Goodnight to Chair Indiana Association of Cities and Towns’ Legislative Committee

Kokomo, IN – Earlier this week Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight was asked to assume the role of chairman of the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns’ (IACT) legislative committee.  This appointment is the second, in less than a month, to a leadership post within IACT.  During IACT’s yearly convention in early October, Goodnight was also appointed to the IACT’s executive committee. 

In just his second year as Kokomo mayor, Goodnight succeeds the office previously held by notable Indiana mayors such as Wayne Seybold, Marion, Jonathon Weinzapfle, Evansville and Jeff Rey, Mishawaka.   

“IACT staff and local elected officials from around the State have watched the exceptional way Mayor Goodnight has represented his community in local, national, and international media with respect to the auto industry,” said Executive Director of IACT Matt Greller.  “We believe his public relations experience, his understanding of local government, and his determination to better his City will serve IACT well in accomplishing its goals.” 

Goodnight’s leadership and advocacy efforts were recognized by IACT members who were impressed by his proactive measures to cut spending and commitment to economic development in his community. As IACT legislative committee chairman, Goodnight will continue advocating for all Indiana cities, towns, councils and clerks. 

Goodnight who took office in January 2008 has been saddled with falling revenues due to the implementation of property tax caps as well as high unemployment rates with the decline in the American auto industry.  “I am excited at taking on this new challenge,” remarked Goodnight.  “From this platform I expect to draw attention to the needs of municipal government which provides many of the essential services to the citizens of this State.” 

In addition to property tax caps, local government has also been the target of reforms under proposals found in the Kernan-Shepard Report.  “Local government has been a central point of discussion in the state legislature for the past several years,” commented Goodnight. “It is of vital importance that we impart on the legislature a clear understanding of what we do at the local level and how we do it.” 

“2010 will be an important year for legislation from the Indiana General Assembly effecting taxpayers, cities and the services they provide” stressed IACT Executive Director Matt Greller.   “IACT selected an Indiana Mayor with a proven track record to represent us.”