CitiesSpeak Podcast Bonus Episode: The Power of Strategic Partnerships
Listen as Irma Esparza Diggs, NLC’s Senior Executive for Federal Advocacy, reflects on the importance of creating partnerships, including how NLC’s federal advocacy team works with Congress and the administration to meet the needs of local governments as a potential federal government shutdown looms. Listen now »
Why Public Procurement Should Matter to Every Local Elected Official
When local governments spend public dollars, they do more than purchase goods and services — they build trust, create opportunity and shape the quality of life in their communities. At the heart of this spending is public procurement and the staff who make the procurement process work. Learn more »
Congress Must Act to Ensure FEMA Awards Fire and Security Grants Before September 30
Billions in FEMA and homeland security grants risk being lost if awards aren’t made by September 30. Firefighters, first responders and local governments are counting on these funds. Urge Congress to press FEMA to release awards now. Act by sending a letter to Congress. Learn more »
AI-Powered Education & Digital Equity for Municipalities
The landscape of municipal education — which encompasses local public schools, community learning programs and city-led educational initiatives — is undergoing a remarkable transformation, powered by artificial intelligence and cloud computing. Learn more »
Registration Open for Prevention Academy
Strong Cities Network, in partnership with NLC, will kick off its Prevention Academy on Sept. 30. Any interested local officials or elected local leader from any city in the United States are invited to register. Learn more »
Chandler, Arizona’s Best Practices Toward a Credit Rating Upgrade
Learn how Chandler became the first Arizona city to earn the top rating from all three major credit rating agencies. It came from decades of hard work through strategic planning and creation of strong financial policies along with an ongoing partnership between the legislative and financial divisions of city government. Learn more » | 
