Reform Group Launches as “CAT”: Carson Accountability and Transparency

Carson Accountability and Transparency (CAT) is a non-profit organization formed to promote effective, honest, accountable local government practices. We are a volunteer group of Carson residents with decades of civic involvement, committed to making Carson a model of good government.

Transparency and accountability are the bedrock of any government. Given the challenges our city has faced in the past, and to ensure our residents have full faith and trust in their municipal government in the future, we look forward to working with the city to ensure Carson is operating with responsible, effective and collaborative processes.

The group has already been active in various city issues – and made a positive impact on transparency in the City.

CAT weighed in on the city trash hauling contract process, calling for greater transparency and citizen input. CAT Board Member Karen Avilla testified at a December city council hearing on the issue. The city did not heed these calls and is now faced with a lawsuit from its existing waste hauler.

In February, CAT Board member Sai Momoli invited technology firm OpenGov to the city’s Technology Commission.

OpenGov is a financial transparency tool that senior city leadership is now considering implementing to help residents understand the city’s spending and budget.

CAT has made repeated requests for public documents under the Public Records Act, retaining one of the state’s leading attorneys on open records to make the case. The organization has obtained records that have been denied for years to Carson residents.

Most importantly, CAT is comprised of Carson residents who care deeply about the future of the city, and have the experience and commitment to make an impact.