Kankakee, IL – The City of Kankakee was recently represented among political leaders for the Mayors Innovation Project (MIP), a national learning network for mayors and senior staff who aim to help strengthen, implement innovative policies, and develop their communities. Mayor Wells-Armstrong was invited to join as a member of the Steering Committee which sets the framework of the organization, as well as provide feedback and insight for helpful resources.

“In this role, Mayor Wells-Armstrong is a critical part of shaping MIP’s priorities and represents Kankakee as a national example for mayors in cities nationwide. At the recent MIP meeting, panels focused on early childhood health and education, designing cities for people of all needs, and the 2020 Census. Mayors across the country walked away from these panels with specific policies and solutions to challenges facing all cities, including Kankakee,” said Katya Spear, Co-Managing Director of Mayors Innovation Project.

“I am excited to learn, network and be a part of this organization which I believe will help continue to build stronger municipalities. There is always value in education, especially in a leadership role. I will continue to learn and bring best practices, research and tools as we move Kankakee Forward,” said Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

During the Mayors Innovation Project Winter meeting, a special women’s network meeting took place for the first time, presenting the opportunity for 23 women mayors across the country to network and address female elected leaders.

Mayors Innovation Project (MIP) was founded in 2005 by Madison, Wisconsin Mayor Dave Cieslewicz and Joel Rogers, a UW-Madison professor and director of Center on Wisconsin Strategy (COWS). According to MIP, more than 100 cities, representing around 33 million Americans, have attended their meetings and events. Among other members of the Steering Committee is Mayor Pete Buttigieg of South Bend, Indiana. Buttigieg is running for President of the United States in the 2020 election.

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The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant, and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow, and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive, and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

 

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