By Ed Somers
June 29, 2009

As Conference President Miami Mayor Manny Diaz told his colleagues on June 12 during the afternoon plenary session, "We had planned on having the Obama Administration with us at this conference to discuss implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA)." "There are many issues that still need focus as much of the funding has not yet reached America's cities," Diaz added.

In place of the Administration, Diaz asked several mayors to make presentations on key areas of the stimulus bill.

Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson provided an update on issues related to the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper provided an update on issues related to the Department of Transportation.

And, Long Beach (CA) Mayor Bob Foster provided an update on issues related to the Energy Block Grant.

Conference staff took notes on the discussion, which will be used for future meetings with the Administration on ARRA implementation.