The National League of Cities (NLC), an organization focused on improving governance and quality of life in American communities, marked its 100th anniversary yesterday. According to the official Nashville government website, Vice Mayor Angie Henderson and members of the Metro Council attended the NLC’s Centennial Summit in Tampa, Florida, where they acknowledged the organization’s history and Nashville’s involvement since 1958.

At the summit, Nashville’s Council Member Kyonzté Toombs, who serves on the NLC’s Finance, Administration, and Intergovernmental Affairs Federal Action Committee, discussed the role of municipal bonds in promoting racial equity. The summit included a range of panels designed for peer learning. Additionally, the event marked the 50th anniversary of the Women in Municipal Government meeting, with Nashville representatives engaging with counterparts from other cities that have recently seen women majorities on their councils.

The NLC not only represents municipal governments in America but also partners with 49 state municipal leagues to influence federal policy and promote innovative leadership at the local level. "Nashville has been an active member of the NLC since 1958, benefiting from the organization’s research, expertise, federal advocacy, and opportunities to learn from other local government colleagues," said Vice Mayor Henderson, highlighting the city's longstanding ties with NLC as per the official Nashville government website.

Council Member Terry Vo was recognized during the summit, receiving the new "Centennial Under 40 Impact Award" for their outstanding contributions to municipal governance. Likewise, Vice Mayor Henderson, representing Nashville, played an active role at the NLC's annual business meeting. Nashville is also poised to host the league's 2026 City Summit, with preparatory efforts already in motion, as per the Nashville government release.

Over the past year, Nashville's interactions with the NLC included hosting several key conferences and meetings, such as the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials’ Summer Conference and the NLC Centennial Roadshow. These events allowed Nashville to showcase its civic culture and leadership in support of the broader development of municipalities nationwide. In the coming year, Nashville council members, including Vice Mayor Henderson, are expected to present their municipal priorities to members of Congress during the NLC's Congressional City Conference in March.