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Conference Schedule
All times listed in Eastern Standard Time.
Explore the full schedule for the 2024 NACo Legislative Conference. Use the links below to print the latest version of the schedule or to jump to a specific conference day.
Friday, Feb. 9
Badge Pick-up Open
7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
International Terrace West
Resource Center
7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level
NACo Store
7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level
Optional Pre-Conference Event: NACo-FEMA Just-In-Time Recovery Management Training
Optional Pre-Conference Event | Pre-registration required
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level
This session is limited to the first 75 attendees to RSVP through the conference registration process. There is no cost to participate, but please only register if you plan to attend so we can host as many attendees as possible.
As the frequency, severity and cost of natural disasters continues to increase, county officials must be prepared to respond to and recover from these events. To assist in this effort, NACo has partnered with FEMA to provide members with a day-long training. Known as the Just-in-Time Recovery Management Training, this session will highlight all the federal resources available to counties following a disaster and how to apply, information on how to best prepare your communities before a disaster strikes, and insights into leading through a disaster as a county official.
Speakers: FEMA Training
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Rebecca Blanco
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Jane Cage
Stan Gimont
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Tim Gleason
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Linda Langston
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Tom Malmay
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Flor Manzanare
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Tracey Phillips
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Sherry Romero
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Veanda Simmons
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Brian Willsey
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level
IT leaders attending the CIO Forum are invited to attend this one hour of networking. The interactive session will be moderated by the NACo County Technology Advisory Council and will include three twenty-minute table discussion on relevant and emerging technology. Come get to know your IT peers in county government. Breakfast will be provided.
10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level
The theme for this year’s Legislative Conference CIO Forum is “Forward Together: Partnerships in Artificial Intelligence(AI) and Modernization.” Attendees will hear how the U.S. Office of Personnel Management is revolutionizing the workforce. Additional sessions will cover the real value of AI, AI strategies and using AI to modernize service delivery. The afternoon will include an update from members of the NACo AI Exploratory Committee as well as an opportunity for attendees to engage in interactive discussion on the draft guidebook the AI Exploratory Committee is developing.
Speakers: CIO Forum
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Hon. Andy Brown
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Guy Cavallo
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Barry Condrey
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Hon. Christopher Constance, MD
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Jayson Dunn
Sybil Gurney
Michael Hojnicki
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Toni Holmes
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Bob Kennedy
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Dessie Calihou
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Julia Kocis
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Kenneth Lennon
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Tom Lynch
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Hon. Mary Jo McGuire
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Danni Melton-Russell
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Matt Peters
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Deiva Ramachandran
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Gail Roper
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David Smith
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Shannon Smith
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Shayna Taqi
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Ken Wolsey
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Hon. Gregg Weiss
NACo Ambassadors Meeting
Invitation Only
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Holmead, Lobby Level
CIO Forum Reception
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level
CIO Forum attendees are invited to stay for the reception which will provide an atmosphere of networking and engagement with your peers and NACo corporate partners. There will also be an opportunity to engage in some interactive innovation games as well.
Saturday, Feb. 10
Badge Pick-up Open
7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
International Terrace West
Resource Center
7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level
NACo Store
7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level
First-Time Attendee Orientation
First-time attendees will receive an invitation to RSVP. Questions? Email membership@naco.org.
8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
International Ballroom Center, Concourse Level
Attending your first NACo conference? Please join NACo leadership to learn how to navigate the conference and participate in roundtable discussions with NACo Ambassadors (seasoned NACo members) to answer your questions and meet fellow first-time attendees. This session is open to county officials and staff attending their first NACo conference who will receive an invitation to RSVP, which are strongly encouraged.
About Policy Steering Committee Meetings
All policy steering committee meetings begin in the morning with informative panel-style discussions, followed by business of the committee, including consideration of interim policy resolutions. Policy steering committee meetings are open to all attendees, but only committee members may vote.
Agriculture and Rural Affairs Policy Steering Committee Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level
Join the Agriculture & Rural Affairs Policy Steering Committee to learn about the diverse challenges facing rural America today, as well as key insights and innovations that can unlock the full potential of our rural communities. Attendees will hear from leaders from nationally renowned policy experts, stakeholders and federal partners. The committee will also participate in discussions on the 2024 Farm Bill and its impact on counties.
Speakers: Ag PSC
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Paul Balzano
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Mikayla Bodey
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Brandon McBride
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Hon. Leslie Meyer
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Hon. Gloria Montaño Greene
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Tom Morris
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Doson Nguyen
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Kennedy O'Dell
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Hon. Kevin Paap
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Anthony Pipa
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Jacqueline Ponti-Lazaruk
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Eric Slee
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Christopher Stever
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Ted Stiger
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Dr. Steven Thomson
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Daniel Webster
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Hon. Terry Wilbur
Community, Economic and Workforce Development Steering Committee Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
International Ballroom West, Concourse Level
Federal partners, national experts and thought leaders will join the Community, Economic and Workforce Development Policy Steering Committee to discuss policy priorities and best practices in affordable housing, community revitalization, workforce development, and more.
