BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Longstanding North Birmingham environmental and economic challenges will be a subject of discussion in Denver, Colo. next week as Councilman William Parker brings his case to the Clinton Global Initiative conference.

Parker will be in Denver Sunday through Tuesday.

The organization doesn't make direct grants, but is a consortium of individuals and groups interested in a variety of issues for possible funding.

"This is part of an ongoing commitment to North Birmingham," Parker said. "We can go there and collaborate on the issues of investment and economic opportunities."

With the Environmental Protection Agency cleanup underway in Collegeville, Harriman Park and Fairmont, Parker said the city must focus its efforts toward infrastructure needs and long-term redevelopment of the area. Doing so requires strong partnerships, he said.

Four other city officials are also traveling to Denver next week: Council President Johnathan Austin; committee assistant, Kamilah Gray; council public information director, Brittany Sharp, and Council Administrator Cheryl Kidd. The council approved about $7,200 for advance travel expenses for the Birmingham delegation.