Mayor Eddie Sundquist recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to lobby federal representatives regarding multiple legislative priorities for the Jamestown community. Sundquist, left, is pictured with U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer. Submitted photos

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist is hoping his recent trip to Washington, D.C., will encourage the city’s federal partners to advance legislation that could benefit the community.

Sundquist recently traveled to Washington to lobby federal representatives regarding various priorities for the city.

In a press release, Sundquist explained that he had discussions with federal representatives and White House staff on initiatives he believes will “enhance the quality of life and safety” of people in the Jamestown community. Sundquist told The Post-Journal that he had “great discussions” with the White House, Senator Chuck Schumer and Congressman Nick Langworthy. Throughout his conversations with federal representatives, Sundquist said he “pushed forward” legislative items that priorities for the Jamestown community.

“I first want to thank Senator Schumer, Congressman Langworthy and their respective staff for their steadfast commitment to Jamestown, Chautauqua County, and our state,” Sundquist said. “In my conversations with each of them, I emphasized my hope that three issues in particular would be resolved.”

During his trip, Sundquist met with senior leadership at the White House to discuss workforce development. According to Sundquist, cities are the “backbone” for uniting the various parties required to both create and execute workforce development strategies in the modern green manufacturing economy. Sundquist said the White House brought together roughly 30 mayor’s to discuss the issue of workforce development. Based on the amount of infrastructure money in the works, Sundquist said the White House discussed ways to help cities “push workforce development initiatives” and ensure that cities have the necessary people in place to build infrastructure, which Sundquist said is “kind of a concern.

“The city and its partners are currently crafting a workforce development plan that will use previously set aside ARPA funds to become a leader in new strategies for implementation,” he said.

A second legislative priority Sundquist discussed with federal representatives is the bipartisan Railway Safety Act, which is intended to address the issue of over 1,000 yearly train derailments in the United States Sundquist said the legislation includes provisions to hold railroads accountable by making improvements to reporting standards, the implementation of NTSB safety recommendations, proper oversight and enforcement of regulations and making sure communities impacted by train derailments receive necessary recovery support.

The third legislative priority emphasized by Sundquist is the Farm Bill, specifically regarding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. Sundquist said he worked to ensure that working class residents would continue to have access to locally-grown fresh produce through the SNAP benefit program under the next Farm Bill.

“I highlighted the growth of local programs like the Jamestown Farmer’s Market and Jamestown Mobile Market, and the ability and success of these programs to bring fresh, high quality food to food deserts and low-income residents,” he said. “I also emphasized the importance of ensuring this opportunity stayed available to our local farmers who have a greatly appreciated the opening of new markets to sell their goods.”

In addition to these three legislative items, Sundquist also lobbied for the return of Essential Air Service for Jamestown as part of the FAA Re-authorization Bill. Sundquist said the Essential Air Service is “vital” for helping connect residents, visitors and businesses to both the city and the region. He believes the local area is in danger of “falling behind” other areas by missing “excellent economic growth opportunities” that are connected with commercial air service.

“I once again thank White House staff and our federal representatives for their tireless work in advocating for Jamestown and our region,” Sundquist said. “I look forward to continue to engage them on these and many other priorities in the future.”