Savannah to Host National Meeting Focused on Stimulus Funding

The national dialogue over the use of federal stimulus dollars to turn around the economy comes to Savannah as the Hostess City plays host to the National League of Cities’ Community and Economic Development Steering Committee.

Dozens of elected officials will spend three days in Savannah during the event. The Committee will draft resolutions on areas such as job creation programs, affordable housing, and other economic development topics related to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Those positions will then be presented to the full NLC membership for inclusion in the League’s national platform.

Savannah Alderman Tony Thomas is a member of the Community and Economic Development Steering Committee, and was responsible for bringing the meeting to Savannah and planning much of the event.

During the three-day meeting, members will hear from Savannah officials first-hand about the City’s experience obtaining and implementing stimulus funds. Members will also tour several local innovative housing and community redevelopment projects, as well as hear presentations on the region’s research and development landscape.

The event will kick off with a welcoming reception at City Hall at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 7. Committee meetings will be held at the Inn at Ellis Square beginning at 9 a.m. Friday, May 8.