Local boards are the cornerstone of local control, serving as the true voices of their communities. In special districts, governance is not just a responsibility, it’s the essential function that boards bring to the table. By transforming the wishes, needs, and priorities of the public into actionable policies, boards ensure that their districts are responsive and well-managed. The effectiveness and survival of special districts hinge on the strength of their governance, which is why every public official must prioritize it. CSDA’s Special District Leadership Academy supports this mission by offering curriculum-based training that strengthens the partnership between board members and general managers. Designed for both new and experienced board members, the Academy equips participants with the skills and insights needed to lead collaboratively and uphold vital governance responsibilities, laying the foundation for achieving shared goals within their districts.
Attendees will learn:
• How to work as a team
• The roles of the board and staff
• Attributes and characteristics of highly effective boards
• How culture, norms, values, and operating style influence the district
• Specific jobs the board must perform
• How individual values, skills, and knowledge help to shape how effective boards operate
• The importance of moving from “I” to “we” as the governance team
• The board’s role in setting direction for the district; the board’s role in finance and fiscal accountability
• And more!
NOTE: You must complete the first-time attendee track to qualify for SDLF Certificate in Special District Governance.
Detailed schedule can be found on the SDLA Website.
First-Time Attendee Schedule of Events (there is no returning track in San Luis Obispo)
Sunday 9/13/26
5:30 - 7:00 pm Registration and Networking Reception
Monday 9/14/26
8:30 am - 4:30 pm First-Time Attendee Sessions
5:30 - 7:30 pm Sip and Savor Evening Reception
Tuesday 9/15/26
8:30 am - 4:00 pm First-Time Attendee Sessions
Open Evening
Wednesday 9/16/26
8:30 am - 12:00 pm First-Time Attendee Sessions
12:00 pm Graduation Certificate Distribution
$825 Early Registration / $890 Regular Registration CSDA Member
$1,650 Early Registration / $1,780 Regular Registration Non-member
Early bird registration – Register on or before August 14, 2026
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Special Discounted Pricing!
Additional attendees from the same district:
$565 each Early Registration / $625 Regular Registration CSDA Member
$1,130 each Early Registration / $1,250 Regular Registration Non-member
Members: discounted pricing will automatically populate at checkout. Non-members: call to obtain discounted pricing for attendees 2, 3, 4, etc.
Interested in Exhibiting/Sponsoring? Check out all of the opportunities and register here.
Need help paying for this conference? Scholarship funds are available from the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF). Apply here
HOTEL ROOM RESERVATIONS: Room reservations in the CSDA room block start at the rate of $179 plus tax and fees per day. The room reservation cut-off is August 14, 2026; however, space is limited and may sell out before this date.
Information regarding hotel reservations and links to book in the CSDA room block will be emailed within 24 hours of registration.
Cancellations must be in writing and received by CSDA no later than August 14, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. All cancellations received by this date will be refunded less a $100 cancellation fee. There will be no refunds for cancellations made after August 14, 2026. Substitutions to another attendee are possible but only for SDLA Central (not transferable to another conference) and must be done in writing no later than September 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Please submit any cancellation notice or substitution requests to meganh@csda.net or fax to 916-520-2465.