Download: Quick, free guide to local government

The Quick List is a guide for anyone interested in the elements of local government [pdf] in California: a compilation of laws, Web sites and other information about cities and counties.

The Quick List is compiled by staff members of the Senate Local Government Committee under its longtime chief consultant, Peter Detwiler. It covers everything from "A"—AB8, the law that divvies up property taxes among local governments and schools—to "Z," everything you wanted to know about land zoning.

Thanks to the Sacramento Bee for the tip.