Washington, D.C. — A new episode of the CitiesSpeak podcast from the National League of Cities (NLC) features Steve Patterson, Mayor of Athens, Ohio, and NLC’s Immediate Past President, sharing reflections from his year of leadership and outlining his vision for building ready and resilient cities, towns and villages. Recorded at NLC’s City Summit in Salt Lake City, Mayor Patterson’s remarks highlight the responsibility and opportunity local leaders have to guide their communities through uncertainty while preparing for the future.
Patterson’s presidential platform centered on three core objectives: uplifting small and underserved communities, cultivating the next generation of local leaders and collaborating on local solutions to global challenges. Drawing from real-world examples, he underscores how local governments are often the first responders to crises — and the steady force communities rely on in moments of disruption.
Highlights from the Conversation
On Local Leadership and Resilience:
“I’ve been in small towns, rural communities, and large cities — and everywhere I went, I saw resolve. Local leaders show up, even in the hardest moments, and that resolve is what makes our communities stronger.”
— Steve Patterson, Mayor of Athens, Ohio, and Immediate Past President, National League of Cities
On Civility and Preparing the Next Generation:
“We have a responsibility to set the example of leadership and civility. The next generation is watching how we respond, how we talk to one another and how we lead through tragedy and division.”
— Steve Patterson
On Collaboration in a Global Context:
“As local leaders, we are the first responders to global challenges — from housing affordability to extreme weather. Sharing knowledge and working together isn’t optional; it’s essential.”
— Steve Patterson
Listen to the full conversation, available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and YouTube.
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About CitiesSpeak
Each episode of NLC’s podcast, CitiesSpeak with Clarence Anthony, dives into a critical issue facing local leaders today, featuring conversations with elected leaders and policy experts from across the country. The podcast is a relaxed and entertaining resource for local policymakers looking for ideas and information to bring back to their communities. The podcast is hosted by NLC CEO and Executive Director Clarence Anthony, who previously served as mayor of South Bay, Florida for two decades.
New episodes of CitiesSpeak are available on all major podcasting platforms and on YouTube. If you have feedback for the show or ideas for future guests, email us at citiesspeakpodcast@nlc.org. Happy listening!
About National League of Cities
The National League of Cities (NLC) is the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages, representing more than 200 million people across the country. NLC works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy and drive innovative solutions. Stay connected with NLC on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.
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