Conference Schedule

All times listed in Eastern Standard Time.

Explore the full schedule for the 2024 NACo Legislative Conference. Use the links below to print the latest version of the schedule or to jump to a specific conference day.

Friday, Feb. 9

Badge Pick-up Open

7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
International Terrace West

Resource Center

7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level

NACo Store

7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level

Optional Pre-Conference Event: NACo-FEMA Just-In-Time Recovery Management Training

Optional Pre-Conference Event | Pre-registration required

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level

This session is limited to the first 75 attendees to RSVP through the conference registration process. There is no cost to participate, but please only register if you plan to attend so we can host as many attendees as possible.

As the frequency, severity and cost of natural disasters continues to increase, county officials must be prepared to respond to and recover from these events. To assist in this effort, NACo has partnered with FEMA to provide members with a day-long training. Known as the Just-in-Time Recovery Management Training, this session will highlight all the federal resources available to counties following a disaster and how to apply, information on how to best prepare your communities before a disaster strikes, and insights into leading through a disaster as a county official.

Speakers: FEMA Training

Rebecca Blanco

Rebecca Blanco

Assistant Director, Office of Disaster Recovery, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Jane Cage

Jane Cage

Volunteer Chairman, Citizens Advisory Recovery Team, Joplin, Mo.
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Stan Gimont

Senior Advisor for Community Recovery, Hagerty Consulting
Tim Gleason

Tim Gleason

City Manager, Bloomington, Ill.
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Linda Langston

Consultant, Langston Strategies Group; former NACo President
Tom Malmay

Tom Malmay

Local Recovery Manager, Ouachita Parish, La.
Flor

Flor Manzanare

Program Specialist, Procurement Disaster Assistance Team, Grant Programs Directorate, FEMA
Tracey Phillips

Tracey Phillips

Deputy Director of Recovery, Hagerty Consulting
Sherry Romero

Sherry Romero

Training Specialist, IA Cadre Management & Training Branch, Office of Response and Recovery, FEMA
Veanda Simmons

Veanda Simmons

Community Assistance Recovery Support Function, FEMA
Brian Willsey

Brian Willsey

Supervisory Emergency Management Specialist, Resilience, Mitigation Directorate, FEMA

CIO Technology Speed Sharing

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level

IT leaders attending the CIO Forum are invited to attend this one hour of networking. The interactive session will be moderated by the NACo County Technology Advisory Council and will include three twenty-minute table discussion on relevant and emerging technology. Come get to know your IT peers in county government. Breakfast will be provided.

CIO Forum

Pre-registration required

10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level

The theme for this year’s Legislative Conference CIO Forum is “Forward Together: Partnerships in Artificial Intelligence(AI) and Modernization.” Attendees will hear how the U.S. Office of Personnel Management is revolutionizing the workforce.   Additional sessions will cover the real value of AI, AI strategies and using AI to modernize service delivery. The afternoon will include an update from members of the NACo AI Exploratory Committee as well as an opportunity for attendees to engage in interactive discussion on the draft guidebook the AI Exploratory Committee is developing.

Speakers: CIO Forum

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Hon. Andy Brown

County Judge, Travis County, Texas
Guy Cavallo

Guy Cavallo

CIO and CAIO, U.S. Office of Personnel Management
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Barry Condrey

CIO, Chesterfield County, Va.
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Hon. Christopher Constance, MD

Commissioner, Charlotte County, Fla.
Jayson Dunn

Jayson Dunn

Executive Government Advisor, Amazon Web Services
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Sybil Gurney

Assistant Chief Information Officer, Alameda County, Calif.
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Michael Hojnicki

Chief of Technology and Administrative Services, New Castle County, Del.
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Toni Holmes

Executive Director, Department of Talent Management, Rockdale County, Ga.
 Bob Kennedy

Bob Kennedy

CIO, Lehigh County, Pa.
Dessie Calihou

Dessie Calihou

Director of Human Resources, Benefits, Wellness & Risk Manager, Dunn County, N.D.
 Julia Kocis

Julia Kocis

Director, Regional Intelligence and Investigation Center, Lehigh County, Pa.
Kenneth Lennon

Kenneth Lennon

Chief Digital Officer, Montgomery County, Md.
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Tom Lynch

Chief Information Officer, Cook County, Ill.
Mary Jo McGuire

Hon. Mary Jo McGuire

NACo President; Commissioner, Ramsey County, Minn.
 Danni Melton-Russell

Danni Melton-Russell

IT Policy Analyst, Montgomery County, Md.
 Matt Peters

Matt Peters

Chief Technology Officer, CAI
 Deiva Ramachandran

Deiva Ramachandran

Partner, Generative AI Automation Leader, Public Market, IBM Consulting
 Gail Roper

Gail Roper

CIO, Montgomery County, Md.
David Smith

David Smith

CIO, San Diego County, Calif.
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Shannon Smith

Chief of Staff, Information Technology Department, King County, Wash.
 Shayna Taqi

Shayna Taqi

Chief Change Officer, Montgomery County, Md.
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Ken Wolsey

Partner, Project Delivery Executive, IBM
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Hon. Gregg Weiss

Commissioner, Palm Beach County, Fla.

NACo Ambassadors Meeting

Invitation Only

4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Holmead, Lobby Level

CIO Forum Reception

5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level

CIO Forum attendees are invited to stay for the reception which will provide an atmosphere of networking and engagement with your peers and NACo corporate partners. There will also be an opportunity to engage in some interactive innovation games as well.

Saturday, Feb. 10

Badge Pick-up Open

7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
International Terrace West

Resource Center

7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level

NACo Store

7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level

First-Time Attendee Orientation

First-time attendees will receive an invitation to RSVP. Questions? Email membership@naco.org.

8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
International Ballroom Center, Concourse Level

Attending your first NACo conference? Please join NACo leadership to learn how to navigate the conference and participate in roundtable discussions with NACo Ambassadors (seasoned NACo members) to answer your questions and meet fellow first-time attendees. This session is open to county officials and staff attending their first NACo conference who will receive an invitation to RSVP, which are strongly encouraged.

Policy Coordinating Committee Meeting #1

8:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
Holmead, Lobby Level

About Policy Steering Committee Meetings

All policy steering committee meetings begin in the morning with informative panel-style discussions, followed by business of the committee, including consideration of interim policy resolutions. Policy steering committee meetings are open to all attendees, but only committee members may vote.

Agriculture and Rural Affairs Policy Steering Committee Meeting

9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level

Join the Agriculture & Rural Affairs Policy Steering Committee to learn about the diverse challenges facing rural America today, as well as key insights and innovations that can unlock the full potential of our rural communities. Attendees will hear from leaders from nationally renowned policy experts, stakeholders and federal partners. The committee will also participate in discussions on the 2024 Farm Bill and its impact on counties.

