles so they can spend less time figuring things out and more time making the role their own? Because ultimately, preparing the next person to succeed is just as important as what we accomplish while we’re here.

For a day and a half, we strategized about where CMCA is today, where we want it to be in three years, and how we envision getting there. We talked about organizational sustainability, engagement and access: the three pillars we’ve identified to guide our work over the next three years. The goal of those discussions and all this strategic planning is ultimately centered around our membership: how we can provide the benefits and support they need, continue to meet their needs in the future, and ensure the Association is around to do so.

And I think that’s an important part of how we lead as Clerks. We spend so much of our careers building processes, preserving knowledge and helping our organizations function, but part of that work is also making sure it doesn’t all depend on us. The goal shouldn’t be for the next person to do everything exactly the way we did it. It should be to leave them with enough of a foundation that they can bring their own ideas, set their own priorities and make things better.

I spend a lot of time these days thinking about building something that lasts. That probably comes with the job of being a Clerk since so much of what we do is tied to preserving the record of what came before us and making sure the people who come after us don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Many of us will, at some point in our careers, step into a position where we’re the one trying to piece things together because the institutional knowledge wasn’t preserved or was tied up in one person who left before it could be shared.

Speaking of preparing for the future, now might be the time to think about the next election for the Board. While the nomination period is still a few months away, it’s never too early to think about whether serving on the Board might be something you’re interested in. Our members are the future of the Association, and it’s their experiences and ideas that will shape where CMCA goes next.

It makes you realize how much easier it

S cholarships & F undraising U pdate

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

SCHOLARSHIPS & FUNDRAISING UPDATE SYLVIA M. BERMUDEZ, MPA, MMC, SCHOLARSHIPS & FUNDRAISING DIRECTOR CMCA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM: INVESTING I N T H E F U T U R E O F C A L I F O R N I A C L E R KS

The California Municipal Clerks Association (CMCA) Scholarship Program helps make professional development more accessible to municipal clerks across the state. By offsetting the cost of eligible trainings, conferences, courses, and programs that provide IIMC points toward Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) or Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) certification, the program supports clerks at all stages of their professional growth. SYLVIA M. BERMUDEZ

For many clerks, certification requires a significant investment of time, effort, and resources. CMCA scholarships help ease that burden by providing financial support for valuable educational opportunities, including institutes, academies, annual conferences, and other approved trainings. These experiences help members earn certification points while strengthening practical skills in records management, meeting administration, ethics, leadership, communication, and public service. Members are encouraged to apply, as a scholarship may provide the support needed to take the next step toward certification. Whether a clerk is beginning the CMC process or working toward MMC certification, the program helps make training more attainable and reflects CMCA’s commitment to professional growth, statewide connections, and excellence in the clerk profession. Over the years, CMCA scholarships have helped clerks participate in programs that expand their knowledge, build confidence, and bring them closer to their certification goals. Each scholarship is an investment not only in an individual member, but also in the communities they serve. If you are pursuing certification or planning your next professional development opportunity, consider applying for a CMCA scholarship and allowing the program to support your next step. To apply, visit https://www.calclerks.org/page/scholarship For more information, please contact the director of scholarships and fundraising at scholarship@calclerks.org

Y our F all P rofessional D evelopment P laylist

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

YOUR FALL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAYLIST JENNIFER WOODWORTH, MMC | DIRECTOR OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Every great playlist (or mix tape for those of us who still love a good mix tape) needs a little variety, and CMCA’s fall professional development lineup does too. The rest of the year has educational opportunities to sharpen your records management skills, strengthen your communication style, and better understand the legislative landscape. This season’s training opportunities have something for every municipal clerk. Consider this your Fall 2026 Professional Development Playlist with a mix of technical knowledge, practical tools, and leadership skills to help you stay current, confident, and ready for whatever the next email brings. JENNIFER WOODWORTH

T R AC K 1: S TA RT I N G O N T H E R I G H T N O T E

Building an Effective Onboarding & Orientation Program for Elected Officials Canvassing the election returns marks the end of one process, but it is often the beginning of another. This interactive four-hour workshop in Los Altos will help clerks create thoughtful onboarding and orientation programs for newly elected and reelected officials. Topics will include the election and certification process, the first 30, 60, and 90 days, legal requirements, essential training, communication strategies, and the Clerk’s role in helping officials succeed. Real-world scenarios, peer discussion, and practical takehome tools will give participants ideas they can adapt for use in their own office. T R AC K 2: K N O W T H E S C O R E

