LMC City Speak

You Can Accomplish Big Things in a Small City Jan 26, 2024

Evan Vogel worked in state government before shifting to city administrator in Cambridge. Hear how he strives to make big things happen in his small city and creates a culture of appreciation for the hard work and talent of his city’s staff. Episode transcript (pdf)

Holy Mackerel I Need to Plan for This Jan 12, 2024

Dianne Miller has worked in Eagan for 20 years — first as an intern now as city administrator. She shares her leadership journey and how being curious helped build her expertise and how setting boundaries brought balance to her life. Episode transcript (pdf).

Balancing My Core Values Dec 22, 2023

Laurie Hokkanen worked for Chanhassen and moved on to several other roles and cities before returning to Chanhassen as the current city manager. Hear how those experiences helped build her confidence, understand the difference between formal and informal leadership, and reinforce the importance of staying true to her core values. Episode transcript (pdf).

From 545 Bosses to 5 Dec 08, 2023

Elizabeth Torkelson shares her career transition from working in the Library of Congress to her new role as city administrator in Olivia. Hear how her experience at the federal level taught her the importance of being a resource and building relationships at the local level, and also how to distinguish between an ear and a cob of corn. Episode transcript (pdf)

I Felt Like I Could Do More in Public Service Nov 17, 2023

Sharon Hanson shares how she took on the first county coordinator position with Pipestone County and after 13 years there decided to make the leap to become the Marshall city administrator. Hear why she made the switch, and how good communication, teamwork, and strong connections have helped her in her leadership journey. Episode transcript (pdf).

Don’t Underestimate the Value of Showing Up Oct 31, 2023

Faith Jackson, Bloomington’s first chief equity and inclusion officer, is a realist who has had some great successes in her work while also understanding she won’t achieve all her goals during her job tenure. Hear how her work in Bloomington is making progress in advancing racial equity and helping all residents feel they belong. Learn ways leaders can contribute by being visible in the work and making connections in their community. Episode transcript (pdf).

Life Taught Me That I Have to Be Strong Oct 13, 2023

Mankato Mayor Najwa Massad shares how her experiences as an immigrant and small business owner shaped her outlook on life and her role as mayor. Hear how living in a war zone, starting over in Mankato, and working in hospitality helped her learn to be strong, to lead by example, and realize nothing is impossible. Episode transcript (pdf).

Bringing Fresh Eyes to the White Bear Way Sep 29, 2023

When Lindy Crawford became the city manager of White Bear Lake two years ago, she shifted from being an expert on many things to managing and leading the experts. Hear how she handled that transition and allowed staff and officials time to adapt to change while bringing a fresh set of ideas and opportunities for growth. Episode transcript (pdf).

Learning to Get Out of the Way Sep 15, 2023

Brad Martens transitioned from working in a small community where he wore many hats to being the city manager in Shoreview with long-tenured department heads. Hear how he learned to get out of the way and let the experts do their jobs, honor their work as they retire, and thoughtfully choreograph how to move forward. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Grateful for Guidance Sep 01, 2023

Duluth Chief Administrative Officer Noah Schuchman shares how having a network of city leaders was instrumental in helping him when starting out in his career in city government and when he made an unconventional career shift. Learn how he cracked the code on the importance of getting and giving guidance and the impact it's had on his city leadership journey. Episode Transcript (pdf)

New Season: Focusing on Leadership Aug 25, 2023

We're kicking off a new season of the City Speak podcast starting Sept. 1! Join host Luke Fischer, executive director of the League of Minnesota Cities, as he talks with city stafe and elected officials who are new to leadership roles or who are going through a leadership transition in their community. Episode Transcript (pdf)

I Wish I Could Say I’ve Never Made That Mistake Dec 24, 2021

Crystal City Manager Anne Norris recalls how a budget process gone wrong provided a painful lesson on the importance of clear communication. She shares how owning the mistake helped rebuild trust with city officials and the community. Episode Transcript (pdf)

I Wasn’t Engaging the Community Dec 10, 2021

Buffalo Mayor Teri Lachermeier shares how a city redevelopment project taught her the importance of getting community input. She also describes her method to ensure people feel their opinion is heard. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Staying Plugged In Nov 26, 2021

Chatfield Clerk Joel Young shares how seeing others become downtrodden and cynical reinforced the importance of maintaining connections and relationships with others in local government. He also reveals the one word that has helped him through some stressful times. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Mistakes Are Just Part of the Job Nov 12, 2021

Biwabik Mayor Jim Weikum shares how a mistake he made taught him the importance of doing your homework and anticipating the perspectives of others. He also talks with us about a simple practice that can help elected leaders work successfully with each other. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Yeah, That Probably Wasn’t the Best Way to Handle It Oct 29, 2021

