On May 8, Sterling Heights City Council approved a resolution declaring May as “National Cities, Towns, and Villages Month” in recognition of the importance of local government service. The resolution is part of a national effort to uplift municipal governments led by the National League of Cities (NLC), a nonpartisan organization comprised of city, town and village leaders focused on improving the quality of life for their current and future residents.
National Cities, Towns, and Villages Month is part of the year-long centennial celebration of the National League of Cities, which was founded in 1924. Sterling Heights is a proud member of the National League of Cities. As part of the monthlong celebration, hundreds of local governments across America are issuing similar resolutions and proclamations and are ringing their bell towers on May 22 to commemorate the occasion.
As the resolution states, “local governments are the bedrock of American democracy, providing 336 million residents with the most accountable, responsive, inclusive, ethical, and transparent government in the world.” The resolution goes on to note, “from the nation’s smallest villages to its largest cities, America’s local governments have been essential in transforming the United States of America in to the greatest, most influential nation in world history.”
“Through the daily efforts of mayors, city councilmembers, and staff in cities and towns across America, essential services are delivered promptly, emergencies are met with swift response, and the needs of residents are met with understanding and efficiency,” said Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor. “Recognizing the contributions of our public servants here in Sterling Heights not only acknowledges their hard work but also strengthens the bond between our community and those who serve it with excellence.”
According to Sterling Heights Community Relations Director Melanie Davis, the bell ringing required some creative thinking.
“When it came to ringing bells on May 22, we had to use a little creative license because Sterling Heights doesn’t have a bell tower,” Davis said. “Instead, we chose to have a little fun by creating a video parody to help draw attention to and show our support for this nationwide celebration of public service.” The video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/pwDF3bdmVXA
“NLC’s historic 100th anniversary is a chance to reflect on the contributions local governments have made, look ahead to the next 100 years, and thank the mayors, city councilmembers, and staff who have dedicated themselves to leading our communities,” said NLC CEO and Executive Director Clarence Anthony. “Stepping up to serve your community is a sacrifice, and oftentimes a thankless one. So let us honor our local public servants.”