Published on October 07, 2026
The City of Emeryville received the 2026 Helen Putnam Award for Excellence in Economic Development Through the Arts for the Rotten City Cultural District at the League of California Cities Annual Conference.
This recognition highlights Emeryville’s leadership in using arts and culture to advance economic development, strengthen community identity, and support placemaking. At the conference, the City also hosted a booth showcasing the Rotten City Cultural District, where representatives from numerous cities stopped by to learn about Emeryville’s work and explore how similar programs could benefit their own communities.
Community Development Director Chad Smalley and Mayor Kaur participated in the Open General Session on September 23, alongside representatives from the City of Calabasas, who were also recognized and accepted an award.
The League of California Cities Helen Putnam Award team attended the Tuesday, October 6, City Council meeting to formally present the award to the Council and the Emeryville community.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPnJgjH3AI8