As the sun sets on a transformational year, the National Special Districts Association (NSDA) is proud to celebrate the momentum, unity, and purpose that defined 2024–2025. From flood recovery in Texas to legislative breakthroughs in Washington, NSDA and its growing membership representing over 10,000 districts have demonstrated what’s possible when local leaders come together to solve big challenges.

This year marked a historic shift: what began as a coalition of visionary leaders officially became the National Special Districts Association. NSDA now connects with thousands of local public agencies—fire protection districts, water utilities, parks, libraries, hospitals, transit authorities, and more—that form the backbone of American communities. Special districts don’t often make headlines, but their work touches every part of our lives.

“We are proud to lead this new Association into the future for all communities across our great country,” said Ann Terry, NSDA Chair and CEO of the Special District Association of Colorado. “From clean water to emergency response, special districts provide critical services with dedication and integrity.”

That message is reaching more people than ever before. NSDA’s “Districts Make the Difference” campaign hit 6.6 million impressions in 2025, and social media engagement soared by over 2,300%. Our national student video contest sparked civic interest among youth in 30 states, showing that the next generation is already paying attention.

On the federal front, NSDA’s advocacy took a major leap forward. The introduction of the bipartisan Special District Fairness and Accessibility Act (H.R. 2766 and S. 2014) would, for the first time, formally define “special districts” in federal law—unlocking funding opportunities and removing longstanding barriers to inclusion. This is more than legislation; it’s a recognition that local service providers deserve a seat at the table.

Working hard to provide needed resources, over 250 Districts across the US joined our first ever 6 part webinar series on critical topics such as Disaster Recovery & Fire Services grants, AI & Cyber security,  and Advocacy.

In Texas, NSDA launched its 8th statewide coalition and hosted its inaugural Leadership Forum, drawing over 40 attendees for a day of learning, leadership, and connection. From emergency services to technology solutions, the conversations underscored the spirit of collaboration that powers NSDA’s work. October saw the second Leadership Forum in Naperville, Illinois with stalwart partners – Streamline, PTMA, iamGIS, GovDeals, and Applied Leadership.

In Florida, Oregon, and California the NSDA Board of Directors joined over 1000 districts at the annual conferences, building bridges and celebrating shared wins, like our increase in state membership. Meanwhile, on the grants front, NSDA partners helped districts secure millions in federal funding for fire suppression, water supply, and disaster resilience.

The road ahead is ambitious. In 2026, NSDA will continue fighting for passage of its marquee legislation, expand its state coalitions, and advocate for stronger infrastructure, cybersecurity, and emergency preparedness. Most importantly, NSDA will remain steadfast in its mission: to champion the local and amplify the national.

In the words of Alexis de Tocqueville, “Americans of all ages, all conditions, and all dispositions constantly form associations… they make great and sincere sacrifices for the common good.” Special districts live out that vision every day—and thanks to NSDA, their collective voice has never been stronger.