Invitation-only convening focused on growth, governance, housing, innovation and community trust
HOUSTON — Legislative leaders from across the country gathered Aug. 12–15 for the 2026 Large City Council Presidents’ Convening, hosted by the National League of Cities (NLC). The convening gave leaders representing America’s largest cities an opportunity to exchange ideas, strengthen peer relationships and explore practical solutions to the complex challenges facing their communities.
Held under the theme “Leading Large Cities: Navigating Growth, Governance and Complexity,” the convening featured peer discussions and mobile learning experiences focused on housing, economic development, community revitalization, council governance, innovation, civic trust and civility.
“For nearly a decade, the Large City Council Presidents’ Convening has embodied the National League of Cities’ commitment to fostering collaboration among local leaders and equipping them with innovative solutions to address community challenges,” said Clarence E. Anthony, CEO and Executive Director of the National League of Cities. “Through coming together to share experiences, discuss common priorities and learn from one another, legislative leaders from America’s largest cities gain valuable insights that help them advance effective governance and deliver meaningful results for residents.”
Participants explored Houston-based approaches to neighborhood revitalization, housing stability, arts and culture, entrepreneurship and cross-sector collaboration at the Edison Cultural Arts Center and 419 Emancipation as part of the Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD. Leaders also toured the ION Innovation District to explore how a historic site was transformed into an innovation hub supporting entrepreneurship, workforce development and economic growth.
During working sessions hosted at Houston’s Off the Record, leaders had the opportunity to engage in a conversation with Houston Mayor John Whitmire on executive-legislative partnerships and the opportunities and challenges shaping the city’s future. The convening concluded with a tour of Houston’s Ismaili Center, with discussions centered around how local leaders and civic institutions can foster respectful dialogue, strengthen community trust and lead through challenging times.
“It was an honor to host legislative leaders from across the country in Houston for such a meaningful event aimed at strengthening local leadership,” said Martha Castex-Tatum, Mayor Pro Tem of Houston. “Every city brings unique experiences and perspectives to the table. By sharing what works and learning from one another, we leave better prepared to address the opportunities and challenges facing our own communities.”
Participating leaders represented Atlanta; Baltimore; Charlotte; Cleveland; Columbus; Detroit; Fort Worth; Houston; Los Angeles; Milwaukee; Nashville; Phoenix; San Antonio; Tucson; and Washington, D.C.
The Large City Council Presidents’ Convening is an invitation-only event, designed to help legislative leaders collaborate with peers, exchange innovative ideas and identify practical solutions that can be adapted to strengthen their communities.
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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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