Strengthening the Clerk’s Role in Public Policy Legislation has a significant impact on the work of municipal clerks, and understanding the process is an increasingly valuable skill. This virtual workshop will provide an overview of California’s legislative and regulatory landscape, including how a bill becomes law, the role of legislative committees and state agencies, and how CMCA’s legislative program supports advocacy efforts. Participants will also develop practical research skills for tracking bills, amendments, votes, legislative history, committee analyses, statutes, and regulations. 4

Y our F all P rofessional D evelopment P laylist

T R AC K 3: M OV I N ’ O N U P T O N O R C A L

For a double track, head north to McKinleyville for two days of learning and connections. On October 22, learn about how good communication is at the heart of effective leadership. At the Communicating for Success workshop, participants better understand their own communication styles and learn how to recognize and adapt to the styles of others. Attendees will explore communication best practices, common pitfalls, conflict resolution, team building, and strategies for positively influencing others. The following day, join us for an Athenian Leadership Dialogue where facilitator Thai Nam Pham will explore leadership lessons in Simon Sinek’s Leaders Eat Last. In this New York Times bestseller, Sinek explores what makes great leaders and healthy teams. His central idea is simple: the best leaders put the well-being of their people first. B O N U S T R AC K : C LO S I N G T I M E

CalCities’ City Clerks New Law & Elections Seminar Round out your fall playlist in Redondo Beach at the new Law and Election Seminar. Designed for city clerks and staff members of all experience levels, the seminar offers an opportunity to stay current on issues affecting the Clerk’s Office while also building relationships with peers from throughout California. The combination of education, idea sharing, and networking makes this a can’t-miss addition to the fall calendar. P R E SS P L AY O N P R O F E SS I O N A L D E V E LO PM E N T

The work of municipal clerks continues to evolve and staying ready means continuing to learn. So, take a look at the playlist, choose a few tracks, and make room on your calendar. WHERE

WHEN

TOPIC

R E G I S T R AT I O N

Los Altos

October 2

Beyond the Oath: Building an Effective Onboarding & Orientation Program for Elected Officials

Webinar

October 21

Strengthening the Clerk’s Role in Public Policy: Understanding Legislation, Advocacy & Legislative Research

McKinleyville

October 22

Communicating for Success

McKinleyville

October 23

Athenian Dialogue: Leaders Eat Last

Redondo Beach

November 18-20

New Law & Election Seminar

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

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C lerks , C ollaboration , & a L ittle C oachella V alley C amaraderie

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

CLERKS, COLLABORATION, & A LITTLE COACHELLA VALLEY CAMARADERIE In late August, city and special district clerks from across Coachella Valley gathered to share good conversation, shared experiences, and helpful ideas. The evening offered a chance to step away from the day-to-day demands of our busy offices and connect with each other. Not surprisingly, elections were high on the list of topics taking up much of everyone’s time. From changing forms and requirements at the state and local level to staffing challenges, the conversation served as a reminder that while every agency may handle things a little differently, many of the challenges are remarkably familiar. Public Records Act requests were another major topic of discussion. Everyone shared their best practices, increases in request volume and complexity, and ideas to balance transparency with our already full workloads. The discussion helped reinforce the need for clerks around the state to collaborate, especially on the increasing volume of AI-generated requests. The evening was a great example of the value of regional connections and ongoing collaboration. By sharing experiences, resources, successes, and the occasional “you won’t believe what happened” story, Coachella Valley clerks strengthened relationships that will continue long after dinner ended. CMCA would love to spotlight this type of networking all over the state. If you meet up with your fellow clerks, please reach out to Jen Woodworth, Professional Development Director at pdd@calcerks.org to send a picture and a few words about your latest Clerk Gathering. You could be featured in an upcoming issue of California Clerks Connection! 7

S ix D ecades of S ervice : C elebrating C arolyn S teffan

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

SIX DECADES OF SERVICE: CELEBRATING CAROLYN STEFFAN

Her dedication has extended well beyond the traditional duties of a City Clerk. Carolyn has remained a trusted source of institutional knowledge for the City of Tehama, adapting to changes in technology, legislation, reporting requirements, and the many evolving demands of local government. Her career is also a powerful reminder of the versatility of the municipal clerk profession. The skills clerks develop — organization, time management, attention to detail, communication, problemsolving, and the ability to manage competing priorities — are valuable not only in our professional lives, but in virtually every aspect of our lives.

