Theoretically for training and exchange of ideas...to find a more effective way of doing things. In the case of CA, given that they consider themselves to be on the cutting edge of...well...everything, I can't think of a good reason other than free vacations.
They go on "junkets" to places like Vegas, Miami, etc., to attend "conferences" in order to become "better employees" - while buying junk for the city from vendors that pay for the trips.
I heard this on Dr Gorkas pod cast the other day, I didn’t think this was real . https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.bu...op-patrol-employees-make-184000-a-year-2018-8
This, plus the amount of travel in the economic development realm is significant. Some city and local government agencies are quite active in trying to recruit or poach businesses.