Ground Floor Government

Latest Episodes:

A Passion for Public Service (with Valerie Lemmie) | Ep. 42 Mar 20, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert welcomes Valerie Lemmie, a seasoned expert in local government with over four decades of experience. Valerie shares her journey into local government, emphasizing her passion for ensuring equitable access to services and education for all citizens. She reflects on her family's history and the importance of quality education, which fueled her desire to work in local government. Valerie discusses the challenges and rewards of her career, highlighting the significance of community engagement and the impact of local governance on everyday lives.

Takeaways

"I chose local government rather than it choosing me."
"Working in local government was a passion for me."
"You cannot spend money you do not have."
"Every day you wake up and something hits you in the face."
"Democracy requires citizens to work together."
"You can make a difference in the lives of everyday people."
"It's important to distinguish between policy and operations."
"We want to make certain that we're making a positive impact."
"Civic education is critical to democracy."
"You need each other in local government."

From Humble Beginnings to City Management (with Tommy Gonzalez) | Ep. 41 Mar 18, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Tommy Gonzalez, the City Manager of Midland, Texas, shares his journey into city management, discussing the complexities and responsibilities of his role. He emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, community engagement, and effective budgeting. Tommy also recounts significant challenges he has faced, including navigating a firefighter pension fund issue, and highlights impactful community projects that have enhanced local life. He stresses the need for strong people skills in managing public relations and finances, advocating for active listening as a key leadership trait. In this conversation, city manager Tommy Gonzalez discusses the importance of effective budgeting, the role of ADA accessibility in city management, the value of cross-functional teamwork, and offers advice for those looking to enter local government. He emphasizes listening to the community, using data-driven approaches for budgeting, and the significance of mentorship in professional development.

Takeaways

Tommy Gonzalez grew up in Lubbock, Texas, and had a humble beginning.
His journey into city management began with encouragement from a coach's wife.
Strategic planning is essential for effective city management.
Community input is crucial in developing a city's strategic plan.
Tommy has successfully implemented plans in multiple cities, including Midland.
Navigating challenges requires collaboration with elected officials and community leaders.
The firefighter pension fund issue was a significant challenge in Midland.
Community projects like Midland Merry Lights have boosted local engagement.
Effective leadership is tested during times of adversity.
Listening more than talking is vital in managing public relations. Listening is crucial for effective budgeting.
Budgeting should be a collaborative and ongoing process.
ADA accessibility is a priority in city management.
Small improvements can have a big impact on communities.
Cross-functional teams enhance efficiency in city operations.
Mentorship is vital for aspiring local government professionals.
Understanding community needs leads to better service delivery.
Data-driven decision-making is essential for budgeting.
Engaging with the community fosters trust and transparency.
Continuous learning from experienced professionals is invaluable.

From Marine to Mayor: Journey in Local Government (with Nick Edwards) | Ep. 40 Mar 16, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Nick Edwards, the city manager of Joplin, Missouri, shares his journey into local government, the challenges he faces, and the importance of community engagement. He discusses the impact of his military background on his leadership style and the significance of strategic planning in managing city resources. Nick emphasizes the need for collaboration among city departments and the role of location in enhancing city services. He also offers valuable advice for those interested in pursuing a career in local government.

Takeaways

Nick Edwards began his career in local government after serving in the Marine Corps.
He was inspired to pursue city management by a former city manager who was his advisor.
Community engagement is crucial for effective city management.
Nick conducted a listening tour to gather feedback from the community during the pandemic.
The goal of a city manager is to serve the mayor, council, and community effectively.
Challenges in local government include limited resources and managing diverse personalities.
Nick emphasizes the importance of strategic planning in aligning city resources with council goals.
ADA accessibility is a significant challenge for older communities like Joplin.
Internships are a valuable way to gain experience in local government.
Nick's passion for serving his hometown drives his work as a city manager.

