Local Government Conference in Washington, D.C. Wraps Up

Yesterday wrapped up the and the day offered many great speakers and helpful information! 

The breakfast session offered a chance to hear other members of Ohio’s Congressional Delegation speak to our group. Among the speakers was Congressman Tim Ryan from the Youngstown area, who spoke about collaboration across the region and made the case for cooperation among governments, universities and medical facilities. He advocates using the strengths of the region to build on existing sectors of the economy (such as the biomedical industry) that are already strong across Northeast Ohio. 

We had a very interesting session on the re-organization of the U.S. Postal Service and how decisions are made to close post offices. The session also focused on the ways the USPS is committed to its core mission of delivery and maintaining operations in both urban and rural areas. Although Stow is not being considered for any changes to its , several post offices in Summit County have been over the past year, so it was good to hear how carefully the decisions are made and for what reasons.

The most helpful session I attended was put on by an engineer from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.  He discussed digital mapping of flood plains and how that can affect the ability for property owners to purchase flood insurance and at what rates. I did learn that the remapping process started in 2003 may have affected areas that were not previously included in flood plain areas.

If you have any concerns, I have information about how to contact FEMA. Also, FEMA has extended the lower insurance rates for people who now find themselves in a higher risk area than they previously were — I obtained information about that as well.  Please feel free to contact me with any questions or for more information! 

At our wrap up session, Congressman Steven LaTourette unexpectedly singled out Mayor Karen Fritschel for recognition for her service to Stow over the years and her collaboration with his office. He presented her with a platter engraved with the House of Representatives seal. This will be the mayor’s last Local Government Conference, as she is retiring at the end of her term. The Congressman was very complimentary of Mayor Fritschel and the manner in which she has conducted herself as mayor. Congratulations on this unexpected recognition!

I found the conference very helpful, interesting and a great opportunity to meet other officials from our Congressional District, as well as a chance to advocate for our community at the federal level. Thank you very much to Congressman LaTourette and his staff for their graciousness and hospitality!