Speakers: Ag PSC

Balzano, Paul

Paul Balzano

Senior Professional Staff Member, U.S. House Committee on Agriculture
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Mikayla Bodey

Senior Professional Staff Member, U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Nutrition
 Brandon McBride

Brandon McBride

Executive Director, Appalachian Regional Commission
Hon. Leslie Meyer

Hon. Leslie Meyer

Commissioner, Audrain County, Mo.
Gloria Montaño Greene

Hon. Gloria Montaño Greene

Deputy Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation, U.S. Department of Agriculture
Tom Morris

Tom Morris

Associate Administrator for Rural Health Policy, Health Resources and Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Doson Nguyen

Doson Nguyen

Legislative Affairs Manager, National Rural Health Association
 Kennedy O'Dell

Kennedy O'Dell

Appropriations and Economic Development Director, Office of U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-Pa.)
Hon. Kevin Paap

Hon. Kevin Paap

Commissioner, Blue Earth County, Minn.
Pipa

Anthony Pipa

Senior Fellow, Center for Sustainable Development, Brookings Institution
Jacqueline Ponti-Lazaruk

Jacqueline Ponti-Lazaruk

Chief Innovation Officer, USDA Rural Development
 Eric Slee

Eric Slee

Senior Professional Staff, U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Nutrition
Christopher Stever

Christopher Stever

Branch Chief, Community Solutions, USDA Rural Development
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Ted Stiger

Chief External Affairs and Policy Officer, Rural Community Assistance Partnership
Dr. Steven Thomson

Dr. Steven Thomson

National Program Leader, Division of Agricultural Systems, USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Daniel Webster

Daniel Webster

Director, Innovation Center Strategic Engagement Division, USDA Rural Development
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Hon. Terry Wilbur

Chair, Agriculture and Rural Affairs Steering Committee

Community, Economic and Workforce Development Steering Committee Meeting

9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
International Ballroom West, Concourse Level

Federal partners, national experts and thought leaders will join the Community, Economic and Workforce Development Policy Steering Committee to discuss policy priorities and best practices in affordable housing, community revitalization, workforce development, and more.

Speakers: CEWD PSC

joaquinaltoro

Joaquin Altoro

Administrator, Rural Housing Service
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Craig Buerstatte

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Regional Affairs, U.S. Economic Development Administration
Mirelle Burgoyne

Mirelle Burgoyne

Deputy Executive Director, National Association of Development Organizations
Brian Cummings

Brian Cummings

Director, Economic and Workforce Development, Bucks County, Pa.
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Taylor Maag

Director of Workforce Development Policy, Progressive Policy Institute
 Atissa Ladjevardian

Atissa Ladjevardian

Acting Director of External and Government Affairs, CHIPS Office, National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S. Department of Commerce
Claudia Monterrosa

Claudia Monterrosa

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Grant Programs, Office of Community Planning and Development, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

Environment, Energy and Land Use Policy Steering Committee Meeting

9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Jefferson, Concourse Level

Federal partners and national policy experts will join the Environment, Energy and Land Use Policy Steering Committee to discuss committee priorities, including weather forecasting, water infrastructure financing, the “Waters of the U.S.” rule and energy legislation. 

Speakers: EELU PSC

Sarah Alexander

Sarah Alexander

Energy and Coastal Policy Advisor, Office of U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy
 Susan Bodine

Susan Bodine

Partner, Earth & Water Law
Ashley Campbell

Ashley Campbell

Counsel, Sher Edling LLP
Carlos Castillo

Carlos Castillo

Senior Vice President, Chief Development Officer, Tidal Basin
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Hon. Archie Chaisson, III

President, Lafourche Parish, La.
Erich Eiselt

Erich Eiselt

Deputy General Counsel and Director of Legal Advocacy, International Municipal Lawyers Association
Ken Graham

Ken Graham

Director, National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Nancy Gilbert

Nancy Gilbert

Economic Development Integrator, Economic Development Administration
Heather Kimball

Hon. Heather Kimball

Council Chair, Hawai‘i County, Hawai’i
 Jorianne Jerberg

Jorianne Jerberg

Director of the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act Program, Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Chris Moody

Chris Moody

Regulatory Technical Manager, American Water Works Association
 Steve Polacek

Steve Polacek

Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator, Water and Environmental Programs, Rural Utilities Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture

Finance, Pensions and Intergovernmental Affairs Policy Steering Committee Meeting

9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level

The Finance, Pensions and Intergovernmental Affairs Policy Steering Committee meeting will discuss a wide range of matters of importance to counties related to revenues and fiscal management, federal tax reform, pension and retirement benefits, municipal bonds, the intergovernmental partnership and the balance of federalism, elections, and more.

Speakers: FPIGA PSC

Richard Auxier

Richard Auxier

Principal Policy Associate, Tax Policy Center
Sarah Berlin

Sarah Berlin

Director of Civic Information, Center for Tech & Civic Life
 Joel Black

Joel Black

Chair, Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB)
 Christina Crue

Christina Crue

Principal, Deloitte
 David Eicenthal

David Eichenthal

Senior Policy Advisor, Policy Implementation and Delivery, U.S. Department of Treasury
Hon. Scott Erickson

Hon. Scott Erickson

County Clerk, Knox County, Ill.
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Hon. Ricky Hatch

Auditor/Clerk, Weber County, Utah
Hon. Curtis Koch

Hon. Curtis Koch

County Auditor, Davis County, Utah
Hon. Alexander Mirabella

Hon. Alexander Mirabella

Commissioner, Union County, N.J.
Ashish Sinha

Ashish Sinha

Chief of Staff/Senior Advisor, Election Infrastructure Initiative, Institute for Responsive Government
 Rachele Trigueros

Rachele Trigueros

Manager, Local and State Government Engagement, Visa

Health Policy Steering Committee Meeting

9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level

The Health Policy Steering Committee will be joined by federal partners and national experts to share solutions and best practices in key areas such as public health, behavioral and mental health, Medicaid, and long-term care.  

Speakers: Health PSC

Dr. Nadia Anderson

Dr. Nadia Anderson

Senior Vice President/Chief of Staff and Strategy, Silicon Valley Leadership Group
Lauren Battle

Lauren Battle

Health Policy Advisor, U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.)
Hon. Tarenia Carthan

Hon. Tarenia Carthan

Commissioner, Douglas County, Ga.
Dr. Richard Cho

Dr. Richard Cho

Senior Advisor for Housing and Services, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
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Eduardo Cisneros

Acting Principal Deputy Director, Intergovernmental and External Affairs, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Secretary
Marielle Kress

Marielle Kress

Senior Health Advisor, Senate Finance Committee
Kellie Kubena

Kellie Kubena

Rural Health Liaison, Rural Development Innovation Center, U.S. Department of Agriculture
Dr. Jessica Lee

Dr. Jessica Lee

Acting Chief Medical Officer, Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
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Hon. Greg Puckett

Commissioner, Mercer County, W.Va
Dr. Jennifer Roberts

Dr. Jennifer Roberts

Resilient Systems Mission Office Director, ARPA-H
Charlotte Kaye Rock

Charlotte Kaye Rock

Health Policy Advisor, Office of Ranking Member Mike Crapo, U.S. Senate Committee on Finance
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Hon. Helen Stone

Commissioner, Chatham County Ga.

Human Services and Education Policy Steering Committee Meeting

9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level

Join the Human Services and Education Policy Steering Committee to engage with federal agencies, congressional staff and national experts on shared priorities for stabilizing vulnerable county residents.

