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Evaluating Workforce Development and Training Programs in Lodi and their Impact on Median Household Income
Full text linkThe City of Lodi’s median household income is below the State of California and among the lowest for cities in San Joaquin County. Economic development is a key strategic imperative for the Lodi City Council, with a goal to raise the median income of Lodi residents to the top 25% of the State. This research paper focuses on the current workforce development and training programs and their impact on the median household income. The study employs a mixed-methods approach incorporating qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis to either accept or reject the hypothesis. Based on the findings of the study, it will be determined if the alignment of workforce development and training programs with emerging industries, free entrepreneurship support, or additional resources for the Lodi Adult School and Delta College partnership will lead to an increase in the median household income. Literature review will inform the research by supporting or not supporting the assumptions and findings presented in the study. The study has the potential to evaluate existing programs available and influence policy to support, improve or modify them
Breaking the Chains: Impact of a Timely and Holistic Approach to Veteran Homelessness in San Francisco, CA
Full text linkThis research project delves into the complexities of veteran homelessness in San Francisco, exploring three critical themes and proposing possible solutions that could yield a more desirable outcome. The theory of change asserts that if San Francisco Department of Veterans Affairs provided timely access to sustainable housing for veterans experiencing homelessness, it would lead to increased participation in mental health programs, increased participation in employment services, and long-term self-supported housing for homeless veterans. The study examines the assumptions and key factors influencing this theory, highlighting the role of resource allocation, timely access to Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH), and the correlation between homelessness and mental illness through a mixed-method research approach. Drawing on global and regional perspectives, the review emphasizes the urgent need for a holistic approach that combines housing, mental health, and employment services to break the cycle of veteran homelessness in San Francisco. Relevant research will inform this study by providing evidence-based insights and best practices from similar interventions, ensuring that the proposed solutions are grounded in proven strategies and contextualized to address the unique challenges faced by veterans in San Francisco
Leaving Halfway: Examining the Loss of the Mid-career Federal Employee Within the Department of the Army
Full text linkThe research paper contained takes an in-depth look at the current recognized departure of employees from the Department of the Army civilian work force, at the midway point of their career timelines. This departure has both a large effect on the departing employees who are leaving their progress towards a federal retirement on the table while also causing the federal organization to lose valuable experience which takes years to cultivate. Multiple studies and papers have been previously written on this human resources topic due to its outsized impact on both the federal workforce and the efficiency of the government. These previously completed reviews of the problem will guide this research paper on narrowing down the concerns that cause the mid-career professional to leave.
The research examining this captioned problem will be conducted using a targeted and focused survey with specifically constructed questions presented utilizing an online survey provider, (Survey Monkey) to a very active online forum specifically for federal employees of the Department of the Army. A combination of both qualitative and quantitative data from existing research will also be reviewed alongside the survey results in order to determine if my initial theory of change and the assumptions that I have predicted are supported or determined to be unsupported.
The results of this research paper could potentially be utilized by senior management at the Department of the Army in order to make their retention and succession planning more efficient, effectively stemming the near-constant loss of seasoned and experienced employees
FEMA Public Assistance: Analysis, Considerations, and Implications of the Small Project Efficient and Effective Disaster Recovery Act
Full text linkThis study explored FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program and the implementation of the Small Project Efficient and Effective Disaster Recovery Act (SPEED Act) to analyze their effectiveness and efficiency in response to COVID-19. The SPEED Act raised the large project threshold for PA from 1,000,000 to increase the number of small projects which would otherwise be audited at 100%. The act creates significantly more room for error and increases the possibility of overpaying on PA reimbursements. Although FEMA acknowledges that the risk of overpaying these projects has always existed, overpayments may now surpass hundreds of thousands of dollars. Peer reviewed literature describes the need for adequate input from stakeholders in creating public policy, the risks created through methodologies used by agencies responding to disasters, and the value in seeking long-term, sustainable solutions. Surveying stakeholders and analyzing actual PA reimbursements provided data that is not assumed or estimated, which was used to test the methodologies within the SPEED Act. This study identified trends, gaps, and redundancies that can be addressed for increased efficiency and effectiveness in future administration of FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Key Terms: Public Assistance, FEMA, COVID-19, Federal funding, SPEED Act, Disaster Risk Reduction, Emergency Management
Examining Public Funding for Local/State Elections to Increase Diversity in Candidates
Full text linkThis comprehensive study investigates strategies to enhance diversity within California\u27s elected government bodies, addressing pivotal queries and assumptions about public funding, private contributions, and inclusive initiatives in state and local elections. Participants from distinct regions—the San Francisco Bay Area and California Central Valley—alongside seasoned professionals in public administration, provided rich insights through in-depth surveys and expert interviews.
