The National League of Cities annual congress is unique in that it partners with its host city to develop educational programs focusing on successful urban projects. Reno ’s new homeless services campus and the Truckee River kayak park are two of the featured projects during the 3 day event.  Reno mayor Bob Cashell says it’s good for his staff to host the conference.

I think it helps them because they are able to visit with other people from other cities and find out how they do things and what goes on and how to make things work.  It’s very beneficial for everybody … and also gives our city employees something to show pride in what they do.

Featured speakers include New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, civil rights leader Joseph Lowry and former HUD secretaries Henry Cisneros and Jack Kemp.

Brian Bahouth KXJZ News.