Annual Conference and Exhibition - National Association of Regional Councils

NARC Annual Conference
& Exhibition

June 4-7, 2023 – Detroit, MI

Conference Registration Still Open!

The Annual Conference and Exhibition is the largest national event focused on promoting effective regional cooperation and solutions through interaction and education. Held annually in June, NARC’s Annual Conference is the premier place to learn how to engage in effective regional collaboration.

Representatives of Councils of Government and Metropolitan Planning Organizations — leadership, professional staff, board members, local elected officials, technical and program staff — come together to share best practices, attend informative sessions on program, legislative and regulatory issues, as well as avail of training and technical services. Speakers include experts from the public and private sector, congressional and state lawmakers, and individuals from universities and non-profit organizations.

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Click here for a PDF version of the full conference agenda.

SUNDAY, JUNE 4

1:00 PM – 5:00 PM	Registration Open and Exhibitor Setup
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM	Mobile Workshop – The Henry Ford Museum Take a tour through Detroit’s automotive past, present, and future. Whether this is your first time in Detroit, or you are a return visitor, the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is a must-see destination. The Henry Ford Museum showcases the achievements of some of America’s greatest minds. Along the way, you will also see Ford’s Michigan Central Station campus where Ford is reimagining its business for a new century as it turns to Detroit’s oldest neighborhood as a launchpad for its future mobility plans. Transportation will be provided. Pre-registration is required. Non-registered spouse and personal guests are welcome to participate.
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM	Mobile Workshop – Connecting Detroit to Ferndale: Walking & Biking Tour of Livernois Corridor Join a walking and biking tour of one of Detroit’s most exciting corridor redevelopments. The historic “Avenue of Fashion” has been reimagined to highlight the rich American jazz legacy and African American cultural heritage that has shaped the arts and businesses of Livernois Avenue. The tour will travel across 8 Mile into the bustling City of Ferndale and include a walking tour of the Great American Main Street, a destination known for art, music and DIY culture, offering independent shops, support for local makers, and a diverse and vibrant food scene. Pre-registration is required. Non-registered spouse and personal guests are welcome to participate.
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM	Opening Reception: Welcome to Detroit The National Association of Regional Councils and the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments welcome you to the 57th Annual Conference and Exhibition in Detroit Michigan largest national event focused on promoting effective regional cooperation and solutions through interaction and education. Help us kick off the conference with drinks with your colleagues. Reception supported by Munetrix.

