December 20, 2006

Indianapolis Mayor Bart Peterson has been elected President of the National League of Cities (NLC) for 2007. Madison (AL) Council Member Cynthia McCollum was elected 1st Vice President and Northglenn (CO) Mayor Kathleen Novak was elected 2nd Vice President by the NLC membership during its annual Congress of Cities held in Reno (NV) December 5 to 9.

Peterson has been active nationally in efforts to underscore the important role cities plan in ensuring a vibrant quality of life for their citizens. He served as NLC first and second vice presidents, as well as on NLC’s Board of Directors. He has also chaired NLC’s Institute for Youth, Education and Families and was an Early Childhood Successes Champion.

“Most Americans live in cities, and we are the first responders, first providers and at the level of government closest to the people,” Peterson said. “As such, cities must be at the forefront of national and state policies. I look forward to being a strong voice for Indianapolis and other cities across our state and country.”

Peterson said he would focus is attention during the next hear on intensifying the advocacy for cities on Capitol Hill as well as emphasizing “close to home” issues that affect the ability of local officials to govern successfully. He wants to initiate a national dialogue on the connection between media violence and increasing incidents of anti'social or violent behavior in young people.

Clarksburg (WV) Council Member James C. Hunt, National League of Cities President in 2006, was named Municipal Leader of the Year by American City and County magazine.

Hunt was selected for his efforts through NLC to build more inclusive communities throughout cities and towns across the country. Hunt was honored at NLC’s Congress of Cities December 8 in Reno.

American City and County magazine presents the award annually in recognition of outstanding leadership in city government.