From Media to Municipal Leadership (with Hombre Darby) | Ep. 39 Mar 13, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Hugh Plappert speaks with Hombre Darby, the Director of Communications and Outreach for Wheeling Township, Illinois. They discuss the importance of newsletters in community engagement, the challenges and rewards of working in local government, and the strategies for effective communication with diverse audiences. Hombre shares his journey into local government, highlights impactful community projects, and emphasizes the need for innovation and adaptability in communication efforts. The conversation also touches on the significance of building relationships and networking within the community.

Takeaways

Newsletters can be a powerful tool for community engagement.
Effective communication is essential for local government success.
Understanding the community's needs is crucial for outreach.
Diversity in communication methods can enhance engagement.
Personal investment in projects can lead to greater community impact.
Networking is key to becoming a valuable asset in local government.
Innovation through communication can overcome resource constraints.
ADA accessibility is becoming increasingly important in digital communication.
Feedback from the community is vital for effective communication.
Local government work can be rewarding for those who enjoy helping others.

Mastering Local Government: Strategies for Turnaround and Impact (with Harry Black) | Ep. 38 Mar 11, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Harry Black shares his extensive experience in local government, highlighting the opportunities and challenges that come with the territory. He discusses his journey from a management trainee at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to becoming a city manager, emphasizing the importance of resilience, financial planning, and making tough decisions. Black reflects on his turnaround experiences in Baltimore, where he successfully navigated financial crises and engaged with labor unions to achieve significant reforms. His insights provide valuable lessons for those looking to enter or advance in local government roles. In this conversation, Harry Black discusses his experiences and insights as a city manager, particularly during challenging times like the Great Recession. He emphasizes the importance of people skills, effective communication, and strategic management in navigating the complexities of local government. Black shares his passion for public service and offers advice for those looking to pursue a career in local government, highlighting the need for self-awareness, adaptability, and a strong understanding of public financial management.

Takeaways

Local government offers opportunities beyond traditional roles.
Harry Black's career began with a management trainee program.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey was a significant starting point.
Experiences in tough environments can build resilience.
Turnaround jobs in local government can be challenging but rewarding.
Making tough decisions is essential for organizational success.
Financial planning is crucial for city management.
Engaging with labor unions is key during financial reforms.
Successful turnaround can lead to improved community outcomes.
Leadership in local government requires a diverse skill set. The Great Recession presented unique challenges that required adaptability.
Self-awareness and environmental awareness are crucial for effective leadership.
Communication is the key skill for engaging and influencing others.
City managers must navigate dynamic political environments without job security.
A structured management system can help city managers mobilize quickly.
A one-page strategic plan serves as a roadmap for city initiatives.
Innovation labs can leverage lean techniques to improve processes.
Public service offers the opportunity to make a significant community impact.
Being helpful and approachable fosters positive relationships in government.
Understanding public financial management is essential for effective governance.

10 Lessons on Successful Government Tech Projects (with Hana Schank) | Ep. 37 Mar 09, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Hana Schank discusses her journey in local government and the importance of public interest technology. She emphasizes the need for effective technology solutions that address community needs while navigating the challenges of procurement and project management. The discussion highlights the significance of people skills, ethical considerations, and future-proofing technology in government projects. Hana also shares insights on how individuals can start their careers in local government technology, stressing the importance of building relationships and engaging with local leaders.

Key Topics

Public interest technology framework
Challenges in government tech projects
Successful community impact initiatives

Takeaways

Local government careers can lead to impactful work globally.
Public interest technology is a framework for solving public problems.
Successful projects often rely on simple tools rather than complex technology.
Procurement processes can hinder effective technology implementation.
People skills are crucial in managing technology projects in local government.
Understanding community needs is essential for effective technology solutions.
Future-proofing technology involves considering long-term impacts and adaptability.
Engaging with local leaders can foster better technology solutions.
Volunteering can be a pathway into local government careers.
Building relationships is key to successful local government technology initiatives.

