A NEW ERA FOR PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS TRANSFORMING SMART CITY TECHNOLOGY AND SUSTAINABILITY INFRASTRUCTURE

            WHEREAS, financial restrictions have forced many municipalities to focus on providing basic core services, limiting investments in technology and sustainability upgrades; and

            WHEREAS, the proliferation of  technology nevertheless is happening at the breakneck speed changing the landscape of cities much like electricity changed the physical landscape of cities around the U.S.; and

            WHEREAS, the speed of integration of new technologies is rapid for individuals and businesses but comparatively much slower for municipalities; and

            WHEREAS,  attracting private investment into public infrastructure is essential for job creation, economic development, and America’s long-term competiveness; and

            WHEREAS, innovation is key to being competitive in the global marketplace which is why cities must embrace new and innovative ideas and technology solutions; and

            WHEREAS, smart city public-private partnerships can identify, finance, and executive capital projects that will implement a range of smart city solutions such as networked LED smart lighting, digital way-finding kiosks, public wifi hot spots and empower cities to create new revenues while expanding quality of life for citizens; and

            NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that The United States Conference Mayors supports the development of transparent public-private partnerships to develop smart city infrastructure with accountability, revenue sharing, and social and environmental benefits inuring to the cities they serve.