Log In
Enroll
Log In
Enroll

CLEO

California Local Elected Officials

Effective Governance begins
by empowering local leaders

Your Hub for Local Elected Officials

Log In
Enroll

What Is CLEO?

CLEO is a membership organization dedicated to equipping local elected officials across California’s cities, counties, school boards, and special districts with the tools to lead effectively.


We provide policy guidance, in-depth financial analysis, and specialized training through regional programs, online resources, and virtual and in-person events.


Members receive support through our vast network of experienced local elected officials who are committed to principled governance as well as CLEO’s knowledgeable and dedicated staff.

Current Courses

Local Elected Official Leadership Academy

A 16 session asynchronous masterclass in public policy reviewing everything from housing policy to the Brown Act. Developed in partnership with Pepperdine’s School of Public Policy for new and experienced local elected officials.

Enroll

CLEO Candidate Academy

An asynchronous masterclass for California local elected officials and candidates seeking to run strategic, effective and compliant campaigns for public office. Developed by a team of political consultants, experienced candidates and campaign staff.

Enroll

Access CLEO Anywhere

Web & Mobile

  • Training Courses
Comprehensive programs to enhance the knowledge and leadership skills of local elected officials.
  • Local & Virtual Events

Networking and learning opportunities for officials to connect and collaborate.

  • Updates & Relevant News

Keeping officials informed about key policy and news developments at the state and local level.

  • Networking & Community

Fostering a supportive community for officials to share experiences and seek advice.

MEMBER BENEFITS

Mentorship & Support Network: CLEO’s network of experienced local officials provides invaluable guidance and support to our members. Learn from peers who have faced similar challenges and can share proven solutions to get the job done.

Experienced Staff: Our seasoned team includes experienced elected officials and school board trustees as well as legislative and municipal finance experts who provide support, analysis and trainings for CLEO members.

CLEO Newsletter & Issue Alerts: Stay informed with CLEO’s newsletter and Issue Alerts, offering in-depth resources and analysis on the key challenges facing California elected officials.

Toolkits: Our library of CLEO Toolkits offer concise explanations of complex policy issues and how-to guides on a wide range of topics. Elected officials can also request policy analysis services designed to address their specific needs.

In-Person Trainings: Bootcamps on tactical skills essential to success in elected office, from campaign fundraising and public relations to municipal finance and contract negotiations.

Virtual Events: Gain valuable insights and hone strategic skills through CLEO’s virtual events featuring fellow elected officials, experts and attorneys.

Virtual Training Academies: Our virtual courses cover everything from first principles of governance and policy fundamentals to the nuts and bolts of running effective meetings and open government. Earn a CLEO Certificate of Completion when you finish the course.

  • Candidate Academy: Campaign fundamentals for anyone interested in running for public office

  • Leadership Academy: First principles, policy fundamentals and practical skills for new and veteran officials.a

Meet Your Instructors

Learn from Seasoned Experts in Public Policy and Governance

Sheriff Don Barnes

Working Alongside Law Enforcement

Former State Senator John Moorlach

Municipal Financing, Principles of Taxes, Fees & Bonds

Peggy Huang

Infrastructure, Housing, Public Works & Property Rights

Ryan Williams

Constitutional Governance & First Principles

Mari Barke
Director | CLEO

Mari Barke is the director of California Local Elected Officials (CLEO). Mari is an elected trustee to the Orange County Board of Education and served as board president from 2019-2020 and again from 2021-2022. She is a frequent public speaker on good governance and effective school board leadership. Mari and Lance Christensen regularly join forces to provide in-person trainings to potential candidates and local leaders throughout the state. Mari serves in leadership or advisory roles for several organizations, including SBAE (Schools Boards for Academic Excellence), CFER (Californians for Equal Rights Foundation), and Cypress Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and as Ambassador for the Los Alamitos Chamber of Commerce.

Unlock Exclusive Content from CLEO

Discover News and Toolkits Tailored for Elected Officials

Enroll to Access

Connect with CLEO on Social Media

Signup for CLEO Updates

* indicates required

CLEO is a project of the California Policy Center

© 2023 California Policy Center. All rights reserved.

Privacy Policy