The US Conference of Mayors (USCOM) has released their "Metro Agenda" and it sends a clear signal to policymakers in Washington that the way to economic recovery is by investing in our communities.  The message is similar to the League's Prosperity Agenda. Governor Snyder has also made clear that economic development cannot happen without great communities.

The agenda stresses a need to preserve federal grant programs, such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, that direct funds directly to cities rather than funneling it through the states. is based on job creation.

Along with CDBG, the agenda calls for full federal funding for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant, sustainable transportation investments to reduce traffic, a reduction of unfunded federal mandates and preemptions, and other key federal investments.

These programs are those that have helped support job growth and economic development in communities across Michigan, urban, surburban and rural. With members of Congress ready to address the federal deficit, now is the time to make sure your federal representative knows of their importance to quality of life in our state.

Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail

 

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