MONDAY, JUNE 5

7:00 AM – 7:30 AM	Downtown Walk & Tour Start your day with a SEMCOG-led 30-minute walking tour of downtown Detroit including the city’s newest art alleys, Campus Martius, and Capital Park.
7:30 AM – 4:00 PM	Registration & Exhibitors
7:45 AM – 8:15 AM	Breakfast and Welcome The National Association of Regional Councils welcomes you to the 57th Annual Conference and Exhibition, the largest national event promoting regional cooperation and solutions. We are delighted you have joined us for two days of engaging sessions, regional excellence, and camaraderie with your colleagues. Speakers The Honorable Bob Cannon, Supervisor, Clinton Township, Michigan; Southeast Michigan Council of Governments; NARC Immediate Past President The Honorable Joy Fuchs, Washington County, Texas; Brazos Valley Council of Governments; NARC President The Honorable Jennifer Robinson, Council Member, Town of Cary, North Carolina; Triangle J Council of Governments; NARC President-Elect
8:15 AM – 8:45 AM	Welcome to the Region The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments welcomes attendees to the greater Detroit region, home to more than 180 members comprised of counties, cities, villages, townships, intermediate school districts, and community colleges. Speakers The Honorable Todd Bettison, Deputy Mayor, Detroit, Michigan The Honorable Gary Peters, United States Senator for Michigan Amy O’Leary, Executive Director, Southeast Michigan Council of Governments
8:45 AM – 9:15 AM	Break with Exhibitors
9:15 AM – 10:15 AM	Resilient Economies Building resilient economies is a top priority for cities and regions. Join us for an engaging roundtable session with three regional leaders as they discuss the unique approaches and successful economic sustainability strategies employed by their diverse regions. Moderator The Honorable Chris Barnett, Supervisor, Orion Township, Michigan; Southeast Michigan Council of Governments; NARC Board of Directors Speakers Erik Johnson, Deputy Executive Director, Sacramento Area Council of Governments Clark Mercer, Executive Director, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Greg Stuart, Executive Director, Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM	Innovative Approaches to Housing An acute national housing supply shortage coupled with historic home price appreciation have led to an affordability crisis, leaving policymakers and industry leaders seeking ideas and innovative approaches to overcome these challenges. Hear from policy and industry leaders about new approaches to the housing crisis. Moderator The Honorable Gary Moore, County Judge, Boone County, Kentucky; Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments; NARC Board of Directors; NARC Past President Speakers The Honorable Dawn Ramsey, Mayor, South Jordan, Utah Andrew Gruber, Executive Director, Wasatch Front Regional Council; NARC Executive Directors Council Immediate Past Chair Jeff Little, General Deputy Assistant Secretary for Housing, United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Richard Murphy, AICP, Program Manager, Policy Research Labs, Michigan Municipal League
11:15 AM – 11:30 AM	Break with Exhibitors
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM	LUNCH KEYNOTE: American Planning Association The planning profession plays a key role in helping communities and regions contend with existing challenges and prepare for new obstacles and opportunities that may lie ahead. Angela D. Brooks, the current President of the American Planning Association, joins us to discuss her vision for the APA and how she is thinking about what lies ahead for communities and regions. Moderator The Honorable Jennifer Robinson, Council Member, Town of Cary, North Carolina; Triangle J Council of Governments; NARC President-Elect Speaker Angela D. Brooks, FAICP, President, American Planning Association
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM	Break with Exhibitors
BREAKOUT SESSIONS 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM	NARC Public Safety and Emergency Management Committee Three train derailments occur on average every day in the United States, most commonly due to human error and mechanical failure, causing grave environmental and health concerns for local communities. Trains that run as long as five miles in length frequently block at-grade crossings and create barriers within communities. This meeting will focus on train derailments, at-grade crossings, and how some regions are responding. Co-Chair: The Honorable Byron Ryder, County Judge, Leon County, Texas; Brazos Valley Council of Governments; NARC Past President Co-Chair: Diane Rath, Executive Director, Alamo Area Council of Governments Speakers Juvare, in partnership with Amazon Web Services Ty Warner, Executive Director, Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission; NARC Executive Direc- tors Council First Vice Chair
	NARC Economic and Community Development Committee Regional councils play a pivotal role in driving effective workforce development strategies that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in their programs and ensure that underrepresented populations have access to training, education, and employment opportunities. This meeting will explore the significance of regional councils in fostering inclusive and equitable workforce development. Co-Chair: The Honorable Jennifer Robinson, Council Member, Town of Cary, North Carolina; Triangle J Council of Governments; NARC President-Elect Co-Chair: Betty Voights, Executive Director, Capital Area Council of Governments This conference session is supported by the Economic Development District Community of Practice granted by the Economic Development Administration. Speakers Anna Roach, Executive Director, Atlanta Regional Commission Brittany Sickler, Networks Program Manager, Office of Regional Affairs, U.S. Economic Development Administration David Warm, Executive Director, Mid-America Regional 12 Council
2:00 PM – 2:15 PM	Break with Exhibitors
BREAKOUT SESSIONS 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM	NARC Energy and Environment Committee Community engagement in the decision-making process concerning energy policies, environmental regulations, and sustainable development initiatives has proven crucial for achieving more equitable, inclusive, and environmentally conscious energy outcomes. Hear from local, regional, and federal perspectives about effective techniques for advocating for environmental policies, engaging local authorities, and influencing decision-making processes to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices. Co-Chair: The Honorable Lee Constantine, Commissioner, Seminole County, Florida; East Central Florida Regional Planning Commission; NARC Board of Directors Co-Chair: Kristina Egan, Executive Director, Greater Portland Council of Governments Speakers Natalia Saraeva, Consent-Based Siting Team Lead, United States Department of Energy Diane Rath, Executive Director, Alamo Area Council of Governments
	Regional Storytelling Harnessing the unique stories, heritage, and cultural richness of a region can captivate audiences and foster a sense of belonging and pride. Join us for an engaging session where we explore the transformative power of regional storytelling, rebranding, and communications in shaping perceptions, attracting investment, and driving economic growth. Moderator The Honorable Rosa Escutia-Braaton, Councilmember, City of Modesto, California; Stanislaus Council of Govern- ments; NARC Board of Directors Speakers Desira Blanchard, Communications and Community Engagement Manager, Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments Michelle Nance, Regional Planning Director, Centralina Regional Council Miguel Segura, Director of Public Affairs & Regional Development, Alamo Area Council of Governments
3:15 PM – 3:30 PM	Break with Exhibitors
3:30 PM – 4:15 PM	Trail Networks: Local and Regional Approaches Regional trail networks are valuable assets for mobility, recreation, and even economic development. Trails are prized by residents because they contribute significantly to a high quality of life. Hear local, regional, and national perspectives about successful approaches to building trails and opportunities for future expansions. Moderator The Honorable Philips Armstrong, Township Commissioner, Whitehall, Pennsylvania; Lehigh Valley Planning Commission; NARC Board Member Speakers Michelle Carroll, Executive Director, Mountainland Association of Governments Mary Ellen Koontz, TrailNation Collaborative Lead, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy David Tobar, Construction Administrator, City of Detroit
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM	Executive Directors Council Business Meeting & Elections Everyone is welcome to attend.

