WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National League of Cities (NLC) will bring more than 3,000 local leaders from across the country to Nashville, Tenn., for City Summit 2026, taking place Nov. 19-21.
In a recent episode of NLC’s CitiesSpeak Podcast, Mayor Freddie O’Connell shared his enthusiasm for hosting the nation’s premier gathering of local elected officials, municipal staff and city leaders. As the 10th mayor of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Mayor O’Connell discussed Nashville’s commitment to innovation, community building and creating opportunities for residents to thrive.
Mayor O’Connell on the Value of City Summit
“City Summit is an opportunity for local leaders to come together, exchange ideas and learn from one another as they tackle the most pressing challenges facing their communities. Nashville’s collaborative spirit and forward-looking approach make it an ideal host city for this important national conversation.”
Known worldwide as Music City, Nashville offers attendees a unique blend of culture, creativity, economic vitality and Southern hospitality. During City Summit, participants will engage in educational sessions, peer learning opportunities and discussions focused on strengthening cities, towns and villages across America.
Mayor O’Connell on Learning the Host City
“The National League of Cities experience is don’t confine yourself to the footprint of the Summit and the convention center or the hotels. The mobile workshops are so worthwhile. I feel like my own experience, even just last year, would have been so much more limited in Salt Lake City. I would not have understood nearly as much about the host city if I had not gotten out and experienced some of those mobile workshops… It was great to exchange ideas when you’re kind of out and can look at the context where the ideas matter most.
Mayor O’Connell emphasized Nashville’s ongoing efforts to invest in residents, support economic opportunity and foster strong neighborhoods, themes that align closely with the work of local governments nationwide. Through City Summit, attendees will have the opportunity to explore innovative ideas, share successful strategies and build connections that help communities succeed.
On Exploring Nashville Through Mobile Workshops
“It’s great to exchange ideas when you’re kind of out and can look at the context where the ideas matter most. So definitely take advantage of those.”
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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.