Speakers: CEWD PSC
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Joaquin Altoro
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Craig Buerstatte
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Mirelle Burgoyne
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Brian Cummings
Taylor Maag
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Atissa Ladjevardian
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Claudia Monterrosa
Environment, Energy and Land Use Policy Steering Committee Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Jefferson, Concourse Level
Federal partners and national policy experts will join the Environment, Energy and Land Use Policy Steering Committee to discuss committee priorities, including weather forecasting, water infrastructure financing, the “Waters of the U.S.” rule and energy legislation.
Speakers: EELU PSC
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Sarah Alexander
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Susan Bodine
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Ashley Campbell
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Carlos Castillo
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Hon. Archie Chaisson, III
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Erich Eiselt
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Ken Graham
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Nancy Gilbert
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Hon. Heather Kimball
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Jorianne Jerberg
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Chris Moody
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Steve Polacek
Finance, Pensions and Intergovernmental Affairs Policy Steering Committee Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level
The Finance, Pensions and Intergovernmental Affairs Policy Steering Committee meeting will discuss a wide range of matters of importance to counties related to revenues and fiscal management, federal tax reform, pension and retirement benefits, municipal bonds, the intergovernmental partnership and the balance of federalism, elections, and more.
Speakers: FPIGA PSC
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Richard Auxier
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Sarah Berlin
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Joel Black
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Christina Crue
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David Eichenthal
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Hon. Scott Erickson
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Hon. Ricky Hatch
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Hon. Curtis Koch
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Hon. Alexander Mirabella
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Ashish Sinha
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Rachele Trigueros
Health Policy Steering Committee Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level
The Health Policy Steering Committee will be joined by federal partners and national experts to share solutions and best practices in key areas such as public health, behavioral and mental health, Medicaid, and long-term care.
Speakers: Health PSC
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Dr. Nadia Anderson
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Lauren Battle
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Hon. Tarenia Carthan
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Dr. Richard Cho
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Eduardo Cisneros
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Marielle Kress
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Kellie Kubena
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Dr. Jessica Lee
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Hon. Greg Puckett
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Dr. Jennifer Roberts
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Charlotte Kaye Rock
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Hon. Helen Stone
Human Services and Education Policy Steering Committee Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level
Join the Human Services and Education Policy Steering Committee to engage with federal agencies, congressional staff and national experts on shared priorities for stabilizing vulnerable county residents.
Speakers: Human Services PSC
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Joy Bivens
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Chris Coudriet
Lisa Davis
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Debra Johnson
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Hon. Rebecca Jones Gaston
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Lizzy Letter
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Cindy Long
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Rebecca Nathanson
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Marci Phillips
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Liz Ryan
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Ruth Ryder
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Hon. Toyia Tucker
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Cheryl Vincent
Justice and Public Safety Policy Steering Committee Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Lincoln, Concourse Level
Congressional and federal agency partners will join the Justice and Public Safety Policy Steering Committee to discuss critical issues, including mental health in the criminal justice system, disaster mitigation and response, and the outlook for the committee's policy priorities in the 118th Congress.
Speakers: JPS PSC
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Hon. Alma Adams
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Bill Braniff
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Wesley Dawson
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Hon. George Dunlap
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Ken Graham
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Chief (Ret.) Dwight Henninger
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Greg Jackson
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Yolanda Jackson
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Hon. Sara Knizhnik
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Tierra Lemon
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Samantha Medlock
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Veanda Simmons
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Hon. Amy Solomon
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Donald Stevens
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Rob Wilcox
Public Lands Policy Steering Committee Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level
Join the Public Lands Policy Steering Committee to discuss issues related to federal landscape health, public access, resource development, payments to counties and support for gateway counties.
Speakers: Public Lands PSC
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Lucinda Andreani
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Tyson Bertone-Riggs
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Hon. Kathy Chandler-Henry
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Hon. William Cox
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John Gale
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Hon. Heidi Hall
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Troy Heithecker
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Sigrid Johannes
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Brandon Miller
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Shimiki Ross
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Veanda Simmons
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Hon. Nina Waters
Telecommunications and Technology Policy Steering Committee Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level
The Telecommunications and Technology Policy Steering Committee will discuss county priorities, including the deployment of high-speed broadband to unserved and underserved areas, the rise of artificial intelligence, policy advocacy, and innovative practices on digital solutions for counties.
