Resolution: Enhanced Advocacy Role for the International Association of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Mayors
Adopted on June 17, 2003

Whereas, municipalities in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Region both affect, and are affected by, public policy decisions concerning the restoration, protection and use of the region’s water and related natural resources; and

Whereas, such municipalities are on the “front line” of management efforts with increasing responsibilities in policy formulation, program implementation and funding; and

Whereas, a municipal voice in the development of state, provincial, regional and federal policies is essential to good government; and

Whereas, the International Association of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Mayors has long provided a forum for policy deliberations and actions at the regional level; and

Whereas, the Board of Directors of the Association has identified an enhanced advocacy role as an Association objective;

Therefore, be it resolved, that the International Association of Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Mayors shall actively seek and pursue means to enhance its advocacy role in both Washington, D.C. and Ottawa; and

Be it Further resolved, that the Association will take advantage of its new status as an Observer to the Great Lakes Commission to advance its priorities through the advocacy work of that binational body; and

Be it finally resolved, that the Association will actively seek partnerships with like-minded organizations in the interests of effectively advancing its policy agenda.