Blog
The Hidden Risk in Mechanics’ Lien Releases
If you’re releasing a mechanics’ lien, check the language carefully—because some standard forms could kill your breach of contract claim or other claims. Many lien release templates include a statement that the underlying claim has been “paid and satisfied.” But...
It’s That Time of Year Again: 100 Days Left to Account for Developer Fees
There are 100 days left until the December 27, 2024, deadline for school districts to issue reportson their developer fee accounts pursuant to Government Code sections 66001 and 66006. Westrongly encourage our clients to take developer fee reporting seriously. Not...
One Page Summary to Protect Your Lien, Stop Payment, & Payment Bond Rights as a Contractor in California
This downloadable guide outlines the key steps for contractors in California to protect their lien, stop payment notice, and payment bond rights on construction projects. It details the process from serving preliminary notices to potential legal actions for both...
2025 Bid Threshold Increases for School Districts and Community College Districts
California’s bid thresholds for contracts awarded by school districts and community college districts have increased effective January 1, 2025. Non-Construction Contracts Under Public Contract Code Sections 20111(e) and 20651(d), school districts and community college...
School Impact Fees: Make Sure Building Permits Are Not Issued Without Payment Of Fees
Since the State Allocation Board increased the maximum school impact fees most California school districts are eligible to charge on residential and commercial construction in January, school districts across the state have acted to increase their school impact fees....
Join Tao Rossini at the 45th Annual CASH Conference in Sacramento
Tao Rossini attorneys will be sharing their expertise and experience at the 45th annual conference of the California Coalition for Adequate School Housing in Sacramento from February 27 through March 1, 2024. Join us to learn more about complex school construction...
Going Electric: School District Vehicle Mandates and the CARB Advanced Clean Fleet Regulation
What is the CARB Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation? The Advanced Clean Fleets (“ACF”) regulation, adopted in April 2023 by the California Air Resources Board (“CARB”), mandates a phased transition of medium- and heavy-duty vehicle fleets toward zero-emission...
Sheetz v. County of El Dorado: SCOTUS Sets Legal Standard for Assessing Constitutionality of Developer Fees
A recent decision from the United States Supreme Court may mark the beginning of a shift in how courts review development impact imposed by school districts. Sheetz v. County of El Dorado, a case originating in California, held that courts must apply a higher level...
State Allocation Board Increases Level I School Impact Fees, Decreases School Facility Program Grant Amounts
On January 24, 2024, the State Allocation Board (“SAB”) increased the maximum Level 1 school impact fees districts can assess on construction by almost eight percent. The maximum Level 1 school impact fees for residential construction were increased from $4.79 to...