By Virak Kchao
June 28, 2010

Senator Begich (AK) addressed the nation's mayors on jobs and energy at the Conference of Mayors Annual Meeting in Oklahoma City. The Senator stated that he would work diligently to secure funding from the energy block grant for cities and lead negotiations on a new jobs package. He urged mayors to continue being proactive with senators to work on these issues since involvement of mayors make a considerable impact on Congress.

Begich, a former mayor of Anchorage, reminded mayors that his active involvement at the Conference of Mayors and its advisory boards contributed significantly to his work now as a Senator. Begich applauded Conference of Mayors President Burnsville Mayor Elizabeth B. Kautz for representing cities well in Washington (DC). He said how Kautz's presence at Senate committee meetings reminded Senators the importance of cities to revitalizing the country. Begich praised mayors for actively working on major issues and suggested further mayoral involvement in the federal government to accomplish goals.

Begich stated that jobs are the top priority for Congress and hoped to deliver funds directly to cities for make immediate impacts. He understood that new jobs rely on the growth of small businesses in such areas as hospitality, restaurant, and hardware. More efforts were needed by the federal government to give incentives for small businesses to develop. Begich is advocating for even more resources to be allocated and increase loan amounts to promote small business growth.

The event of oil disaster in the Gulf Coast brought the energy issue to the forefronts in America. Begich was appalled at the fact that over 65 percent of oil is imported and the U.S. continues to depend on those countries to supply a growing demand for oil resources. He advocated gas energy as a great resource since it is domestic and a clean fuel.

Begich acknowledged that America needed a new comprehensive energy plan to move forward. The comprehensive plan should incorporate renewable energy, non-renewable energy, and conservation strategies. The Senator was dismayed how partisan views in Washington hindered the development of energy policy in the U.S. and should be put aside. He reminded attendees over 1,000 mayors have committed to the Climate Protection Agreement and the changing climate the country lives in must change now. He knew the importance of the energy block grant to helping cities as he stated, "The energy block grant needs to be a part of the equation."

Begich pledged to return to Congress to work on legislation to create new jobs and resolve the energy issue. He said that mayors helped Congress to concentrate on important issues. This was the time for mayors to push the jobs and energy agenda in Washington. Begich looks forward to continue working closely with the Conference of Mayors.