A Code Enforcement Symposium scheduled for next later this month will bring together advocates and professionals from across the San Joaquin Valley to explore current code enforcement strategies being used throughout the Valley, and the resources available to support and grow its work. The Symposium will be held on Wednesday, July 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the University of the Pacific Vereschagin Alumni House in Stockton. It is co-hosted by the San Joaquin Valley Housing Collaborative, Office of Community and Economic Development at Fresno State, and the California Coalition for Rural Housing.

For registration information, call 559-278-0750.

Code enforcement is a crucial to the safety and quality of life for residents in all Valley communities; however, limited funding and capacity leave many communities vulnerable. All interested are encouraged to join the symposium to explore updates and hot topics, innovative resources for supporting code enforcement efforts, and successful models from around the Valley and across the state.

Curtis Wright, of Silver & Wright LLP, and Celida Miramontes of Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Inc. will begin the day by framing key issues and walking through real case studies. The day will continue with a panel highlighting successful code enforcement strategies, featuring the City of Madera, Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, and the City of Stockton. Presenters will provide overviews of their processes and key partnerships. The symposium will provide attendees with resources to support their efforts with presentations from USDA and others. Throughout the day participants will engage in interactive discussion and networking, giving attendees an opportunity to discuss code enforcement in their communities, considering their own needs, challenges, and opportunities.

The San Joaquin Valley Housing Collaborative is a regional 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that formed to address housing issues that affect low- to moderate-income households and communities in the Valley. Since 2009, the Collaborative has served as a forum to discuss regional housing challenges and strategies and is an invaluable tool for the region to organize as one voice when communicating with state and federal policymakers and regulatory agencies.