Lisa Jones, grant writer for the City of Lake City, has been appointed to the National League of Cities (NLC) 2025 Race Equity And Leadership (REAL) Council. Jones was elected to a one-year term to develop and guide programs among local elected officials from similar communities. The appointment was announced by NLC President Steve Patterson, Mayor of Athens, Ohio.
"Lisa Jones’ appointment to the National League of Cities’ REAL Council is a testament to her dedication and impact on our community,” said Lake City Mayor Yamekia Robinson. “Her expertise in securing resources and advocating for us not only elevates Lake City on a national stage but also brings valuable insights and opportunities back home. We are proud to see her recognized for her hard work and excited for the positive change her leadership will inspire.”
As a member of NLC’s REAL Council, Jones will play a key role among a diverse group of local leaders to encourage collaboration, networking and the development of resources and programs beneficial to communities that share demographics, size or location that can be replicated across the country.
“The REAL Council is a collaborative organization within the National League of Cities that advocates for equity. I look forward to working with the diverse communities of the REAL Council on issues of common concern and interest,” said Jones. “The REAL Council and the insights and partnerships that are critical to its operation can help Lake City chart a path forward.”
This year’s council leadership will consist of Chair Andrea Barefield, Councilmember, Waco, TX; Vice Chair Diana Perez, Councilmember, Vancouver, WA; and Vice Chair Timothy Lonergan, Vice Mayor, Oakland Park, FL.
“It is crucial that we bring together local leaders that are representative of all communities to share solutions, and challenges from their hometowns, which are used to develop NLC policies and programs,” said National League of Cities President Steve Patterson, Mayor of Athens, Ohio. “Bring the experience and leadership of Jones to serve as a member on NLC’s REAL Council this year goes a long way to ensuring every city, town and village has the resources they need to lift up their communities and improve the lives of their residents.”
For more information on NLC’s Member Councils, visit: https://www.nlc.org/current-initiatives/member-councils-2/.