SPARKS, Nev. (AP) - The Sparks City Council has agreed to continue its membership in the Nevada League of Cities even though some members don't think the statewide lobbying group does enough to help their town.

The membership costs the city nearly $18,000 a year.

Councilwoman Julia Ratti said she voted against the renewal because in these tough economic times the money can be put to better use elsewhere.

Councilman Mike Carrigan eventually voted yes, but he said the league didn't go to bat for Sparks in the Legislature last year and if that happens again this year, he'll drop his support.

He was especially upset the league didn't help push for a bill to redirect some room tax money from the Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority to the city's own marketing efforts.