By Ed Somers
March 28, 2011

Conference President Burnsville Mayor Elizabeth B. Kautz spoke before the Board Meeting of the National League of Cities (NLC) on March 13 on the importance of saving the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

The Conference of Mayors has been working closely with NLC, led by Charlotte City Council Member James Mitchell, on stopping the 62.5 percent cut in CDBG that has been approved by the U.S. House of Representatives.

Kautz said, “This program is more than just funding for critical job creation and social service investments in our cities. It is the only flexible program that comes directly to cities.”

And, she stressed that, “If we do not have the clout to save this program, all of our advocacy efforts – on issues ranging from transportation investment to unfunded mandates – will be seriously hindered.”

Kautz shared with the NLC Board intelligence gathered during recent meetings held in the Senate on saving CDBG, as well as stopping other drastic cuts to transportation, water infrastructure and workforce training programs.

While there is clearly support for CDBG and other city priorities in the Senate, Kautz said, “Here is what scares me. The final deal on the continuing resolution is going to be worked out in a back room between the White House and just a few leaders from the House and Senate. We will not be in the room.” Kautz urged the city officials to maintain strong advocacy with all three branches of the federal government.