NLC COVID-19: Pandemic Response Update | Issue 32

LEADERSHIP UPDATE

Colleagues,

It was another busy week for NLC! Our recent local impact survey continues to make headlines. In addition to having 15+ members of the media on a press conference with all of our officers, a Senator tweeted our survey, the Speaker of the House shared the data in an email blast, nearly 600 people tweet out the Washington Post story, and it was mentioned in many top tier media stories. Clearly our message is resonating, and people are listening.

Additionally, this week NLC released its annual State of the Cities report. Right now, mayors are battling the twin challenges of a public health crisis precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic fallout that the novel coronavirus has wrought on our nation’s communities. This year, the analysis reveals that local leaders have been and will continue to provide residents and businesses with the tools, through targeted investments, not only to strengthen our economy, but also in ways that are more equitable, sustainable and forward-thinking.

I want to wish you a safe and happy holiday weekend. Because July 4 looks very different this year, let’s celebrate in ways that keep us and our communities safe. Abide by social distancing measures and wear your mask so that we can celebrate the ways we know best next year. I hope you take the weekend to rest, recharge, and come back next week ready to continue the Cities are Essential fight!

Sending you strength,

Joe Buscaino
President,
National League of Cities
President Pro Tempore, Los Angeles City Council

MAYORS ON THE FRONTLINES: MAYOR MICHAEL HANCOCK, DENVER, CO

Mayor Michael Hancock was particularly concerned about those experiencing homelessness during COVID-19. Hear in his own words how the city of Denver was able to protect its most vulnerable during this pandemic.

RESOURCES

OPPORTUNITIES

COVID-19 Food Access Municipal Policy Index
The Healthy Food Policy Project offers free resources to help local leaders improve healthy food access policies and programs at the city level.

NEW 2020 State of the Cities Report Available
What this year’s State of the Cities analysis reveals is that local leaders have been and will continue to provide residents and businesses with the tools, through targeted investments, not only to strengthen our economy but also in ways that are more equitable, sustainable and forward-thinking.

BEST PRACTICES

COVID Exacerbates Loss of Hope, Solution in Leading Causes of Life
As COVID-19 and the racism pandemics have interrupted life in so many ways, associated impacts are everywhere. From job loss and fear for loved ones working on the front lines, to parents stretched to juggle work and children at home, isolation is keeping friends and family apart. Read more.

Keeping Residents Informed & Connected During COVID-19: Sarasota, FL Story
Sarasota County’s  Office of Emergency Management—working with Age-Friendly Sarasota, other government agencies, social service providers, and other community partners—announced a comprehensive plan to provide adequate food for vulnerable populations. Read more.

NLC Releases the 2020 State of the Cities Report
When 2020 began, we could not have imagined what would have transpired in just a few short months. It has become clear that this year is unlike any other. It has also become clear that the role of city leaders is not only to establish and implement a vision for their community but also to be guided by the values of their community and lead in the most challenging moments. Read more.

IN THE NEWS

Coalition presses for state, local government aid
Politico – June 30, 2020

Police departments face one-two punch: Defund protests and coronavirus
NBC News – June 28, 2020

Virus ‘Dramatically’ Narrows Teenagers’ Summer Job Prospects
NY Times – June 26, 2020

Dystopia or utopia? The future of cities could go either way
The Guardian – June 25, 2020