Burien Councilwoman Sally Nelson has been appointed to chair the 2009 Public Safety and Crime Prevention Policy and Advocacy Committee of the National League of Cities (NLC).

NLC President Kathleen M. Novak, mayor of Northglenn, Colo, announced Nelson's appointment.

The committee is one of NLC's seven standing committees that develop policy positions and advocate on behalf of municipal governments.

"The year ahead will be critical for the future of this country - and for our cities and towns," said Novak. "In light of the economic crisis, we must work with the new administration to ensure that the needs of our hometowns are part of the conversation.

"Issues such as infrastructure investment, housing and workforce development, along with reliable sources of funding for municipalities are critical to building a stronger America. I will look to Sally's leadership on this important committee to help define our expectations and sharpen our message on behalf of cities and towns."

Each NLC policy and advocacy committee has a membership of approximately 150 officials from cities and towns throughout the nation. The committee discusses and identifies specific policy issues to be addressed during the year.

The National League of Cities is the nation's oldest and largest organization devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leadership and governance.

NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans.

To learn more about the National League of Cities, go to www.nlc.org.