WASHINGTON, July 20, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Ted Ellis, president of the National League of Cities and mayor, Bluffton, IN, communicated to the Mayor and City Council of Aurora, CO.  The letter is below.

The National League of Cities (NLC) is dedicated to helping city leaders build better communities.  Working in partnership with the 49 state municipal leagues, NLC serves as a resource to and an advocate for the more than 19,000 cities, villages and towns it represents.

July 20, 2012

The Honorable Mayor Steve Hogan and the Aurora City Council
City Hall
15151 E. Alameda Pkwy
Aurora, Colorado 80012

Dear Mayor Hogan and Aurora Council Members,

It is with shock and sadness that I write to express my condolences for the tragedy the City of Aurora experienced this morning. I speak on behalf of all of us at the National League of Cities in sending our thoughts and prayers to you, the victims, and the families of those who lost their lives.

The role of local elected officials is full of tough duties. However, the type of horrible event you woke up to today, and the role you will be playing as leaders guiding a community through a healing process, is one that we should never have to face. Please know that we stand behind you, ready to offer our support and counsel over the coming days and weeks.

While it is difficult to see any good in such horrific events, may we remember the best parts of humanity that were exhibited: the quick thinking theater goers who helped one another as the tragedy unfolded, the first responders of your community who moved quickly to the scene, and the heartfelt support exhibited across the nation.

We hope and pray that the community of Aurora will be able to quickly find peace in the coming days and weeks.

With great sadness,

Ted Ellis
Mayor, Bluffton, IN
President Ted Ellis

SOURCE National League of Cities