Speakers: Human Services PSC

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Joy Bivens

Deputy Administrator for Health and Human Services, Franklin County, Ohio
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Chris Coudriet

County Manager, New Hanover County, North Carolina
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Lisa Davis

Senior Vice President of Program and Advocacy, Share Our Strength
Debra Johnson

Debra Johnson

Deputy Assistant Secretary for External Affairs, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Rebecca Jones Gaston

Hon. Rebecca Jones Gaston

Commissioner, Administration on Children, Youth and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Lizzy Letter

Lizzy Letter

Majority Staff Director, U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
Cindy Long

Cindy Long

Administrator, Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture
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Rebecca Nathanson

Deputy Policy Director on Women, Children and Families, U.S. Senate Finance Committee
Marci Phillips

Marci Phillips

Director of Public Policy & Advocacy, National Council on Aging
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Liz Ryan

Administrator, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, U.S. Department of Justice
Ruth Ryder

Ruth Ryder

Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of Elementary and Secondary Education, U.S. Department of Education
Toyia Turner

Hon. Toyia Tucker

Councilor, Columbus-Muscogee County, Ga
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Cheryl Vincent

Majority Staff Director, U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, Subcommittee on Worker and Family Support

Justice and Public Safety Policy Steering Committee Meeting

9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Lincoln, Concourse Level

Congressional and federal agency partners will join the Justice and Public Safety Policy Steering Committee to discuss critical issues, including mental health in the criminal justice system, disaster mitigation and response, and the outlook for the committee's policy priorities in the 118th Congress. 

Speakers: JPS PSC

Hon. Alma Adams

Hon. Alma Adams

U.S. Representative (D–N.C.)
Bill Braniff

Bill Braniff

Director, Center for Prevention, Programs and Partnerships (CP3), DHS
Wesley Dawson

Wesley Dawson

Director, Office of Community Safety, Prince William County, Va.
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Hon. George Dunlap

Chairman of the Board, Mecklenburg County, N.C.
Ken Graham

Ken Graham

Director, National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Chief (Ret.) Dwight Henninger

Chief (Ret.) Dwight Henninger

Senior Law Enforcement Partnership Advisor, Office of the Director, ATF
Greg Jackson

Greg Jackson

Deputy Director, White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention
Yolanda Jackson

Yolanda Jackson

Federal Coordinating Officer, Field Leadership, FEMA
Sara Knizhnik

Hon. Sara Knizhnik

Board Member, Lake County, Ill.
Tierra Lemon

Tierra Lemon

Director, Gun Violence Prevention Initiative, Lake County, Ill.
Samantha Medlock

Samantha Medlock

Assistant Administrator, Office of Resilience Strategy, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Veanda Simmons

Veanda Simmons

Community Planner, Community Assistance Branch, Interagency Coordination Division, Office of Response and Recovery, FEMA
Amy Solomon

Hon. Amy Solomon

Assistant Attorney General, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice
Donald Stevens

Donald Stevens

Counsel, Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas), Senate Judiciary Committee
Rob Wilcox

Rob Wilcox

Deputy Director, White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention

Public Lands Policy Steering Committee Meeting

9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level

Join the Public Lands Policy Steering Committee to discuss issues related to federal landscape health, public access, resource development, payments to counties and support for gateway counties.

Speakers: Public Lands PSC

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Lucinda Andreani

Deputy County Manager, Coconino County, Ariz.
Tyson Bertone-Riggs

Tyson Bertone-Riggs

Coordinator, Federal Wildland Fire Commission
Hon. Kathy Chandler-Henry

Hon. Kathy Chandler-Henry

Commissioner, Eagle County, Colo.
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Hon. William Cox

Commissioner, Rich County, Utah
John Gale

John Gale

Program Executive for Intergovernmental & External Affairs, Bureau of Land Management
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Hon. Heidi Hall

Supervisor, Nevada County, Calif.
Troy Heithecker

Troy Heithecker

Associate Deputy Chief, U.S. Forest Service
Sigrid Johannes

Sigrid Johannes

Director, Public Lands Council
Brandon Miller

Brandon Miller

Professional Staff Member, U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources
Shimiki Ross

Shimiki Ross

National Housing Project Manager, U.S. Forest Service
Veanda Simmons

Veanda Simmons

Community Assistance Recovery Support Function, FEMA
Hon. Nina Waters

Hon. Nina Waters

Commissioner, Summit County, Colo.

Telecommunications and Technology Policy Steering Committee Meeting

9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level

The Telecommunications and Technology Policy Steering Committee will discuss county priorities, including the deployment of high-speed broadband to unserved and underserved areas, the rise of artificial intelligence, policy advocacy, and innovative practices on digital solutions for counties. 

Speakers: Telecommunications and Technology PSC

Hon. Jennifer Clark

Hon. Jennifer Clark

Board Member, Lake County, Ill.
Hon. Scott Erickson

Hon. Scott Erickson

County Clerk, Knox County, Ill.
Evan Feinman

Evan Feinman

Director of Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), U.S. Department of Commerce
 Michael Knapp

Michael Knapp

CEO & Co-Founder, SkillSmart
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Alejandro Roark

Chief, Consumer and Government Affairs Bureau, Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
 Ji Soo

Ji Soo

Digital Equity Advisor, Office of Educational Technology, U.S. Department of Education
 Wyatt Sterusky

Wyatt Sterusky

Director of State and Local Government, Guidehouse
 Rachele Trigueros

Rachele Trigueros

Manager, Local and State Government Engagement, Visa
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Hon. Gregg Weiss

Commissioner, Palm Beach County, Fla.
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Meredith Williams

Assistant Vice President, Executive Branch, AT&T

Transportation Policy Steering Committee Meeting

9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
International Ballroom East, Concourse Level

Join the Transportation Policy Steering Committee to hear from featured guest speakers and subject matter experts on transportation policies impactful to counties, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and funding for the Federal Aviation Administration.

Speakers: Transportation PSC

 Brian Bell

Brian Bell

Democratic Staff Director, Subcommittee on Aviation, U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
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Jeff Blue

County Engineer, Champaign County, Ill.
US House

Frances Bourne

Democratic Staff Director, Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials, U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
 Michael Gaynor

Michael Gaynor

Assistant Vice President, Field Operations, GORAIL
Eileen Higgins

Hon. Eileen Higgins

Commissioner, Miami-Dade County, Fla.; Chair, NACo Transportation Policy Steering Committee
 Ward McCarragher

Ward McCarragher

Vice President of Government Affairs and Advocacy, American Public Transportation Association
Jackie Schmitz

Jackie Schmitz

Democratic Staff Director, Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
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Charles Small

West Region Government Relations Officer and Vice President, HNTB
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Evan Wessel

Deputy Assistant Secretary, Intergovernmental Affairs, U.S. Department of Transportation

First-Time Attendee Policy Steering Committee 101 Session

12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Tenleytown, First Floor

National Association of Black County Officials (NABCO) Meeting

3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tenleytown, First Floor

Policy Coordinating Committee Meeting #2

5:00 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.
Holmead, Lobby Level

Alabama Delegates Caucus

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Shaw, First Floor

National Association of County Administrators (NACA) Executive Board Meeting

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Northwest, Lobby Level

NACA is led by a board of directors made up of nine volunteers of current school member institutions. They exist to serve the membership of the Association. The board works together as a team to strategize, plan, and oversee NACA's future health and viability. The NAC Executive Board Meeting serves as a forum to conduct business that advances NACA’s mission and vision.

NACo's NextGen Business Meeting

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level

Next Generation (NextGen) is a NACo Affinity group who is dedicated to recognizing and supporting new county officials and staff. The group provides educational and professional development opportunities. The Network also provides an outlet for new county officials to share their talents, ideas and expertise where they can assist one another in discovering their role within NACo.

