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General Correspondence - Cicconi, Jim - 1981-1982 [Little]
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118569112
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General Correspondence - Cicconi, Jim - 1981-1982 [Little]
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Records of the Office of the Chief of Staff (Reagan Administration)
James Cicconi's General Correspondence Files
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1981
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ILF
National Chamber Foundation
1615 H Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20062
202/659-6188
July 21, 1982
Ms. Aileen Anderson
Office of the Chief of Staff
West Wing
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Aileen:
Enclosed please find the information on the National Association
of Towns and Townships which I mentioned to you last night.
Please do not feel as though you and Jim are under any obli-
gation to push this thing, but it certainly appears to be
worth looking into.
I think it would be an excellent forum for the President to
present his plans and ideas to Joe Citizen from the small
towns.
According to Paula Alford at NATT, someone in Meese's office
has given a preliminary okay to be considered. And it was
included in the list of suggested scheduling plans presented
to Craig Fuller by Tom Donohue of the Chamber.
As usual, we enjoyed your company at dinner last night. Let
me know what the weekend plans hold for our motley crew.
Take care,
Kathungn
Kathryn M. Little
KML/sfh
National
Association of
Towns and Townships
July 21, 1982
Kathryn M. Little
Director of Development
National Chamber Foundation
1511 K St. N.W. Suite 334
Washington, D.C.
Dear Kathryn:
It was a pleasure talking with you.
Here are the two packages of information
about our national association. You should
know that we have been in touch with the
Deputy Scheduling Director, Frederick Ryan,
Jr., and Rich Williamson, Special Assistant
to the President, who has promised to speak
with Michael Deaver, Deputy Chief of Staff.
Thank you very much for your help.
It is greatly appreciated.
Paula Cordially, and
Paula N. Alford
Federal Affairs Coordinator
1522 K Street. N.W., Suite 730 Washington, D.C. 20005
Telephone: (202) 737-5200
July 15, 1982
Frederick J. Ryan, Jr.
Deputy Director
Appointments and Scheduling
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. Ryan:
Thank you very much for returning my telephone call of July 13th 50 promptly.
We are grateful that the White House is seriously considering our invitation
to the President to address that NATaT national convention, and would
welcome the opportunity to advise the conference attendees as soon as
possible of the President's acceptance.
The convention will be held on September 9th and 10th. The number of
people in attendance will range from 1000 to 1500. For planning purposes,
the best time for the President to address the conference would be the
morning of September 10th, but of course, we are more than willing to
accommodate his schedule. The majority of the audience will be elected
town officials.
Our membership has been and continues to be extremely supportive of President
Reagan's policies, particularly his initiatives directed at returning
responsibilities to local governments and decreasing federal regulation.
Town officials operate on limited revenues, work closely with churches and
civic groups to accomplish tasks, and believe firmly in lecal self-suf-
ficiency. In sum, the President would be speaking to an audience appre-
clative of both his philosophy and policies.
Enclosed 1s a copy of our recently published annual report. For your
information, other individudals invited to address the convention include:
Senator Percy, Senator Glenn, Secretary of Transportation Draw Lewis, and
Senator Dole. Representative Barber Conable and Senator Danforth are
likely candidates for our Legislator of the Year awards.
If I can provide any additional information to help expedite the decision.
please feel free to call. Thank you again for your kind consideration. -4le
are most appreciative.
Cordially.
Paula Alford
Federal Affairs Coordinator
PNA/tss
The
Don't wait.
Send for more
MAKE YOUR VOICE COUNT!
Capitol Hill with your mem-
benefit your community.
President Reagan (invited).
Keynote address by
Featuring
Special awards ceremony.
bers of Congress.
Legislative Exchange on
Educational workshops to
PLEASE READ IMMEDIATELY
DATED MATERIAL-
Washington, D.C. 20005
1522 K Street, NW, Suite 730
Towns and Townships
National Association of
Annual
Educational
Conference
information today.
of the
National
I want to make my voice count in Washington, D.C.
Please send complete details about the upcoming
national educational conference of officials from
Association
small communities.
of Towns and
Townships
Name
Address
City, State, Zip
Phone: Home
Office
Return to: National Association of Towns and
Townships, 1522 K Street, NW, Suite 730, Washing-
ton, D.C. 20005, or your state township association.
MAKE YOUR VOICE COUNT
Washington, D.C., September 8-10, 1982
The nation's towns are depending on you.
Here's your chance to MAKE YOUR VOICE
next year? Has your town's entitlement gone down?
town governments doing? Some are receiving as-
COUNT
in workshops with the latest on programs
Find out why. And find out about new regulations that
sistance from new programs. Others are using block
for
your
community
at general sessions ad-
you should know about.
grants and other state sources. Some have devel-
dressed by top federal officials
with
your
mem-
Funding for Town Services and Facilities
oped creative cost-cutting methods. Still others are
bers of Congress on Capitol Hill
with exhibitors
looking to the private sector for cooperation. Find out
showing products and services for your community.
In this day of government cutbacks, what are
what your town can do.
It's all happening at the 1982 educational con-
ference of the National Association of Towns and
Town(ship) Government Roundtable
Townships. It's your opportunity to reach top-level
How can you work more effectively with your
decision-makers in Washington, D.C. and to find out
governor and state agencies? As state governments
The 1981 conference
more about funding for your community and ways to
play a bigger and bigger role in local government
was a big hit with attendees.
stretch scarce dollars.
affairs, you'll need to cooperate more with state offi-
Here's what some of them
The conference is coming September 8-10,
cials. Join your colleagues from other states to learn
had to say about It:
1982 at The Capital Hilton and more than 1,000 local
how to work with your state government, and how
officials from across the country are expected. Don't
town government works in general.
be left out! This conference has a program you won't
"The convention was great. I was proud to
Make Your Voice Count
want to miss.
have been a part of it."
How can you make your voice count? Learn
President Reagan has been invited as keynote
Michigan Township Trustee
how you can strengthen your voice in Washington-
speaker. Top administration officials and key mem-
during the conference and throughout the year.
bers of Congress will speak on a wide range of top-
"Thanks for an informative and terrific con-
Come and tell us what's most important to you. Let
ics important to you.
ference. It made me feel 10 feet tall."
us know what issues you want NATaT to act on.
You'll even be able to attend a Legislative Ex-
Ohio Township Official
This year, there's a special treat for conference
change on Capitol Hill where your Senators and
goers. For the first time, township officials will be
Representatives will be invited to meet with you.
"I was impressed with the people attending
eligible for cash and gift prizes. You may win if your
And there's more. The conference includes a
and the good speakers."
state association has the largest attendance at the
luncheon banquet with speakers on important top-
New York Town Official
conference, or the largest increase in attendance
ics, and a welcome reception where you can rub
over last year. Awards will be announced during the
elbows and exchange ideas with your fellow elected
"I made a valuable contact at the
reception on Wednesday evening, September 8 at
leaders from across the country.
Department of Housing and Urban
The Capital Hilton.
Workshops at this year's conference will answer
Development regarding a local grant."
This year's conference will be the biggest and
questions you've probably asked yourself:
Illinois Elected Leader
best ever. So make it a date. Mark your calendar for
General Revenue Sharing-Your Stake in Its
September 8-10 and come to Washington to MAKE
Future
YOUR VOICE COUNT. Mail the form on the re-
Will General Revenue Sharing continue beyond
verse side today!
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TOWNS AND TOWNSHIPS
1981-1982 ANNUAL REPORT
Reaching Out to Small Town America
The National Association of
today serves nearly 63 million
Towns and Townships is a non-
people.
profit membership organization
Townships were originally known
offering technical assistance,
as the nation's rural form of gov-
educational services, and public
ernment This is no longer com-
policy support to local government
pletely true, as a number of town-
officials from more than 13,000
ships have developed characteris-
small communities across the coun-
tics and problems similar to urban
try. Through its Washington, D.C.
communities.
headquarters, the association con-
Townships and other small com-
ducts research and develops public
munities differ from state to state,
policy recommendations to help
but most are governed by an
improve the quality of life for
elected board or council which
rural people. NATaT's educational
often consists of a mayor or super-
conferences, training workshops,
visor, a clerk and several officials
and specialized publications help
called trustees or selectmen. Most
small town officials cope with and
town governments administer a
manage change in their
wide variety of vital services such
communities.
as fire and police protection, water
As the voice of small town
and sewer systems, construction
America in the nation's capital,
and maintenance of roads, emer-
NATaT is a highly respected au-
gency medical care, and aid to the
thority on rural community devel-
poor.
opment matters. The association is
To this day, small town govern-
often called on by federal and state
ments reflect the values of our
officials to provide the small town
founding fathers. The town meeting
viewpoint on important national
is still held in many areas of the
domestic issues.
country, providing citizens with
the opportunity to participate di-
rectly in the affairs of their com-
The township was the first form
munity and shape its direction.
of local government to be adopted
When NATaT was first estab-
in America, brought to the conti-
lished, towns and townships formed
nent by settlers from England. First
the cornerstone of its membership.
established in Massachusetts around
Today, the association has expanded
1620, township government moved
to reach across the country to small
west as the country grew, and
communities of all types.
COVER PHOTO BY TOM WACHS
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TOWNS AND TOWNSHIPS
1522 K STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20005
(202) 737-5200
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TOWNS AND TOWNSHIPS
1981-1982 ANNUAL REPORT
TABLE
BIG PROBLEMS IN SMALL TOWNS
2
OF
A DOUBLE BIND
5
SERVING LOCAL OFFICIALS
6
CONTENTS
EXPANDING THE SMALL TOWN POLICY MAKING ROLE
11
MEETING CHALLENGES THAT FACE SMALL COMMUNITIES
13
SOURCES AND USES OF FUNDS
15
THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
16
NATaT's VOLUNTEER LEADERS
17
11
1
Ask the typical American city
Virtually all the nation's persis-
BIG
dweller for his or her impression
tently poor counties are rural, the
of small town life in our country,
study says.
and you'll probably hear about
According to the report, these
PROBLEMS
tree-lined streets, easy congeniality,
figures translate into the same
unlocked doors, and a slower pace
dismal living conditions that afflict
IN SMALL
of life.
many of our cities: substandard or
This ideal image stubbornly sur-
non-existent health services, high
TOWNS
vives even though in many places
unemployment, inadequate hous-
it is badly out of focus with the
ing and sanitation, and a lack of
reality of rural America.
transportation.
