Local governments are currently in the midst of crisis response, but what about the near-future? COVID-19 has shaken nearly every system we may have had in place--what kinds of system(s) will we need to (re-)build in the near-term? Pressing issues will vary, depending on local needs and access to resources, among other things. How can researchers stay aware of local needs without disrupting the day-to-day work of their local government partners? As we move from response to recovery, how can we develop and sustain partnerships to support next steps?

Join MetroLab Network for a Kitchen Table Talk--a small, informal discussion (maybe even from your own kitchen table). During this Kitchen Table Talk, we will share:

• examples of how researchers learn about the most pressing issues and needs that their local government partners are facing,
• tips on how to communicate effectively between researchers and local government partners,
• thoughts on how researchers and local government folks might (re-)engage with each other as we move from crisis response to recovery, and
• other thoughts and considerations on what it means to build and maintain effective communication channels between researchers and local government partners.

Those with strong city-university relationships are encouraged to attend--all are welcome!

This event is limited to a maximum of 10 participants. There is also a waitlist for those who might not make the first 10.

Stay tuned for more Kitchen Table Talks!