Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren has been invited to attend an international mayors conference in Israel next week.
Warren is one of 30 mayors from around the world, including four from the United States, who will attend that conference.
Warren says that she's looking forward to exchanging ideas and gaining a global perspective on the challenges and opportunities cities are facing right now.
She also notes that the Greater Rochester region has a large Jewish population and she's eager to learn more about "this special heritage, faith and vibrant culture."
The theme of this year's conference is "Smarter Cities" and will feature discussions on how cities in Israel are using advanced technology to create jobs and improve the lives of their citizens.
The conference will be held Sunday through Wednesday; New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio will also attend.
After the conference, Warren will visit Rehovot, Rochester's 'sister city' in Israel, with members of the International Sister Cities of Rochester Committee including City Council member Carolee Conklin and former City Clerk Dan Karin. During the visit, Warren and the committee will work to form commercial enterprises that can create jobs in both Rochester and Rehovot.
Warren's office says no taxpayer dollars will be used to finance the trip.