The study meticulously interrogates three main assumptions based on a Theory of Change, which served as a framework for understanding the prerequisites for achieving a more diverse elected government. The research participants lent robust support to these assumptions, contributing to a well-rounded analysis enriched by a thorough review of relevant research literature that both supported and challenged these assumptions.
Assumption 1, which postulated that public funding for elections would promote diversity, received mixed reactions. Survey respondents exhibited neutral views, while expert interviews leaned in favor of public financing as a catalyst for diverse representation. Assumption 2, advocating for stricter controls on private campaign contributions, garnered substantial support from both participant groups, highlighting a shared belief in the need for financial equity in elections. Finally, Assumption 3, emphasizing the promotion of inclusivity and diversity in government bodies, was unanimously upheld, showcasing a collective aspiration for electoral processes that truly reflect California’s multifaceted populace.
Employing a mixed-method approach, the study integrated both quantitative and qualitative data, revealing the complexity of fostering electoral diversity and underlining the imperative for additional, expansive research to address subsidiary questions. Despite the enriched insights and participant backing, the study\u27s findings are contextualized within the constraints of a limited sample size, necessitating a cautious approach to generalizing results across California’s diverse population. This research, therefore, not only contributes to the existing body of knowledge but also paves the way for future explorations, aiming for a comprehensive and representative understanding of diversifying electoral candidacies in California
Modernizing Language in the California Government Claims Act to Enable Consistent Enforcement of Statutory Sovereign Immunity
Full text linkIdeally, sovereign immunity provisions should (1) protect public officials from undue interference with discharge of their duties and (2) hold accountable public officials who act unlawfully. Analytical frameworks and statutes at both the federal and state levels often fail to fulfill these objectives. Federal courts are guided by statutes and objectives that are indirectly relevant to state courts. As a result, states are left to address independently how to address clams of sovereign immunity when plaintiffs file suits alleging torts by public entities and employees. In California, when plaintiffs sue public employees or entities in civil court, the California Government Claims Act (GCA) determines whether defenses of sovereign immunity may preclude liability. However, the statutory language of the GCA mirrors the common law language in force at the time the GCA was enacted. This language has led to inconsistent interpretations of California’s sovereign immunity statutes. This Comment argues (1) that the GCA\u27s use of common law language can frustrate the ability of courts to establish a consistent understanding of which tortious actions may be protected by immunity from charges of either intentional or negligent misconduct; and (2) that a lack of legislative guidance frustrates the ability of courts to determine whether certain state actions are either discretionary acts protected by absolute immunity or mandatory duties protected by qualified immunity. Further, modernizing language throughout the GCA would ensure more consistent enforcement of statutory sovereign immunity. Part I of this Comment outlines the history of the doctrine of sovereign immunity and summarizes the public policy arguments for and against its continuation. Part II provides an overview of the GCA\u27s architecture and how judicial interpretations have shaped its implementation. Part III analyzes statutory language and recommends amendments
“Take Your Pictures, Leave Your (Digital) Footprints”: Increasing Privacy Protections for Children on Social Media
Full text linkAs the digital sphere becomes more prevalent in people’s lives, Congress has tried to keep up. First created in 1998, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) requires operators of websites directed at children to obtain consent from parents before collecting any personal information from children. COPPA also requires that operators take reasonable measures to protect the confidentiality of any personal information collected about children. Although COPPA has helped regulate online spaces, its focus is on regulating websites that collect personal information directly from children. This focus leaves a gap in the law that ignores personal data shared on social media by third parties, such as parents and family members. This Comment argues that Congress should amend COPPA to provide protection for children whose information is shared online before they are able to consent. Part I begins with background information on the history of COPPA and its primary purposes. Part II addresses the unique concerns that third-party sharing poses, including a discussion of so-called “sharenting” and the various ethical concerns of third-party sharing. Part III considers proposed legal remedies for children who wish to have greater control over information shared about them online. Finally, Part IV argues that Congress should amend COPPA to allow minors to request the deletion of personal data shared about them by third parties, including the scope of such an amendment
The Doom Loop: The Subtle Art of Fear-Based Messaging in Politics
Full text linkDoom Loop (noun) – A scenario in which one negative development causes another negative development, which then makes the first problem worse. A vicious cycle.
