This past Saturday, I flew out to D.C. to join more than 3,000 local leaders from across the nation for the 58th annual Congressional City Conference (CCC). Below of the highlights from each day.
Sunday, March 26th
General Session
In a panel discussion moderated by Barbara Humpton, CEO and president of Siemens Corporation, with panelists Brent Parton, Acting Assistant Secretary, Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, and Mayor Woodards, the three explained the need for opportunities for workforce development for residents at all levels of education and training programs to enhance their skills. to support cities, NLC and DOL announced the launch of Good Jobs, Great Cities Academy, which will work with municipalities to accelerate their efforts to design, develop, and launch a workforce initiative over the course of the Academy. The initiative is now open for cities to apply. Up to 12 cities will be selected for the Good Jobs, Great Cities Academy.
- employee satisfaction in Goodyear (spoke to Victoria about adding it to strategic planning)
ARPA Implementation in Your Community: Sharing Successes and Lessons Learned (Small Cities and Rural Communities) had separate sessions for mid-size and large cities.
- neighbor labor,
- veteran's village w/ Freddie Mac & ________ in Tacoma
- broadband enterprise fund - Duluth Minnesota
Military Communities Council Meeting
I have the honor of continuing to serve on the Military Communities Council. Our first meeting of 2023 was a busy one as we had several different speakers present to us this time. First was the Senior Director of the US. Chamber of Commerce - Workforce Pathways, who presented on Hiring Our Heros. She said they will coordinate hiring events at the invitation of the installation command. She talked about a fellowship program for sponsors and transitioning service members. I followed up with Fort Huachuca Garrison Commander, Col. Ives, who said he believes they are already working with the transition assistance program on Fort Huachuca.
Our 2nd presentation was on the Military Appreciation Campaign by Clear Channel and USO. With May being Military Appreciation Month, they offer sample proclamations for cities and towns to use.
Our final speaker attended the meeting for the first time in her new role in the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of General Counsel. She recommended that our mayors "get to know State Veteran's Affairs Director," I will share this information with Mayor McCaa so his admin can reach out to set up a meeting.
There was also discussion on issues surrounding Veterans Service Organizations (VSO)s and how some claim to be accredited or not, and some are misleading and overcharging vets. There's also a huge problem with VSOs reportedly not filing VA claims in a timely manner which can and should be reported to General Counsel. Go to https://www.va.gov/ogc/accreditation.asp and click 'How to File a Complaint Regarding Representation' under the subheader 'Fact Sheets.' There is also a website to search for accredited VSOs in your area: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation
One of the last topics mentioned was veteran suicide. The new 988 number for mental health emergencies has a dedicated line for veterans when you press 1. I will be sharing this information with our community partners at the Warrior Healing Center, as well as other agencies in our area.
Attended the AZ League of Cities and Towns Reception and had an opportunity to network with colleagues from all across our state.
Monday, March 29th
General Session
Marcia Louise Fudge, the US Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) talked about additional funding for each state to help develop affordable housing.
What's Happening in the Courts? Understanding the Local Impact of Court Rulings
Recording notes,
Closing General Session
Tuesday, March 28th
To close out our trip, we spent a productive day on the Hill advocating for the City of Sierra Vista and Fort Huachuca. We met with our Congressman, Juan Ciscomani, Senator Kelly, and Senator Sinema. Special shout out to Laura Kaino, Vice Mayor of Goodyear, for always ensuring we take a picture together.