Assura Software, a New Zealand–based technology company and proud CALAFCO member, partnered with fellow CALAFCO member Kennedy Water Consulting in California to create the first workflow software purpose-built for LAFCO application processing. This secure, cloud-based platform runs in any modern web browser and includes a mobile app, giving LAFCO teams flexibility to work from anywhere.

Designed with a deep understanding of the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg (CKH) Act, the software adapts to the unique requirements of each application type. For example, a landowner-initiated proposal triggers different data requirements and workflows than an application initiated by a board of directors.

Because CKH includes numerous statutory timelines for notices and procedural steps, Assura automatically calculates these deadlines, builds them into the workflow, and proactively prompts staff as critical dates approach.

The result: greater accuracy, fewer missed deadlines, and a streamlined, compliant LAFCO process from start to finish.

Larger LAFCOs were quick to adopt the platform, with San Diego LAFCO officially going live on Assura this summer—and the impact has been significant.

Assistant Executive Officer Priscilla Mumpower shares that “the Assura team has assisted LAFCO staff in creating a tailored platform that streamlines proposal management and keeps the executive team updated on all ongoing proposals.” With Assura, every staff member can instantly view the real-time status of any proposal—from the office or their phone—without chasing analysts, notes, or paper checklists.

Executive Officer Keene Simonds adds that with teleworking now a normal part of LAFCO operations, technology plays a critical role in maintaining communication and continuity. “Among other benefits, Assura is San Diego LAFCO’s investment in bridging the communication gap to help ensure proposals are proceeding as intended.”

Beyond day-to-day workflow improvements, Assura automatically builds a comprehensive administrative record that documents every action, notification, and step in the LAFCO application process. While no LAFCO wants to face a procedural challenge, having a complete, system-generated record can save substantial time and legal cost if one arises.

The platform can also incorporate local county policies, procedures, and CKH-related requirements directly into the workflow. Because Assura is highly configurable, each LAFCO can tailor the system to support its unique processes, guidelines, and statutory obligations.

While Assura has proven transformative for larger LAFCOs, smaller LAFCOs with limited budgets faced challenges accessing this type of workflow software. This summer, CALAFCO Executive Director Rene LeRoche called on CALAFCO members to provide input on developing a shared Assura system tailored for smaller LAFCOs.

Thanks to Rene’s efforts, a dedicated workgroup of LAFCO leaders—including Shiva Frentzen (El Dorado LAFCO), Krystle Heaney (Shasta LAFCO), Mitzi Stites (San Joaquin LAFCO), JD Hightower (San Joaquin LAFCO), and Jeren Seibel (Marin LAFCO)—provided feedback on the application and suggested improvements to make it work for smaller agencies.

The group met several times to review the software’s capabilities and helped design a basic, cost-effective version that still delivers the benefits of a customized LAFCO installation. The shared system includes user-level account security, ensuring that each LAFCO’s data remains private, while offering standardized workflow processes that suit all participants.

Even for part-time LAFCO Executive Officers processing only a few applications, the Assura system guides users step by step, ensuring compliance with CKH regulations, accurate proposal management, and that no deadlines or procedures are missed.