During the 1970s, our nation's
Health Care: On a per capita
small towns and rural areas experi-
basis, rural areas have 58 percent
enced drastic change. For the first
fewer physicians, 38 percent fewer
time in 160 years, rural population
dentists and 29 percent fewer
growth outpaced growth in urban
nurses. Yet rural Americans suffer
areas. But the benefits created by
from a higher incidence of chronic
this growth - - economic develop-
disease and lose more days from
ment, job opportunities, and a
work due to illness or incapacity
higher standard of living - - fail to
than their urban counterparts.
touch the lives of many rural
Housing: Three times as many
people.
rural housing units lack complete
According to a 1979 White House
plumbing as urban units. More
report, about 40 percent of the
than two million rural Americans
nation's poor live in rural areas.
do not have running water in their
USDA PHOTO
2
homes; more than four million
do not have the training or exper-
the city - are demanding costly,
have inadequate sewage disposal
tise needed to know where to turn
urban-type services.
systems or none at all; and many
for help or how to draw attention
"When people move in, they
rely on sources of drinking water
to the predicament in their
bring children, and that means
that fail to meet safe drinking water
communities.
schools, and fire and police protec-
standards.
"For a while, towns had money,"
tion, too," says a township official
Transportation: Rural Americans
says a local government official
from Michigan. "The increasé in
are very dependent on the auto-
from New England. "But they don't
population means more tax rev-
mobile. Less than one percent with
anymore - the federal government
enue, but it doesn't go up as fast as
jobs away from home use public
does - and selectmen can't get
the demand for services."
transportation to get there. Yet
grants because they don't know the
In many rural areas, local taxing
more than 57 percent of the rural
rules of the game or have time to
authority is being stretched to the
poor and 45 percent of the rural
play it."
limit and revenues are failing to
elderly do not own an automobile,
Today, rural officials face an
keep pace with demand for new
contributing even further to their
added pressure: sudden unplanned
services and facilities.
isolation and immobility, not only
growth in their communities. From
A Rand Corporation report points
from jobs, but from vital social
1970 to 1980, rural population
to a typical case. Since 1960, Bow,
services as well.
increased by 15.8 percent, com-
N.H., has been converted from a
NATaT's large network of small
pared to only 9.8 percent in the
farm town with 1,300 residents into
town officials, who represent an
city.
a bedroom community of 3,200.
enormous rural development
On the local level, these new
"People move in here who are
potential, have been severely
rural residents - often fresh from
accustomed to certain services,"
hampered in their efforts to deal
with these problems.
Federal and state assistance pro-
grams have provided very limited
help. In scope and scale, many of
these programs are designed for
the big city and work poorly in
small towns. Or localities are shut
out by red tape and a maze of
incomprehensible regulations.
For these and other reasons,
small communities are often over-
looked while the lion's share of aid
and the bulk of domestic policy
planning goes to urban areas.
The 1980s are presenting more
questions than answers due to
major shifts in the federal role and
fiscal policy. What does the new
federalism mean to the small town
mayor? How will regulatory re-
form and deregulation affect rural
areas? Will the rural quality of life
be changed by altered federal
budget priorities?
These questions are complicated
USDA PHOTO
by the fact that many local officials
3
solutions scaled to local problems.
programs that have made a differ-
The association's education and
ence in the lives of rural people.
information services, workshops
In 1982, NATaT will concentrate
and conferences helped local gov-
on ways for rural governments to
ernment officials hone their leader-
involve the private sector more in
ship abilities, learn new managment
the community development pro-
skills, and refine old ones.
cess. The association will be work-
NATaT's policy research and
ing to develop new and innovative
PHOTO BY BRUCE ROSENTHAL
development program helped fed-
approaches to local problems and
eral and state officials shape new
to expand the resources that local
initiatives which recognize the
leaders want and need to resolve
unique conditions and character-
the most serious problems facing
istics of small towns and the local
their communities.
governments which serve them.
Through NATaT's increasing out-
This 1981-1982 annual report
reach efforts, America's small town
shows how NATaT's full range of
officials will be able to make more
membership services and public
of their talents and available re-
says a town administrator. "For a
policy projects has yielded the
sources to help rural people meet
year or two they are content with
potential for an improved quality
basic needs and achieve a higher
low taxes, but then they start
of life in rural communities, and a
quality of life.
demanding snow clearance, black-
greater recognition of small town
top roads, street lights, and garbage
problems and needs by state and
pickup
Soon Bow will have to
federal governments.
Barton & Rum
build a high school, a sewer system
The association's 1981 national
Barton D. Russell
and a second fire station."
education conference, with a 50 per-
NATaT Executive Director
In a fairly short time, Small
cent rise in attendance over 1980,
Town America has developed big
provided a valuable education for
problems which have become more
local government officials, and in-
and more difficult to manage.
creased the awareness of key fed-
"On the small town level, the
eral policy-makers. The conference
local government - - often led by
brought together hundreds of local
part-time elected officials - - faces a
officials with such national figures
serious lack of resources with
as Vice President George Bush and
which to deal with the increasingly
other top-level administration and
complex environment they face,"
congressional leaders to discuss
says Dr. Landrum Bolling, consul-
local needs and problems. Through
tant to and former chairman of the
the many workshops and exhibits,
Council on Foundations.
the delegates picked up valuable
Since it was founded in 1976, the
tools for managing their
National Association of Towns and
communities.
Townships, through its state af-
Throughout 1981, NATaT was
filiates and individual members,
heard and heeded at the White
has been helping small town offi-
House and on Capitol Hill. Through
cials overcome many of their diffi-
NATaT's expert testimony invited
culties and improve living condi-
by Congress, and numerous consul-
tions in their communities.
tations with the president and
In 1981, NATaT's technical as-
White House staff, NATaT's mem-
sistance program helped hundreds
bers had a direct hand in shaping
of small community officials find
policies and decisions affecting
4
Small town officials are caught in
Much of this success is due to the
A DOUBLE
a dilemma today. Residents in our
organization's experienced staff
communities are demanding more
and the respect they have earned
BIND
services and improved facilities at a
in Washington. NATaT's board of
time when budget cutbacks are
directors and advisory council have
drastically shrinking the public
also helped the association become
dollar.
a dynamic national force for Amer-
We are being forced to do more
ica's small towns.
with less, and to make some very
Most of all, it is NATaT's mem-
hard choices between conflicting
bership network whose determined
demands.
support at the local level makes the
NATaT is helping relieve this
association an informed advocate
strain by finding ways that make
for grassroots government.
the most of our limited resources.
I am confident that America's
Last year, the association's staff and
small towns and local government
leadership worked tirelessly to
officials will survive their current
make the jobs of rural government
problems, and with NATaT's help,
officials more manageable and to
they will learn how to thrive.
help ease the pressures on Amer-
ica's small towns.
The report that follows shows
Ed. K. Kruger
that NATaT is working more effec-
Ed K Krueger
tively than ever for its members.
NATaT President
PHOTO BY BRUCE ROSENTHAL
5
Finding local solutions to local
mix, discuss mutual problems,
SERVING
problems: rural government offi-
and exchange solutions. In 1981,
cials need information and techni-
NATaT's national staff helped
LOCAL
cal assistance that will help them
create a number of new educa-
help their communities.
tional programs that addressed is-
NATaT's member services give
sues important to small
OFFICIALS
critical support to community-
communities.
based problem-solving efforts.
At numerous state township as-
Through the association's educa-
sociation meetings, NATaT Execu-
tional conferences and workshops,
tive Director Barton Russell pre-
technical assistance program, and
sented up-to-the minute develop-
publications, local officials are
ments in federal policies - new
learning how to analyze commu-
federalism, regulatory reform, the
nity problems, how to involve
budget - and how they will affect
other levels of government and the
small communities. Russell spoke
private sector, and how to achieve
to 2,000 local elected officials in
results.
Michigan in January and to thou-
sands more at annual state associa-
Education and Training on the
tion meetings in New York City,
Grassroots Level
Springfield, III,, Cable, Wisc., and
Through its network of state
Indianapolis, Ind.
associations and direct members,
David Gallagher, NATaT's eco-
NATaT has provided much-needed
nomic development coordinator,
management training and support
conducted workshops on economic
for America's rural officials, reach-
and community development
ing even the most isolated commu-
methods at these meetings. His
nities that state and federal agen-
presentations on federal grant/loan,
cies have failed to touch.
and technical assistance programs,
These highly popular educational
the effect of funding cutbacks on
programs allow members to meet,
small communities, and ways to
involve business and other private
sector forces in local government
helped thousands of local officials
manage change and plan for the
future in their communities.
NATaT programs are well-
received. After a series of grants-
manship workshops in Michigan,
PHOTO COURTESY OF PA. TOWNSHIP NEWS
virtually all of the local officials
participating said that the program
met their objectives and rated the
sessions "very good" or "excellent".
"Having a NATaT represenative
available was a strong point of the
workshop," said one participant.
"The instructors were very well
prepared and possessed unusual
expertise," said another. One
attendee said, "We appreciated the
6
individual attention we were
administered by the Department of
Technical Assistance: Helping Rural
given."
Housing and Urban Development
Governments Help Themselves
To multiply its small town out-
(HUD). At these sessions, represen-
While small town officials are
reach capabilities, NATaT joined
tatives of HUD, state governments,
acutely aware of economic and
with other organizations during the
local officials, and public interest
management problems facing their
year to offer sorely needed services
groups like NATaT discussed
communities, most of them lack
for rural officials.
whether the states should choose
the sophisticated know-how
In cooperative training efforts,
the option of administering the
needed today to create comprehen-
NATaT co-sponsored a series of
federal community development
sive rural development strategies.
important seminars and confer-
program and what it would mean
Federal and state agencies often fail
ences on small town management
for local governments. NATaT was
to help because of their limited
issues. With the American Public
under contract to provide the small
capabilities. Many rural officials
Works Association's Education
town viewpoint and rural develop-
are looking to NATaT for "how-to"
Foundation, NATaT co-sponsored
ment expertise at these forums.
advice and information on local
conferences in Denver and St. Louis
Another conference, co-
government management, funding
on public works administration in
sponsored with the Corporation
programs, and community im-
small communities.
for Enterprise Development in
provement techniques that will
In December, NATaT began par-
Washington, D.C. dealt with new,
work in their towns. Through its
ticipating in the first of a series of
community-based business as a
technical assistance program,
statewide meetings around the
way to revitalize the American
NATaT helps local officials find
country on the community devel-
economy.
cost-effective solutions to their
opment block grant program
most pressing community develop-
ment problems.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PA. TOWNSHIP NEWS
PHOTO COURTESY OF PA. TOWNSHIP NEWS
7
Requests for technical assistance
agencies, state associations, private
solving resources for rural and
last year came from rural commu-
resource organizations and other
small town governments. Search-
nities in many states on all kinds of
local officials whose expertise or
ing out the most promising ap-
local problems: a community devel-
funding help was needed.
proaches to local problems, NATaT
opment official in a small town in
Certain technical assistance re-
gleaned through often hard-to-find
Illinois needed advice and informa-
quests required special handling.
information - success stories, new
tion on Urban Development Action
NATaT staff members did the leg-
technologies, federal ássistance pro-
Grants, a township board chairman
work, finding answers to questions
grams, town management tips -
in rural Minnesota asked for a
on long-term rural planning, fi-
selected the most useful and dis-
source of financial help for repair-
nancing public services, and other
tributed it free of charge. In 1981,
ing a deteriorating town hall, a
town management topics.