Speakers: Telecommunications and Technology PSC
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Hon. Jennifer Clark
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Hon. Scott Erickson
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Evan Feinman
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Michael Knapp
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Alejandro Roark
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Ji Soo
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Wyatt Sterusky
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Rachele Trigueros
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Hon. Gregg Weiss
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Meredith Williams
Transportation Policy Steering Committee Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
International Ballroom East, Concourse Level
Join the Transportation Policy Steering Committee to hear from featured guest speakers and subject matter experts on transportation policies impactful to counties, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and funding for the Federal Aviation Administration.
Speakers: Transportation PSC
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Brian Bell
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Jeff Blue
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Frances Bourne
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Michael Gaynor
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Hon. Eileen Higgins
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Ward McCarragher
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Jackie Schmitz
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Charles Small
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Evan Wessel
First-Time Attendee Policy Steering Committee 101 Session
12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Tenleytown, First Floor
National Association of Black County Officials (NABCO) Meeting
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tenleytown, First Floor
Policy Coordinating Committee Meeting #2
5:00 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.
Holmead, Lobby Level
Alabama Delegates Caucus
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Shaw, First Floor
National Association of County Administrators (NACA) Executive Board Meeting
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Northwest, Lobby Level
NACA is led by a board of directors made up of nine volunteers of current school member institutions. They exist to serve the membership of the Association. The board works together as a team to strategize, plan, and oversee NACA's future health and viability. The NAC Executive Board Meeting serves as a forum to conduct business that advances NACA’s mission and vision.
NACo's NextGen Business Meeting
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level
Next Generation (NextGen) is a NACo Affinity group who is dedicated to recognizing and supporting new county officials and staff. The group provides educational and professional development opportunities. The Network also provides an outlet for new county officials to share their talents, ideas and expertise where they can assist one another in discovering their role within NACo.
Texas Reception
Invitation only
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Fairchild East, Terrace Level
North Carolina Caucus Meeting
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level
California Caucus Meeting
5:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level
New Mexico Delegate Reception
5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Jay, Lobby Level
PA Counties Caucus
Open to county attendees from Pennsylvania.
5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Fairchild West, Terrace Level
New York State Delegation Reception
5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Morgan, Lobby Level
Police Jury Association of Louisiana Hospitality Reception
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Kalorama, Lobby Level
Colorado Caucus Meeting
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Columbia 2, Terrace Level
Georgia Reception
Open to county attendees from Georgia.
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Cabinet, Concourse Level
National Association of Hispanic County Officials (NAHCO) Meeting and Reception
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level
Women of NACo Legislative Meeting and Reception
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
International Ballroom East, Concourse Level
Women of NACo (WON) offers an opportunity for all women county officials to connect and further their participation in NACo. This reception is an open invitation to all women of NACo ( prospective members ) and current WON members to hear from Gwen Lachelt, Executive Director of Western Leaders Network and Appalachian Leaders Network, while networking with one another.
National Democratic County Officials Legislative Reception
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Georgetown West, Concourse Level
North Carolina Reception
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
National Association of County Administrators (NACA) Reception
Hosted by MissionSquare Retirement
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Rock Creek, First Floor
California Delegation Reception
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Churchill Hotel – Kalorama Ballroom
Sunday, Feb. 11
Badge Pick-up Open
7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
International Terrace West
Resource Center
7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level
NACo Store
7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level
Non-Denominational Worship Service
7:00 a.m. – 7:45 a.m.
Kalorama, Lobby Level
NACo EDGE's HR Workforce Network
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Kalorama, Lobby Level
Join the Workforce Network to learn about and become more engaged with AI and HR as well as the Student Debt Relief Program sponsored by SAVI. There are 4 million Americans with student debt -- many of them are in your workforce. Please join us for a short discussion where Tim Brown (NACo EDGE) will be interviewing student debt relief expert Tony Raffa (Savi) on key trends and legislative updates related to student debt relief. Tony and Tim will cover strategies many employers use to cut down key barriers in navigating the student debt relief maze. AI is changing the way we engage in business every day. County Administrators and HR and Benefit Professionals are critical in maximizing this resource as well as keeping workers engaged, productive and motivated. Tools like Generative AI allow these individuals to simplify their tasks and attain greater efficiency. Generative AI offers numerous benefits, such as automating repetitive duties, providing immediate assistance to workers, and improving the overall employee experience. Our guest presenters will be Tom Lynch, Cook County, IL Chief Information Officer, and Abbas Al Husseini, NACo’s Chief Technology Officer. Tom and Abbas will discuss strategies for using AI tools to effectively maximize resources to help attract and retain county employees.
Speakers: EDGE HR
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Tom Lynch
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Tony Raffa
Western Interstate Region (WIR) Board of Directors Meeting
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level
The Western Interstate Region (WIR) Board of Directors will discuss economic development, resource management and regulatory issues impacting Western and public lands counties.
