Friends of the Solana Beach Civic Series

The Friends of the Solana Beach Library (FOSBL) invites you to the second installment of "Civic Series" with "think Global, Act Local" on Tuesday, May 19th, at 5:30 PM.

The Civic Series is a three-part series to promote and increase knowledge and engagement through resources sharing and demystifying local government.

The meetings are sponsored by the Friends of the Solana Beach Library. Celia Brewer, retired public lawyer, and Melissa Fischel, community member and FOSBL Vice-President will lead guest panelists through discussions about our local agencies. They held a successful launch of the series in April, and are continuing with the next two events, through May and June.

Session Two: "Think Global, Act Local"

Date: May 19, 2026
Time: 5:30 - 6:45 PM
Location: Solana Beach Library, located at 157 Stevens Ave, Solana Beach CA 92075

Overview:
Most of us think cities and counties when we hear the term "local government". In fact, dozens of agencies regulate modern civic life. This session review the numerous public agencies with jurisdiction over our lives and highlights opportunities to get involved. Guest speaker Kim Thorner, General Manager of Olivenhain Municipal Water District will discuss special agencies and exciting issues facing the water sector.

Moderators: Celia Brewer, Kim Thorner

Session Three: "Show Me the Money"

Date: June 16, 2026
Time: 5:30 - 6:45 PM
Location: Solana Beach Library, located at 157 Stevens Ave, Solana Beach CA 92075

Overview: 
The word "budget" makes some people run for the hills or fall asleep. Come learn why budgets are the ultimate policy making tools s well as some basic concepts of public finance. We will tough on deregulation, privatization, and local versus state versus federal funding.

Moderators: Celia Brewer; Stephen Dickinson, Associate Superintendent of Business Services, SDUHSD.