Texas Reception

Invitation only

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Fairchild East, Terrace Level

North Carolina Caucus Meeting

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level

California Caucus Meeting

5:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level

New Mexico Delegate Reception

5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Jay, Lobby Level

PA Counties Caucus

Open to county attendees from Pennsylvania.

5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Fairchild West, Terrace Level

New York State Delegation Reception

5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Morgan, Lobby Level

Police Jury Association of Louisiana Hospitality Reception

5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Kalorama, Lobby Level

Colorado Caucus Meeting

5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Columbia 2, Terrace Level

Georgia Reception

Open to county attendees from Georgia.

5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Cabinet, Concourse Level

National Association of Hispanic County Officials (NAHCO) Meeting and Reception

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level

Women of NACo Legislative Meeting and Reception

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
International Ballroom East, Concourse Level

Women of NACo (WON) offers an opportunity for all women county officials to connect and further their participation in NACo. This reception is an open invitation to all women of NACo ( prospective members ) and current WON members to hear from Gwen Lachelt, Executive Director of Western Leaders Network and Appalachian Leaders Network, while networking with one another.

National Democratic County Officials Legislative Reception

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Georgetown West, Concourse Level

North Carolina Reception

6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

National Association of County Administrators (NACA) Reception

Hosted by MissionSquare Retirement

6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Rock Creek, First Floor

California Delegation Reception

6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Churchill Hotel – Kalorama Ballroom

Sunday, Feb. 11

Badge Pick-up Open

7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
International Terrace West

Resource Center

7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level

NACo Store

7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level

Non-Denominational Worship Service

7:00 a.m. – 7:45 a.m.
Kalorama, Lobby Level

NACo EDGE's HR Workforce Network

8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Kalorama, Lobby Level

Join the Workforce Network to learn about and become more engaged with AI and HR as well as the Student Debt Relief Program sponsored by SAVI. There are 4 million Americans with student debt -- many of them are in your workforce. Please join us for a short discussion where Tim Brown (NACo EDGE) will be interviewing student debt relief expert Tony Raffa (Savi) on key trends and legislative updates related to student debt relief. Tony and Tim will cover strategies many employers use to cut down key barriers in navigating the student debt relief maze. AI is changing the way we engage in business every day. County Administrators and HR and Benefit Professionals are critical in maximizing this resource as well as keeping workers engaged, productive and motivated. Tools like Generative AI allow these individuals to simplify their tasks and attain greater efficiency. Generative AI offers numerous benefits, such as automating repetitive duties, providing immediate assistance to workers, and improving the overall employee experience. Our guest presenters will be Tom Lynch, Cook County, IL Chief Information Officer, and Abbas Al Husseini, NACo’s Chief Technology Officer. Tom and Abbas will discuss strategies for using AI tools to effectively maximize resources to help attract and retain county employees.

Speakers: EDGE HR

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Tom Lynch

Chief Information Officer, Cook County, Ill.
Tony Raffa

Tony Raffa

Director of Strategy, Savi

Western Interstate Region (WIR) Board of Directors Meeting

8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level

The Western Interstate Region (WIR) Board of Directors will discuss economic development, resource management and regulatory issues impacting Western and public lands counties. 

Speakers: WIR

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Lucinda Andreani

Deputy County Manager, Coconino County, Ariz.
Tyson Bertone-Riggs

Tyson Bertone-Riggs

Coordinator, Federal Wildland Fire Commission
Zander Bonorris

Zander Bonorris

Director of Partnerships, Vibrant Planet
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Hon. William Cox

Commissioner, Rich County, Utah
Sara Moffat

Sara Moffat

Senior Advisor, Bureau of Land Management
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Jordan Smith

Executive Director, National Endangered Species Act Reform Coalition

GIS Subcommittee Meeting

8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level

The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Subcommittee of the Information Technology Standing Committee focuses on GIS education, national trends and proposed legislation that might affect GIS. Members are county elected officials, surveyors and planners, GIS directors and other county GIS leadership.  Attendees will hear from national organizations, partners and counties on relevant topics on current and future landscape of GIS, the impacts of artificial intelligence, autonomous equipment and systems, and modernization as it relates to geospatial.

Speakers: GIS

Ben Caruso

Ben Caruso

Practice Leader, Juniper Networks
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Hon. Kevin Boozel

Commissioner, Butler County, Pa.
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Patrick Bresnahan, PhD

Geographic Information Officer, Richland County, S.C.
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Hon. Reid Demman

Surveyor, Salt Lake County, Utah
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Richard Leadbeater

Global Manager: State/Provincial Government Industry Solutions and Government Trade Associations, Esri
Jason Livingood

Jason Livingood

Vice President, Technology Policy, Product & Standards, Comcast
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Elizabeth Lo

IT Director, Bedford County, Va.
Michael Palacios

Michael Palacios

IT Network Director, Fairfax County, Va.
Linda Thompson

Linda Thompson

Chief Diversity and Equity Officer, New Hanover County, N.C.
Hon. Kenton Ward

Hon. Kenton Ward

Surveyor, Hamilton County, Ind.

Immigration Reform Task Force (IRTF) Meeting

8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level

Join the Immigration Reform Task Force for a discussion with federal officials and national partners about pressing challenges and emerging policy solutions regarding the immigration system. 

Speakers: IRTF

Dr. Julia Gelatt

Dr. Julia Gelatt

Associate Director, U.S. Immigration Policy Program
Mark Koumans

Mark Koumans

Operations Support Deputy Executive Assistant Commissioner, CBP, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Margie McHugh

Margie McHugh

Director, National Center on Immigrant Integration Policy, Migration Policy Institute
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Hon. Eva Millona

Assistant Secretary for Partnership and Engagement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Stacey Street

Stacey Street

Director of Office of Grants Administration, FEMA, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Arts as a Blueprint Forward: Local Solutions for Community Prosperity

Hosted by the NACo Arts & Culture Commission

8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level

According to Americans for the Arts’ recent Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 national study, nonprofit arts and culture organizations generated $151.7 billion in economic activity, supported 2.6 million jobs and raised $29.1 billion in tax revenue in 2022. Hear from the report’s authors on how counties track local economic impacts from the arts and advocate for strategic use of funds. The session will explore examples of how local governments are investing in creative partnerships to enhance residents’ quality of life and expand access to opportunities for both artists and audiences. Attendees will also receive an update on federal policies and legislation that impact the local art community.

Speakers: Arts & Culture

 Randy Cohen

Randy Cohen

Vice President of Research, Americans for the Arts
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Jay Dick

Senior Director of State and Local Government Affairs, Americans for the Arts
Hon. Mary Hamann-Roland

Hon. Mary Hamann-Roland

Commissioner, Dakota County, Minn.
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Hon. Debbie Lieberman

Commissioner, Montgomery County, Ohio
 Aaron Myers

Aaron Myers

Executive Director, DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities

Resilient Counties Advisory Board Breakfast

Limited to Resilient County Advisory Board Members and invited guests, pre-registration required.