TUESDAY, JUNE 6

7:00 AM – 7:30 AM	Downtown Walk & Tour Start your day with a SEMCOG-led 30-minute walking tour.
7:30 AM – 4:00 PM	Registration & Exhibitors
7:45 AM – 9:00 AM	Breakfast & Keynote Discussion The SEMCOG vision for Southeast Michigan is that…“all people benefit from a connected, thriving region of small towns, dynamic urban centers, active waterfronts, diverse neighborhoods, premier educational institutions, and abundant agricultural, recreational, and natural areas.” Hear from the people and organizations working to achieve this vision! Moderator Amy O’Leary, Executive Director, Southeast Michigan Council of Governments Speakers Gina Cavaliere, Chief Community Impact Officer, Downtown Detroit Partnership Maureen Krauss, President and CEO, Detroit Regional Partnership Mark Wallace, President and CEO, Detroit Riverfront Conservancy
9:00 AM – 9:45 AM	Vision Zero and Complete Streets: Approaches on Transportation Safety Making the nation’s roads safer for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians is a priority at all levels. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) prioritizes safety improvements for all modes of travel and provides funding for approaches such as a Vision Zero and Complete Streets. Hear from the local and regional perspective how these techniques work and why we can be hopeful for a safer transportation future. Moderator The Honorable Alan Wapner, Council Member, Ontario, California; Southern California Association of Governments; NARC Board of Directors Speakers James Hannig, AICP, Deputy Director of Complete Streets, City of Detroit Department of Public Works Matt Hart, Executive Director, Capitol Region Council of Governments
9:45 AM – 10:00 AM	Break with Exhibitors
BREAKOUT SESSIONS 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM	NARC Transportation Committee We will hear first from the FHWA Office of Planning about upcoming local and regional opportunities under the IIJA and other relevant information regarding transportation planning. We will also hear from the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, the Canadian government agency responsible for delivery of the new Gordie Howe International Bridge, a project of significant regional, national, and continent-wide importance. Co-Chair: The Honorable Fred Strong, Councilmember, Paso Robles, California; San Luis Obispo Council of Governments; NARC Board of Directors Co-Chair: Greg Stuart, Executive Director, Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization Speakers Heather Grondin, Vice-President, Corporate Affairs and External Affairs, Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority Spencer Stevens, Team Leader, Transportation Planning Capacity Building Team, Federal Highway Administration Office of Planning, Environment, and Realty
	Greenhouse Gas Strategies In the face of urgent global challenges posed by climate change, collaboration between local communities and government organizations is essential for effective greenhouse gas reduction strategies. Join us as we bring together local and regional stakeholders and the Environmental Protection Agency to explore innovative approaches, best practices, and shared goals in the pursuit of greenhouse gas emission reductions. Moderator The Honorable Christian Dorsey, Board Member, Arlington County, Virginia; Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments; NARC Board of Directors Speakers Angie Fyfe, Executive Director, ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability Jack Groarke, Senior Advisor for Infrastructure, Environmental Protection Agency Jennifer Narvaez, Program Manager for Air Quality Management, North Central Texas Council of Governments
11:15 AM – 11:30 AM	Break with Exhibitors
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM	LUNCH KEYNOTE: The Future of Mobility The transition toward electrification will continue to accelerate as more electrical vehicles (EVs) of all sizes enter the market. General Motors is at the forefront of this revolution and sees an all-electric future as a key component in its vision of a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion. Hear from Alex Keros, GM’s Lead Architect for EV Infrastructure, about GM’s leadership and vision for future mobility, how Detroit is doubling down as the Motor City, and ways regional leaders can position their own communities for success in this increasingly electric future. Moderator The Honorable Chris Barnett, Supervisor, Orion Township, Michigan; Southeast Michigan Council of Governments; NARC Board of Directors Speaker Alexander Keros, Director of EV Infrastructure Development, General Motors
12:30 PM – 12:45 PM	Break with Exhibitors
BREAKOUT SESSIONS 12:45 PM – 2:00 PM	ChatGPT Wrote this Title: Unleashing the Power of Data, Apps, and AI Data is the lifeblood of the digital era and is more essential – and more abundant – than ever. Join us to delve into the art of harnessing the power of data, learn how the rise of mobile apps and cloud-based platforms has democratized access to information, and discover how organizations are leveraging advanced data analytics techniques to drive innovation, optimize operations, and make informed decisions that help shape community success. Moderator The Honorable Bob Stevenson, Commissioner, Davis County, Utah; Wasatch Front Regional Council; NARC Board of Directors Speakers Maria Messick, Senior Advisor, Office of the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs, United States Department of Commerce Frederick Treyz, PhD, CEO & Chief Economist, REMI Kevin Vettraino, Planning Director, Southeast Michigan Council of Governments