NATaT distributed more than
township trustee in Indiana wanted
Last year, NATaT responded to
6,000 technical manuals, booklets,
to find federal help to start a badly
hundreds of individual requests for
brochures, and other publications
needed vocational training program
assistance, not only from NATaT
to local officials.
for disadvantaged residents, and a
members but also from universi-
This kind of technical informa-
town official from Marshall, N.Y.,
ties, government officials, corpora-
tion is also published in "Take
was trying to find a way to expand
tions, and others concerned with
Note" and "Toolbox", regular col-
and improve local sewer and water
rural development issues.
umns in the National Community
facilities.
The association's Information
Reporter, NATaT's bi-monthly news
By phone or by mail, NATaT's
Clearinghouse, an important ele-
journal.
staff responded to calls for help,
ment of the technical assistance
"Toolbox" contained valuable
plugging local officials into a wide
program, distributed a wealth of
problem-solving ideas and sources
network of federal government
technical information on problem-
for technical help. By providing
"It's a question of managing change. Declining towns need help to reverse
decay and unemployment. Growing ones need basic public services such
as sewers and roads."
Dr. Donna Shalala
President, Hunter College
USDA PHOTO
PHOTO COURTESY OF BETTER ROADS
8
follow-up names and addresses
NATaT's information outreach
special supplement gave in-depth
with each news item, "Toolbox"
program helped fill this gap. The
coverage to emergency planning
helped put local leaders in touch
heart of the program is the National
methods for small communities. By
with others who have solved simi-
Community Reporter, the association's
using the how-to approach, the
lar problems.
bi-monthly news journal. The
Reporter gave readers a step-by-
The Reporter's "Take Note" sec-
Reporter is the only regular national
step guide to disaster planning and
tion supplied helpful tips and
source of how-to information and
guidance on saving lives and prop-
reported on trends and new direc-
ideas written exclusively for small
erty from emergencies like floods,
tions in small community
town officials. Topics range from
fires, and tornadoes.
management.
community and economic develop-
The Reporter's economic develop-
ment funding alternatives to tested
ment column acquaints readers
Information Outreach: Filling the
rural management and planning
with important financial tools for
Communications Gap in Rural
techniques.
their communities such as federal
America
Last year, the Reporter covered
grants, municipal bonds, and rural
A serious lack of information has
unique and affordable ways to
enterprise zones. Legislative policy
hampered many small town officials
improve public services in rural
reports gave the latest word on the
in their effort to maintain and
areas, such as water and sewer,
implications of new federal initia-
improve conditions for local resi-
health programs, transportation,
tives, with timely updates on action
dents. The problem is twofold:
fire protection, and administrative
in Congress and what it would
either they are unsure where to
functions such as purchasing, plan-
mean for rural governments and
find the data they need, or what
ning and management, and local
small town people.
they are able to find falls far short
financing options.
Other regular items in the
of meeting local needs.
For instance, the July issue's
Reporter include updates on alter-
nate technologies, book reviews,
and announcements of seminars,
conferences, and training meetings
of interest to rural government
leaders.
The value of the Reporter as a
unique, important source of infor-
mation was summed up last year
by one small town official who
said, "I've found excellent refer-
ences and great articles and would
not want to miss a single issue."
Unique Resource Directory
NATaT responded to a long-
standing need of small town offi-
cials in 1981 by releasing A Guide
to Federal Resources for Small Com-
munities, a one-of-a-kind directory
of financial assistance programs.
While most guides to funding
BILL BURKE PHOTO
assume that local officials are
familiar with government agencies
and their programs, the NATaT
guide was written for the official
who has never before sought gov-
9
ernment assistance and doesn't
newsletter gave a detailed analysis
to discuss federal General Revenue
know where to start. The guidebook
of developments on the federal
Sharing, block grants, and other
explains the community economic
scene - changes in wastewater
policy issues of equal concern to
development process and different
construction grants programs, the
Congress and to small
types of funding, and gives a
federal budget, general revenue
communities.
comprehensive listing of grant and
sharing, the new federalism - - and
During the conference, NATaT
loan programs in an easy-to-use
their potential impact on small
unveiled its Legislafor of the Year
format. It also explains how to
communities.
Award program. Conference dele-
attract and keep local business and
gates honored four members of
industry and contains an extensive
The Nation's Biggest Town
Congress who have distinguished
list of private and public agencies
Meeting
themselves in their support for
for additional information and help.
One of the most important edu-
small community issues and efforts
U.S. Senator Charles Mathias, Jr.,
cational events NATaT offers mem-
to improve the quality of life in
said, "The book should prove to be
bers is the annual national educa-
rural areas.
invaluable to towns attempting to
tional conference, held last year
Workshops conducted by
qualify for federal monies. I will
September 9-11 in Washington,
NATaT staff and program experts
keep it in my office as a source
D.C.
covered a variety of financial sup-
for questions from towns regarding
Hundreds of small community
port programs, acquainted listeners
federal aid."
leaders came to hear the Reagan
with state and federal resources for
administration's and Congress'
small communities, and gave small
More Ways to Keep Local Leaders
views on federal-local relations
town officials an opportunity to
Informed
from top-level office holders: Vice
exchange self-help ideas with
Another element of the associa-
President George Bush, Commerce
colleagues from other states.
tion's information program, the
Secretary Malcolm Baldrige, Agri-
Educational exhibits afforded
NATaT Bulletin, was expanded in
culture Secretary John Block, Trans-
town officials an opportunity to
1981 from an informal monthly
portation Secretary Drew Lewis,
discuss local government products
memo to a bi-weekly newsletter.
Energy Secretary James Edwards,
and services with agencies and
The Bulletin, designed for rural
White House Intergovernmental Af-
private firms that seldom reach
government leaders, provides
fairs Assistant Richard Williamson,
rural communities.
timely, easy-to-read news briefs on
and U.S. Rep. Barber Conable, Jr.
NATaT is building on past suc-
special interest items: professional
At a NATaT-sponsored congres-
cess in planning this year's confer-
management techniques, news of
sional exchange on Capitol Hill,
ence, and is working to make the
national activities, and other infor-
more than a thousand town offi-
event an even more valuable edu-
mation on small community issues.
cials, members of Congress and
cational experience for small town
NATaT's member state associa-
federal agency representatives met
leaders.
tions also receive the NATaT News
Service, a regular source of news for
their magazines and newsletters.
Information on federal programs
and policy developments, NATaT's
problem-solving and management
TOWNS
resources, and other topics reached
tens of thousands of local officials
through the service last year.
State association officials were
kept up-to-date on important pub-
STATE
lic policy events in the nation's
capital through NATaT's Washington
BILL BURKE PHOTO
Report. Last year, this bi-weekly
10
Our nation's small communities
and function - for small towns.
EXPANDING
are being pulled in many direc-
Second, by analyzing federal initia-
tions at once. Population growth,
tives and distributing information
THE
burgeoning development, stagna-
about them, NATaT keeps rural
tion in the midst of development,
officials abreast of decisions and
demands for more local services -
actions on issues like hazardous
SMALL TOWN
all these strains are afflicting Amer-
waste siting, farmland preservation,
ica's small towns.
and other rural concerns that di-
POLICYMAKING
Yet, national and state policy-
rectly affect life in their
makers continue to concentrate
communities.
almost exclusively on urban prob-
To ensure that the small town
ROLE
lems. In the few instances when
perspective is reflected in the
small town needs are considered,
policy making process, NATaT
policy is hampered by inaccurate
meets frequently with administra-
data and a near total lack of under-
tion officials.
standing of the needs and problem-
In an early February 1981 meet-
solving potential of small town
ing with President Reagan and
governments.
cabinet officials, NATaT leaders
As a result, small towns are too
discussed the administration's eco-
often pushed into programs which
nomic recovery program and its
are inappropriate in scale and
possible impact on rural people.
scope to their communities' and
Later in the year, association
their residents' needs. When na-
representatives met with Agricul-
tional programs and policies fail in
ture Secretary John Block to dis-
these rural areas, they run up
cuss new directions in federal rural
major costs, both economic and
development programs, and with
social.
Housing and Urban Development
NATaT is working to overcome
Secretary Samuel Pierce, Jr., to
this failure with a double-purpose
provide the small town viewpoint
policy research program. First, with
concerning the possible shift of
its expertise on small towns and
many federal funding programs to
their needs, the association helps
the states.
national decision-makers shape
In an effort to promote equity
policy which works - both in cost
for small towns, NATaT leaders
OFFICIAL WHITE HOUSE PHOTO
11
and staff maintained a working
Through reliable, informed testi-
As the association's expertise has
relationship throughout the year
mony, NATaT has become known
grown, so has its presence in the
with sub-cabinet department offi-
as the voice of small town America
media. Last year, NATaT was cited
cials and with the staff of the White
in the nation's capital. This exper-
by several prominent newspapers
House Office of Intergovernmental
tise has earned the association the
and respected journals:
Affairs.
respect of top leaders in
An article in the Wall Street
During the year, Congress fre-
Washington.
Journal in December
quently called upon NATaT to
During the past year, much of
described how NATaT was
provide information on ways to
the association's policy research
extend the benefits of federal eco-
effort was directed toward the pri-
working with the White
nomic development initiatives to
orities of the Rural Governments
House on federal funding
small communities. NATaT's testi-
Coalition. The national coalition is
options for local governments.
mony generally focused on pro-
composed of NATaT, the National
In a major feature on popula-
posals that would involve the
Association of Development Orga-
tion growth in the United
States, a November issue of
private sector, create jobs, and
nizations, the National Association
the National Journal cited
prove to be cost effective.
of Counties, and the National Asso-
NATaT's call for state and
NATaT members also presented
ciation of Regional Councils, in
their views in person to House and
cooperation with the National
federal funding to help rural
Senate panels. Speaking before a
Governors Association.
governments provide vital
services.
