About Us

The California Association of Local Agency Formation Commissions (CALAFCO) is the statewide association supporting California’s Local Agency Formation Commissions (LAFCOs). CALAFCO brings commissioners, staff, and partners together to strengthen the knowledge, coordination, and professional resources that support effective local government.

Serving California’s LAFCO community since 1971

Connecting Local Experience with Statewide Support

California’s communities vary greatly, but LAFCOs frequently encounter common questions involving growth, public services, jurisdictional boundaries, infrastructure, and long-term community needs. CALAFCO provides a statewide forum where members can share practical experience, learn from one another, and respond to emerging issues.

What CALAFCO Does

Each LAFCO is an independent local agency responsible for its own decisions. CALAFCO does not oversee individual LAFCOs. The Association supports its members by providing statewide education, coordination, advocacy, and opportunities for professional collaboration.

Education & Training

CALAFCO offers conferences, workshops, webinars, and training programs designed for LAFCO commissioners, staff, and others who work with local government.

Legislative Coordination

The Association monitors state legislation, coordinates member input, and represents statewide LAFCO interests on issues affecting local agency formation and service delivery.

Member Connection

CALAFCO connects members across California so they can exchange knowledge, discuss shared challenges, and benefit from the experience of the broader LAFCO community.

Resources & Partnerships

CALAFCO develops and shares practical resources while working with professional associations, public agencies, and other partners committed to effective local government.

CALAFCO’s work is grounded in a straightforward principle: better local government decisions come from informed leadership, practical experience, collaboration, and shared knowledge.

Our Statewide Structure

CALAFCO is governed by a statewide Board of Directors representing four regions of California. This regional structure helps ensure that the Association benefits from the experience and perspectives of LAFCOs serving urban, suburban, and rural communities throughout the state.

Central

Coastal

Northern

Southern

Board structure beginning December 1, 2026

Statewide Representation and Leadership

The Board consists of 16 elected voting directors, with four elected from each region. The governing structure also includes three appointed nonvoting directors: the Executive Officer, Executive Director, and Legal Counsel. Together, the Board establishes policy, approves the budget, provides strategic direction, and oversees the Association’s performance.

How CALAFCO Is Supported

Board of Directors

Commissioners and Executive Officers from throughout California provide statewide governance, policy direction, and financial oversight.

Staff & Professional Support

The Executive Director manages day-to-day operations and member services. CALAFCO also receives professional and legal support necessary to carry out its responsibilities.

Regions & Volunteers

Four volunteer Regional Officers support regional coordination and member engagement. Committees, member agencies, and volunteers contribute additional expertise and capacity.

Learn More About CALAFCO

Explore CALAFCO’s leadership, staff, governing documents, and statewide membership.