8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level

Since 2022, the private sector has announced $372 billion in clean energy investments. These investments are expected to result in 107 new utility-scale clean energy manufacturing facilities, 40,780 new jobs and $4.4 billion in savings for over 24 million customers served by utilities generating clean power. The U.S. Department of Energy requires that community benefit measures be attached to each new public-private installation. Join NACo’s Resilient Counties Advisory Board for a discussion on how county government can maximize the benefits and minimize the risks of clean energy investments for local communities. The discussion will encompass best practices aimed at ensuring the equitable distribution of jobs and fostering development in historically underinvested communities. Don't miss this opportunity to explore how clean energy initiatives can advance community prosperity.

Speakers: RCI

Kate Gordon

Kate Gordon

Visiting Scholar, UC Berkeley Haas School of Business and Former Senior Advisor to Secretary Jennifer Granholm at U.S. Department of Energy
Kristen Granier

Kristen Granier

Director of Federal Infrastructure Policy, Entergy Services
Heather Kimball

Hon. Heather Kimball

Council Chair, Hawai‘i County, Hawai’i

Credentials Committee Meeting

8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Boundary,Terrace Level

Large Urban County Caucus (LUCC) Business Meeting

9:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
International Ballroom East, Concourse Level

NACo's Large Urban County Caucus (LUCC) is the premier national forum for exchanging ideas and solutions that help urban counties address pressing issues. LUCC members will meet with federal officials and national leaders on policy issues for urban counties, centered around six priority areas for advancing innovative solutions:

  • Addressing the impacts of mental health & substance use on communities
  • Transportation/infrastructure & accessing BIL funding
  • Maternal and infant mortality
  • Housing accessibility & homelessness
  • Elections and voting rights
  • Health care access & equity

 

Speakers: LUCC

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Hon. Xavier Becerra

Secretary, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Hon. Adrianne Todman

Hon. Adrianne Todman

Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
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Hon. Kathryn Barger

Supervisor, Los Angeles County, Calif.
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Hon. David Crowley

County Executive, Milwaukee County, Wis.
Lipstein Fristedt

Andi Lipstein Fristedt

Deputy Director for Policy, Communications and Legislative Affairs, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
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Hon. Adrian Garcia

Commissioner, Harris County, Texas
Puig

Dr. Luisa Godinez-Puig

Equity Scholar & Senior Research Associate, Urban Institute
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Hon. Nicole Love Hendrickson

Commissioner, Gwinnet County, Ga.
Nicholas Merriam

Nicholas Merriam

Vice President of Programs and Operations, Housing Connector
Michael Signer

Michael Signer

North America Policy Director, Airbnb

The Art of Influence: Unlocking the Secrets of Message Craftsmanship

10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Holmead, Lobby Level

Just as you wouldn’t use a wrench to when you should use a hammer, it’s important to understand your county’s communication tools and how to best use them. This presentation will outline 10 tools counties should consider leveraging to develop and deploy successful communications.

Speakers: Art of Influence

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Jennifer Finch

Public Information Officer, Weld County, Colo.
Hon. Donnell Preskey

Donnell Preskey

Government and Public Affairs Specialist, North Dakota Association of Counties

ForwardTogether: Bridging Divides and Building Trust in Communities

10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level

In support of President Mary Jo McGuire’s ForwardTogether spotlight on bridging divisions and enhancing trust, Convergence Center for Policy Resolution, a leading organization bridging divides to solve seemingly intractable conflict, is creating a toolkit and series of trainings to help improve county leaders’ skills to address divisions and build bridges. In this  session, we will focus on reducing divides and promoting collaborative problem-solving. Explore innovative strategies to cultivate trust within county government and externally, and strengthen ties with community partners and residents.

Speakers: ForwardTogether

Mary Jo McGuire

Hon. Mary Jo McGuire

NACo President; Commissioner, Ramsey County, Minn.
Kit Chalberg

Kit Chalberg

Senior Director, Programs, Convergence
Mariah Levison

Mariah Levison

Interim CEO, Convergence

NACo EDGE: The Price is Right!

10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Lincoln East, Concourse Level

NACo EDGE offers value-added PEOPLE, PURCHASING and PERFORMANCE solutions that leverage the collective buying power of U.S. counties. Built 100 percent for county governments and advised by county leaders, NACo EDGE's Public Promise Insurance and Public Promise Procurement companies harness 3.5 million county employees and $3 trillion in aggregated spending power to deliver cost-effective solutions for counties, by counties. Valued partners ClearGov and three+one help counties bring transparency and efficiency to strategic planning, budgeting, and investing. Join us and talk with NACo EDGE specialists about solutions tailored to your county's needs.

Rural Action Caucus (RAC) Business Meeting

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
International Ballroom West, Concourse Level

NACo's Rural Action Caucus (RAC) is the premier national forum for exchanging ideas and solutions that help rural counties address pressing issues. Join this meeting to learn more from senior federal officials, thought leaders and industry partners who will discuss a range of issues important to America's rural counties.

Speakers: RAC

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Hon. Tom Vilsack

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture
 Desmond Brown

Desmond Brown

Principal Assistant Director, Office of Consumer Populations, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
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Hon. Tarryl Clark

Commissioner, Stearns County, Minn. and Chair, Telecommunications and Technology Steering Committee
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Courtney Dozier

Deputy Director, Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, National Telecommunications & Information Administration
 K. "Gandhi" Eswaramoorthy

K. "Gandhi" Eswaramoorthy

Senior Program Manager, Consumer Credit, Payments, and Deposits Markets, U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
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Hon. Tracey Johnson

Commissioner, Washington County, N.C., Immediate Past President, North Carolina Association of County Commissioners
 Kathleen Metzger

Kathleen Metzger

Deputy Director, Veterans Transportation Program, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Patricia Pudwill

Patricia Pudwill

Small State and Rural Advocate, FEMA Office of External Affairs - Intergovernmental Relations
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Hon. Vance Stuehrenberg

Subcommittee Vice Chair, NACo Transportation Committee Highway/Highway Safety Subcommittee; Commissioner, Blue Earth County, Minn.

IT Standing Committee Meeting

10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level

The Information Technology (IT) Standing Committee focuses on national initiatives such as dotGov, cyber security, broadband, autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence and include presentation from entities such as the FCC, CISA (Cyber and Infrastructure Security Agency), StateRamp, NASCIO (state CIOs). Membership includes county IT Leaders, elected officials and other county leaders that have an interest in the technology function and infrastructure. This meeting will focus on artificial intelligence, low-code/no-code, cyber insurance and systems modernization.

Speakers: IT Standing Committee

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Marci Andino

Senior Director, Election Infrastructure Information Sharing and Analysis Center
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Jennifer Bensi

Senior Strategic SLED Account Executive
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Hon. Terry Burroughs

Commissioner, Okeechobee County, Fla. and Vice Chair, Telecommunications and Technology Steering Committee
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John Matelski

Vice Chair, NACo Technology and Telecommunications Committee Chief Information Office, DeKalb County, Ga.
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Tim Oliver

Chief Information Officer, Horry County, S.C.
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John Regula

Chief Information Officer, Bucks County, Penn.
Justin Schools

Justin Schools

Assistant CIO, Horry County, S.C.
Juan Torres

Juan Torres

Chief Information Officer, Franklin County, Ohio
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Hon. Gregg Weiss

Commissioner, Palm Beach County, Fla.

