The California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED), representing over 800 public and private local economic development professionals, announces its strong opposition to AB 480. AB 480, known as the Surplus Land Act, was amended on March 14, 2023, and threatens economic development at the local level across the state of California. Given the current economic challenges facing many local and municipal agencies, the local government community should be aware that AB 480 has the potential to undermine projects on publicly-owned properties. Local government entities may also face an increase in penalties in terms of cost (including leases of surplus land), which directly threatens the ability to offer land at reduced rates and support community improvements.
CALED encourages all local leaders to familiarize themselves with the bill and join us in opposition. Please find sample opposition letters linked below for reference:
- Sample Opposition Letter (Direct Download)
- CALED’s Opposition Letter (PDF)
About CALED
The California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED) is California’s premier economic development association and one of the largest economic development associations in the nation. CALED’s 800+ members working hard to help businesses thrive so they can create economic opportunity for all and grow state and local economies. Since its creation in 1980, CALED has led the way in teaching economic developers, local elected officials and state representatives the value of economic development and how it is used to grow businesses, generate revenue to expand the local economy, and pay for the services that residents require. For more information, visit caled.org.