CALAFCO's Annual Journal

THE SPHERE

Perspectives from Across California's Local Government Community

Published annually, The Sphere brings together stories, insights, and practical experience from CALAFCO's member LAFCOs, Associate Members, and partners representing cities, counties, special districts, and other local government interests. It is a place to recognize the people and ideas strengthening California's communities.

CURRENT ISSUE

Cover of The Sphere, October 2026, featuring Sacramento and California landscapes

October 2026 Edition

Ideas, Experience & Community

Explore stories of local problem-solving, the value of professional connections, and partnerships across California's local government community. This edition features perspectives from LAFCO leaders, Associate Members, and statewide organizations.

Read the October 2026 Issue (PDF)

44 MB · Opens in a new tab

INSIDE THE 2026 ISSUE

Three perspectives illustrate the breadth of CALAFCO's community, from local LAFCO accomplishments to Associate Member experiences and statewide partnerships.

Page 13 of The Sphere: A Love Letter to CALAFCO by Amanda Ross

Associate Member Perspective · Page 13

A Love Letter to CALAFCO

Amanda Ross · South Fork Consulting & CivicBound

A personal reflection on the professional relationships, shared purpose, and welcoming community that grow through CALAFCO.

Read the story in The Sphere
Page 34 of The Sphere: Felton Fire's Turning Point by Joe Serrano

Member LAFCO Story · Page 34

Felton Fire's Turning Point

Joe Serrano · Santa Cruz LAFCO

How a LAFCO governance study helped residents understand their options and make an informed decision about local fire protection.

Read the story in The Sphere
Page 14 of The Sphere: Partnering with LAFCOs Through Representation by Dane Wadle

Statewide Partner · Pages 14–15

Partnering with LAFCOs

Dane Wadle · California Special Districts Association

A look at the value of special district representation and collaboration with LAFCOs across California.

Read the article in The Sphere

Share Your Perspective

Help Tell California's Local Government Stories

We welcome story ideas and potential contributions from member LAFCOs, Associate Members, and professional partners. Share practical experiences, emerging issues, successful collaborations, and perspectives that may be of interest to California's local government community. Submission of an idea does not guarantee publication.

Contact CALAFCO About Contributing

PAST ISSUES

Explore previous editions of The Sphere. Each PDF opens in a new tab.

October 2025

The Sphere

View the 2025 Issue (PDF)

October 2024

The Sphere

View the 2024 Issue (PDF)

October 2023

The Sphere

View the 2023 Issue (PDF)

October 2022

The Sphere

View the 2022 Issue (PDF)

October 2019

The Sphere

View the 2019 Issue (PDF)

October 2018

The Sphere

View the 2018 Issue (PDF)