BIRMINGHAM, AL- A big honor for Birmingham City Council President Johnathan Austin and Councilor Marcus Lundy. Both councilors have been appointed to the National League of Cities (NLC) University Communities Council. The University Communities Council is made up of local leaders from communities where a university is a dominant factor, and provides input and guidance to ensure that the needs and interests of municipal officials from university communities are included in NLC programs and services. NLC President Ralph Becker, mayor, Salt Lake City, Utah, announced the appointment.
“It is always an honor to represent our city on such a large platform such as NLC,” President Austin said. “This opportunity gives us the chance to meet and discuss relevant topics with our colleagues from other cities.” Councilor Lundy added, “I am looking forward to being able to share this opportunity with President Austin.” “I am confident that the insight gained through our time on this committee will prove valuable for the citizens of Birmingham.”
As a member of the council, President Austin and Councilor Lundy will play a role in informing NLC’s policy positions and advocating on behalf of America’s cities and towns before Congress, with the Administration and at home. Issues covered by the council include economic development, transportation and infrastructure, sustainability, noise and other nuisances, housing and neighborhood concerns and partnerships between the university and the city or town.
“The University Communities Council provides an important voice for the nation’s cities and towns where colleges and universities are central to the community,” said Clarence Anthony, CEO & Executive Director of the National League of Cities. “Service on this council helps to ensure that the challenges and opportunities faced by university communities are heard on a national level, from Capitol Hill to the White House.”