Senate subcommittee in February,
Co-founded by NATaT in 1980,
NATaT First Vice President George
the coalition provides a forum for
The New York Times on Sep-
tember 20 mentioned NATaT
Miller of Illinois pointed to pro-
local government representatives
as an example of how smaller
posed reductions and the expected
to exchange views, ideas, and
effect on small communities.
research findings on a regular
communities are gaining
influence on the national
Later in the year, two town
basis. The coalition was formed to
level.
supervisors testified at a subcom-
promote an understanding of the
mittee hearing, describing the frus-
On September 10, the first
needs and roles of rural govern-
tration of NATaT members with
full day of NATaT's 1981
ments in the intergovernmental
federal mandates and regulations.
national conference, the
system.
Christian Science Monitor
Association staff members also
Late in 1981, NATaT was chosen
worked with the Congressional
on behalf of the coalition to con-
pointed to the event and the
Rural Caucus, a non-partisan legis-
vene a national symposium called
top-ranking administration
lative group, composed of more
"Rural Governments in a Time of
officials who were attending
as an indication of how
than 100 members of Congress
Change: Challenges and Opportu-
who have a strong concern for
NATaT was helping to close
nities." The event will take place in
small town problems.
March at the Johnson Foundation's
the gap between the grass-
Wingspread Conference Center in
roots and the nation's capital.
Racine, Wisconsin. Rural govern-
According to J.C. Doherty, rural
ment officials, federal and state
planning and development expert
agency representatives, academi-
and co-author of Growth and
cians, and other participants will
Change in Rural America, "With the
PHOTO BY BRUCE ROSENTHAL
discuss the rapidly changing role of
exception of the National Associa-
rural governments and develop
tion of Towns and Townships, no
methods to help rural officials cope
public interest group in Washing-
with the new needs and demands
ton is concerned with the condi-
of countryside residents.
tion of smaller communities, their
NATaT Executive Director
place in the nation's scheme of
Barton Russell is serving as chair-
things, and their legislative and
man of the coalition for 1982.
administrative needs."
12
The primary problem confront-
administration skills and manage-
MEETING
ing small town officials is how to
ment techniques for small commu-
cope with change and maintain
nity officials.
and improve the quality of life in
A better-than-ever national con-
CHALLENGES
rural America. This problem could
ference is planned, with an
intensify in many local jurisdic-
expanded series of informational
THAT FACE
tions as more domestic program
and how-to sessions, including a
responsibilities are shifted to local
community development
SMALL
and state levels.
workshop.
During 1982, NATaT will be
In addition to these activities,
COMMUNITIES
working to alleviate this rising
NATaT will continue to provide
pressure on small towns.
strong support to its state associa-
The association is planning a
tion affiliates for their education
major expansion of its leadership
and training programs.
training, policy research, and infor-
As funding becomes available,
mation outreach programs. An
the association will implement its
emphasis will be given to self-help
Grassroots Government Leadership
programs for local officials inter-
Development Program. This action
ested in developing their commu-
program would encourage new
nities' economic resources.
leadership roles for local officials
NATaT will channel information
by helping them improve their
to its members on new state-
policy and decision making skills.
sponsored development programs
The program is part of NATaT's
and will provide training in emerg-
planned National Rural Govern-
ing community development tech-
ment Institute, through which the
niques. Direct assistance on rural
association will also coordinate
development problems will be pro-
major research and policy develop-
vided to a limited number of eco-
ment intiatives on issues of
nomically distressed communities.
concern to small jurisdictions.
Other training efforts will in-
The March symposium, "Rural
clude the association's meetings
Governments in a Time of Change:
and workshops, which will con-
Challenges and Opportunities,"
centrate on building small town
will focus on the changing roles of
VERMONT PHOTO DIVISION
13
rural governments and methods to
the new federalism plan, NATaT
new membership strategies.
help local officials cope with the
will be working to ensure that
NATaT will continue to fulfill a
rising demands of a growing
small town interests are protected.
joint support service agreement set
population.
The association will also focus
up in 1980 with the National
A NATaT-sponsored March
on the 1983 federal budget process
Association of Smaller Communi-
seminar on rural enterprise zones
in an effort to ensure that small
ties. NATaT provides information
will bring together congressional
communities receive a fair share of
and technical assistánce services
staff members, federal officials,
program funds.
directly to NASCO, which is made
public interest groups, policy
Through two seats on the newly
up of small city officials and rural
researchers, corporate officials and
created National Advisory Council
community development profes-
local government representatives.
on Rural Development, NATaT
sionals in 31 states.
They will discuss ways in which
will increase the impact of local
The association will also conduct
the private sector can help revitalize
officials on federal policy making.
a direct mail membership campaign
rural economies. The seminar will
This Department of Agriculture
to increase its direct member rolls.
be videotaped for broadcast on
group will assist the secretary in
Association board members and
public television stations across the
identifying the most serious rural
staff will be working with rural
nation.
development problems, and guide
government leaders in a number of
In May, NATaT will co-sponsor
the administration's efforts to
states to organize new small town
a rural population growth seminar
respond to these problems.
associations.
in cooperation with the Population
NATaT will continue its effort to
NATaT enjoys the staunch back-
Resource Center. At this meeting,
create three new positions for
ing of local officials in 13,000
participants will examine the bur-
small town officials on the U.S.
communities nationwide, and has a
dens that growth has placed on
Advisory Commission on Intergov-
proven track record with Congress
local governments, discuss ways to
ernmental Relations. This important
and the White House. The associa-
respond to ensuing problems, and
body, which conducts public policy
tion is well-established to provide
examine new opportunities for
research and makes recommenda-
both a wide range of membership
rural economic development.
tions to government leaders, lacks
services and expert public policy
In response to a dramatic need,
representation from rural officials.
analysis.
the association is sponsoring an
Congress will hold hearings on the
With this kind of support and
April seminar on the financing of
possibility of expanding commission
track record, NATaT is ready to
rural government services and
membership this year.
meet the challenges that face small
facilities. Local government officials
NATaT's publications program
communities in the months and
and other participants will investi-
will expand with a series of special
years ahead.
gate creative financing techniques
issue reports on topics ranging
and methods for cooperation
from the affects of rural population
among federal, state and private
growth to the question of how to
sectors.
finance local government services
In another series of policy meet-
and facilities in this era of limited
ings called Countryside Develop-
public resources. Based on research
ment Forums, NATaT will help
presented at NATaT-sponsored
participants look at the most critical
seminars, follow-up reports will
problems facing rural areas and
provide much-needed direction to
find ways for business, government
local officials in their search for
FARMERS HOME ADMINISTRATION
and non-profit organizations to
ways to manage change in their
cooperate in solving them.
communities.
National policy making will
In an effort to expand its small
remain another high priority. As
town outreach network, NATaT
Congress and the Reagan adminis-
will continue its membership
tration hammer out the details of
development activities, and initiate
14
research and training contracts, and
improve the quality of life for rural
SOURCES
an expanded educational confer-
people:
ence and exhibit program.
AND USES
Looking ahead, the association
U.S. Economic Development
anticipates increased revenues
Administration
from dues as the result of a new
U.S Department of Housing
OF FUNDS
membership dues system recently
and Urban Development
adopted by the board of directors.
U.S. Department of
1981 was a relatively good year
The association will also work to
Agriculture
for the National Association of
substantially expand its corporate
Federal Emergency
Towns and Townships from a
development program, and its
Management Agency
financial standpoint. Income in-
foundation grant portfolio to sup-
The Johnson Foundation
creased by 60 percent over 1980,
port new leadership training and
The McDonald's Corporation
and for the first time, the organiza-
research programs. An expanded
The Amoco Foundation
tion ended the year with a modest
direct membership program is also
RCA
contingency fund. Some of the
expected to generate additional
increase came from new sources of
funds.
funds tied to expanded technical
NATaT's strong membership
The National Association of
assistance for small town officials
provides a portion of the associa-
Towns and Townships is a tax-
and improved public policy re-
tion's operating and program fund-
exempt, non-profit 501 (c) (3) cor-
search projects.
ing support. NATaT would also
poration, and is authorized to
During the year, NATaT began
like to thank those foundations,
accept grants, contributions, and
efforts to expand and diversify its
corporations, and agencies that
contracts from private foundations,
income base. Fund raising initiatives
have provided generous support
corporations, government agencies,
included a new corporate develop-
for association programs that reach
and profit and non-profit
ment program, publication sales,
out to small town America and
organizations.
SOURCES OF FUNDS
USES OF FUNDS
Educational conferences and training: 17%
Contracts and grants: 41%
Publications: 22%
Communications program: 6%
Publications and advertising sales: 4%
Corporate contributions: 2%
Membership development and services: 11%
Meetings and conferences: 19%
Policy research
and development: 20%
Technical assistance: 14%
Membership dues: 34%
Administration: 10%
Calendar Year Ending December 31, 1981
15
When Bart Russell was hired in
policy that works in small
THE
1976 as NATaT's first executive
jurisdictions.
director, the board of directors told
He also created NATaT's national
EXECUTIVE
him they had high expectations.
advisory council, which includes
The challenge to Russell was to
some of the nation's most respected
launch an organization that would
small town policy experts. Through
DIRECTOR
be highly respected voice for
their involvement in association
America's small towns, and a serv-
policy efforts, council members
ice center for more than 13,000
have helped NATaT earn the high
small jurisdictions around the
reputation it enjoys today.
country.
During the past six years, Russell
Now in his sixth year at the
has logged thousands of miles
helm, Russell has made great
coast to coast spreading NATaT's
strides in satisfying those aspira-
message: small town officials are
tions. Under his direction, NATaT
an integral part of the American
has a competent staff, publishes a
system of government. Because
nationally renowned news journal,
they operate at the grassroots level,
sponsors a one-of-a-kind national
town officials have a special ability
conference series for small town
to provide efficient, effective,
officials, and offers an array of
and economical services to their
technical assistance services to help
residents.
local leaders take advantage of
Russell, himself a former rural
resources and new problem-solving
government official, is a member of
methods designed for small
the National Advisory Council of
communities.
the Corporation for Enterprise
In addition to these important
Development, the Small Town
services, Russell started the asso-
Advisory Committee of the Con-
ciation's rural development policy
gressional Rural Caucus, and the
research program. Through this
Advisory Council of the American
program, small town officials have
Rural Health Association. In 1981,
gained visibility and influence at
Russell was elected chairman of the
the national level as NATaT helps
national Rural Governments
federal decision-makers shape
Coalition.
TOWNS
BILL BURKE PHOTO
16
Leo Gray
Bob Bergland
NATaT'S
Advisor, North Dakota Township Officers
President, Farmland-Eaton World Trade.
