General managers and emerging leaders from special districts across California gather at the General Manager Leadership Summit to engage in meaningful peer networking, gain fresh insights, and strengthen their leadership skills. This dynamic event features inspiring keynote speakers and expert-led breakout sessions covering governance best practices, legal updates, human resources, budgeting, operations, and more—all tailored to the unique challenges of district leadership. Attendees enjoy interactive networking opportunities throughout the summit, including receptions, meals, and collaborative discussions that foster lasting connections. You’ll return to your district energized and equipped with new strategies to elevate your board relationships, staff engagement, and organizational impact.
Attendee Pricing:
$890 Early Registration / $990 Regular Registration CSDA Member
$1,780 Early Registration / $1,980 Regular Registration Non-member
Early bird registration – Register on or before May 29, 2026
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), some with no budget limits.
Apply here
Eligible for SDRMA Credit Incentive Points.
As of 5/28/26, the CSDA room block at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach has very limited availability. You can continue to check availability via the link on the Attendee Information page in the event of cancellations.
Overflow Hotel
VEA Newport Beach | A Marriott Resort & Spa
900 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
$299 per room per night, plus tax and fees per day
Valet discounted parking, $35/vehicle/night
The room reservation cut-off is June 18, 2026; however, space is limited and may sell out before this date.
HOTEL ROOM RESERVATIONS: Room reservations in the CSDA room block start at the rate of $229 per room per night, plus tax and fees per day. The room reservation cut-off is June 5, 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.
Please be aware that there are 2 Hyatt Regency's in Newport Beach (Hyatt Regency Newport Beach and the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach West). The GM Summit is taking place at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach on Jamboree Road. Please make your hotel reservations and travel plans appropriately.
Please be cautious of unauthorized third-party agencies, known as “room pirates,” who might reach out to you offering discounted hotel accommodations. These unauthorized solicitors often misrepresent themselves as being associated with our event or hotel partners and may offer rooms that do not actually exist, leaving you without a valid reservation. Please book your room directly through the link provided that CSDA provides within 24 hours of registering. Also, avoid sharing your personal or payment information with unofficial agencies and report any suspicious contact to our team immediately.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellations must be in writing and received by CSDA no later than May 29, 2026. All cancellations received by this date will be refunded less a $100 processing fee. There will be no refunds for cancellations made after May 29, 2026. Substitutions to another attendee are possible but only for GM Leadership Summit (not transferable to another conference) and must be done in writing no later than June 17, 2026. Please submit any cancellation notice or substitution request to [email protected] or fax to 916-520-2465.
Photography and Video Release:
By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that photographs, audio, and video recordings may be taken during the event. These materials may be used by California Special Districts Association (CSDA) for marketing, training, archival, or other organizational purposes, without compensation.