Firefighter to County Manager: A Journey of Public Service (with Eric Mosley) | Ep. 36 Mar 06, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this engaging interview, Eric Mosley shares his journey from a forest firefighter to a county manager, highlighting the diverse paths to local government leadership, key responsibilities, and the importance of community involvement.

Key Topics

Pathways to local government leadership
Responsibilities of a county manager
Community development projects
Crisis management and problem-solving
Engaging with the community and transparency

Takeaways

Experience and community involvement are key to a career in local government.
Effective budget management involves collaboration with multiple entities.
Community projects like the Oak Dusky Conservation Center can be self-sustaining and impactful.
Trust and delegation are vital in managing diverse teams.
Staying committed and passionate drives success in public service.

Breaking Barriers in Local Government (with Donesia Gause) | Ep. 35 Mar 02, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Donesia Gause, the first African-American city clerk of Riverside. Donesia shares her journey into local government, the role of a city clerk in advocating for democracy, and the importance of community engagement. She discusses significant projects like the redistricting process and the City Hall Insider initiative aimed at demystifying public proceedings. Donesia emphasizes the need for accessibility in local government and offers valuable advice for aspiring public servants.

Takeaways

Stepping into local government can be daunting but rewarding.
The role of a city clerk is crucial for community engagement.
Community involvement is essential in the redistricting process.
Demystifying public meetings encourages civic participation.
Accessibility is a priority for local government.
Public service is about improving lives, big or small.
Networking is key to finding opportunities in public service.
Always present yourself as if you're on an interview.
Age should not deter anyone from pursuing a career in local government.
Volunteering can provide valuable insights into public service.

The Art of Budgeting in Local Government (with Donald Duncan) | Ep. 34 Feb 26, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Donald Duncan, the city manager of Asheboro, NC shares his journey into local government, discussing the importance of budgeting, the differences between city and county management, and the challenges faced in political environments. He emphasizes the need for effective leadership development and offers advice for those aspiring to enter local government, highlighting the significance of community engagement and understanding local dynamics.

Takeaways

Money management is crucial in local government.
Personal experiences shape career paths in public service.
City managers have immense responsibility to citizens.
County management involves navigating complex political landscapes.
Leadership development is essential for effective governance.
Community challenges can be viewed as opportunities.
Innovative training programs can enhance management skills.
Passion for public service drives successful careers.
Networking is vital in local government.
Preparation and research are key for job interviews.

Soldier to City Manager: A Unique Journey (with Dean Huard) | Ep. 33 Feb 25, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Dean Huard shares his unique journey transitioning from a military career to local government. He discusses the importance of networking, the cultural aspects of local governance, and the challenges faced in city management. Dean emphasizes how his military experiences have shaped his approach to leadership and problem-solving in the public sector, highlighting the significance of adaptability and community service in his role as a city manager. In this conversation, Dean Huard discusses the parallels between military decision-making and local government problem-solving, emphasizing the importance of logistics and emergency management. He highlights the unsung heroes in public works and the significance of community contributions in local governance. Huard also shares insights on how individuals can start their careers in local government, stressing the value of active engagement in community boards and initiatives.

Takeaways

Dean's journey into local government began with a non-traditional path.
His military background provided unique insights into local governance.
The importance of networking and mentorship in transitioning careers.
Local government roles require a diverse skill set and adaptability.
Cultural fit is crucial in local government positions.
Hands-on experiences in smaller towns can be invaluable for career growth.
The role of a city manager involves both strategic and tactical responsibilities.
Challenges in local government often mirror those faced in military operations.
Collaboration with various departments is essential for effective governance.
Lessons learned in the military can greatly benefit local government operations. Problem-solving is essential in both military and local government.
Emergency management requires quick decision-making and resource allocation.
Logistics play a crucial role in managing city services effectively.
Public works and water management are often overlooked but vital.
Community contributions are significant in local governance.
Engaging in local boards can lead to career opportunities in government.
Veterans bring valuable experience to local government roles.
Every small action in local government can prevent larger issues.
Communication is key in conveying the value of local government services.
Active participation in community initiatives fosters growth and development.

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