Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Advocacy Policy Platform topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
ULCT board debates moving from annual resolutions to a concise policy platform
Summary
Board members discussed shifting from the existing resolution process to a shorter policy platform that states high‑level principles, with staff proposing a format that allows periodic updates and targeted 'recommended actions.' Several board members favored broader statements with room to negotiate on specific bills.
The Utah League of Cities and Towns board spent part of its May 19 meeting discussing a proposed policy platform to replace or supplement the traditional resolution process used at the annual conference.
Justin, leading the discussion, said staff researched other state leagues and presented examples ranging from dense documents to concise, actionable platforms. He recommended a short, clear format with long‑term policy statements and the capacity to add short‑term "recommended actions" the league could update for specific legislative sessions.
Board members expressed a preference for higher‑level statements rather than locking the league into detailed "support/oppose" positions that could limit negotiation once bills are amended. "If you start saying we oppose this ... you've basically locked in a position and you don't have the room to negotiate," one board member said. Another suggested taking the initial platform to membership for approval, then establishing a multi‑year review cadence that would allow staff and the board to update positions between conferences.
Staff said the proposed platform would be flexible: the board and the Legislative Policy Committee would continue to meet frequently and could address bills that fall into gray areas. Members asked staff to return with draft language and a proposed process for member feedback and ratification.
Ending: Staff will draft a concise policy platform for board review and return with recommendations on approval mechanics and review cadence ahead of the next legislative session.
