June 19, 2006

The Mayors Information Exchange Luncheon provided an opportunity for mayors to network with each other in small discussion groups on issues compiled from a survey conducted prior to the annual meeting in Las Vegas. Mayors were asked to submit best practices in their cities, along with local issues and problems that would promote discussion and the exchange of ideas and solutions at the luncheon roundtable session.

Issues submitted for discussion ranged from diversity to community relations, housing, community and economic development, transportation, law enforcement, energy and the environment, health care, technology and internet safety, education, workforce and jobs, disaster preparedness, parks and open spaces, and budget and finance.

In a discussion wrap-up session, mayors reported to the assembled group on a variety of issues they discussed. These included, among others, action plans for disasters; the need for educating students and parents on internet security; the impact of the growing number of uninsured on health care systems and their burden on many hospitals which reportedly have had to close as a result; a regional approach to transportation; youth and gang violence intervention; the rising cost of utilities creating the need for real-time meter monitoring for residents; developing a “green” environment in city governments; increasing awareness and influencing the attitude of high school students on traffic safety issues; the impact of photo enforcement on traffic safety; eminent domain; assuring quality education, increasing parental involvement, and monitoring safety procedures and after school activities when a city does not control its school district; affordable workforce housing; mortgage assistance programs for senior housing; and sustainable energy practices.

when a city does not control its school district; affordable workforce housing; mortgage assistance programs for senior housing; and sustainable energy practices.