National Association of Civil County Attorneys Meeting

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Northwest, Lobby Level

National Association of County Human Services Administrators (NACHSA)

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Columbia 2, Terrace Level

National Association of LGBT Leaders & Allies Meeting

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level

National Conference of Republican County Officials (NCRCO) Business Luncheon

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Fairchild, Terrace Level

National Democratic County Officials (NDCO) Business Luncheon

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Columbia 5&7, Terrace Level

National Organization of Black County Officials / National Association of Black County Officials Membership Meeting

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
International Ballroom Center, Concourse Level

Healthy Counties Advisory Board Lunch

Invitation only

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level

The Healthy Counties Advisory Board (HCAB) will explore how county leaders can address the social drivers of health and the underlying social needs of our residents to improve community health and well-being. A national expert will join a panel of county leaders to share proven approaches and strategies on data collection, surveying, and geospatial mapping, which can be useful in understanding the unique contexts of communities to address specific needs, customize interventions, and prepare for future challenges. This event is open to HCAB members.

Click here to download resources from our partners that will be featured during the session.

Speakers: Healthy Counties Advisory Board Lunch

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Richard Leadbeater

Global Manager: State/Provincial Government Industry Solutions and Government Trade Associations, Esri
Hon. Mary Alford

Hon. Mary Alford

Commissioner, Alachua County, Fla.
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Sharmane Anderson, J.D.

Deputy County Administrator, Clarendon County, S.C.
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Hon. Orlando Trainer

Supervisor, Oktibbeha County, Miss.

Membership Standing Committee Meeting

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Tenleytown, First Floor

The Membership Standing Committee advises and supports NACo’s membership retention and recruitment efforts while championing county engagement with NACo. 

National Council of County Association Executives (NCCAE) Business Meeting

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Shaw, First Floor

National Association of Native County Leaders & Allies (NANCLA) Luncheon

Invitation only

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Kalorama, Lobby Level

The NANCLA Luncheon serves as a platform for Native county leaders, stakeholders, and their allies to convene and discuss pertinent issues facing indigenous communities across the nation.

Commission on Mental Health and Wellbeing Table Top Luncheon

Commission members only

12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Rock Creek, First Floor

Veterans and Military Services Committee Meeting

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Holmead, Lobby Level

Join the Veterans and Military Services Committee for a discussion with federal officials and national partners about pressing challenges and emerging policy solutions for veterans, members of the military and their families.

Content warning: this meeting will include a discussion of Military Sexual Trauma, featuring survivors who will discuss their experiences of sexual assault.

Speakers: Veterans and Military Services

Danielle Applegate

Danielle Applegate

Board Chair, National Coalition of Homeless Veterans
Martin Caraway

Martin Caraway

Strategic Advisor and Veterans Service Officer Liaison, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Nichole Coleman

Nichole Coleman

Director of Veterans Affairs, Hannock County, Ohio; Immediate Past President of National Association of County Veteran Service Officers (NACVSO)
Jake Friedman

Jake Friedman

Senior Legislative Assistant, Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH-01)
Todd Leatherman

Todd Leatherman

Director, Center for Consumer Protection, National Association of Attorneys General
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Hon. Trista Martinson

Commissioner, Ramsey County, Minn.
 Daniel Mulatero

Daniel Mulatero

Partnership Manager, the National Council for Mental Health Wellbeing
Siobhan Norris

Siobhan Norris

Vice Chair, NACo Veterans and Military Services Committee; Division Director, Veterans Services, Wake County, N.C.
Robert Rader

Robert Rader

Sr. Client Development Manager, the National Council for Mental Health Wellbeing
Kayla Williams

Kayla Williams

Senior Policy Researcher, RAND Corporation

Global Connections for Your Local Economy: A Hands-On Training to Attract Foreign Investment

Hosted by the International Economic Development Task Force, this session is open to all conference attendees.

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level

Successful local economic development efforts are increasingly aimed at the global market. Learning how to attract foreign investment has become a key component of building an effective strategy to grow your county’s economy. In this hands-on training, economic development professionals and federal leaders will discuss practical, applicable strategies for how county leaders can better engage the world’s economy and international business leaders to bring investment to communities back home.

Speakers: IED Task Force

Tim Crouch

Tim Crouch

Chief Strategy Officer, Choose NJ
Guillermo Mazier

Guillermo Mazier

SVP Global Business, fDi Intelligence, Financial Times
Jasjit Singh

Jasjit Singh

Executive Director, SelectUSA, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce

Programs and Services Committee Meeting

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Fairchild, Terrace Level

The Programs and Services Standing Committee advises the NACo officers and the board of directors by preparing reports and recommendations about the need for and effectiveness of new or existing association member programs and services. Join this meeting to learn about current and upcoming NACo offerings and provide input on potential opportunities.

Gulf States, Counties and Parishes Caucus Meeting

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Lincoln East, Concourse Level

Congressional and federal agency partners will join the Gulf States Counties and Parishes Caucus to discuss pressing federal issues impacting Gulf Coast communities. Caucus members will also discuss legislative priorities and strategize for future GSCPC efforts. Caucus membership is open to all county and parish officials from Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. 

Speakers: Gulf States

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Hon. Christopher Constance, MD

Commissioner, Charlotte County, Fla.
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Stan Gimont

Senior Advisor for Community Recovery, Hagerty Consulting
Ken Graham

Ken Graham

Director, National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
 Erik Milito

Erik Milito

President, National Ocean Industries Association
Noah Patton

Noah Patton

Senior Policy Analyst - Disaster Recovery, National Low Income Housing Coalition
Eric Poole

Eric Poole

Director, Institute for County Government, Florida Association of Counties

Empowering Counties: Priorities for Federal Policy

2:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level

Experience a transformative workshop with keynote speaker Brad Fitch, focusing on effective engagement with lawmakers during congressional visits. Learn the art of crafting compelling arguments through negotiation and compromise, adaptable to all government levels. Gain insights into advocating for county priorities in Washington, D.C. and acquire tools to navigate policy challenges in state houses and communities.

Speakers: Empowering Counties

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Brad Fitch

President & CEO, Congressional Management Foundation

Federal Preemption of Local Decision-Making at the Supreme Court and Beyond

2:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level

Join legal and policy experts for a discussion of recent and forthcoming cases before the Supreme Court of the United States that have implications for local decision making and preemption of local authority. 

Speakers: Federal Preemption of Local Decisions

acquario

Stephen J. Acquario, Esq.

Executive Director, New York State Association of Counties
 Jennifer Henning

Jennifer Henning

Executive Director, County Counsels’ Association of California
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Amanda Karras

Executive Director / General Counsel
 Christian Menefee

Christian D. Menefee

County Attorney, Harris County, Texas

Earmarks & Grants 101: Accessing Federal Dollars to Support County Priorities

2:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level

Each year, the federal appropriations process provides counties with opportunities to access discretionary federal funding through Congressionally Directed Spending/Community Projects (also known as earmarks) and grant programs. As a result of these opportunities, hundreds of county governments have secured billions of dollars over the last three funding cycles. Join this session to gain a better understanding of the processes, and learn how your county can seize these opportunities to invest additional federal resources into our communities.

Speakers: Earmarks

Steve Taylor

Steve Taylor

Principal, Integer, LLC

Securing Direct Funding in Future Surface Transportation Legislation

2:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level

Counties own and operate more roads (44 percent) and bridges (38 percent) than any other level of government, yet receive no consistent federal transportation funding for these assets that serve many more than just our residents. Upon expiration of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2026, authorization for funding America's surface transportation systems will also end and provide a new opportunity for lawmakers to remedy this historical inequity. Join this workshop to learn more about potential paths forward for counties to better access federal investments in roads, bridges, transit systems and rail networks.  