Speakers: WIR
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Lucinda Andreani
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Tyson Bertone-Riggs
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Zander Bonorris
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Hon. William Cox
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Sara Moffat
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Jordan Smith
GIS Subcommittee Meeting
8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level
The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Subcommittee of the Information Technology Standing Committee focuses on GIS education, national trends and proposed legislation that might affect GIS. Members are county elected officials, surveyors and planners, GIS directors and other county GIS leadership. Attendees will hear from national organizations, partners and counties on relevant topics on current and future landscape of GIS, the impacts of artificial intelligence, autonomous equipment and systems, and modernization as it relates to geospatial.
Speakers: GIS
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Ben Caruso
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Hon. Kevin Boozel
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Patrick Bresnahan, PhD
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Hon. Reid Demman
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Richard Leadbeater
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Jason Livingood
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Elizabeth Lo
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Michael Palacios
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Linda Thompson
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Hon. Kenton Ward
Immigration Reform Task Force (IRTF) Meeting
8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level
Join the Immigration Reform Task Force for a discussion with federal officials and national partners about pressing challenges and emerging policy solutions regarding the immigration system.
Speakers: IRTF
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Dr. Julia Gelatt
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Mark Koumans
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Margie McHugh
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Hon. Eva Millona
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Stacey Street
Arts as a Blueprint Forward: Local Solutions for Community Prosperity
Hosted by the NACo Arts & Culture Commission
8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level
According to Americans for the Arts’ recent Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 national study, nonprofit arts and culture organizations generated $151.7 billion in economic activity, supported 2.6 million jobs and raised $29.1 billion in tax revenue in 2022. Hear from the report’s authors on how counties track local economic impacts from the arts and advocate for strategic use of funds. The session will explore examples of how local governments are investing in creative partnerships to enhance residents’ quality of life and expand access to opportunities for both artists and audiences. Attendees will also receive an update on federal policies and legislation that impact the local art community.
Speakers: Arts & Culture
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Randy Cohen
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Jay Dick
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Hon. Mary Hamann-Roland
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Hon. Debbie Lieberman
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Aaron Myers
Resilient Counties Advisory Board Breakfast
Limited to Resilient County Advisory Board Members and invited guests, pre-registration required.
8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level
Since 2022, the private sector has announced $372 billion in clean energy investments. These investments are expected to result in 107 new utility-scale clean energy manufacturing facilities, 40,780 new jobs and $4.4 billion in savings for over 24 million customers served by utilities generating clean power. The U.S. Department of Energy requires that community benefit measures be attached to each new public-private installation. Join NACo’s Resilient Counties Advisory Board for a discussion on how county government can maximize the benefits and minimize the risks of clean energy investments for local communities. The discussion will encompass best practices aimed at ensuring the equitable distribution of jobs and fostering development in historically underinvested communities. Don't miss this opportunity to explore how clean energy initiatives can advance community prosperity.
Speakers: RCI
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Kate Gordon
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Kristen Granier
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Hon. Heather Kimball
Credentials Committee Meeting
8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Boundary,Terrace Level
Large Urban County Caucus (LUCC) Business Meeting
9:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
International Ballroom East, Concourse Level
NACo's Large Urban County Caucus (LUCC) is the premier national forum for exchanging ideas and solutions that help urban counties address pressing issues. LUCC members will meet with federal officials and national leaders on policy issues for urban counties, centered around six priority areas for advancing innovative solutions:
- Addressing the impacts of mental health & substance use on communities
- Transportation/infrastructure & accessing BIL funding
- Maternal and infant mortality
- Housing accessibility & homelessness
- Elections and voting rights
- Health care access & equity
Speakers: LUCC
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Hon. Xavier Becerra
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Hon. Adrianne Todman
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Hon. Kathryn Barger
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Hon. David Crowley
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Andi Lipstein Fristedt
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Hon. Adrian Garcia
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Dr. Luisa Godinez-Puig
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Hon. Nicole Love Hendrickson
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Nicholas Merriam
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Michael Signer
The Art of Influence: Unlocking the Secrets of Message Craftsmanship
10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Holmead, Lobby Level
Just as you wouldn’t use a wrench to when you should use a hammer, it’s important to understand your county’s communication tools and how to best use them. This presentation will outline 10 tools counties should consider leveraging to develop and deploy successful communications.
Speakers: Art of Influence
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Jennifer Finch
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Donnell Preskey
ForwardTogether: Bridging Divides and Building Trust in Communities
10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level
In support of President Mary Jo McGuire’s ForwardTogether spotlight on bridging divisions and enhancing trust, Convergence Center for Policy Resolution, a leading organization bridging divides to solve seemingly intractable conflict, is creating a toolkit and series of trainings to help improve county leaders’ skills to address divisions and build bridges. In this session, we will focus on reducing divides and promoting collaborative problem-solving. Explore innovative strategies to cultivate trust within county government and externally, and strengthen ties with community partners and residents.
