Municipal Service reviews were added to LAFCOs mandate with the passage of
the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg (CKH) Local Government
Reorganization Act of 2000 (Government Code ยงยง 56000 et seq). A
service review is a comprehensive study designed to better inform LAFCO, local
agencies, and the community about the provision of municipal services. Service
reviews attempt to capture and analyze information about the governance
structures and efficiencies of service providers and to identify opportunities
for greater coordination and cooperation between providers. The service review
is a prerequisite to a Sphere of Influence
determination and may also lead a LAFCO to take other actions under its
authority.
Upon completing the service reviews, the Commission must make determinations
on each of the following issues:
- Growth and population projections for the affected area.
- Present and planned capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public
services, including infrastructure needs or deficiencies.
- Financial ablility of agencies to provide services.
- Status of, and opportunities for, shared facilities.
- Accountability for community service needs, including governmental
structure and operational efficiencies.
- Any other matter related to effective or efficient service delivery, as
required by commission policy.