City staff presented the City of Corona’s draft 2026 legislative platform and financial priorities and asked council for feedback. Dr. Amina Meares introduced the review and said the platform largely carries over 2025 sections with two additions.

Sharon Gonzales (CPPG) described the two additions: opposition to legislation that adds procedural requirements to the CEQA process and opposition to legislation promoting divestment that, in staff’s view, would conflict with fiduciary duties to manage risk (a concern raised in conversations with the police department and CalPERS). The financial priorities remained focused on community services, public safety, utilities and public works with staff‑recommended ranking carried over from 2025.

Council members discussed prioritization and asked staff to keep cost figures up to date before legislative meetings. The mayor and vice mayor self‑nominated as the city’s two delegates to participate in legislative advocacy meetings.

Why it matters: The platform frames the city’s advocacy priorities for the 2026 legislative year, including housing‑related items (Surplus Lands Act), remote meeting rules, truth in tolling, and Public Records Act reform efforts. Staff noted an $18 billion state fiscal outlook that may affect funding opportunities for local priorities.

Next steps: Staff will return with the platform for final adoption in January and follow through with delegate appointments and advocacy engagements.