Speakers: ForwardTogether
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Hon. Mary Jo McGuire
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Kit Chalberg
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Mariah Levison
NACo EDGE: The Price is Right!
10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Lincoln East, Concourse Level
NACo EDGE offers value-added PEOPLE, PURCHASING and PERFORMANCE solutions that leverage the collective buying power of U.S. counties. Built 100 percent for county governments and advised by county leaders, NACo EDGE's Public Promise Insurance and Public Promise Procurement companies harness 3.5 million county employees and $3 trillion in aggregated spending power to deliver cost-effective solutions for counties, by counties. Valued partners ClearGov and three+one help counties bring transparency and efficiency to strategic planning, budgeting, and investing. Join us and talk with NACo EDGE specialists about solutions tailored to your county's needs.
Rural Action Caucus (RAC) Business Meeting
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
International Ballroom West, Concourse Level
NACo's Rural Action Caucus (RAC) is the premier national forum for exchanging ideas and solutions that help rural counties address pressing issues. Join this meeting to learn more from senior federal officials, thought leaders and industry partners who will discuss a range of issues important to America's rural counties.
Speakers: RAC
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Hon. Tom Vilsack
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Desmond Brown
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Hon. Tarryl Clark
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Courtney Dozier
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K. "Gandhi" Eswaramoorthy
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Hon. Tracey Johnson
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Kathleen Metzger
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Patricia Pudwill
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Hon. Vance Stuehrenberg
IT Standing Committee Meeting
10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level
The Information Technology (IT) Standing Committee focuses on national initiatives such as dotGov, cyber security, broadband, autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence and include presentation from entities such as the FCC, CISA (Cyber and Infrastructure Security Agency), StateRamp, NASCIO (state CIOs). Membership includes county IT Leaders, elected officials and other county leaders that have an interest in the technology function and infrastructure. This meeting will focus on artificial intelligence, low-code/no-code, cyber insurance and systems modernization.
Speakers: IT Standing Committee
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Marci Andino
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Jennifer Bensi
Hon. Terry Burroughs
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John Matelski
Tim Oliver
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John Regula
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Justin Schools
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Juan Torres
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Hon. Gregg Weiss
National Association of Civil County Attorneys Meeting
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Northwest, Lobby Level
National Association of County Human Services Administrators (NACHSA)
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Columbia 2, Terrace Level
National Association of LGBT Leaders & Allies Meeting
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level
National Conference of Republican County Officials (NCRCO) Business Luncheon
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Fairchild, Terrace Level
National Democratic County Officials (NDCO) Business Luncheon
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Columbia 5&7, Terrace Level
National Organization of Black County Officials / National Association of Black County Officials Membership Meeting
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
International Ballroom Center, Concourse Level
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level
The Healthy Counties Advisory Board (HCAB) will explore how county leaders can address the social drivers of health and the underlying social needs of our residents to improve community health and well-being. A national expert will join a panel of county leaders to share proven approaches and strategies on data collection, surveying, and geospatial mapping, which can be useful in understanding the unique contexts of communities to address specific needs, customize interventions, and prepare for future challenges. This event is open to HCAB members.
Click here to download resources from our partners that will be featured during the session.
Speakers: Healthy Counties Advisory Board Lunch
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Richard Leadbeater
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Hon. Mary Alford
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Sharmane Anderson, J.D.
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Hon. Orlando Trainer
Membership Standing Committee Meeting
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Tenleytown, First Floor
The Membership Standing Committee advises and supports NACo’s membership retention and recruitment efforts while championing county engagement with NACo.
National Council of County Association Executives (NCCAE) Business Meeting
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Shaw, First Floor
National Association of Native County Leaders & Allies (NANCLA) Luncheon
Invitation only
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Kalorama, Lobby Level
The NANCLA Luncheon serves as a platform for Native county leaders, stakeholders, and their allies to convene and discuss pertinent issues facing indigenous communities across the nation.
Commission on Mental Health and Wellbeing Table Top Luncheon
Commission members only
12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Rock Creek, First Floor
Veterans and Military Services Committee Meeting
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Holmead, Lobby Level
Join the Veterans and Military Services Committee for a discussion with federal officials and national partners about pressing challenges and emerging policy solutions for veterans, members of the military and their families.
Content warning: this meeting will include a discussion of Military Sexual Trauma, featuring survivors who will discuss their experiences of sexual assault.
