President's Review

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

"It is my hope that all of you will take advantage of the League’s services and use them to keep up to date on funding opportunities, legislative initiatives and so much more."

Thank You For Allowing Me To Serve

As I wrap up my time as president of MML, I am so appreciative of what this opportunity has afforded me. It would be impossible to cover everything I have learned over the past year in just one column, but working closely with the MML Board of Directors and MML staff has allowed me to understand the depth of resources available to member cities more fully. I’m humbled by their dedication to continual improvement.

This role has also given me the opportunity to engage in fantastic conversations with fellow officials and learn how they are taking care of their communities. Together we have worked on ways to support legislative initiatives involving financial statements and the removal of burdensome fines, the care of property that is unsafe or abandoned, the closure of utility usage and billing records for citizens and more.

I am so proud of the opportunity to help guide the launch of two new initiatives at your League – the MML Mentor Program and the Missouri City View podcast. These are each new options for members to learn from peers and current situations in local government. They are yet another way MML serves municipalities and deepens the pool of resources to help develop the knowledge of local officials and keep cities vibrant. Learn more at the League’s website, www.mocities.com, and search the Missouri City View podcast in your favorite app store.

During the past year, cities have seen more developments with the historic federal funding of the American Rescue Plan Act, and much-needed projects are in the works that will serve communities for years to come. Not all the projects are headline-grabbing and glamorous, such as long-needed water and wastewater improvements, but they are vital building blocks for safe and well-run communities. I appreciate how local officials and city employees are working to ensure all the support systems are in place for cities. Even when funding is tight, these individuals seek creative ways to accomplish what is needed. It is clear to see that when cities are supported, they can be counted upon to get the job done.

It is my hope that all of you will take advantage of the League’s services and use them to keep up to date on funding opportunities, legislative initiatives and so much more. MML provides a wealth of resources to handle questions of all sizes. When you take the initiative to access these resources, attend an event, ask your questions, and share what you have learned with others, it strengthens the voice of Missouri cities at the state and federal level, and is one of the best ways to serve your citizens.

This is your League. Make the most of it and thank you for allowing me to serve as your president this year.