NEWS RELEASE
February 11, 2015
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact Laura Holloway, communications specialist, Missouri Municipal League, at
573-635-9134 or Lholloway@mocities.com.
Gov. Nixon Recognizes Importance of Local Government
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri Gov. Jeremiah (Jay) Nixon spoke to nearly 300 Missouri municipal officials Wednesday at the 45th annual Missouri Municipal League Legislative Conference in Jefferson City, highlighting the impact local government has on the everyday lives of citizens across the state.
“I deeply believe in the reach and the touch of local government,” Gov. Nixon said, noting that his father served as a small-town mayor and his mother was president of a local school board. “I would argue that your effectiveness is more important now than ever.”
The annual legislative conference is an opportunity for municipal elected officials and leaders to learn the latest developments from the Missouri Senate and House, as well as discuss the issues most affecting cities across Missouri. More than 170 bills proposed in the 2015 Missouri Legislative session have a potential impact on cities.
Top legislative priorities for local officials include the preservation of local decision-making in each Missouri community. In recent years, legislative actions have resulted in the diminishing of local resources affecting local service delivery.
“Local voter-approved funding sources are used for vital services that citizens depend upon,” said MML Executive Director Dan Ross. “When proposed legislation chips away at local services, communities and citizens suffer.”
The Missouri Municipal League provides a united voice for municipalities across Missouri. Founded in 1934, MML now serves more than 670 municipalities with training, resources and legislative advocacy for local government success. Learn more at www.mocities.com.
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