U.S. Conference of Mayors

U.S. Conference of Mayors is a non-partisan organization representing cities with populations of 30,000 or more. Founded during the Great Depression, it serves as a primary forum for mayors to collaborate on national urban policy. The organization advocates directly with the President of the United States, the United States Congress, and federal agencies like the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Its mission is to promote the development of effective national urban policy and strengthen federal-city relationships.

History

The organization was established in 1932 at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., amidst the economic crisis of the Great Depression. Early influential members included Fiorello La Guardia of New York City and Frank Murphy of Detroit, who sought a unified voice for cities seeking federal aid. It played a significant advisory role during the administration of Franklin D. Roosevelt, influencing New Deal programs like the Works Progress Administration. Throughout the 20th century, it addressed critical issues such as urban renewal, the Civil Rights Movement, and the challenges of the Cold War era. The leadership of figures like Richard J. Daley of Chicago and Henry Maier of Milwaukee helped solidify its political influence during the latter half of the century.

Organization and leadership

The governing structure is led by an elected President, Senior Vice President, and Vice President, who each serve one-year terms. Day-to-day operations are managed by a CEO and staff based in its Washington, D.C. headquarters. Policy work is conducted through numerous standing committees, such as those on Community Development, Transportation, and Environment. Prominent past presidents include Manuel Lujan Jr. of Albuquerque, Joseph P. Riley Jr. of Charleston, and Greg Fischer of Louisville. The current leadership works closely with the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.

Policy and advocacy

The organization develops policy resolutions on a wide array of issues critical to cities, which are voted on at its annual meeting. Key advocacy areas include securing direct federal funding through programs like the American Rescue Plan Act, infrastructure investment, climate action through initiatives like the Mayors Climate Protection Center, and public safety. It frequently testifies before congressional committees, such as the House Committee on Appropriations and the Senate Committee on Finance. The conference also files amicus briefs in significant Supreme Court cases affecting local authority, such as those pertaining to the Clean Air Act.

Annual meetings and events

The primary gathering is the Annual Meeting each June, held in major cities like Las Vegas, Miami Beach, and Indianapolis. This event features addresses by sitting Presidents, cabinet secretaries, and leaders from the United States Senate. The Winter Meeting, held each January in Washington, D.C., focuses on legislative strategy and meetings with members of Congress. Special summits are also convened, such as the Hunger and Homelessness and Water Councils. These meetings often attract media coverage from outlets like C-SPAN and The New York Times.

Member cities and participation

Membership includes over 1,400 cities from all fifty states, the District of Columbia, and territories like Puerto Rico. Participation is open to the chief elected official of any city with a population exceeding 30,000. Major member cities include Los Angeles, Houston, Phoenix, and Philadelphia. The conference maintains caucuses for specific demographics, including the African American and Hispanic caucuses. While dominated by large metropolitan areas, it also includes mayors from smaller cities such as Burlington and Santa Fe.

Impact and initiatives

The organization has been instrumental in shaping federal urban policy for decades, influencing legislation from the Housing Act of 1949 to the recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. It administers high-profile public service campaigns like the Mayors' National Day of Prayer and awards such as the City Livability Awards. Through its Mayors Business Council, it fosters partnerships with corporate leaders from companies like Microsoft and JPMorgan Chase. Its research arm publishes influential reports on the economy, gun violence, and opioid abuse that guide local and national policy decisions.