WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new episode of the CitiesSpeak podcast from the National League of Cities (NLC) features Mayor Bianca Motley Broom of College Park, Ga. and president of the Georgia Municipal Association, in conversation with NLC about proposed changes to federal grants.
In the episode hosted by Michael Wallace, NLC’s legislative director of Housing, Community and Economic Development, the two examine proposed changes to the U.S. Office of Management and Budget’s Uniform Guidance, which governs federal grants and other forms of federal financial assistance.
Communities across the country rely on federal funding for infrastructure, housing, public safety and economic development projects; Mayor Motley Broom discusses how the proposed changes could affect local governments’ ability to plan, budget and deliver services. Drawing on her experience leading College Park — a city of approximately 15,000 residents located just outside the Atlanta metropolitan area — and representing municipalities across Georgia, she shares why certainty, flexibility and strong federal-local partnerships are essential for communities of all sizes.
Highlights from the Conversation
On why local leaders are concerned about shifting federal priorities:
“It was heartbreaking to learn that we were not gonna get that grant. It was really going to be the thing that allowed us to kick start just so much. It was a worthy project that our residents on the South Side should have. But the priority shifted, and so the money flew.” — Mayor Bianca Motley Broom (College Park, Ga.)
On the role of local government:
“So much of the work that we do, it doesn’t matter if there’s an R or a D in front of it, people just want their problems solved. The local level is where stuff gets done. That’s what I love. It’s such a privilege.” — Mayor Bianca Motley Broom (College Park, Ga.)
On why local leaders should engage in the federal rulemaking process:
“If we’re not in the weeds, who else is going to be advocating for us? … We should also be frank with our feedback and how it will impact our communities and therefore jeopardize our ability to serve our residents. That’s what we’re here for. We are here for advocacy for the people who have elected us.” — Mayor Bianca Motley Broom (College Park, Ga.)
The CitiesSpeak podcast features conversations with leaders and policy experts on the biggest issues facing America’s cities, towns and villages.
Listen to the full conversation, also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.
CitiesSpeak Podcast: Dissecting Proposed Changes to Federal Assistance with Mayor Bianca Motley Broom
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