ASHTON R. AROCHO, MMC | IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Few careers in local government can compare to the remarkable legacy of Carolyn Steffan, City Clerk and Administrator for the City of Tehama. For more than six decades, Carolyn has dedicated herself to her community, her profession, and the people she serves.

After more than 60 years of service, Carolyn’s career stands as an extraordinary example of commitment to community and public service. Her longevity is remarkable, but perhaps even more remarkable is the breadth of knowledge, experience, and dedication she has brought to the municipal clerk profession throughout the decades.

Carolyn began her service as Tehama’s City Clerk in 1965. At the time, the position looked very different from the multifaceted responsibilities of today. In smaller cities especially, it was not uncommon for a City Manager position to not yet exist. As a result, many of the responsibilities we might associate with a City Manager today often fell to the City Clerk. Carolyn’s role extended well beyond taking meeting minutes, attending City Council meetings, sorting mail, and sending out water bills. What began as a modest role would grow into an extraordinary career in public service.

For those of us in the municipal clerk profession, Carolyn’s career is more than an impressive record of years served. It is a reminder of the lasting impact one dedicated public servant can have on a community. Her willingness to learn, adapt, serve, and continue showing up is a legacy worth celebrating.

Over the years, Carolyn embraced every challenge that came her way. She obtained her Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation, served as Tehama’s grant writer, obtained specialized training as a water operator, and became a certified floodplain manager. Her work helped secure millions of dollars in funding for projects that helped protect homes and strengthen the community.

Carolyn Steffan’s story is truly one of service, resilience, adaptability, and dedication to local government — and a remarkable example of the difference a municipal clerk can make. Read More: Six Decades of Lessons from California’s Longest-Serving City Clerk – Western City Magazine

P artner H ighlight – N et F ile

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

PARTNER HIGHLIGHT – NETFILE BRITT AVRIT, MMC | 1ST VICE PRESIDENT Continuing along the path of learning more about CMCA’s Partner’s, this month’s Partner Spotlight is on NetFile. Many of you will recognize the name NetFile because either you are using their product(s), or have seen them at our conferences, and I wonder how many know about NetFile’s background – I know I didn’t! Read on to learn more about this CMCA partner! I recently had the opportunity to chat with Tom Diebert from NetFile. Tom has been with the company since 2001, when NetFile President and CEO David Montgomery reached out to him. The two had previously worked together in the 1990s. NetFile grew out of a need when one of the largest Counties in California was interested in using the system the Secretary of State was using that automatically redacted online all FPPC Campaign Finance Forms, and fortunately for NetFile, they were directed to contact NetFile and the rest was history! B R I T T AV R I T

NetFile became involved with CMCA (previously CCAC) when a CCAC President in Southern California contacted the company to ask if NetFile was interested in supporting an upcoming local training. That prompted a Northern California clerk to reach out to NetFile, and the company has been supporting training opportunities throughout California ever since. Tom and I had the opportunity to discuss core values and he shared with me both personal and professional values. What resonated with me was the importance NetFile places on having a good attitude. Tom mentioned that, along with raw intelligence and honesty, having a good attitude is important. He believes that your attitude stays with you and can have an impact throughout your career. We can learn a skill and a job; a positive attitude isn’t always something that comes easily to everyone. Tom believes, the positive attitude is reflected in the interactions customers have with NetFile. When I asked Tom what he wants Municipal clerks to know about NetFile, he said he wants everyone to know they are there to help; their products are designed to make clerk’s jobs easier. He also wanted to remind everyone there are two options for obtaining support if it’s needed; you can call or submit a ticket via email, and NetFile’s training and refreshers are always free. To learn more about all CMCA’s Partners, visit our Annual Partner page on the website. 9

