As communities across the country prepare to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, local government leaders are being recognized for the essential role they play in strengthening democracy and improving residents’ daily lives.
Local Gov 250, a coalition of local government organizations, celebrated 250 individuals who were named Local Gov 250 Champions, including Clarence E. Anthony, CEO and Executive Director of NLC, for their contributions to local government and public service. The honor recognizes 250 public servants from across the country whose leadership, service and commitment have strengthened communities and advanced democracy at the local level.
“When I stepped into public service, I was motivated to lift up my community – that still drives me,” said Anthony. “Today, that community is 19,000 cities, towns and villages strong. At 250 years, America’s story is not one story – it’s the story of Tampa rebuilding its riverfront, of Detroit keeping its small businesses alive, of Philadelphia investing in public safety and economic development. It is written in local government offices, community centers and church basements across this country. I am honored to be recognized alongside the Local Gov Champions who write that story every single day.”
Local Gov 250 is made up of 15 organizations that work in or support local government. This week’s event honoring the Local Gov 250 Champions was hosted by the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA) in Philadelphia.
“250 Champions is an outstanding opportunity to recognize the important role of local government in implementing democracy every day,” said Wally Bobkiewicz, City Administrator of Issaquah, Wash.; selection committee member of Local Gov 250 and Chair of Local Gov 250. “A key element of the initiative has been to recognize all the professions that make local government work, from librarians to police officers, engineers to recreation leaders. Local Gov 250 has brought together all these professions to celebrate the impacts of our collective work.”
Anthony joins a diverse group of leaders representing communities of all sizes and regions. Honorees include elected officials, city managers, librarians, public works officials, parks and recreation leaders, public health officials and other local government professionals who help communities function every day. Several current and former NLC members and local leaders from across the country were also recognized as part of the Local Gov 250 initiative.
For Anthony, the recognition commemorates decades of public service dedicated to advancing local leadership and ensuring cities, towns and villages have a strong voice at the national level. Today, under Anthony’s leadership, NLC represents the voice of the nation’s 19,000 cities, towns and villages and advocates for policies that strengthen local governments and improve residents’ quality of life.
The 250 Champions were formally recognized during an event in Philadelphia on May 12. The recognition comes at a time when local governments are increasingly taking on expanded responsibilities because of the shifting federal landscape.
NLC congratulates all Local Gov Champions and celebrates the public servants who work every day to strengthen communities nationwide.
NLC Celebrates America250
America is celebrating 250 years since its declaration of independence. The National League of Cities is excited about the unique opportunity this milestone presents for local communities across the country. Learn more about ways you can find inspiration for your A250 activities, ideas for partnership and resources to support your journey.
America250 Celebration Toolkit: Showcasing America’s Cities, Towns & Villages
Join 600 Mayors to End Child Hunger
- CitiesSpeak Guest
Building Your City’s International Engagement Strategy
Healing the Ecosystem: What Cities Can Learn from the Birmingham Peace Summit
- CitiesSpeak Guest
National League of Cities Selected as Supporting Partner by America250
Sally AI Masterclass: National Municipal Cyber Resilience Program
- CyberAlliance