city of Chula Vista

File #: 13-0230    Name: City Debt Policy
Type: Workshop Item Status: Passed
In control: City Council
On agenda: 1/9/2014 Final action: 1/14/2014
Title: RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ADOPTING A CITY DEBT POLICY
Attachments: 1. RESOLUTION.pdf, 2. ATTACHMENT 1 - Proposed City Debt Policy.pdf, 3. ATTACHMENT 2 - Debt Portfolio.pdf, 4. ATTACHMENT 3 - Disclosure Procedures.pdf
Related files: 14-0020
Title
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ADOPTING A CITY DEBT POLICY

Body
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Recommended Action
Council adopt the resolution.


Body
SUMMARY
In 2012 the City Council endorsed the City's Fiscal Recovery and Progress Plan report. Included in the report was a goal to review and update the City's Fiscal Policies. Adoption of the proposed resolution establishes a formal City Council approved debt policy which is a recommended best practice by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA).

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The Environmental Review Coordinator has reviewed the proposed activity for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and has determined that the proposed action is not a "Project" as defined under Section 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines because it will not result in a physical change to the environment; therefore, pursuant to Section 15060(c)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines the actions proposed are not subject to CEQA.

BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
Not Applicable.

DISCUSSION
As the City continues its efforts toward a sustainable budget that will minimize impacts to City services during future economic downturns, it is appropriate that a debt policy be established to provide guidance in the issuance and management of debt issued by the City. The GFOA recommends that state and local governments adopt comprehensive written debt management policies that are approved by the governing body to provide transparency and to ensure that there is a common understanding among elected officials and staff regarding the City's approach to debt financing.

Establishing a carefully considered policy improves the quality of decisions, articulates policy goals, provides guidelines for the structure of debt issuance, and demonstrates a commitment to long-term capital and financial planning. Adherence to a debt policy also indicates to rating agencies and the capital markets that th...

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