CA ACR179

Proclaims the week of May 17-23, 2020, as Special Districts Week in California.

Recognizes that over 2,000 independent special districts provide essential services including water, sanitation, fire protection, electricity, parks, health care, flood protection, and transit to millions of Californians.

Notes the historical development of special districts starting with the Turlock Irrigation District in 1887 under the Wright Act, followed by mosquito abatement districts (1915), fire protection districts (1923), and recreation districts (1931).

Acknowledges that special districts are locally governed through elected or appointed boards and subject to transparency laws requiring open meetings, public records access, audits, and online financial disclosures.

Encourages all Californians to be involved in their communities and civically engaged with local government institutions.