S ummer N uts & B olts S essions C ontinue to D raw in N ew C lerks

SUMMER NUTS & BOLTS SESSIONS CONTINUE TO DRAW IN NEW CLERKS JENNIFER WOODWORTH, MMC | DIRECTOR OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT How is it already fall?! I for one am ready for pumpkin spice everything and an excuse to stay inside where it’s cozy. Back before the BER months began, summer brought two virtual sessions of Nuts and Bolts in June and August. With over 150 attendees between the two sessions, this training continues to be a foundational course for those new to the clerk field or who are interested in brushing up on the Municipal Clerk Handbook. In June, the trio of Kerry Bigelow, David Carnahan, and Lucinda Williams led the training as well as other subject matter experts. In August, Joelle Fockler and Marsha Moore organized and facilitated sessions with experts from around the state. As always, trainers brought their shared knowledge and unique experiences to the attendees presenting the foundational topics of much of what we do as municipal clerks. JENNIFER WOODWORTH

Since Nuts and Bolts is based on the Municipal Clerk Handbook, attendees learn a little bit about everything as they cover topics of the Brown Act and Public Records Act to the clerk’s role in bid openings and annexations. While some topics are familiar, other duties arise less frequently in our positions, such as street vacations and processing passports. The Municipal Clerk Handbook is a fantastic resource that is free to all CMCA members. I know that I refer to it anytime I need a refresher on the ins and outs of clerk responsibilities that I may not have encountered before. In addition to covering many of the duties of a municipal clerk, the Handbook also provides guidance on professional development opportunities, the CMCA Mentor Program, navigating politics without being political, and much more. For those who are newish to the profession, I encourage you to check it out and attend a future session of Nuts and Bolts. And for those who attended Nuts and Bolts too long ago to count, I encourage you to dust off that Municipal Clerk Handbook once in a while and you might learn something new. The next session of Nuts and Bolts is inperson and will be held in Brea October 8-9. Register today to reserve your seat! Attendees who pass an assessment quiz will earn 4 CMC education points.

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

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2 0 2 7 C M C A A nnual C onference : C all for P roposals

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

2027 CMCA ANNUAL CONFERENCE: CALL FOR PROPOSALS Have you ever wished there was a conference session on a certain topic? Or had a great process at your agency you think others could adopt? This is your opportunity to help shape next year’s CMCA Annual Conference. CMCA is now accepting session proposals for our 2027 Annual Conference. This year’s theme, Fortitude for Tomorrow - Building Systems that Endure, recognizes the vital role municipal clerks play in preparing organizations for an uncertain and evolving future. The theme celebrates the foresight, adaptability, and leadership of municipal clerks in developing sustainable practices and resilient systems that support effective governance and strengthen public trust for generations to come. We are seeking interactive General and Concurrent Sessions on topics such as: • Professional development & leadership • Records and information management • Technology & innovation (including AI) • Elections & legislative services • Communications & public engagement D E TA I LS

Call for Proposals Information S U B M I T YO U R P R O P O S A L

CMCA 2027 Annual Conference Proposal Submission Form Submittal Deadline: 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 14, 2026 Don’t miss this opportunity to share your expertise, inspire colleagues, and help shape an empowering conference experience for California’s municipal clerks! QUESTIONS?

Contact Jen Woodworth, Professional Development Director pdd@californiacityclerks.org. 13

M entor P rogram U pdate

MENTOR PROGRAM UPDATE CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

CANDICE ALVAREZ, MMC | MENTOR DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR September brings the first hints of autumn: a season of transformation, renewed focus, and steady growth. As the pace of nomination season settles and our calendars find a more familiar rhythm, it is a meaningful time to reflect on how far we have come and how we can keep supporting one another in the months ahead. In keeping with President Guzzetta’s annual theme of “Fortitude,” mentorship remains one of the strongest ways CMCA members CANDICE ALVAREZ demonstrate resilience, generosity, and commitment to the profession. Fortitude is not always found in grand gestures; often, it is reflected in the quiet, consistent ways we support one another, such as answering a question, sharing a resource, encouraging a colleague, or helping someone see that a challenging season will eventually give way to growth. Like the transition from summer to fall, professional growth is often gradual. It happens through experience, reflection, learning from mistakes, and leaning on colleagues who have navigated similar challenges. The CMCA Mentor Program offers members a welcoming space to ask questions, build confidence, develop professional skills, and create connections that can make even the busiest seasons of clerkship feel a little more manageable. Whether you are beginning your CMC journey, continuing toward your MMC designation, adjusting to a new role, or ready to share your experience as a Mentor, there is a place for you in the CMCA Mentor Program. A U G U S T N U T S & B O LT S PA RT I C I PA N T S

