By David Burns
February 11, 2008

Congressman Chaka Fattah (PA) spoke during the Thursday Plenary Session of the 76th Winter Meeting, highlighting the formation of the Congressional Urban Caucus and specifically the importance of metropolitan cities to the country as a whole.

“The Speaker has asked that we create a place, a home court advantage if you will for the U.S. Conference of Mayors and those interested in metropolitan interests across our country,” remarked the Congressman.

Fattah is Chair of the newly formed Congressional Urban Caucus, a group that will specifically focus on issues affecting larger cities of the United States during the second half of the 110th session. At present, there are 27 members of congress who are involved in this caucus. Fattah took a moment to push for increased participation by members of Congress who represent cities that are a part of the Conference of Mayors. Fattah believes that with greater participation and a strong commitment from both sides, local governments can only become stronger.

Fattah proclaimed, “For the first time in our lifetimes, we have a real partnership with the federal government, rather than see the federal government as an impediment to the work and challenges that you face.”

Fattah focused upon the importance that urban cities play in the 21st century, specifically in regards to tackling issues of global competitiveness and strengthening the federal investment in our nation’s cities. Fattah also mentioned the importance of the 10-Point Plan to the caucus, the plan articulating the biggest issues facing cities across the country.

“We sense there is a new direction approaching and it’s because of the hard work by the members of this organization and mayors all across the country,” said Fattah.

Fattah represents part of Philadelphia and has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1995. He is serving his seventh term.