Dear CALBO Friends and Colleagues,

We are living history as it is being made. What we are experiencing now in the time of COVID-19 is unlike anything we, as building safety professionals or CALBO as an organization, have been through. From the initial fears brought on by a disease we still do not fully understand, to the unprecedented government response that we all play a role in, the work we are doing today is unlike anything done by those that came before us. Yes, we have had to adjust our lives and workplaces, but we push on. Bright spots and silver linings do exist. These times bring an opportunity to embrace positive innovations and CALBO will make the most of those silver linings as we did when holding our first virtual Annual Business Meeting in April. 

I cannot say what the next few months hold, but I can tell you that CALBO is here working for you, and supporting you, in confronting the insecurity that stems from the safety concerns we all hold, the fiscal deficits our agencies face, and the uncertainty about what is to come. CALBO will continue to push forward, continue to adapt where necessary, and continue to provide its members the backing we all need right now. Whether it is our advocacy efforts at state agencies and in the State Capitol; providing the training our teams need both to be efficient in their work and to keep certifications in place; or keeping building officials across California and the world connected to each other, CALBO will keep working hard to be there for you. 

Through digital efforts like the CALBO Listserve and the virtual realm of teleconferencing we have come to know, we at CALBO look forward to continuing to work hard for you and to serve you. Though it was sad, but necessary, to cancel a great opportunity to gather for training, networking, and camaraderie that we had planned in Indian Wells, I am confident that we will be able to resume serving you in-person again in the near future. Your CALBO Board and staff are staying engaged on a constant basis to evaluate what modifications may be needed to ensure that we continue to assist members, while balancing the health and safety needs of future event attendees, students, and industry partners. 

I want to close with my sincerest wishes that you, your families, and your co-workers stay healthy and safe. With a little bit of good fortune, I hope to see many of you at our revamped conference in Carlsbad, July 12-15. In the meantime, do not hesitate to reach out to me, your CALBO Board of Directors, or CALBO staff, if we can be of help. 

Sincerely,

Shane G. Diller, M.P.A
Assistant Director, Development Services
City of Elk Grove