President's Review

by Joe Garritano, Council Member, Wildwood, and MML President

"Our League is an incredibly valuable asset for Missouri cities. As the MML purpose states, it is through unity and cooperation that we can accomplish so much."

A Strong Future

Stepping into the role of President of the Missouri Municipal League is an opportunity that I very much appreciate and I thank you for your support.

I want to thank our outgoing President Chuck Caverly for his steady leadership as Missouri cities began early stages of recovery from the pandemic, and as MML transitioned to new executive leadership. I also want to thank the MML Board and staff for all their work. I am grateful for the confidence and support they have given me over the past year as vice president and look forward to serving in this new role. I pledge to do everything I can to help Missouri cities stay vibrant and strong.

Our new team is very strong and I want to congratulate our new vice president, Moline Acres Mayor Michelle DeShay, and our new members that have joined the MML Board:

• Ken McClure, Mayor, Springfield • Jerry Grimmer, Council Member, Bridgeton • Mike Roemerman, Mayor, Ellisville • Erin Seele, City Attorney (Fenton, Ladue, Manchester) with Cunningham, Vogel and Rost.

During my time serving as an MML board member and vice president, I have learned from you about our cherished history, our priorities, our challenges, and your thoughts about the future vision for the League.

Our League is an incredibly valuable asset for Missouri cities. As the MML purpose states, it is through unity and cooperation that we can accomplish so much. As municipal leaders we are uniquely situated to bring meaningful change and progress for the cities and residents we represent. Our 87-year history is a testimony to the results the League has achieved.

One of the many ways we will strengthen cities is through relationships with state legislators. It is so crucial that we work together with state legislators as partners in governing. It will be up to us to show our representatives and senators that we can work collaboratively and help communities as they continue recovery from the pandemic and build a strong future together.

While it is crucial to establish a working relationship with your legislator when they are in your city, it is also important for you to visit them in Jefferson City. One ideal time to do that is during the MML Legislative Conference in February. Not only can you visit with your local state representative or senator at the Missouri State Capitol, but you will meet with hundreds of other local officials and employees to network, share ideas and learn about the top issues affecting cities statewide. Watch for more details on this event coming up Feb. 15-16, 2021.

Leveraging the talent that we bring together, we are going to continue to accelerate our progress, identify new opportunities to increase our strengths and add value, grow the engagement of our membership, cultivate and bolster the relationships in Jefferson City, and ensure MML remains strong for the future.

Thanks again all for your support. I am excited about our future and looking forward to getting to work. I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season.