October CML Board meeting first step in establishing legislative agenda

On Oct. 16, the CML Board met virtually for the primary purpose of reviewing recommendations from the CML Policy Committee on member proposals and positions on legislation or policy (see related article on page 4). The Board had an in-depth discussion on several items, particularly around member proposals related to law enforcement in the aftermath of the 2020 legislative session. Following the robust discussion, the Board approved the Policy Committee recommendations and established initial steps in CML’s 2021 legislative agenda. The remainder of the agenda will be set when the Board meets in December and reviews additional recommendations from the Policy Committee.

After a detailed discussion at the September meeting on Board President Bob Widner’s initiative for an equity and diversity focus during his term, staff presented the Board with a proposed ″CML Statement on Equity and Diversity,″ which was discussed and approved with minor edits (see related article on page 3). In addition to adopting the statement, the Board affirmed that a subcommittee of Board members will work with staff on ideas to ensure the CML Strategic Plan and future training content and publications incorporate equity and diversity content when appropriate.

Finally, the Board approved endorsements of CML members applying for leadership positions with National League of Cities (NLC) at the upcoming City Summit. CML endorsed Boulder Council Member Junie Joseph for the NLC Board. The Board also endorsed City Councilor John Fogle, City of Loveland, for Vice Chair of the Information Technology and Communications (ITC) Committee; Mayor Pro Tem Jessica Sandgren, City of Thornton and CML Executive Board member, for Vice Chair of the Community and Economic Development Committee; Council Member Marlo Alston, City of Centennial, for Vice Chair of the First Tier Suburbs Council; Council Member Joyce Downing, City of Northglenn, for Vice Chair of the Small Cities Council; and Council Member Junie Joseph, City of Boulder, for membership on the Race, Equity and Leadership (REAL) Council. The CML Board’s final meeting of 2020 will occur on Dec. 11.