Alexander County Commissioners Josh Lail, Marty Pennell, and Larry Yoder, along with County Manager Todd Herms, joined nearly 2,000 county leaders in Washington, D.C., from March 1-4 for the National Association of Counties (NACo) 2025 Legislative Conference. This annual conference offers a unique opportunity for elected and appointed county officials to engage in important policy discussions, meet with federal leaders, and strengthen partnerships that will help counties address critical issues.
“Attending the legislative conference is an excellent opportunity for Alexander County to have a voice and to collaborate with leaders from across the country,” said Chairman Marty Pennell. “These conversations help shape policies that impact our residents, ensuring that our county’s needs and perspectives are part of the broader decision-making process.”
County officials discussed a wide range of topics, including workforce gaps, land use and zoning, disaster response and preparedness, intergovernmental partnerships, federal regulations, and the future of artificial intelligence (AI). The conference featured sessions with national experts and policymakers to explore how counties can better navigate these challenges while also ensuring the needs of local communities are met. Key federal partners, including members of Congress and the new presidential administration, were present to hear directly from county officials about their priorities.
North Carolina county officials and staff played an active role in key policy discussions at NACo, focusing on various topics. Leaders from multiple counties contributed to discussions on disaster recovery, chaired advisory board meetings, and led presentations on policy resolutions. Others addressed technology-related issues, including AI, cybersecurity, cloud adoption, and broadband access. Local officials also engaged in policy debates regarding emerging tech developments and digital inclusion efforts. The group also focused on civil legal matters, as well as human services and education.
One of the unique opportunities at the conference was the Federal Agency Expo, which brought more than 100 federal officials from various agencies together in one location to engage directly with county officials. This event allowed North Carolina’s county leaders to connect with federal agencies that play a role in their communities, ensuring that federal programs and resources align with local needs. The conference also included a Capitol Hill press conference on disaster reform, emphasizing the need for better disaster preparedness and recovery efforts.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to meet with representatives of Senator Thom Tillis and Senator Ted Budd. We appreciate their time and continued efforts on behalf of Alexander County,” Chairman Pennell stated.
The NACo 2025 Legislative Conference highlighted the importance of collaboration between counties, federal officials, and national experts in addressing the issues that matter most to local communities. North Carolina’s participation of more than 175 attendees further reinforced the state’s commitment to advocating for policies that enhance the quality of life for its residents.
For more information about the NACo Legislative Conference, visit www.naco.org/event/2025-naco-legislative-conference.