Speakers: Veterans and Military Services
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Danielle Applegate
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Martin Caraway
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Nichole Coleman
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Jake Friedman
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Todd Leatherman
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Hon. Trista Martinson
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Daniel Mulatero
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Siobhan Norris
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Robert Rader
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Kayla Williams
Global Connections for Your Local Economy: A Hands-On Training to Attract Foreign Investment
Hosted by the International Economic Development Task Force, this session is open to all conference attendees.
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level
Successful local economic development efforts are increasingly aimed at the global market. Learning how to attract foreign investment has become a key component of building an effective strategy to grow your county’s economy. In this hands-on training, economic development professionals and federal leaders will discuss practical, applicable strategies for how county leaders can better engage the world’s economy and international business leaders to bring investment to communities back home.
Speakers: IED Task Force
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Tim Crouch
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Guillermo Mazier
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Jasjit Singh
Programs and Services Committee Meeting
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Fairchild, Terrace Level
The Programs and Services Standing Committee advises the NACo officers and the board of directors by preparing reports and recommendations about the need for and effectiveness of new or existing association member programs and services. Join this meeting to learn about current and upcoming NACo offerings and provide input on potential opportunities.
Gulf States, Counties and Parishes Caucus Meeting
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Lincoln East, Concourse Level
Congressional and federal agency partners will join the Gulf States Counties and Parishes Caucus to discuss pressing federal issues impacting Gulf Coast communities. Caucus members will also discuss legislative priorities and strategize for future GSCPC efforts. Caucus membership is open to all county and parish officials from Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
Speakers: Gulf States
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Hon. Christopher Constance, MD
Stan Gimont
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Ken Graham
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Erik Milito
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Noah Patton
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Eric Poole
Empowering Counties: Priorities for Federal Policy
2:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level
Experience a transformative workshop with keynote speaker Brad Fitch, focusing on effective engagement with lawmakers during congressional visits. Learn the art of crafting compelling arguments through negotiation and compromise, adaptable to all government levels. Gain insights into advocating for county priorities in Washington, D.C. and acquire tools to navigate policy challenges in state houses and communities.
Speakers: Empowering Counties
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Brad Fitch
Federal Preemption of Local Decision-Making at the Supreme Court and Beyond
2:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level
Join legal and policy experts for a discussion of recent and forthcoming cases before the Supreme Court of the United States that have implications for local decision making and preemption of local authority.
Speakers: Federal Preemption of Local Decisions
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Stephen J. Acquario, Esq.
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Jennifer Henning
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Amanda Karras
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Christian D. Menefee
Earmarks & Grants 101: Accessing Federal Dollars to Support County Priorities
2:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level
Each year, the federal appropriations process provides counties with opportunities to access discretionary federal funding through Congressionally Directed Spending/Community Projects (also known as earmarks) and grant programs. As a result of these opportunities, hundreds of county governments have secured billions of dollars over the last three funding cycles. Join this session to gain a better understanding of the processes, and learn how your county can seize these opportunities to invest additional federal resources into our communities.
Speakers: Earmarks
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Steve Taylor
Securing Direct Funding in Future Surface Transportation Legislation
2:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level
Counties own and operate more roads (44 percent) and bridges (38 percent) than any other level of government, yet receive no consistent federal transportation funding for these assets that serve many more than just our residents. Upon expiration of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2026, authorization for funding America's surface transportation systems will also end and provide a new opportunity for lawmakers to remedy this historical inequity. Join this workshop to learn more about potential paths forward for counties to better access federal investments in roads, bridges, transit systems and rail networks.
Speakers: Securing Direct Funding
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Hon. Eileen Higgins
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Kevan Stone
NACo Board of Directors Forum
3:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Jefferson & Lincoln West, Concourse Level
Speakers: Board Forum
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David Allen
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Dr. Donna Phillips
Hon. Tracy Stone-Manning
Inflation Reduction Act Funds: Energizing County Initiatives
3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides significant funding directly to counties to deploy clean energy, reduce emissions, increase energy efficiency and more. This funding is delivered through several different financing mechanisms, including tax incentives, grants, loans and rebates. Join this session to learn about IRA funds, how to access them and for which types of projects they can be used.
Speakers: Inflation Reduction Act Funds
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Jack Groarke
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Michael Kaercher
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Dr. Taresa Lawrence
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Ryan Whalen
Reducing Red Tape: Breaking Down the Federal Permitting Process for Counties
3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level
Counties own and operate a vast amount of the nation's infrastructure networks, including roads and bridges, public transit, and water and wastewater systems. Join this workshop to learn more from federal and local officials about how the federal permitting process impacts local infrastructure projects and paths forward for streamlining the federal permitting process.
Speakers: Reducing Red Tape
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Hon. Lorraine Cochran-Johnson
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Hon. Rhonda Duggan
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Josh Harvill
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Hon. Eileen Higgins
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Matt Machado
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Sanjay Patnaik
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Hon. Sheila Rutledge
Immigration Law Essentials: What Counties Need to Know
3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level
Join legal and policy experts to discuss the fundamentals of immigration law and the United States immigration system.