Association
Mr. Bergland was secretary of agriculture in
Former President, North Dakota Township
the Carter administration. He is a former
Officers Association
member of Congress and served on the House
VOLUNTEER
Supervisor of Greendale Township, N.D.
Agriculture Committee. Under his leadership,
Vice President, Richland County Township
the White House developed the first small
Officers Association
community and rural development policy in
LEADERS
Wilfred Johnson
1980.
President, Indiana Township Trustees
Association
Dr. Landrum Bolling
National Board of Directors
Trustee of Jackson Township, Ind.
Distinguished Research Professor, Institute
NATaTs governing body is
Former Member of the Cambridge City, Ind,
for the Study of Diplomacy, Georgetown
Council
University School of Foreign Service; Consul-
comprised of individuals who have
John Kirvin
tant, Council on Foundations. Until recently
a strong background in small town
President, Association of the Towns of the
the Chairman of the Council on Foundations,
State of New York
Dr. Bolling is a former president of the Lilly
government and who, through their
Supervisor of the Town of Rotterdam, N.Y.
Endowment, where he encouraged support
respective state associations, have a
Commissioner, Capital District Regional
for several important rural development
Planning Commission
projects.
direct link to small towns and a
Glenn Pierce
clear understanding of their prob-
President, South Dakota Association of
Dr. Herrington Bryce
lems and needs.
Townships
President, National Policy Institute. The
Supervisor of Bangor Township, S.D.
former vice president for research at the
Ed K Krueger, President
Chairman, Brookings County Township
Academy for Contemporary Problems, Dr.
Executive Director, Wisconsin Towns
Association
Bryce is an economist and has served as a
Association
Member, Board of Directors, Land o' Lakes
consultant, senior researcher and professor.
Editor, Wisconsin Towns Association
Corporation
He is the author of the book Small Cities in
Newsletter
Transition, and is well known for his under-
David Russell
Clerk of Richmond Township,
standing of small town management and
Shawano County, Wisc.
Executive Director, Connecticut Council of
planning issues.
Member, USDA National Rural Develop-
Small Towns
ment Advisory Council
Member, Granby, Conn, Planning and
Dr. Daniel Elazar
Member, Wisconsin Small Cities Block
Zoning Commission
Director, Center for the Study of Federalism
Grant Committee
Member, Connecticut Governor's Advisory
at Temple University. An internationally
Commission on Block Grants
George H. Miller, First Vice
renowned political scientist, Dr. Elazar has
Member, State Rural Development Council
President
written or edited more than 20 books, includ-
Former Member, Granby Board of
ing Cities in the Prairie. He is the editor of
Executive Director, Township Officials of
Selectmen
Illinois
Publius, a journal on federalism.
Former Granby Town Manager
Editor, Illinois County and Township Official
Member, USDA National Rural Develop-
Ervin Strandquist
Dr. Leigh Grosenick
ment Advisory Council
First Vice President, Minnesota Association
Director of the Graduate School of Public
Member, Advisory Board, Illinois Community
of Townships
Administration at Virginia Commonwealth
Information and Education Service
Treasurer of Foldahl Township, Minn.
University. Dr. Grosenick is a former research
Former Trustee of Leyden Township, III.
Chairman, Marshall County Association of
director of the University of Minnesota's
Former President, Township Officials of III.
Townships
Municipal Reference Bureau and former
Michael H. Cochran, Second Vice
Chairman, Northwest Minnesota Regional
director of the Minnesota Governor's Office
Development Commission
on Federal Relations. He presented a major
President
President, Minnesota Association of
paper, "Grassroots Capacity Building in Rural
Executive Director, Ohio State Association
Regional Councils
Areas," at the first national Conference on
of Township Trustees and Clerks
James Totten
Non-metropolitan Community Services
Editor and Publisher, Ohio Township News
Delivery at Ohio State University.
President of the Reynoldsburg, Ohio, City
President, New Jersey Association of Towns
Council
and Townships
Dr. Robert Hawkins
Private Attorney
Assistant Editor, The News of the New Jersey
B. Kenneth Greider, Secretary-
Township Association
President, Sequoia Institute. Appointed by
Committeeman of East Amwell Township,
President Reagan to the U.S. Advisory Com-
Treasurer
N.J.
mission on Intergovernmental Relations, Dr.
Executive Director, Pennsylvania State
Hawkins is a former director of the state and
Chairman, East Amwell Township Board of
Association of Township Supervisors
Health
local government program of the Woodrow
Publishing Director, Pa. Township News
Wilson International Center for Scholars. He
Chairman, Pennsylvania Local Government
Jean Levesque, Ex Officio Member
is a recognized expert on federalism, a mem-
Conference
of the Board
ber of the President's Federalism Advisory
Kellogg Fellow, Public Affairs Leadership
President, National Association of Smaller
Committee, and has a longstanding interest in
Program, Pennsylvania State University
Communities
small town issues.
Chairman, Pennsylvania Intergovernmental
Mayor of Salem, Mass.
Council
Dr. Barry Wellar
Robert R. Robinson, Immediate
National Advisory Council
Professor, School of Urban and Regional
Past President
Planning and Department of Geography,
Executive Director, Michigan Townships
NATaT's Advisory Council is
University of Ottawa, Canada. Until recently,
Association
composed of university professors,
Dr. Wellar was director of non-metropolitan
Editor, Michigan Township News
development for the government of Canada.
business and government leaders,
Member, Michigan State Assessors Board
In that position, he directed a major national
Member, Michigan Council of Intergovern-
and foundation officials. Diverse in
study of the public management problems of
mental Relations
occupation and expertise, they are
small, rural communities in his country. Dr.
Member, Michigan Council on Rural
Wellar has held numerous teaching and
Development
united in their understanding of
research positions, chaired important national
Former Supervisor of Meridan Charter
small town problems, and their
and international conferences and has been a
Township, Mich.
featured speaker on local government issues
Former Chairman, Ingham County, Mich,,
many years of experience in helping
in the U.S. and abroad.
Board of Supervisors
to find solutions.
17
NATIONAL A ISSOCIATION OF TOWNS AND TOWNSHIPS
Annual Educational Conference
National Association of
Towns and Townships
The Capital Hilton
Washington, D.C.
September 9-11, 1981
I
BRIDGING THE GAP
Between Grassroots Government and the Nation's Capital
PROGRAM AT
A GLANCE
Wednesday, September 9, 1981
9:00-
11:30 a.m.
General Session
Noon-
11:30 a.m.-
5:30 p.m.
Conference Registration/Information
12:15 p.m.
Cash Bar
Noon-
7:30 p.m.
NATaT/Federal Resources Exhibit
11:30 a.m.-
3:00 p.m.
Exhibits
3:00-
7:30
Exhibits
12:15-
2:30
Luncheon Banquet and
5:30-
"Legislator of the Year" Awards
7:00
"Meet the Delegates" Reception
7:30
NATaT Board of Directors Meeting
Thursday, September 10, 1981
PROGRAM
8:00 a.m.-
4:00 p.m.
Conference Registration/Information
CONTENTS
8:00 a.m.-
4:00 p.m.
NATaT/Federal Resources Exhibit
The National Association of Towns
8:00-
11:30 a.m.
General Session
and Townships
2
NATaT Services and Publications
6
11:30 a.m.-
Welcome Message
7
12:15 p.m.
Cash Bar
General Information
8
11:30 a.m.-
Map of Conference Activities
12
4:00 p.m.
Exhibits
Wednesday, September 9, Program
14
12:15-
Thursday, September 10, Program
14
2:00
Luncheon Banquet and
Friday, September 11, Program
18
Special Honors and Recognition
NATaT Board of Directors and
2:30 and
Advisory Council
20
3:45
Educational Workshops
NATaT Conference Staff
22
5:00 p.m.
Buses leave for Congressional Reception
5:30-
7:30
Congressional Reception
7:15-
8:00
Buses return to The Capital Hilton
Friday, September 11, 1981
8:00 a.m.-
4:00 p.m.
Conference Registration/Information
8:00 a.m.-
3:00 p.m.
NATaT/Federal Resources Exhibit
1
THE NATIONAL
ASSOCIATION
OF TOWNS
AND TOWNSHIPS
The National Association of Towns and
The TOOLBOX section of the Reporter
Townships (NATaT) promotes at the national level the
contains valuable problem-solving ideas, and helps put
interests of local government officials from over 13,000
community decision-makers in touch with others who have
predominantly small communities across the country.
solved similar local problems. The TAKE NOTE depart-
Through its state associations and direct member network
ment offers useful "briefs" on trends, actions, and news
at the grassroots level, NATaT provides a voice in the
from the Capital concerning smaller jurisdictions. And, the
nation's capital for what is often referred to as "small town
engaging VIEWPOINT series includes the critical opinions
America."
of national policymakers involved with issues of vital
The Association offers a wide range of
concern to NATaT's members.
essential programs and services tailored to fit the unique
The Association also fosters new informa-
needs of its member local officials. NATaT is, by far, the
tion "connections" through NATaT's News Service, which
largest and broadest based organization of its kind in the
was created to provide locally-based publications with a
nation today.
regular source of community development and township
information. Through other newsletters and magazines,
Program and Service
the Association is able to give town officials nationwide
Highlights
important, fast-breaking news and information about fed-
eral programs and national policy developments. By
Because they are responsible for a wide
capitalizing on the communications networks of these
range of public services, town officials need, but often do
publications, NATaT now reaches out to upwards of 60,000
not have, basic information about federal and state
local officials.
programs and policies which are intended to meet local
The National Association has published a
community needs. To help fill this void, NATaT provides:
one-of-its-kind directory for local officials, entitled Guide
Information Outreach
to Federal Resources for Small Communities. This unique
directory is designed to help identify sources of assist-
NATaT's National Community Reporter is
- funding and guidance- to address community
considered a premier publication in the local government
needs. The Guide is ideally suited for local government
field and receives high marks from town officials and other
officials who have had little experience seeking federal or
people involved with community development activities at
state aid, but are interested in doing so. The Guide will be
the local, state and national levels:
updated in early 1982 to incorporate changes in federal
From a town official, "I have just received
and state programs.
my first issue of the National Community
Because many townships do not have the
Reporter. I would like to compliment you for
capability to keep abreast of new information sources and
what I consider a very informative newspa-
local problem-solving materials which are made available
per.
