WASHINGTON, DC – Sullivan County Manager Joshua Potosek joined nearly 2,000 county leaders from across the country for the National Association of Counties (NACo) Legislative Conference February 21-24.

 Over two general sessions, featured speakers included senior administration officials along with members of Congress from the U.S. House of Representatives. Conference attendees shaped NACo’s legislative agenda, received updates on key federal policies and advocated for county priorities on Capitol Hill.

 “The National Association of Counties ensures that county-level issues–transportation, Federal disaster policy, housing, cybersecurity, energy, workforce development and more–are discussed and taken seriously at the highest levels of the Federal government,” Potosek explained. “Our direct participation in these conferences means we have a chance to be heard and talk to Federal representatives far beyond New York.”

 Potosek learned about pending legislation and how other counties are handling AI, the water and electric use of data centers, and proposals to eliminate property taxes.

 Attendees also participated in a Federal Agency Expo, with nearly 50 Federal program offices sending representatives to meet with conference participants and build intergovernmental partnerships.

 The conference culminated in an Advocacy Day of Action, positioning attendees to advocate for county federal policy priorities.

 “I am very glad our County Manager was able to attend this important gathering,” affirmed County Legislature Vice Chair Luis Alvarez, who serves on multiple NACo committees. “I was there myself, learning about immigration issues and the priorities of our Rural Action Caucus, on which I sit.”

 “Federal policies have direct and long-lasting impacts on county governments and our residents,” said NACo President J.D. Clark. “NACo’s Legislative Conference is an important opportunity for county leaders to strengthen relationships with our intergovernmental partners, tell our county story and advocate for county priorities that help our communities and residents thrive.”