Speakers: Immigration Law Essentials
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Theresa Cardinal Brown
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Amy Grenier
Introducing Nationwide Indexed Principal Protection (NW-IPP)
3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Kalorama, Lobby Level
Social Security: the Choice of a Lifetime
Employees face an uncertain future, with 79 percent of retirees saying that workers do not know enough about investing to ensure their savings last through retirement and 61 percent that preparing for retirement makes them stressed. Employees also typically find it challenging to calculate precisely how to spend down their retirement savings so that their nest egg lasts as long as they live. Therefore, employees are looking to employers for guaranteed income solutions--three-quarters would roll at least some defined contribution plan savings into a financial product that would guarantee income for life. This workshop will focus on key strategies and solutions available to employees through 457(b) Supplemental Retirement Plans such as the Protected Retirement Income Solutions and Social Security.
Speakers: Nationwide
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Roberta Eckert
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Eric Glinsky
National Center for Public Lands Counties: The Intergovernmental Partnership & Federal Lands Management
3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level
This workshop is the inaugural event hosted by the National Center for Public Lands Counties, a new initiative of the NACo Research Foundation. Members will hear from the center’s advisory board about the county role in federal lands management and how counties serve as constructive partners with federal agencies during the National Environment Policy Act (NEPA) or resource management planning processes.
Speakers: National Center for Public Lands Counties
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Hon. Todd Devlin
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Troy Heithecker
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Hon. Wes McCart
National Association of County Intergovernmental Relations Officials (NACIRO) Meeting
3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia 2, Terrace Level
Speakers: NACIRO
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Joshua Sheinkman
Minnesota Caucus Meeting
4:45 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level
Florida Delegates Reception
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Shaw, First Floor
North Carolina Association of Black County Officials Meeting
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Lincoln East, Concourse Level
Football Watch Party
6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
International Ballroom, Concourse Level
Big screens, great snacks, and all your NACo friends - this will be a football watch party to remember! Access to this event is included with conference registration. To bring guests or family members, additional tickets ($60 adults, $30 children) may be purchased through the registration process or at the door on the evening of the event.
Monday, Feb. 12
Wellness Activity
7:00 a.m. – 7:30 a.m.
Northwest, Lobby Level
Join NACo President Mary Jo McGuire for a Qigong wellness activity. Start your day igniting your internal energy with an ancient practice that combines breathing and movement to nourish your mind and body for the day ahead. (No special skills or equipment needed; normal business attire is acceptable to wear.)
Badge Pick-up Open
7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
International Terrace West
Resource Center
7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level
NACo Store
7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level
West Region Caucus Meeting
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Columbia 5 & 7, Terrace Level
Northeast Region Caucus Meeting
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Columbia 3 & 4, Terrace Level
South Region Caucus Meeting
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level
Central Region Caucus Meeting
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Columbia 9 & 10, Terrace Level
General Session
9:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
International Ballroom, Concourse Level
Speakers General Session
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Hon. Don Graves
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Hon. Marc Molinaro
National Association of County Administrators (NACA) Idea Exchange
11:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Georgetown, Concourse Level
Join the National Association of County Administrators for an informal discussion on critical topics facing county administrators. Previous topics have included the COVID comeback (budget impacts, vaccine distribution and public health orders, small business assistance, broadband, affordable housing), the race for talent (succession planning, recruitment and retention), moments of change (addressing racial and social justice issues through the county role in criminal justice), plus other challenges.
NACo Board of Directors Meeting
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Jefferson & Lincoln West, Concourse Level
WRDA 101: Navigating the Water Resources Development Act to Achieve County Priorities
1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Columbia 11 & 12, Terrace Level
Congress is working to reauthorize the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) in 2024. The legislation, which has been passed on a bipartisan basis every two years since 2014, authorizes water resource studies and projects and sets policies for navigation, flood control, water supply and emergency management for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. As owners, users and regulators of water resources and infrastructure, counties are directly impacted by the policies and funding authorized in WRDA. Join this session to learn more about the outlook for WRDA 2024.
Speakers: WRDA 101
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Edward Belk
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Hon. Gary Moore
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Dr. Tim Petty
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Dr. Linnea Saby
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Ryan Seiger
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Julie Ufner
The Transformative Power of Artificial Intelligence: A Summit Hosted by the NACo AI Exploratory Committee
3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
International Ballroom Center, Concourse Level
NACo's Artificial Intelligence summit will bring together Administration officials, federal agency leaders, and subject matter experts to discuss the rise of generative artificial intelligence. Attendees will discover the transformative power of artificial intelligence through a keynote address from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, a fireside chat with the Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau on the agency's role in protecting consumers, and an executive panel discussion from federal agencies and subject matter experts on how artificial intelligence is transforming governance and the economy.