I am currently working to match members who attended the August Nuts & Bolts session and opted in to the CMC Mentor Program with available Mentors. We are making these matches thoughtfully. Thank you to the dedicated CMCA Mentors who continue to volunteer their time, knowledge, and encouragement. Your willingness to support fellow clerks is an important part of what makes the Mentor Program, and our CMCA community, so meaningful. U P C OM I N G C M C M E N T O R T R A I N I N G S

If you hold your CMC or MMC and are considering becoming a mentor, please join us for one of the following New Mentor Training sessions: • Thursday, October 15, 2026 @ 3:00 p.m. – Registration Link • Wednesday, January 13, 2027, at 10:00 a.m. – Registration Link • Thursday, April 8, 2027, at 10:00 a.m. – Registration Link • Wednesday, July 14, 2027, at 3:00 p.m. – Registration Link • Thursday, October 14, 2027, at 3:00 p.m. – Registration Link

M entor P rogram U pdate

Mentoring is a meaningful opportunity to share what you have learned, offer practical guidance, and help newer clerks feel connected to the CMCA community. A conversation over coffee, a quick check-in after a council meeting, or a virtual call to talk through a professional question can make a lasting difference in another clerk’s career. As the season invites us to slow down, settle in, and enjoy a little more coziness, consider whether this may be the right time to become a Mentor. Your knowledge, encouragement, and perspective can help another CMCA member find confidence and direction during an important stage of their professional journey. Earning a professional designation is a significant accomplishment and deserves celebration. Whether you reached this milestone through months of preparation, years of persistence, the support of an encouraging Mentor, or a combination of all three, each achievement reflects the dedication and fortitude that strengthen our profession. To our newest CMCs and MMCs: congratulations on this important accomplishment. Your commitment to continued learning and professional excellence inspires fellow clerks throughout California. A S E AS O N O F G R O W T H

Autumn is often described as a season of change, but it is also a season of preparation. Just as trees release what is no longer needed to make room for new growth, we can use this time to reflect on the experiences, habits, and goals that will help us move forward with purpose. For municipal clerks, growth is found in everyday moments: preparing an agenda, supporting an election, responding to a records request, guiding a new staff member, learning a new process, or reaching out to a colleague for perspective. Mentorship helps transform those individual experiences into shared knowledge and lasting professional connection. As we enter the fall season, I encourage you to take a moment to consider how mentorship can support you, or how you can support someone else. Perhaps it is checking in with your Mentee, reaching out to a Mentor, attending a New Mentor Training, or simply offering encouragement to a colleague who may be navigating a demanding season. That spirit of connection, generosity, and steady perseverance is Fortitude in action. Together, we can continue building a strong, supportive, and welcoming CMCA community, one conversation, one shared resource, and one meaningful connection at a time.

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

S hop C M C A ’ s M erch S tores !

CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

Connect, Commit , and Empower SHOP CMCA’S MERCH STORES!

CMCA now has two merchandise stores where you can purchase branded clothing, bags, and more! These items go beyond style—they’re a way to connect with fellow clerks, show your commitment to our profession, and strengthen the network that supports and uplifts us all. Whether you’re at a conference, in the office, or out in the community, wearing CMCA gear is a simple yet powerful way to empower yourself and others by sparking conversations about the essential work we do. HOW TO FIND THEM

Visit the CMCA website, go to the Resources tab, and select either the CMCA Apparel Store or the CMCA Bonfire Store. Then click, shop, and share your connection to the California Municipal Clerk community!

APPAREL STORE BONFIRE STORE

T H A N K Y O U T O O U R PA R T N E R S !

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS! CMCA SEPTEMBER 2026 V O LU M E 27 I SS U E 9

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