1999 Winter Meeting

First Time Before Mayors Majority Leader Trent Lott Urges Mayors to Work With the Congress

By Roger E. Dahl

United States Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (MS) addressed The U.S. Conference of Mayors for the first time at its closing luncheon on Friday, January 29, 1999 in Washington, D.C.

In a speech clearly designed to reach out to the Mayors in a bipartisan manner, Senator Lott stressed the importance of mayors working with the Congress as well as the administration to get things done for their cities. He touched on many, if not most, of the issues of current concern to Mayors and their cities, including the forecasted budget surpluses, social security, youth violence, clean drinking water, infrastructure, deteriorating schools, trade, economic development and job creation, strong defense, Internet tax, census.

However, before addressing the substance of his remarks, he noted the fact that the Mayors of both Superbowl team cities were attending the Conference. He referred to himself as an Atlanta Falcon "dirty-bird" but also a long time fan of John Elway and the Denver Broncos. In a reference to the Impeachment proceedings, he reported how "exhausting" it was to be tethered to the floor of the Senate having to listen to others speak. But today, he said he was "Free at last" since the Senate was not in session today.

Lott said that there is "a lot for us to do this year, confirmation of nominees, ratification of treaties, etc." Going on he added, "Once we draw our current work (the impeachment trial) to conclusion," there will be a "burst of activity" as we deal with the problems of Mayors and the American people.

Use Surpluses Responsibly

Lott said that after years of budget deficits, we can look forward to budget surpluses in the years ahead. We need to use these surpluses responsibly he added, suggesting that the securing and strengthening of social security for future generations, assisting mayors with their problems and returning a part of the surplus to the American people in the form of a tax as worthwhile.

Youth Violence and Clean Water

The Senator promised that high priority would be given to "youth violence" and said it will be addressed this year. He also recognized the importance of the problems many cities were having with providing clean drinking water implying a readiness to work with Mayors.

Supporting Infrastructure Despite Opposition

Despite the attacks on last year's TEA-21, the recent federal surface transportation law, Senator Lott said "we need to be able to get people in and out" of our cities. "Roads and bridges" are key to economic development. "Roads, bridges and housing" will receive a high priority, he said. He added that he was "working with his Mississippi cities to help them get their fair share."

Schools: Listed as A Top Three Priority

Senator Lott said the dealing with "deteriorating schools" is one of the three highest priorities. He said mayor and parents must be among those that work with the Congress to address the issues. He recognized the need to make a monetary investment in schools saying there is "no better way to work for our nation's future." He did qualify his remarks by specifically stating he was not talking about a Washington bureaucracy "taking over" the schools. He said he would be Avery nervous" about having Washington decide "disciplinary issues" in schools across the country. In the course of his remarks on schools, Lott expressed his support of "ED-FLEX" legislation which would provide more flexibility to states and school districts in spending federal education funds. Waiver of certain federal requirements would be possible as long as states have a system in place to hold local districts accountable for progress.

Support for Fast Track Stated

With respect to trade issues, Senator Lott expressed his support for the President having "fast-track" authority. "We need to take down the barriers" so we can create even more jobs in the global economy. He commented favorably about the need to develop stronger trade relations with the rising markets in Africa and the Caribbean.

Defense Readiness Must Receive Attention

Citing current problems of military readiness, Lott said his support for a "bill of rights" for Soldiers, Sailors and Marines was a high priority.

Internet Tax

The Senator said that he understood the concerns of Mayors over the impact of untaxed Internet sales. He said that Mayors are at the table and will continue to be represented in the debate. He understood Mayors' concerns over the imbalance on the Internet tax commission but reminded Mayors that their report will only be a "recommendation" not necessarily the final answer.

No Support for Census Sampling

Commenting on the 2000 Census, Senator Lott said it is important for "all [to be] counted." While he admitted that there was not much support from the Senate majority on sampling, he said there was support for a post census review process that will give cities the opportunity appeal census numbers before they are final. He went on to say the review process would enable cities to "work with us" to assure an accurate count takes place.

Support for Amtrak

He cited Meridian Mayor John Robert Smith for his work in convincing him of the importance of Amtrak and suggested high-speed rail along the gulf coast as a future prospect.

"Don't Underestimate Your Impact"

Staying with his "working together theme," Senator Lott concluded his remarks by telling Mayors, "don't underestimate your impact."