WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a press conference held during the National League of Cities’ (NLC) Congressional City Conference, NLC officers, alongside other local leaders, addressed critical issues impacting local governments. In a call for strong local-federal partnership, Congressional City Conference (CCC) brought together more than 3,000 elected and appointed city leaders to focus on the federal policy issues that matter most to local governments. Among the issues discussed at the press conference were the impact of a disruption in federal funding on local governments, disaster relief and FEMA policies, public safety, and the appropriations bill.
“Local governments want to have a reliable partnership with the federal government so we can know when we can stretch our investments to meet pressing needs – like the housing supply crisis. Across the country, local leaders are working diligently and consistently to address the housing crisis in communities – large and small.” – Steve Patterson, NLC President; Mayor, Athens, OH
“Local leaders are proactive in declaring local emergencies, communicating with our residents and navigating the chaos that undoubtedly arises with a disaster and rebuilding our communities afterwards. But we are also thinking about how we prepare better and work with our federal and state partners on pre-disaster mitigation. We are focused on building our community’s resilience. Because in the long run, this is how we save taxpayer dollars while saving lives and ensuring the public’s safety.” – Kevin Kramer, NLC First Vice President; Councilmember, Louisville, KY
“NLC wants to be clear: Investments in cities, towns and villages are investments in the future of this nation. Every federal dollar directed locally is a multiplier for our states and the country. That’s why we are also asking Congress not to touch tax exemptions on municipal bonds. These bonds fund critical services like fire stations, roads and sidewalks, water utilities and so much more.” – Van R. Johnson II, Second Vice President; Mayor, Savannah, GA
“From housing to public safety and infrastructure, local governments are already leading the way, innovating and adopting strategies that maximize their limited resources for their residents. That’s why on Wednesday, more than 1,000 local leaders will head to Capitol Hill to meet with their Members of Congress and tout the great work that is happening in cities, towns and villages across the country because of partnership with federal leaders.” – David Sander, Immediate Past President; Councilmember, Rancho Cordova, CA
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The National League of Cities (NLC) the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages, representing more than 200 million people. NLC works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy and drive innovative solutions. Stay connected with NLC on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.