I especially like your policy of giving
by state and federal agencies or other organizations
names and addresses of sources of
around the country, NATaT has established an information
information."
clearinghouse program to provide local officials with a
centralized source for obtaining these materials. In addi-
"The Reporter has already proven to be
tion, the Association's staff actively seeks out new sources
very valuable because it alerted us to the
of information from government agencies, universities,
availability of information on a circuit rider
and other non-profit groups. The information is promoted
program which we are seeking to establish
via the National Community Reporter and through other
in our region. I look forward to receiving it
forums, and is being distributed upon request at no cost
on a regular basis," one reader wrote.
to town officials.
A state government official said, "The Re-
porter is the best thing going in rural
development."
2
3
Educational Conference
munities, their place in the nation's scheme
of things, and their legislative and adminis-
Every year hundreds of local officials from
trative needs."
across the country convene in Washington, D.C. for what
some have called the biggest "town meeting" ever held -
J.C. Doherty is a Washington, D.C. writer spe-
NATaT's annual national conference.
cializing in rural planning, development, and
This unique educational forum offers Asso-
government issues. He was formerly with the
ciation members a wide variety of programs especially
U.S. Department of Agriculture, and isco-author
oriented to grassroots government leaders:
of Growth and Change in Rural America (Urban
Educational workshops for town officials
Land Institute, 1979).
covering a range of current and vital local
government topics.
To help ensure that federal policies affect-
Information and materials about federal
ing NATaT's members are appropriately scaled to local
and state funding programs, in which
conditions and needs, Association staff conducts re-
smaller communities are eligible to
search and develops policy recommendations for consid-
participate.
eration at the national level.
A legislative "exchange" with congres-
In this vein, NATaT is frequently called upon
sional leaders on Capitol Hill.
by Members of Congress and federal officials to provide
General policy sessions addressed by
the Association's views on important domestic policy
White House and agency officials and key
issues concerning such matters as energy conservation
Members of Congress.
and resource allocation, sewer and water programs,
A "Meet the Delegates" program, during
General Revenue Sharing, agricultural land preservation
which conference attendees have an op-
proposals, and regulatory reform efforts.
portunity to "compare notes" with local
officials from different regions of the
country.
In addition to its national conference
National Association of
series, NATaT's staff helps coordinate numerous state-
Towns and Townships
based training workshops and federal policy seminars.
1523 O Street, NW
Washington, DC 20005
Technical Assistance
202/462-0265
To supplement the basic information it
provides to local officials through its national newspaper,
information clearinghouse and special publications, NATaT
offers technical assistance and guidance to local officials
who would like advice on how to get through the often
complex maze of federal rules or regulation which thwart
local initiatives.
Research and National Policy
Formation
"With the exception of the National Associa-
tion of Towns and Townships, no public
interest group active in Washington is con-
cerned with the condition of smaller com-
4
5
WELCOME TO
WASHINGTON
National Association of
Towns and Townships
On behalf of the Board of Directors of the
Programs and Services
National Association of Towns and Townships (NATaT) we
applaud you for your commitment to strong local self-
government, which is demonstrated by your attendance at
the Association's second national conference, BRIDGING
THE GAP
Between Grassroots Government and the
The National Association of Towns and Townships
Nation's Capital.
(NATaT) offers a wide range of essential programs
and services tailored to fit the unique needs of its
Your participation in this educational con-
member local officials.
ference is critical because of the changes now taking
place at the federal level which will affect local govern-
NATaT will send you
ments in the years ahead. As you know, a new presiden-
General information about the National
tial term has begun and Congress will be taking actions
Association
which may shift new responsibilities to the town level. As a
delegate to this year's BRIDGING THE GAP conference,
Details about membership programs
you will have an opportunity, through interaction with
Subscription to NATaT's National Community
national leaders, to help shape future federal influence on
Reporter ($12 per year)
your community.
A Guide to Federal Resources for Small
During the next few days, you will hear
from White House representatives, key Members of Con-
Communities ($15 per copy)
gress, and other federal officials on matters of vital
National Conference information
concern to you and the citizens you represent. By joining
National Community Reporter advertising
with your colleagues from around the country who are
information
attending this conference, you are helping to ensure that
these national decision-makers understand the im-
portance of town(ship) government and the viewpoint of
Name
the "grassroots."
The conference title, BRIDGING THE GAP,
Community or Organization
symbolizes the significance of local officials in govern-
ment as "partners" in the intergovernmental system. We
have designed the conference to highlight your role in this
partnership, and provide you with up-to-date information
Address
and materials on policies and programs which relate to
your needs and concerns as local government officials.
Phone
Return to: National Association of Towns and
Townships, 1523 o Street, NW, Washington, DC
20005 or phone 202/462-0265.
Ed Krueger,
George Miller,
Barton D. Russell,
President
First Vice President,
Executive Director
National Association of
Conference Planning
National Association of
Towns and Townships
Committee Chairman
Towns and Townships
National Association of
Towns and Townships
6
7
The NATaT Board of Directors hopes your
General Sessions, Educational Workshops, Receptions,
participation in the conference programs proves to be a
Luncheon Banquets, and buses transporting delegates to
rewarding experience, and we look forward to working
the Congressional Reception. All conference activities are
with you in the months and years ahead in a continuing
limited to attendees with conference badges.
effort to "bridge the gap" between your community and
Washington, D.C.
"Meet the Delegates" Reception
We would like to offer special thanks to the
At the time of registration, each conference
conference exhibitors who have added greatly to the
attendee will be provided with one free beverage coupon
educational focus of our sessions.
for the "Meet the Delegates" Reception on Wednesday,
Finally, we recognize and appreciate the
September 9. A cash bar will also be available.
leadership and staff of both the State and National
Associations for their commitment to making the BRIDG-
Exhibits
ING THE GAP conference a great success.
Exhibits of products and services of inter-
The National Association of Towns and Town-
est to BRIDGING THE GAP attendees are located in the
ships would like to thank the McDonalds Corporation for its
Capital Terrace and Upper Lobby of The Capital Hilton.
support of the BRIDGING THE GAP conference.
Exhibits will be open Wednesday, September 9, 3:00-7:30
p.m.; Thursday, September 10, 11:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.; and
Friday, September 11, 11:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. You are
GENERAL
encouraged to visit the exhibit booths where exhibit
INFORMATION
personnel will be on hand to provide materials and
answer any questions you may have.
Conference Registration
NATaT/Federal
Resources Exhibit
Registration for the BRIDGING THE GAP
educational conference will take place on the Upper
An exhibit featuring federal resource mate-
Lobby of The Capital Hilton, Washington, D.C. The Con-
rials and information about the National Association of
ference Registration/Information Desk will be open
Towns and Townships is located in the Upper Lobby.
Wednesday, September 9, from noon-5:30 p.m.; Thursday,
Conference attendees are welcome to visit the exhibit and
September 10, from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.; and Friday,
pick up copies of the available literature. NATaT staff will
September 11, from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
be available at the exhibit to answer questions regarding
The conference registration fee (after Au-
NATaT's programs and services, and community participa-
gust 19) is $90 per person for members of state town
tion in federal programs.
and township associations and spouses, and $100 per
person for non-members and spouses. The registration
Congressional Reception
fee includes all scheduled General Sessions, Educational
Group bus transportation will be provided
Workshops, Receptions, Luncheon Banquets, and avail-
by NATaT to the Congressional Reception in Room 345 of
able literature.
the Cannon House Office Building on Capitol Hill, Thurs-
Hotel Reservations
day, September 10. Special buses have been reserved for
BRIDGING THE GAP conference attendees. Boarding will
Hotel reservations must be arranged by the
begin outside the main lobby of The Capital Hilton
conference attendees.
promptly at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, September 10. (Don't
forget: Wear your name badge.)
Name Badges
To facilitate discussions between you and
Your conference name badge will provide
your Members of Congress, NATaT has arranged an
you with admission to all conference events, including
informal meeting place in the reception room for each
8
9
state town and township association. Please see a NATaT
Non-Smoking Areas
staff member or your state association representative on
During both General Sessions, both
the NATaT Board of Directors for details.
Luncheon Banquets, and the Educational Workshops, the
Following the Congressional Reception,
seats to the right side of the center aisle will be desig-
you are "on your own" for dinner. If you would like to return
nated as the non-smoking areas.
to The Capital Hilton, bus transportation will be provided
from the Cannon House Office Building on Capitol Hill; the
Rest Rooms
last bus will leave at 8:00 p.m. (Please see the Restaurant
Rest Rooms are located near the elevators,
Guide in your conference packet for a listing of recom-
behind the Upper Lobby area.
mended restaurants for dinner.)
Media
Fire Safety
While we do not expect any problems,
Media representatives are invited to attend
conference attendees are nevertheless urged to take
all conference sessions. Press people should go to the
adequate fire safety precautions, including: know where
Conference Registration/Information Desk to be registered.
the exits are located; become familiar with exits from
State Association
meeting and sleeping rooms; leave the hotel at the first
sign of smoke; don't use the elevators; if you can't go
Group Photographs
down the stairs, go up; if you can't leave your room, fight
Times have been set aside for group pho-
the fire by opening the window, phoning for help, turning
tographs of state town and township association members
on the bathroom fan, and keeping everything wet.
who are attending the conference. Please see a NATaT
This partial list of fire precautions is ex-
staff member or your state association representative on
cerpted from "Warning: Hotels Could Be Hazardous to
the NATaT Board of Directors for times and places for
Your Health," by R.H. Kauffman.
photographs.
Restaurants
Evaluation Forms
Please see the Restaurant Guide in your
Evaluation forms are included in your con-
conference packet for a listing of recommended restau-
ference packet. Please fill one out at the conclusion of the
rants in The Capital Hilton and the nation's capital.
conference and leave it at the Conference Registration/
Information Desk, or mail it to NATaT. Information provided
Tours
in the evaluation forms after the 1980 conference was
Washington-area tours can be arranged
used extensively in planning this year's conference.
through the tour desk near The Capital Hilton Reservation
Pre-Luncheon Activities
counter on the first floor.
Several activities are planned during the
The Capital Hilton
break between the morning General Sessions and the
The Capital Hilton, site of the BRIDGING
Luncheon Banquets on both Thursday, September 10, and
THE GAP conference, is located at 16th and K Streets,
Friday, September 11.
NW, Washington, D.C. in the heart of downtown Washing-
A Cash Bar will be available near the
ton. The phone number is 202/393-1000. The closest
Capital Terrace. In addition, exhibits will be open for you
Washington Metro subway stop to The Capital Hilton is
to visit.
Farragut North on the Red Line. Cabs are available in
front of the hotel.
Messages
Messages will be posted on a bulletin
Program Changes
board near the Conference Registration/Information Desk.
This program is subject to change.
10
11
Bridging the Gap
Between Grassroots Government and the Nation's Capital
September 9-11, 1981
The Capital Hilton, Washington, D.C.
