The Latest News from TPA

City of Sunnyvale Earns Prohousing Designation

Big congratulations to TPA client, the City of Sunnyvale, on earning the coveted Prohousing Designation from Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Department of Housing & Community Development (HCD)!

With a score of 62 points – the highest in Santa Clara County and 7th highest in the state – Sunnyvale stands out as a leader in advancing local policies that support thoughtful, sustainable housing growth.

The City is one of just 65 jurisdictions statewide to receive this recognition, which will make Sunnyvale more competitive for state funding that supports affordable housing and infrastructure.

This designation highlights Sunnyvale’s ongoing efforts to reduce barriers to housing, promote affordability, and invest in community development, ensuring that residents of all income levels have the opportunity to live, work, and thrive.

TPA is proud to partner with the City as it pursues its mission to build community trust by delivering exceptional services!

California State Legislature and TPA Back in Session

The California State Legislature is back in session as of August 18 – and so is Team TPA!

With our Sacramento office located just steps from the Capitol, our advocates are on the ground and in the halls, working in full force to advance our clients’ top priorities during the final stretch of the legislative year. From bill negotiations to budget strategy, we’re proud to represent public agencies across California as we help shape policy and secure critical resources for communities statewide.

TPA Spotlight: Vice President & CEO Cori Takkinen

At TPA, our greatest strength is our people. Every day, our team of advocates and grant writers brings passion, creativity, and dedication to turning community visions into reality. In this first spotlight, hear from our Vice President & Chief Executive Officer, Cori Takkinen, as she shares why she loves being part of TPA and what inspires her to be a Champion for Better Communities:

“What makes working at Townsend Public Affairs so special? It’s not just the impactful work we do, it’s the people I get to do it with. Every day, I’m inspired by the incredible colleagues by my side and the passionate clients we serve. They bring purpose, energy, and joy to everything we do. They’re the reason I love what I do and why I love being part of TPA.”

City of Palm Desert Secures $120,800

We are thrilled to announce that TPA has successfully secured $120,800 in competitive funding in partnership with the City of Palm Desert through the California Highway Patrol‘s Cannabis Tax Fund grant program!

The grant will fund public education and outreach initiatives focused on preventing impaired driving, with the goal of improving community safety and reducing traffic-related incidents.

At TPA, we are proud to champion initiatives that improve and strengthen California communities. This latest achievement is another example of the commitment of the City to provide exemplary and sustainable services, amenities, and programs for the benefit of the community.

Once again, congratulations, Palm Desert, and thank you to everyone that was involved in this success!

TPA Sponsors California State Society Summer Picnic

TPA had a fantastic time at the 2025 California State Society Summer Picnic at Nationals Park! Our D.C. team enjoyed the opportunity to step onto the field and even take a few swings down the line!

Sponsored by PG&E, the event brought together Californians living and working in D.C., from policymakers to professionals, for an afternoon of great conversations, music, games, and networking.

Thank you, California State Society, for organizing such a great event!

Client Showcase: City of Santa Ana

TPA is honored to announce that the City of Santa Ana has asked our firm to continue to provide California Legislative Advocacy services to protect and promote its legislative priorities.

We look forward to our ongoing collaboration with the City to help transform its vision into a legacy.

Thank you, Santa Ana!