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| At least it's not snow. |
The fly-in is a chance for municipal league leaders to learn from each other and strategize on their federal policy, as well as an opportunity for these leaders to check in with their congressional delegation — Dave and D. were able to meet with Sen. Tina Smith and Rep. Tom Emmer while they were on the ground in D.C.
You can view the League of Minnesota Cities’ federal priorities here: LMC Federal Issue Highlights and Fact Sheet (pdf)
Attendees also heard from top federal officials with the White House Intergovernmental Relations team including former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, senior advisor and infrastructure coordinator; and Gabe Amo, special assistant to the president and deputy director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.
The municipal league crew also heard speakers representing departments that work on important local government topics such as telecommunications, transportation, and environmental protection.
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| LMC Executive Director Dave Unmacht, Senator Tina Smith, and LMC Board President D. Love (left to right) |
Unmacht: The 2022 fly-in was designed to be intensive and interactive with federal agency officials, and it delivered. D.C. was cool and rainy during our visit, but we were well prepared; in Washington, unlike Minnesota, if the rain was snow, the city would have shut down. Thankfully it was only rain and we got our business completed.
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| LMC President D. Love, Rep. Tom Emmer, LMC Executive Director Dave Unmacht (left to right) |
Love: The fly-in was extremely valuable. We received information and heard about the vision and goals directly from the individuals working on the initiatives that have impacted our cities, and who have the potential to do so in the future.
City Spot: Can you share a highlight?
Unmacht: We heard repeatedly how important the voices of local government are in creating rules and establishing program guidelines. The League of Minnesota Cities has a voice at the table, and through the efforts of our city officials, League staff and board are well positioned to provide top federal officials with feedback and information about what is important to Minnesota cities.
City Spot: Were there any themes among the different leagues in regard to federal policy?
Love: Other league leaders are also focused on helping small cities access the resources available to them. In unison, we were able to share the importance of that message.
Unmacht: Yes, President D. Love expressed his strong support to help small cities navigate the maze of federal rules and encouraged agency and White House officials to keep cities of all size in mind when formulating programs. This point was echoed by many state leagues in attendance.
City Spot: What's next?
Love: Minnesota city officials, including a few League board members as well as League staff, will return to Washington D.C. in mid-March for the National League of Cities Congressional Conference. This event is more tailored toward city delegations, as opposed to the fly-in for municipal leagues. At this event we will continue meeting with our federal delegation to speak on behalf of all cities in our state.
Learn more about the League's federal relations