From Federal and State Policy to Local Projects: Navigating New Housing Development Laws

Evan Miller joined the League in November 2024 and serves as Government Affairs Director. Evan works with the legislature, state agencies, and stakeholders to advance the interests of Wisconsin cities and villages in state government. Evan’s responsibilities include the development and revision of proposed policies, testifying at legislative committee hearings, serving on advisory committees, and interacting with League members on policy and legislative matters. Evan previously worked for State Senator Robert Cowles for more than eight years, most recently serving as Chief of Staff.

Toni Herkert joined the League in January 2021 as Government Affairs Director and now serves as Director of Strategic Projects. She advocates for municipal interests by working with the legislature and state agencies, testifying at hearings, serving on advisory committees, and engaging with members on policy issues. Previously, she was a senior policy analyst and clerk for the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Energy, a long-time policy advisor to former State Senator Robert Cowles (R-Green Bay), and held roles at the Wisconsin DNR, Wisconsin Lakes, and NEW Water (formally Green Bay Metropolitan Sewerage District).

Michael Wallace, Legislative Director for Housing, Community and Economic Development, Federal Advocacy 

As a member of the Federal Advocacy team, Michael leads NLC’s advocacy, regulatory, and intergovernmental policy efforts to advance housing stability, equitable development, and economic mobility. Michael also participates on intersectional teams that work directly with mayors, council members, and municipal staff to build better communities through research, data, and technical assistance.  Most recently, Michael was closely involved with program design and implementation of the American Rescue Plan Act’s State and Local Funds (SLFRF) for over 19,000 cities, towns, and villages across the United States, and is co-leading NLC’s ARPA efforts to help local governments produce positive, lasting, and equitable outcomes. 

Michael’s first job in Washington, DC, was running the Llewellyn Scott Catholic Worker House, which served homeless residents of the city and provided long-term housing opportunities. Michael graduated from Marian University in Indianapolis, Indiana, with degrees in philosophy and theology.