On Tuesday, Mayor Van R. Johnson, II proclaimed May “National Cities, Towns, and Villages Month” in recognition of the importance of local government service. 

The proclamation is part of a national effort to uplift municipal governments led by the National League of Cities (NLC), a nonpartisan organization comprised of city, town, and village leaders focused on improving the quality of life for their current and future residents. 

As the proclamation states, “local governments are the bedrock of American democracy, providing 336 million residents with the most accountable, responsive, inclusive, ethical, and transparent government in the world.” The proclamation goes on to note, “from the nation’s smallest villages to its largest cities, America’s local governments have been essential in transforming the United States of America in to the greatest, most influential nation in world history.”

“As Georgia’s first City, we recognize the importance and significance of local governments and the collective, multiplicative impact of governments when they work together, research together, lobby together and make America better together,” Mayor Johnson said. “Congratulations to the National Leave of Cities and we look forward to continuing the great work being done.”   

National Cities, Towns, and Villages Month is part of the year-long centennial celebration of the National League of Cities, which was founded in 1924. Today, NLC provides local leaders resources to help govern and advocates on behalf of the nation’s cities, towns, and villages in Washington, DC. Savannah is a member of the National League of Cities.

“NLC’s historic 100^th anniversary is a chance to reflect on the contributions local governments have made, look ahead to the next 100 years, and thank the mayors, city councilmembers, and staff who have dedicated themselves to leading our communities,” said NLC CEO and Executive Director Clarence Anthony. “Stepping up to serve your community is a sacrifice, and oftentimes a thankless one. So let us honor our local public servants.”