PAN AMERICAN
GALLERY
ROOM
MASSACHUSETTS
ROOM
Passenger
NEW YORK
Elevator
ROOM
Ladies Rest Room
Passenger
Elevator
UPPER
Men's
PRESIDENTIAL
Rest
MICHIGAN
LOBBY
BALLROOM
Room
ROOM
OHIO
L STREET
CONGRESSIONAL
ROOM
K STREET
ROOM
SENATE ROOM
INFORMATION
REGISTRATION/
CONFERENCE
FEDERAL
ROOM
CALIFORNIA
ROOM
CHECK ROOM
CAPITAL TERRACE EXHIBIT AREA
SOUTH
AMERICAN
ROOM
FOYER NO. 1
LOWER LOBBY
FOYER NO. 2
CONTINENTAL
ROOM
SIXTEENTH STREET
12
13
CONFERENCE
PROGRAM
Wednesday, September 9
Introduction of NATaT Board of Directors
and Special Guests: Ed Krueger, NATaT
Noon-
Conference Registration/Information
President
5:30 p.m.
Desk
Upper Lobby
Speaker: Dr. Robert B. Hawkins,
President, Sequoia Institute; Member,
Noon-
NATaT/Federal Resources Exhibit
NATaT Advisory Council
7:30 p.m.
Upper Lobby
Speaker: The Honorable Malcolm
Baldrige, Secretary, U.S. Department of
3:00-7:30
Exhibits
Commerce
Capital
Terrace
Speaker: The Honorable Drew Lewis,
Secretary, U.S. Department of
5:30-7:30
"Meet the Delegates" Reception
Transportation
Presidential
Greetings: Ed Krueger, NATaT President;
Ballroom
Wisconsin Towns Association, Executive
11:30 a.m.-
Cash Bar
Director
12:15 p.m.
Entertainment: Ken Sheiry, pianist
Capital
Terrace
8:00
NATaT Board of Directors meeting
11:30 a.m.-
Exhibits
4:00 p.m.
Thursday, September 10
Capital
Terrace and
8:00 a.m.-
Conference Registration/Information
Upper Lobby
4:00 p.m.
Desk
12:15-
Banquet Luncheon
Upper lobby
2:00 p.m.
Speaker: The Honorable Donald Riegle,
8:00 a.m.-
Opening General Session
Congres-
Jr. (D-MI), U.S. Senate
11:30 a.m.
Call to Order and Welcome
sional and
Special Honors and Recognition:
Presidential
Ed Krueger, NATaT President
Senate
Grassroots Government Officials
Ballroom
Rooms
Speaker: Vice President
NATaT Advisory Council Members
State Association Leaders
George Bush
EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS: All work-
Invocation, Ervin Strandquist,
shops will run concurrently at 2:30 p.m.
NATaT Board of Directors; Minnesota
and 3:45 p.m. in the meeting rooms lo-
Association of Townships, First Vice
cated in the hallway behind the Confer-
President
ence Registration/Information Desk (see
Presentation of Colors and Pledge of
signs).
Allegiance
The Honorable
Malcolm Baldrige
Welcome Message, Bernard Hillenbrand,
Secretary of
Executive Director, National Association of
Commerce
THE DEPARTMENT
Counties
(left)
Speaker: George Miller, NATaT First Vice
The Honorable
Drew Lewis
President; Township Officials of Illinois, Ex-
Secretary of
ecutive Director: "Grassroots Government:
Transportation
Strong Partners in the Intergovernmental
(right)
System."
14
15
STAND UP AND BE COUNTED: HOW
MEETING LOCAL NEEDS: FEDERAL
YOU CAN PROMOTE THE VIEWS OF
AND STATE RESOURCES FOR
GRASSROOTS GOVERNMENT
SMALLER COMMUNITIES
Federal actions affect local governments
Some federal programs of importance to
every day. You can change things - if you
local governments are being transferred to
use the right tactics.
state governments, while others will con-
Moderator: Robert Robinson, NATaT Im-
tinue to be run from Washington. Learn
mediate Past President; Michigan Town-
about programs which might provide real
ships Association, Executive Director
help for your community in order to ensure
Guest: U.S. Congressman
your town will get its "fair share" of
Film: "A Washington Fable": Congressmen
assistance.
Barber Conable (R-NY) and Tom Foley
Moderator: Jeff Schiff, Vice President,
(D-WA) and other Washington figures
Government Information Services
explain the importance of making your-
Panelists: James Forsberg, Department of
self heard in the Nation's Capital.
Housing and Urban Development, Di-
rector, Small Cities Program
GENERAL REVENUE SHARING: WHAT
Keith Dearth, Environmental Protection
YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS
Agency, Branch Chief, Office of Water
PROGRAM AND ITS FUTURE
Program Operations
While General Revenue Sharing (GRS) is
Dwight Calhoun, Farmers Home
the closest a local official can come to a
Administration, Assistant Administrator
"no strings attached" federal program, it
for Community Programs
still has a few important regulations with
Bill Bivens, National Governors Associa-
which communities must comply. Hear
tion, Senior Policy Fellow for Rural Affairs
about the latest GRS rules affecting your
TOWN(SHIP) GOVERNMENT
locality and the future of this program.
ROUNDTABLE
Moderator: George Miller, NATaT First Vice
In this workshop you will learn about how
President; Township Officials of Illinois,
town governments "work" from state to
Executive Director
state and issues affecting townships in
Panelists: Karen Spaight, Supervisory Pro-
state capitals across the country.
gram Analyst, Office of Revenue Sharing
John Duncan, Staff Director, House Com-
Moderator: Wally Gustafson, General
mittee on Government Operations
Counsel, Minnesota Association of
Townships
NATIONAL TOWN ISSUES FORUM:
Dr. Robert B. Hawkins,
MAKING YOUR MARK IN THE NATION'S
President, Sequoia
CAPITAL
Institute
(left)
An informal discussion on national policies
affecting your community designed to pro-
Senator Donald
Riegle, Jr.
vide you with a chance to express your
(right)
"federal" concerns as a local official.
Moderator: David Gallagher, Economic
Development Coordinator, National As-
sociation of Towns and Townships
16
17
5:00 p.m.
Buses Leave The Capital Hilton for Con-
Speaker: The Honorable Barber B. Con-
Lower Lobby
gressional Reception, Cannon House Of-
able, Jr. (R-NY) U.S. House of Repre-
fice Building
sentatives Ways and Means Committee,
Ranking Republican
5:30-7:30
Congressional Reception
Cannon
Speaker: The Honorable James Ed-
House
wards, Secretary, U.S. Department of
Office
Energy
Building,
Speaker: Richard Williamson, Special
Room 345
Assistant to President Reagan for
7:15-8:00
Buses leave from Cannon House Office
Intergovernmental Affairs
Cannon
Building to The Capital Hilton
Speaker: The Honorable John R. Block,
House
Secretary, U.S. Department of Agriculture
Office
Building
11:30 a.m.-
Cash bar
12:15 p.m.
Friday, September 11
Capital
Terrace
8:00 a.m.-
Conference Registration/Information
11:30 a.m.-
Exhibits
4:00 p.m.
Desk
3:00 p.m.
Upper Lobby
Capital
8:00 a.m.-
NATaT/Federal Resources Exhibit
Terrace and
3:00 p.m.
Upper Lobby
Upper Lobby
12:15-
Banquet Luncheon
9:00-
General Session
2:30 p.m.
"Legislator of the Year" Awards
11:30 a.m.
Call to Order
Congres-
Senator David Durenberger (R-MN)
Presidential
Ed Krueger, NATaT President
sional and
Senator Donald W. Riegle, Jr. (D-MI)
Ballroom
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
Senate
Representative Clarence J. "Bud" Brown
Michael Cochran, NATaT Second Vice Pres-
Rooms
(R-OH)
ident; Ohio State Association of Township
Representative Stanley N. Lundine (D-NY)
Trustees and Clerks, Executive Director
Closing Remarks
Opening Remarks
Speaker: George Miller, NATaT First Vice
Robert Robinson, NATaT Immediate Past
President
President; Michigan Townships Associa-
Adjournment
tion, Executive Director
Speaker: Ed Krueger, NATaT President
The Honorable
Representative
Senator David
Representative
Representative
The Honorable
John R. Block
Clarence"Bud"Brown
Durenberger
Stanley Lundine
Barber Conable, Jr.
James Edwards
Secretary of Agriculture
Secretary of Energy
18
19
NATaT Officers
Glenn Pierce
South Dakota Association of Townships
President
605/826-4237
Ed Krueger
David Russell
Wisconsin Towns Association
Connecticut Council of Small Towns
715/526-5629
203/522-2217
First Vice President
John Kirvin
George Miller
Association of Towns of the State of
Township Officials of Illinois
New York
309/329-2101
518/474-4725
Second Vice President
Ex-Officio Member of the Board
Michael Cochran
Jean Levesque, President
Ohio State Association of Township Trustees
National Association of Smaller
and Clerks
Communities
614/863-0045
Secretary-Treasurer
B. Kenneth Greider
Pennsylvania State Association of Township
NATaT Advisory Council
Supervisors
717/763-0930
Bob Bergland
President, Farmland-Eaton World Trade
Immediate Past President
Robert R. Robinson
Landrum Bolling
Michigan Townships Association
Distinguished Research Professor,
517/321-6467
Georgetown University School of Foreign
Service, Institute for the Study of
Diplomacy
NATaT Board of Directors
Consultant, Council on Foundations
Herrington Bryce
Leo Gray
National Policy Institute
North Dakota Township Officers Association
Daniel Elazar
701/242-8284
Director, Center for the Study of Federalism
James Totten
Orville Freeman
New Jersey Association of Towns and
President, Business International, Inc.
Townships
609/396-7066
Leigh Grosenick
Director, Graduate School of Public
Wilfred Johnson
Administration, Virginia Commonwealth
Indiana Township Trustees Association
University
317/478-4034
Robert Hawkins
Ervin Strandquist
President, Sequoia Institute
Minnesota Association of Townships
612/497-2330
Barry Wellar
University of Ottawa, Canada
20
21
Conference Staff
Barton D. Russell, Executive Director
Bruce G. Rosenthal, Communications
HA/ard
MONTHLY
Coordinator
David Gallagher, Economic Development
Coordinator
Georgiana Smith, Legislative Affairs
You Read About The Problems
Coordinator
Of Emergency Response In The
Janet J. Rubendall, Administrative
July/August NATaT Reporter
Manager
Ruth Ann Stamato, Project Intern
Read About The Solutions
Every Month In Hazard!
