LEADERSHIP UPDATE
Colleagues,
America’s cities, towns and villages are reeling from the financial impact of the pandemic while continuing to expend significant resources to combat ongoing cases of COVID-19, recover from natural disasters and provide essentials services to their residents. We are deeply disappointed to see that the President stopped further negotiations on a package that would have delivered critical aid to communities across the country. Abandoning our communities in this time of need will have a profound impact on the safety, health and economic security of all Americans.
I’m continually inspired by your dedication as local leaders during such difficult times. I know you’re frustrated that negotiations for the federal COVID-19 relief package have been halted by the president. I am too. It would be easy to throw in the towel and assume no federal aid package will ever be passed – that moving Congress to act might be more than we can expect. But as local leaders, we can never give up the fight. This is too important.
Some good news! NLC’s 2020 City Summit Early Bird pricing deadline has been extended to October 9, REGISTER NOW to save 25%. We’ve announced two of our keynote speakers: Van Jones, Political Contributor, CNN and Dr. Richard Besser, President and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the former acting director of the Centers for Disease Control. Together at City Summit, we will learn how to move America’s cities, towns and villages forward in a COVID-19 world.
Sending you strength,
Joe Buscaino
President,
National League of Cities
President Pro Tempore, Los Angeles City Council
RESOURCES
UPCOMING EVENTS
Webinar | How Equitable Fines and Fees Strengthens Financial Security For Families
Tuesday, October 20 | 1:00 PM ET Join NLC and Mayor Melvin Carter of the City of Saint Paul, MN for an engaging virtual presentation and discussion on key lessons learned from the CAFFE initiative and hear from local leaders about why reforming these crucial systems, through an equitable lens, can build financial security for all residents. Register now.
Virtual Convening | National Housing, Hazards, and Health Municipal Convening
Tuesday, October 20 | 12:45 PM ET In partnership with the U.S. Department Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes, NLC will host a virtual convening of local leaders, partner organizations and national experts to exchange key learnings and ideas on how best to address today’s most pressing housing issues to advance the most promising policies and practices for all communities. Register here.
OPPORTUNITIES
Cities and Health Systems: A New Community of Practice
In partnership with the Center to Advance Community Health and Equity at the Public Health Institute, NLC has created a new learning community for up to 12 cities to receive in-depth assistance focused on fostering alignment and collaboration between cities and health systems. In the wake of COVID-19, the aim of this effort is to ensure robust city and health system partnerships to improve health outcomes and advance equity. You can learn more and download the application to join here. Deadline to apply has been extended to October 23, 2020.
Apply Today: Cities of Opportunity Action Cohort
Local officials can seize the moment to change power structures, policies and systems that have blocked opportunities for marginalized communities over generations. NLC is helping local leaders address holistic, interconnected factors that affect life expectancy and help build resilient futures for all residents. Learn more and access the application to join this new cohort here.
NLC Member Survey: How Can NLC Better Serve Your Municipality?
In this rapidly changing environment, the National League of Cities is looking to its membership to help guide its direction. NLC is partnering with McKinley Associates to hear from NLC members to lead this research effort. Take just 15 minutes to complete this NLC member survey. Complete survey here.
BEST PRACTICES
The Importance of Voter Engagement During Racial Uprisings and A Global Pandemic Municipalities are on the front lines of American democracy. Every city leader can commit to two steps to address disenfranchisement in our current voting system to ensure that 100% of voters have a safe and accessible opportunity to cast a ballot in every election, regardless of a global pandemic. Read More.
Three Ways COVID-19 Impacts Millennials Differently Than Boomers
We know that COVID-19 mortality rates rise with age. But although the pandemic has huge implications for residents of all ages, there is much less news about generational differences in emotional, physical, and economic wellbeing. Read More.
IN THE NEWS
Fed’s Powell Says U.S. Faces ‘Tragic’ Risks From Doing Too Little to Support Economy
The Wall Street Journal – October 6, 2020
Pandemic-related budget cuts leave travelers with rough roads, outdated airports and fewer transit options
The Washington Post – October 3, 2020
Stressed U.S. Cities See Slim Shot at Covid Relief After Shutout
Investing.com – October 1, 2020