The Traffic and Mobility Commission Meeting held by the City of Carlsbad on October 6, 2025, focused on updates from the city council's legislative subcommittee, highlighting the city's advocacy efforts and legislative initiatives. Jason Haber, the city's intergovernmental affairs director, along with Council Member Acosta, provided insights into the workings of the legislative subcommittee and its impact on local governance.

The meeting began with an overview of the intergovernmental affairs program, which is guided by city council policies established in 2019. This program is designed to advocate for the city's interests at both state and federal levels. The legislative subcommittee, currently composed of Council Members Acosta and Burkholder, plays a crucial role in advising the city council on legislative proposals that could affect Carlsbad.

Haber explained the advocacy process, which involves monitoring thousands of legislative proposals each year. The city takes various positions on these proposals, including support, opposition, or neutral stances, based on a legislative platform that is reviewed annually. The city collaborates with professional organizations like the League of California Cities and engages with lobbyists to stay informed on relevant issues.

The meeting also highlighted the city’s recent legislative successes, including the sponsorship of several bills aimed at enhancing local governance. Notable achievements include legislation that provides greater flexibility for lifeguarding services and allows the city to file temporary restraining orders on behalf of employees facing harassment. The city has successfully navigated the complex legislative process, with all five sponsored bills passing into law.

Looking ahead, the city council continues to explore new legislative proposals and regulatory fixes to address local challenges. The legislative calendar for the state legislature was also discussed, outlining the timeline for bill introductions and the review process leading up to the governor's decision by October 12.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of legislative advocacy in shaping policies that directly impact the Carlsbad community, with a commitment to ongoing engagement and collaboration with local, state, and federal representatives.