Study Meeting Report on Immigration & Customs Enforcement

This week at the City Council Study meeting agents from the federal Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) department spent roughly an hour briefing the Council and executive staff on the duties and priorities of the local office and answering questions. As a City this was beneficial as we were able to get a first hand account of some of the problems and procedures that we jointly face in the struggle against underground illegal activities. The agents were very candid about the challenges and frustrations that they face. This firsthand information will help West Valley City in developing effective strategies, procedures, and partnerships to assist the federal government with their charge of National Security. With this proactive step in reaching out to ICE, West Valley City continues to spread the message that criminals are not welcome here.

Congress of Cities

Last week I represented West Valley City by attending the National League of Cities Congress of Cities in San Antonio, Texas. The conference major speakers and presenters included a senior White House advisor and a Wall Street Economist among others. Gathering at the Convention Center was a great opportunity to meet with leaders from around the country and discuss vital issues. The Congress of Cities provides a wealth of information and I was exposed to numerous rejuvenating programs and efficient policies . It featured more than 30 workshops focused on economic development, safety, policy and programs. The seminars I attended this week included “Desperate Times Call for Desperate Measures: Building Community in Today's Economy” and “Doing More with Less: Getting Better Results for Children and Families” among others. I also participated in the First Tier Suburbs Committee where I have applied to be on their Steering Council. Additionally, I gathered materials on numerous best practice solutions and innovations and have shared them with executive staff for informational purposes in constructing a leaner budget and conducting quality investment. The conference kept me very busy, but I was able to take a few strolls down the famous San Antonio Riverwalk to muster ideas about the future potential of the Jordan River and West Valley City's River Marketplace.

Congressional Delegation Visit

This week a small West Valley delegation traveled to Washington D.C. to meet with our Congressional delegation. The purpose of these meetings was to provide updates on current projects and priorities and well express our needs in relation to ongoing legislation and appropriations. We gave our thanks to the various members for their support of issues in the past and all were pleased at the amount of progress and leadership that West Valley City has shown through this economic recession. We provided them with an update in regards to the Trax and the City Center Plaza, as well as progress on the Valley fair Mall, and 3500 South. Additionally, we expressed our desire (especially with our newest Congressman) to foster open lines of communication and a productive working relationships. We understand that the federal government is facing many challenges and as a City we want to be good partners for better government.