With major transportation measures on the ballot in California and uncertainty surrounding federal support, transportation officials face a pivotal moment. Panelists will discuss local funding initiatives, state and federal funding prospects, transit recovery, capital planning, and how transportation agencies are positioning themselves to address aging infrastructure, congestion, and long-term mobility needs.

Artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies promise increased efficiency and productivity for all market participants. However, automation without rigorous oversight creates significant risks. This panel will look beyond the “AI hype” and discuss implementing anticipatory governance to harness the power of technology without sacrificing the integrity of the balance sheet.

What’s at stake in Washington as the midterm elections loom? Are there threats to municipal tax policy? After an increased scrutiny of Joint Powers Authorities, public-private partnership structures, and disclosure practices, what are the regulators looking to accomplish now?

Higher taxes, higher costs, higher debt burdens. How is the state and its issuer credits across the spectrum faring as more of the infrastructure building burden is placed on them and the costs to do so keep growing? Is outmigration real and what does it mean for the major cities and rural areas alike? How are federal immigration policies impacting the state’s major industries?

The explosive growth of artificial intelligence is creating unprecedented demand for power, transmission, water, and digital infrastructure. As California competes for technology investment while pursuing ambitious climate goals, public and private stakeholders face critical questions about how to finance and deliver the infrastructure needed to support the AI economy. This panel explores the intersection of technology growth, utility investment, transmission expansion, and public finance.

California’s housing crunch remains one of the state’s most pressing economic and public policy challenges. With the passage of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act incentivizing more housing, public finance leaders are exploring innovative ways to expand housing production. 

This panel will examine how growing demand for affordable, workforce, and middle-income housing is being met, while navigating rising construction costs, regulatory hurdles, and evolving market conditions. Panelists will also discuss financing strategies for military housing and the critical role housing plays in supporting economic growth, workforce retention, and community development throughout California.