Speakers: Securing Direct Funding

Eileen Higgins

Hon. Eileen Higgins

Commissioner, Miami-Dade County, Fla.; Chair, NACo Transportation Policy Steering Committee
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Kevan Stone

Executive Director, National Association of County Engineers

NACo Board of Directors Forum

3:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Jefferson & Lincoln West, Concourse Level

Speakers: Board Forum

David Allen

David Allen

Vice President & Chief Sustainability Officer, PepsiCo Foods North America
Dr. Donna Phillips

Dr. Donna Phillips

Vice President & Chief Program Officer, Center for Civic Education
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Hon. Tracy Stone-Manning

Director, U.S. Bureau of Land Management

Inflation Reduction Act Funds: Energizing County Initiatives

3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides significant funding directly to counties to deploy clean energy, reduce emissions, increase energy efficiency and more. This funding is delivered through several different financing mechanisms, including tax incentives, grants, loans and rebates. Join this session to learn about IRA funds, how to access them and for which types of projects they can be used. 

Speakers: Inflation Reduction Act Funds

Jack Groarke Headshot

Jack Groarke

Senior Advisor for Implementation, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Michael Kaercher

Michael Kaercher

Senior Attorney Advisor and Director of the Climate Tax Project at the Tax Law Center, New York University School of Law
Dr. Taresa Lawrence

Dr. Taresa Lawrence

Director of State, Local Tribal and Territorial Policy, U.S. Department of Energy
 Ryan Whalen

Ryan Whalen

Special Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor for Implementation, The White House

Reducing Red Tape: Breaking Down the Federal Permitting Process for Counties

3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level

Counties own and operate a vast amount of the nation's infrastructure networks, including roads and bridges, public transit, and water and wastewater systems. Join this workshop to learn more from federal and local officials about how the federal permitting process impacts local infrastructure projects and paths forward for streamlining the federal permitting process. 

Speakers: Reducing Red Tape

Hon. Lorraine Cochran-Johnson

Hon. Lorraine Cochran-Johnson

Commissioner, DeKalb County, Ga.
Hon. Rhonda Duggan

Hon. Rhonda Duggan

Supervisor, Mono County, Calif.
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Josh Harvill

County Engineer, Chambers County, Ala.; Vice President, Southeast Region, National Association of County Engineers
Eileen Higgins

Hon. Eileen Higgins

Commissioner, Miami-Dade County, Fla.; Chair, NACo Transportation Policy Steering Committee
Matt Machadom

Matt Machado

Deputy Chief Administrative Officer and Director of Community Development & Infrastructure, Santa Cruz County, Calif.
 Sanjay Patnaik

Sanjay Patnaik

Director - Center on Regulation and Markets, Bernard L. Schwartz Chair in Economic Policy Development; Senior Fellow - Economic Studies, The Brookings Institution
Hon. Sheila Rutledge

Hon. Sheila Rutledge

Board Member, DuPage County, Ill.

Immigration Law Essentials: What Counties Need to Know

3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level

Join legal and policy experts to discuss the fundamentals of immigration law and the United States immigration system. 

Speakers: Immigration Law Essentials

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Theresa Cardinal Brown

Senior Advisor, Immigration and Border Policy, Bipartisan Policy Center
Amy Grenier

Amy Grenier

Policy & Practice Counsel, American Immigration Lawyers Association

Introducing Nationwide Indexed Principal Protection (NW-IPP)

3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Kalorama, Lobby Level

Social Security: the Choice of a Lifetime

Employees face an uncertain future, with 79 percent of retirees saying that workers do not know enough about investing to ensure their savings last through retirement and 61 percent that preparing for retirement makes them stressed. Employees also typically find it challenging to calculate precisely how to spend down their retirement savings so that their nest egg lasts as long as they live. Therefore, employees are looking to employers for guaranteed income solutions--three-quarters would roll at least some defined contribution plan savings into a financial product that would guarantee income for life. This workshop will focus on key strategies and solutions available to employees through 457(b) Supplemental Retirement Plans such as the Protected Retirement Income Solutions and Social Security.

Speakers: Nationwide

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Roberta Eckert

Vice President, Nationwide Retirement Institute
Eric Glinsky

Eric Glinsky

Defined Contribution Product Specialist, Nationwide

National Center for Public Lands Counties: The Intergovernmental Partnership & Federal Lands Management

3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level

This workshop is the inaugural event hosted by the National Center for Public Lands Counties, a new initiative of the NACo Research Foundation. Members will hear from the center’s advisory board about the county role in federal lands management and how counties serve as constructive partners with federal agencies during the National Environment Policy Act (NEPA) or resource management planning processes.  

Speakers: National Center for Public Lands Counties

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Hon. Todd Devlin

Commissioner, Prairie County, Mont.
Troy Heithecker

Troy Heithecker

Associate Deputy Chief, U.S. Forest Service
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Hon. Wes McCart

Commissioner, Stevens County, Wash.

National Association of County Intergovernmental Relations Officials (NACIRO) Meeting

3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia 2, Terrace Level

Speakers: NACIRO

Joshua Sheinkman

Joshua Sheinkman

Staff Director, Democratic, U.S. Senate Finance Committee

Minnesota Caucus Meeting

4:45 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level

Florida Delegates Reception

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Shaw, First Floor

North Carolina Association of Black County Officials Meeting

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Lincoln East, Concourse Level

Football Watch Party

6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
International Ballroom, Concourse Level

Big screens, great snacks, and all your NACo friends - this will be a football watch party to remember! Access to this event is included with conference registration. To bring guests or family members, additional tickets ($60 adults, $30 children) may be purchased through the registration process or at the door on the evening of the event.

Monday, Feb. 12

Wellness Activity

7:00 a.m. – 7:30 a.m.
Northwest, Lobby Level

Join NACo President Mary Jo McGuire for a Qigong wellness activity. Start your day igniting your internal energy with an ancient practice that combines breathing and movement to nourish your mind and body for the day ahead. (No special skills or equipment needed; normal business attire is acceptable to wear.)

Badge Pick-up Open

7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
International Terrace West

Resource Center

7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level

NACo Store

7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level

West Region Caucus Meeting

8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level

Northeast Region Caucus Meeting

8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level 

South Region Caucus Meeting

8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level

Central Region Caucus Meeting

8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level

General Session

9:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
International Ballroom, Concourse Level

Speakers General Session

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Hon. Don Graves

Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce
Hon. Marc Molinaro

Hon. Marc Molinaro

U.S. Representative (R-N.Y.)

National Association of County Administrators (NACA) Idea Exchange

11:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level

Join the National Association of County Administrators for an informal discussion on critical topics facing county administrators. Previous topics have included the COVID comeback (budget impacts, vaccine distribution and public health orders, small business assistance, broadband, affordable housing), the race for talent (succession planning, recruitment and retention), moments of change (addressing racial and social justice issues through the county role in criminal justice), plus other challenges.

NACo Board of Directors Meeting

1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Jefferson & Lincoln West, Concourse Level

WRDA 101: Navigating the Water Resources Development Act to Achieve County Priorities

1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level

Congress is working to reauthorize the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) in 2024. The legislation, which has been passed on a bipartisan basis every two years since 2014, authorizes water resource studies and projects and sets policies for navigation, flood control, water supply and emergency management for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. As owners, users and regulators of water resources and infrastructure, counties are directly impacted by the policies and funding authorized in WRDA. Join this session to learn more about the outlook for WRDA 2024. 

