DC Work

Below is a snippet of part of the written report that I presented to the City Council tonight regarding recent trip representing West Valley City in Washington DC:



COUNCILMEMBER RUSHTON
COUNCIL REPORT
MARCH 22, 2011
NLC CONFERENCE & FEDERAL MEETINGS
SUMMARY
During March 11-17 I attended and represented West Valley City at the National League of Cities Conference and during visits to the Utah delegation in and federal agencies in Washington D.C. The conference major speakers and presenters included Michelle Obama and Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, among others. The conference at the Marriott Wardman began on Saturday and concluded Wednesday. Additionally, the steering committee I was appointed to was able to meet twice to discuss issues and set priorities for this year. The conference featured more than 30 workshops focused on economic development, safety, policy and programs. The Congressional visits with both staff and members of Congress were received well and West Valley City’s participation within the new political climate was explored earned praise for their partnerships and long term outlook. Meetings with Intergovernmental Affairs offices at the White House and Transportation Department were used to acquaint these offices with City Center development as the premier TOD in the region.

SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS WITH LOCAL INTEREST:

1. Conference focused on Infrastructure investment and preserving federal block grant programs.
2. Senator Hatch introduced new Grants Liaison position to help coordinate efforts with federal departments.
3. The Utah League of Cities and Towns arranged a dinner for Utah delegates. Additionally, a breakfast was held with members of Congress featuring a question and answer period.

AGENDA ITEMS:

a. Funding Requests included: West Valley City Center, Salt Lake Area Chief’s Alliance Forensic/DNA Lab, & West Valley City Cross Town Trail. Probed each member of Congress for willingness and methods for to support applications.
b. Preserve full funding for CDBG program at $4 billion to address community needs, including infrastructure, small business assistance, training, and employment.
c. Additional Secondary items included: Post Office, UTOPIA, gang prevention & violence against women programs.