In 1999, the Democratic Leadership Council announced the formation of a network of local elected officials from across the country to act as catalyst in identifying and engaging the next generation of New Democrat leaders at the local levels. The DLC's Local Elected Officials Network (LEON) is modeled after our successful State Legislative Advisory Board (SLAB) and is chaired by Columbus, Ohio, mayor Michael Coleman. This group of innovative mayors, city council members, county executives and other rising stars at the local levels is helping direct DLC outreach to local leaders and is developing and promoting innovative New Democrat ideas at the city and county level.

This year, the LEON has worked to identify successful local New Democrat initiatives through an "Innovation Tour" by members of the LEON Executive Committee. The group visited metropolitan areas that have been recognized for their innovative approaches to equip citizens with the tools they need to succeed in a new century and a new economy - beginning with San Jose and the Bay Area in California, and in King County, Washington. This winter, LEON will compile a list of New Democrat best practices at the local level, and distribute a "Top 10 New Democrat Local Ideas" to our national network of local leaders.

In addition to these efforts, LEON members are invited to join periodic conference calls featuring political updates and policy discussions, and invites board members to special events throughout the year.

If you are interested in joining LEON, call the DLC Political Dept. at (202) 546-0007.