I was traveling far too much in March. In March I attended the Rochester Day at the Capital, National League of Cities, Nation Bike Summit, and a Young Elected Officials Network Meeting. For the first time since 2008, by business suffered a losing month, so I really don’t like traveling that much. It is good to be home. I did meet a number of interesting people who inspired some new ideas. In between the events I got to spend some family time in the nations capital.
As always I am posting my expense reports as a sign of transparency that I started in 2009. Here is my travel policy again for those that missed it in the past. 1) Treat the dollars like my own, that’s why I stay in building that are under construction, the Super 8 in PHX, or in B&Bs with a shared bath. 2) I return about $13,000 annually in entitled benefits to the city of Rochester and always keep travel expenses to less than that. 3) I try new things, but hate wasting time because every time I travel, I lose business income.
I was excited to learn today that I was appointed to the National League of Cities Community and Economic Development (CED) Steering Committee. In 2011, I served on the policy committee, but the steering committee will allow me to provide more input into policies for doing community and economic development the right way. As always I will focus on sustainable mixed use, mixed income, high quality development.
This was recently pointed out by a friend and subscriber. The reason is I have been busy pandering to my newest special interest. This is our new daughter, Natalia Soledad. I plan to use this same excuse for not getting things done timely for the next 18 years. Mom and big sister are doing fine.
I received this invitation today, but unfortunately my commitments to the local community will prevent me from going. Still, a nice gesture. For the most part my interest in government starts and ends at the more local levels.
Your name has been submitted and accepted by The White House to attend the special briefing with Obama Administration Officials, followed by a reception hosted by President Barack Obama. Read the rest of this entry »
Since I am in Washington DC, I will not be at Beetles Wednesday, March 16th. However if you would like to chat just contact me via social media, email, or whatever other way you prefer.
Many of you know that I have been a long standing champion for continuing education. Now I will have a unique opportunity to learn from some of the best community and economic development folks in the nation. I just found out that I have been appointed to the National League of Cities’ Community and Economic Development Policy and Advocacy Committee (CED). This is a good fit given my interests in economic development, financial analytics, as well as my professional background. Knowledge learned in this position should benefit the citizens of Rochester.
Here is my offical quote:
“I am honored to have been selected for this national leadership position.This will provide my community access to some of the best community and economic development practices and professionals in the nation. I look forward to advocating for fiscally responsible community and economic development, learning from my peers, and sharing progressive policies that have worked in Rochester.Our continued commitment to education and renewal will help keep Rochester one of our nation’s most vibrant economies.”