Stay On Top Of
What's Happening
In Police, Fire,
Civil Defense, And
Emergency Medical
YARGER
With
AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
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Township Experience
Hazard Monthly is
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exchanging Information
Test Construction -
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Fire and Police Studies
and bridging the gap
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and agencies and the
Productivity Studies
grass roots emergency
first responders.
2830 Mary Street
Falls Church, Va. 22042
Twelve Monthly Issues:
-
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Organizations $37
Individuals $18
Subscribe today by
calling (301) 424-2389
or writing Box 34408,
Bethesda, MD 20817.
Pick Up Your Sample Copy Of
Hazard At The NATaT Conference
22
23
Professional management services
HYAIL DRMS
in planning and procedures 8
areas
OUR PEOPLE ARE AS CLOSE
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A NATaT FACT SHEET
National
Association of
Towns and Townships
The National Association of Towns and Townships is a non-profit membership organi-
zation offering technical assistance, educational services, and public policy support to
local government officials from more than 13,000 smaller communities across the country.
Through its Washington, D.C. headquarters, the association conducts research and develops
public policy recommendations which are appropriately scaled to the unique needs and
characteristics of rural governments and small towns. NATaT's educational conferences,
training workshops, and specialized publications help small town officials cope with and
manage change in their communities -- and improve the quality of life available to rural
people.
Developing Effective Federal Policy
Our nation's small communities are changing rapidly. Population growth, economic
development, stagnation in the midst of growth, public demands for more services -- all
these strains are afflicting many of America's small towns.
Yet national and state policy-makers have continued to concentrate almost exclusively
on urban issues. In the few instances when small town policy has been considered, it has
most often been hampered by inaccurate data and a near-total lack of understanding of the
needs and problem-solving potential of small town governments. As a result, small towns
have too often been pushed into programs which were inappropriate in scale and scope to
their communities. When national programs and policies fall short, they run up major
costs -- both economic and social.
NATaT's federal policy research program works two ways to resolve these failures.
First, with its expertise on small towns and their needs, the association helps national
decision-makers shape policy which works -- both in function and cost. Second, by analy-
zing federal and state initiatives, and disseminating information about them, NATaT helps
keep rural officials abreast of decisions and actions of national import, so they can
better manage change in their communities.
The Nation's Biggest "Town Meeting": A Unique Educational Program
NATaT's educational conference for small town and rural officials is the largest
annual national meeting which focuses on federal policies and programs affecting small
communities. The association's 1982 conference, MAKE YOUR VOICE COUNT, will give key
national leaders an opportunity to hear the views of rural government officials. Edu-
cational workshops conducted by NATaT staff and program experts will cover a wide range of
federal policies, financial support programs, and state and federal resources for small
communities. Exhibits, resource materials, and a community self-help information exchange
will be featured.
Information Outreach
NATaT publishes a bi-monthly news journal, the National Community Reporter, which is
the only regular national source of intergovernmental policy news and "how-to", problem-
solving information written exclusively for small town officials. The journal's topics
range from community and economic development funding alternatives, to tested rural manage-
ment and planning techniques.
For local officials seeking assistance for community development initiatives, NATaT
has produced a one-of-a-kind directory entitled A Guide to Federal Resources for Small
Communities. Developed especially for the official who has never before sought federal
assistance, the guidebook provides information on different types of funding and gives a
comprehensive listing of federal grant and loan programs in an easy-to-use format. The
guide will be updated in 1982 to reflect changes resulting from budget cuts, the new
state-run block grants and the proposed new federalism initiative.
1522 K Street, Northwest, Suite 730 Washington, D.C. 20005
Telephone: (202) 737-5200
NATaT WASHINGTON REPORT
A bulletin on federal actions affecting the nation's townships
ROUTE TO:
July 1, 1982
House Likely To Act on Public Employee Pensions
PERISA, now entitled "The Public Employee Pension Plan Reporting and Accountability
Act of 1982 (PEPPRA),' is waiting to be scheduled for floor action in the House. The
bill, which is strongly opposed by NATaT, would oversee state and local government
pensions systems, creating another costly and burdensome regulation for local officials.
The White House Cabinet Council met this past week to consider a position on the
bill, but declined to take a stand until they can consult Rep. John N. Erlenborn, R.-
Ill., one of the co-sponsors, who is currently out of the country. When asked at the
NATaT Board reception why he changed the name of the legislation, Erlenborn replied,
"So I can ignore all those letters coming to me complaining about PERISA."
No major consideration of the legislation has taken place in the Senate yet,
but some action seems probable when the Senate Labor Committee marks up similar
legislation for the private sector on July 20.
NATaT members are urged to write to the President and contact Representatives
immediately to help defeat the Erlenborn bill before it makes any more progress.
Hazardous Waste Transport Conference Set
A conference to help train town officials on how to respond to a hazardous waste
accident is set for September 20-22 in Denver. NATaT will send approximately nine
town representatives, people who have responsibility for responding to accidents. Some
money will be available to defray costs.
Soon you will be receiving a questionnaire which will help NATaT assess the role
towns play in emergency response. In the meantime, if you are interested in the
conference, please contact Paula Alford at NATaT, (202) 737-5200.
NATaT Council Member Picked to Chair ACIR
Interior Secretary James G. Watt resigned as chairman of the Advisory Commission
on Intergovernmental Relations in late June and Robert Hawkins, a member of the NATaT
Advisory Council and president of the Sequoia Institute in California, was appointed the
new chairman.
The same week, Wallace F. Gustafson of the Minnesota Association of Townships,
testified before the Senate Subcommittee on Intergovernmental Relations on the need
to expand ACIR's membership to include three town representatives. Through research
and policy analysis, the ACIR monitors the federal system and suggests improvement.
National Association of Towns and Townships
1522 K Street, NW, Suite 730
Washington, D.C. 20005
(202) 737-5200
2
The lack of small town representation is a shortcoming in the commission's deliberations.
Hawkins, a strong NATaT supporter, could be very helpful in our efforts to
secure membership for towns on ACIR and change the membership formula proposed by the
commission--a formula which is unacceptable.
Many thanks are owed those of you who obtained your senator's support for the
bill to add three town representatives to ACIR, (S. 2679), sponsored by Sen. David
Durenberger, R.-Minn.
But we can't stop now. The school boards have launched a big drive for member-
ship on ACIR and we must keep pace. Durenberger's bill needs cosponsors so please
ask your senator to cosponsor S. 2679.
Enterprise Zones-Not the Best, but Helpful
The administration has proposed enterprise zones to help create jobs in the
nations depressed rural areas and revitalize economic conditions.
NATaT generally supports the legislation but has reservations because eligibility
is limited to communities of more than 2,500 residents. Still, the program would
help rural areas. The Department of Housing and Urban Development has estimated that
of the 2,000 eligible communities, 1,500 are rural, even though their population
exceeds 2,500. Additionally, the bill represents one of the few initiatives in
Congress on behalf of rural areas.
The bill is now stalled in the House Ways and Means Committee, with no indication
that hearings will be held. NATaT members with representatives on the committee are
encouraged to contact them and ask them to hold hearings on the enterprise zone bill.
Members of the committee are: Chairman Dan Rostenkowski, D-111., Charles B.
Rangel, D-N.Y., Andrew Jacobs, Jr., D-Ind., William M. Brodhead, D-Mich., Thomas J.
Downey, D-N.Y., Frank J. Guarini, D-N.Y., Marty A. Russo, D-I11., Donald J. Pease, D-
Ohio, Don Bailey, D-Pa., Barber Conable, Jr., R-N.Y., Guy Vander Jagt, R-Mich.,
Philip Crane, R-111., Bill Frenzel, R-Minn., Richard T. Schulze, R-Pa., and Willis T.
Gradison, Jr., R-Ohio. Either call (202) 224-3121 or write Hon.
, U.S
House of Representatives, Washington, D.C. 20515.
Congress May Make Drastic Changes in Reagan's Plans
President Reagan's ideas for a new federalism and tax cuts may not fly in
Congress in their current form, according to an off-the-record report by Dr. Ray
Scheppach, deputy director of the Congressional Budget Office. Scheppach addressed a
June 30 meeting of local government interest group representatives attended by NATaT
Economic Development Coordinator Jeff Schiff.
Scheppach predicted that Congress would not approve the president's plan for a
major swap of programs with the states. The initial proposal called for the federal
government to take over Medicaid, while the states would take charge of the Aid to
Families with Dependent Children and food stamp programs.
He observed that the mood in Congress seems to be running against total turnback
of federal programs to states or local governments. An alternative may be the
creation of several super block grants, with some reduction in funding after fiscal
1983, and fewer regulations on the use of the money.
3
One super block grant might be for infrastructure, and would include programs
such as those of the Economic Development Administration, the Environmental Pro-
tection Agency, the Urban Mass Transit Administration, etc. Another might be for
social services, such as education, health, training, and others.
Scheppach also foresees the continuation of federal General Revenue Sharing as a
separate program.
The budget policy analyst had some observations on federal finances, many of
which differ from President Reagan's current proposals:
Congress seems to be coming around to the notion that taxes will have to be
raised.
There is interest among Senate Republicans to sponsor a 5 cent gas tax increase,
with 1 cent going to states and localities as a block grant.
There seems to be increasing interest in some sort of a flat rate federal
income tax to deal with the estimated $260 million in annual exemptions, loop-
holes, and tax expenditures.
Some deductions would have to be retained (for example home mortgages), but
Congress might be disposed to placing caps on some of them.
A flat rate tax could be devised to reward savings instead of consumption.
Today's system gives tax deductions for spending money while taxing interest
on savings.
Sidelines
The fiscal 1983 budget is progressing, but the tough decisions lie ahead. Details
in the next Reporter.
The National Conference is only weeks away. Please register soon.
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) in a recent study estimates that the cost
of completing the interstate highway system at $38 billion in 1979 dollars, with the
cost of renovating existing roads at $16 billion from now to 1990. CBO says that
only 50% of the projects are likely to get federal help. CBO recommends that the
federal government scale back its plans, complete only the open road portions of the
system, and leave the rest to local construction programs!
NATaT's National Community
Reporter
May 1982, Number 24
Published by the National Association of Towns and Townships
GOVERNMENTS
IN A TIME OF
CHANGE:
Challenges and Opportunities
page 1
Betty Francis
NATaT Presses
Enterprise Zones:
States to Run
For Changes in
Can They Work
Grant Program for
Federalism Plan
In Rural Areas?
'Small Cities'
page 1
page 3
page 5
National Association of
Towns and Townships
1522 K Street, NW, Suite 730
Washington, DC 20005
Reagan Presidential Library
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please search online or visit the Reagan Presidential
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