Speakers: WRDA 101

Edward Belk

Edward Belk

Director of Civil Works, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
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Hon. Gary Moore

NACo Past President; Judge/Executive, Boone County, Ky.
 Tim Petty

Dr. Tim Petty

Senior Professional Staff Member, Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure , U.S. House of Representatives
Linnea Saby

Dr. Linnea Saby

Professional Staff Member, U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
Ryan Seiger

Ryan Seiger

Democratic Staff Director/Senior Counsel, Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, U.S. House of Representatives
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Julie Ufner

President & CEO, National Waterways Conference

Federal Policy Summits

NACo's Federal Policy Summits are a unique opportunity to hear from high-level federal speakers and national experts about some of the most pressing challenges facing the nation's counties.

The Transformative Power of Artificial Intelligence: A Summit Hosted by the NACo AI Exploratory Committee

3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
International Ballroom Center, Concourse Level

NACo's Artificial Intelligence summit will bring together Administration officials, federal agency leaders, and subject matter experts to discuss the rise of generative artificial intelligence. Attendees will discover the transformative power of artificial intelligence through a keynote address from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, a fireside chat with the Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau on the agency's role in protecting consumers, and an executive panel discussion from federal agencies and subject matter experts on how artificial intelligence is transforming governance and the economy.

Speakers: AI Summit

 Grace Abuhamad

Grace Abuhamad

Chief of Staff, Office of the Assistant Secretary, National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), U.S. Department of Commerce
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Hon. Andy Brown

County Judge, Travis County, Texas
 Rohit Chopra

Rohit Chopra

Director, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Dr. Arati Prabhakar

Dr. Arati Prabhakar

Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, White House
Helena Fu

Helena Fu

Director, Office of Critical and Emerging Technology, U.S Department of Energy
Nadia Hansen

Nadia Hansen

Digital Transformation Executive, Salesforce
Gerry Petrella

Gerry Petrella

General Manager, U.S. Public Policy, Microsoft
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Hon. Gregg Weiss

Commissioner, Palm Beach County, Fla.

Counties Ready for 2024: A Summit on Election Administration

3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level

Free and fair elections are an essential foundation of American democracy, and counties are an essential intergovernmental partner in our nation’s electoral system. Counties are typically responsible for administrating elections on the ground from managing the voting systems at over 100,000 polling places to overseeing over 630,000 poll workers each election cycle. During this policy summit, attendees will hear from cross-industry experts on the county role in preparing for the 2024 election in which voters are able to seamlessly cast their ballots and results are timely and accurate. Sessions will highlight the most pressing issues for counties, including the need for dedicated federal funding for election administration and the need to strengthen protections for election officials amidst heightened misinformation. 

Speakers: Elections Summit

Hon. Christy McCormick

Hon. Christy McCormick

Commissioner, U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC)
Adrian Fontes

Hon. Adrian Fontes

Secretary of State, State of Arizona
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Major Garrett

Chief Washington Correspondent, CBS News
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Hon. Bill Gates

Supervisor, Maricopa County, Ariz.
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Hon. Cheryl Kagan

State Senator, Maryland State Senate
Hon. Bryan Steil

Hon. Bryan Steil

U.S. Representative (R-Wis.); Chair, U.S. House Committee on House Administration
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Hon. Jack Sellers

Board Chairman, Maricopa County, Ariz.

Future-Proofing County Property Now and Beyond: A Summit on Disaster Preparedness and Insurance

3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
COLUMBIA 5,7, 9, 10

As the frequency, severity and cost of natural disasters continues to increase, counties are on the front lines preparing our communities and residents to face the impacts while managing response efforts. One critical tool is access to affordable insurance. However, some states have started to see insurers withdraw entirely, leaving residents and communities without access to property and casualty insurance. This summit will highlight how the federal government aims to assist counties and provide insights from insurance industry leaders on the state of the market and opportunities to address the challenges we face. 

Speakers: Disasters Summit

Deanne Criswell

Hon. Deanne Criswell

Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
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Hon. James Gore

NACo First Vice President; Supervisor, Sonoma County, Calif.
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Hon. Heidi Hall

Supervisor, Nevada County, Calif.
Daniel Kaniewski

Daniel Kaniewski

Managing Director, Public Sector, Marsh McLennan
Sean Kevelighan

Sean Kevelighan

President and CEO, Insurance Information Institute
Shana Oppenheim

Shana Oppenheim

Assistant Director, Financial Policy & Legislation, National Association of Insurance Commissioners
Steven E. Seitz

Steven E. Seitz

Director, Federal Insurance Office (FIO), U.S. Department of the Treasury

Come Learn About NACCTFO!

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Morgan, Lobby Level

Utah Caucus Meeting

5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Columbia 2, Terrace Level

LUCC / RAC / NACo Board of Directors Joint Reception

Open to members of LUCC, RAC and NACo's Board of Directors

6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Offsite

Tuesday, Feb. 13

Badge Pick-up Open

7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
International Terrace West

Resource Center

7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level

NACo Store

7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level

Federal Agency Expo & Breakfast

9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
International Ballroom, Concourse Level

NACo's Federal Agency Expo convenes over 100 federal officials representing dozens of offices in one place, ready to engage with conference attendees.

Luggage Storage at NACo Offices

10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
NACo HQ

660 North Capitol Street NW
Suite 400

County Capitol Hill Day of Action

12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Capitol Hill

Arrange a meeting on your own with your Member of Congress to advocate for the county legislative agenda. Using NACo’s Advocacy Hub, NACo Members can advance the most important county issues on Capitol Hill. 

Open House at NACo HQ

12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
NACo HQ

660 North Capitol Street NW
Suite 400

Capitol Hill Briefing: County Leadership in Mental Health: Overcoming Barriers for Equitable Care Access

1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Rayburn House Office Building, Room 2075

Please join NACo and the National Association of County Behavioral Health & Development Disability Directors for a timely discussion on the Institutions of Mental Disease Exclusion policy and its impact on local communities. At this signature event, attendees will hear from county officials and intergovernmental partners as they examine how reforming Medicaid's Institutions of Mental Diseases exclusionary policy would greatly expand the treatment capacity while also promoting equitable access. This briefing will have light refreshments.

County Advocacy on High-Speed Internet Affordability: Urging the Extension of the Affordable Connectivity Program

3:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
House Triangle, U.S. Capitol

Please join county and federal leaders will come together on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol to call on Congress to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The program, which enables over 22 million households to receive low-cost broadband internet, is set to expire in April and, as of February 8, has already ceased to accept new enrollees. 

Speakers will urge swift passage of the NACo-endorsed, bipartisan, bicameral Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act, which would provide $7 billion to continue funding the ACP. Counties support the ACP because it will drive adoption of high-speed internet for residents and support the goal of universal connectivity advanced by the BEAD program 

Closing Reception on Capitol Hill

4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Kennedy Caucus Room, Russell Senate Office Building

The reception will be a unique opportunity to network with congressional staff and your colleagues. The entrance to the Capitol Hill Reception is the Russell Senate Office Building, located on the corner of C Street and Delaware Avenue NE.