California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence

Hollister Uses Solar Technology to Save Money and Educate Workforce

The city took an innovative tack in dealing with unpredictable electricity rates and used a public-private partnership to train workers for the green energy industry.

Gonzales Grows Green: An Innovative Economic Program

Gonzales offers an excellent model of an economic development program that focuses on sustainability and builds trust and understanding.

La Mesa Gives Seniors a Lift

The Rides4Neighbors program provides a variety of flexible transportation options for eligible senior residents.

Hayward Uses Murals to Fight Blight

Hayward’s Mural Art Program offers an outstanding example of a local effort that has helped reduce crime, build public-private partnerships, enhance community pride and save taxpayers’ money.

Cathedral City Takes a Smart Approach to Water

A grant program helps homeowners eliminate their thirsty landscaping and use a drought-tolerant xeriscape approach instead.