	The Future of Public Service – Local Governments 2030 A group of cities, counties, and public service entities from across the nation pulled together recently to explore the challenges and opportunities surrounding public service and local governments, including improving interactions with the public, navigating our disruptive and polarized times, reshaping agency culture, and recruiting and retaining the talented workers needed to ensure communities remain strong, vibrant, and customer service focused. The nationwide delegates from all sectors of public service convened last year to wrestle with these issues and establish a call to action and road map for the future. Hear from some of the delegates that contributed to this effort and explore new governance models that encourage active decision-making, inclusivity, and responsiveness to community needs. Moderator Chuck Wemple, Executive Director, Houston – Galveston Area Council; NARC Executive Directors Council, Second Vice Chair Speakers Anthony Ladd, Public Works Development Director, City of Kalamazoo, Michigan Janani Ramachandran Yates, Deputy Budget Director, City of Detroit, Michigan
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM	Break with Exhibitors
2:30 PM – 3:15 PM	Equity and the Planning Process: Moving Toward Inclusion Planning is a constantly evolving practice and the increasing integration of equity into the planning process is an important example of this fact. Greater consideration of equity during the planning process is an essential step toward putting good intentions into action. This session will focus on how equity is being woven into the fabric of the planning process. Moderator The Honorable Justin Kiel, Council Member, LaPorte County, Indiana; Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission; NARC Board of Directors Speakers Rachael Barlock, Water Resources Engineer, Southeast Michigan Council of Governments Grace Gallucci, Executive Director, Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency Sarah Jepsen, Chief Planning Officer, Southern California Association of Governments
3:15 PM – 3:30 PM	Break for Mobile Workshops
3:30 PM – 5:15 PM	MOBILE WORKSHOP: Belle Isle Tour Tour Belle Isle Park, the “Crown Jewel of Detroit.” Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, Belle Isle is a 982- acre island park situated on the Detroit River between the United States and Canada. Belle Isle is home to a wide assortment of education and recreational opportunities, including the Belle Isle Aquarium, Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, Belle Isle Nature Center, the James Scott Memorial Fountain, and more. Enjoy the natural environment, historic structures, and unique character of Belle Isle on this mobile workshop. Transportation will be provided. Pre-registration is required.
3:30 PM – 5:15 PM	MOBILE WORKSHOP: Detroit RiverWalk Tour This walking tour showcases the redevelopment of and activities and amenities along the #1 Riverwalk in America – the Detroit Riverfront! This world-renowned destination attracts approximately three million visitors annually who come to walk, run, bike, spend time with family and friends, and take advantage of the quality-of-life opportunities a revitalized riverfront provides. The tour will have several interesting stops, including the 25 feet below grade urban greenway, the Dequindre Cut, and the newest destination, Valade Park, featuring a sandy beach, a chil- dren’s musical garden, and Bob’s Barge, the only floating bar in the Detroit River! Transportation provided. Pre-registration is required.
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM	AWARDS EVENT: Detroit Princess Dinner Boat Cruise This year brings a new twist to an old favorite as we present awards for the very best that regional planning has to offer from the comfort of the Detroit Princess. This dinner boat ride on the Detroit River provides spectacular views of the Detroit and Windsor skylines as well as Belle Isle, the Ambassador Bridge, and a fabulous sunset. Boarding begins at 6:00 PM Guided Walking Groups depart at 6:00 PM and 6:30 PM from the Hotel Lobby, Michigan Avenue Exit. Detroit Princess departs the dock at 7:00 PM sharp. You may arrive anytime during that window. SEMCOG staff will direct you along the 15-minute walk from the hotel to the dock or you may use rideshare/taxi. Dressy casual with comfortable shoes is recommended. Pre-registration is required.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM	Breakfast
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM	NARC Board of Directors Elections Everyone is encouraged to attend; NARC members are eligible to vote.
10:00 AM	Conference Adjourns
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM	NARC Board of Directors Business Meeting The meeting will be held atop the historic Penobscot Building, which affords excellent views of the surrounding area from the highest outdoor patio space in Detroit. Lunch will be served. Everyone is welcome to attend.