Fear-based messaging is a compelling political tool that has been used to shape policy often at the expense vulnerable communities. A growing example of this has targeted governing practices in San Francisco. San Francisco has seen a barrage of criticisms lately, focused on blatant crime and open-air drug use among its streets. Local and national news have made these topics the centerpiece of a “doom loop” narrative that is plaguing a once thriving and desirable city. It has become a way for stake holders to denounce city governance as the dangerous origin for social chaos. Most notably, CNN’s “What Happened to San Francisco?” documentary special, which paints San Francisco as a failed city that is out of control and dangerous. In an article written by Jay Barmann, he points out how the fear bolstered by this commentary has targeted the “liberal agenda” and has constructed a perception of crime in San Francisco, that even has residents screaming foul. In a city traditionally known for its avant-garde policies and liberal population, residents are now questioning if these policies are actually working in addressing public safety. As residents are being bombarded with these messages of despair, it seems they are slowing wavering in their support for progressive governing. What may come of this, just might be a political shift that harms the well-being of the community more than the perceived doom on San Francisco’s streets
Mandating California Law Enforcement Officers to Wear Body-Worn Cameras
Full text linkMandating California law enforcement officers to wear body-worn cameras (BWC) will reduce complaints and lawsuits, and increase public trust and accountability. The “use of BWC reduces citizen complaints” ( Braga, A., 2019) and “reduces liability lawsuits.” (Koslick, W.M., 2019) Usage of BWC will build trust and legitimacy.”(Elliott, J., 2015 & Pyo, S., 2021) Moreover, using BWC is synonymous with accountability. (Koen, B., 2021) The Sacramento Sheriff’s Office is a mid-sized law enforcement agency in Sacramento, California. This mixed method research (MMR) study investigated how using BWC can reduce complaints and lawsuits and increase public trust and accountability. Data was collected from 79 Sacramento residents. (n=74 quantitative; n=5 qualitative) The analyzed data of Pearson correlations between the core themes compositions processes showed that all items were positively related and significant. As per the inputs, processes, and outputs, using BWC will benefit law enforcement agencies in California
Negative Effects Associated with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in San Diego, CA
Full text linkADUs are gaining much popularity but have caused many issues for homeowners who would like to maintain a single-family residential neighborhood. “The new zoning policy is destroying our neighborhoods. Increasing density comes with limitations on the “carrying capacity” of the land. Existing zoning policies that allow housing at any cost are not the solution” (Berta, 2021, para.4). The research is intended to inform the local government of the current issues associated with ADUs and be a tool in the making of new policies. Primary data was collected through mixed methods (MMR) with the participation of key informants and San Diego County residents. Secondary data was collected and analyzed to further support the research. The literature review was conducted on the subtopics 1) vehicle congestion for parking and traffic 2) population density exceeds infrastructure 3) safety hazards in case of an emergency, peer review on each subtopic will enhance the study to support each. The research is impactful because it will identify some of the issues associated with ADUs while providing a blueprint of other ideas that can be taken for further action to ease the issues San Diego County is facing