Speakers: AI Summit
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Grace Abuhamad
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Hon. Andy Brown
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Rohit Chopra
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Dr. Arati Prabhakar
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Helena Fu
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Nadia Hansen
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Gerry Petrella
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Hon. Gregg Weiss
Counties Ready for 2024: A Summit on Election Administration
3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Columbia 6 & 8, Terrace Level
Free and fair elections are an essential foundation of American democracy, and counties are an essential intergovernmental partner in our nation’s electoral system. Counties are typically responsible for administrating elections on the ground from managing the voting systems at over 100,000 polling places to overseeing over 630,000 poll workers each election cycle. During this policy summit, attendees will hear from cross-industry experts on the county role in preparing for the 2024 election in which voters are able to seamlessly cast their ballots and results are timely and accurate. Sessions will highlight the most pressing issues for counties, including the need for dedicated federal funding for election administration and the need to strengthen protections for election officials amidst heightened misinformation.
Speakers: Elections Summit
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Hon. Christy McCormick
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Hon. Adrian Fontes
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Major Garrett
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Hon. Bill Gates
Hon. Cheryl Kagan
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Hon. Bryan Steil
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Hon. Jack Sellers
Future-Proofing County Property Now and Beyond: A Summit on Disaster Preparedness and Insurance
3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
COLUMBIA 5,7, 9, 10
As the frequency, severity and cost of natural disasters continues to increase, counties are on the front lines preparing our communities and residents to face the impacts while managing response efforts. One critical tool is access to affordable insurance. However, some states have started to see insurers withdraw entirely, leaving residents and communities without access to property and casualty insurance. This summit will highlight how the federal government aims to assist counties and provide insights from insurance industry leaders on the state of the market and opportunities to address the challenges we face.
Speakers: Disasters Summit
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Hon. Deanne Criswell
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Hon. James Gore
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Hon. Heidi Hall
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Daniel Kaniewski
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Sean Kevelighan
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Shana Oppenheim
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Steven E. Seitz
Come Learn About NACCTFO!
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Morgan, Lobby Level
Utah Caucus Meeting
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Columbia 2, Terrace Level
LUCC / RAC / NACo Board of Directors Joint Reception
Open to members of LUCC, RAC and NACo's Board of Directors
6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Offsite
Tuesday, Feb. 13
Badge Pick-up Open
7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
International Terrace West
Resource Center
7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level
NACo Store
7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Columbia West, Terrace Level
Federal Agency Expo & Breakfast
9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
International Ballroom, Concourse Level
NACo's Federal Agency Expo convenes over 100 federal officials representing dozens of offices in one place, ready to engage with conference attendees.
Luggage Storage at NACo Offices
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
NACo HQ
660 North Capitol Street NW
Suite 400
County Capitol Hill Day of Action
12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Capitol Hill
Arrange a meeting on your own with your Member of Congress to advocate for the county legislative agenda. Using NACo’s Advocacy Hub, NACo Members can advance the most important county issues on Capitol Hill.
Open House at NACo HQ
12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
NACo HQ
660 North Capitol Street NW
Suite 400
Capitol Hill Briefing: County Leadership in Mental Health: Overcoming Barriers for Equitable Care Access
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Rayburn House Office Building, Room 2075
Please join NACo and the National Association of County Behavioral Health & Development Disability Directors for a timely discussion on the Institutions of Mental Disease Exclusion policy and its impact on local communities. At this signature event, attendees will hear from county officials and intergovernmental partners as they examine how reforming Medicaid's Institutions of Mental Diseases exclusionary policy would greatly expand the treatment capacity while also promoting equitable access. This briefing will have light refreshments.
County Advocacy on High-Speed Internet Affordability: Urging the Extension of the Affordable Connectivity Program
3:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
House Triangle, U.S. Capitol
Please join county and federal leaders will come together on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol to call on Congress to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The program, which enables over 22 million households to receive low-cost broadband internet, is set to expire in April and, as of February 8, has already ceased to accept new enrollees.
Speakers will urge swift passage of the NACo-endorsed, bipartisan, bicameral Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act, which would provide $7 billion to continue funding the ACP. Counties support the ACP because it will drive adoption of high-speed internet for residents and support the goal of universal connectivity advanced by the BEAD program
Closing Reception on Capitol Hill
4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Kennedy Caucus Room, Russell Senate Office Building
The reception will be a unique opportunity to network with congressional staff and your colleagues. The entrance to the Capitol Hill Reception is the Russell Senate Office Building, located on the corner of C Street and Delaware Avenue NE.