Melrose City Administrator Colleen Winter talks with us about leadership lessons the pandemic has taught her. She shares how these experiences reinforced the importance of active listening and ensuring people feel heard along the way. Episode Transcript (pdf)

The Importance of Words Oct 15, 2021

Wyoming Mayor Lisa Iverson shares how a ride-along in a squad car gave her a new perspective on decision-making, and how the words she chooses in her city leadership role can help the public understand council action. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Everyone Needs a Buddy Oct 01, 2021

Wadena Police Chief Naomi Plautz talks with us about the big role that mentors played in her leadership journey, and why we all need to have a buddy to support us and help do the hard things together. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Not Every Idea Is a Good Idea Sep 17, 2021

Marshall Mayor Bob Byrnes chats with us about a leadership lesson that taught him the importance of embracing community input, and shares what keeps him going after nearly 30 years of serving his city. Episode transcript (pdf)

Failing Forward Sep 03, 2021

Baudette Clerk-Treasurer Tina Rennemo chats with us about lessons she’s learned in her career. She shares the importance of learning by making mistakes, and explains how focusing on the great things happening in her city helps her stay positive. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Don’t Lose Sight of the Things That Aren’t on Fire Aug 20, 2021

Brooklyn Park Fire Chief and President of the Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association T. John Cunningham shares stories from his experiences as a public sector leader and some of the valuable lessons he’s learned. Cunningham also shares his advice on surrounding yourself with supportive peers and keeping your focus on the important things even when the metaphorical fires are all around you. Episode Transcript (pdf)

My First Leadership Test and I Didn’t Even Know It Jul 30, 2021

This teaser episode for season four of The City Speak features League of Minnesota Cities Executive Director Dave Unmacht. Dave shares a story about a surprise meeting early in his career where he learned that his transition to a new role was not going well. Hear how that feedback helped to shape his approach to managing and leading in what he considers to be a true “aha” moment in life and leadership. Episode transcript (pdf)

2021 Legislative Series: Responding to COVID-19 Jan 15, 2021

In this episode — one of three in a legislative series — League intergovernmental relations (IGR) representatives Daniel Lightfoot and Ann Lindstrom address federal support for cities responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss the need for any future aid to be disbursed directly to cities with more flexibility and clear direction from the Treasury; the careful coordination needed among federal, state, and local government partners; and the importance of sharing your experiences with state legislators and your congressional delegation. For more legislative information, check out the League’s legislative policies, subscribe to the Cities Bulletin e-newsletter, and connect with League IGR staff. Episode Transcript (pdf)

2021 Legislative Series: Responding to Economic Challenges Jan 15, 2021

In this episode — one of three in a legislative series — you’ll hear about economic issues affecting cities that will likely be discussed in the 2021 legislative session. League Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) Director Gary Carlson and Assistant IGR Director Anne Finn share updates on the state budget deficit, transportation funding, and duty disability for first responders. They also emphasize the importance of sharing your local stories. For more legislative information, check out the League’s legislative policies, subscribe to the Cities Bulletin e-newsletter, and connect with League IGR staff. Episode Transcript (pdf)

2021 Legislative Series: Addressing Racial Inequities Jan 15, 2021

In this episode — one of three in a legislative series — you’ll hear about the League’s new racial equity legislative policy. League Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) Counsel Irene Kao and IGR Representative Craig Johnson explain how the policy was developed, and how it can be used to address equity in policy areas ranging from housing to less obvious topics like energy. For more legislative information, check out the League’s legislative policies, subscribe to the Cities Bulletin e-newsletter, and connect with League IGR staff. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Two League Interns Talk Race Equity Jan 08, 2021

League of Minnesota Cities intern and college senior Laurel Poole takes over the hosting duties in this bonus episode, interviewing fellow intern and classmate Elijah Henderson. Henderson spent the summer focusing on research for the League’s race equity initiatives, including conducting interviews with city officials of color. Elijah shares some of the themes he heard in their experiences, and explains how this work has inspired him to become a part of local government. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Focus on the Windshield, Not the Rearview Mirror Oct 30, 2020

As we approach the general election and the end of 2020, we check in with Brad Wiersum, president of the League of Minnesota Cities and mayor of Minnetonka. Wiersum shares valuable lessons he’s learned while in office and offers practical advice for newly elected officials just starting out on their city leadership journey. He serves up some nuggets of wisdom we can all use, including focusing on the future, not taking yourself too seriously, and being kind to yourself and others. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Talking Elections with David Maeda Oct 16, 2020

We talk with David Maeda, director of elections for the Minnesota Office of Secretary of State, who gives us the lowdown on all things elections – including safety and security of the voting process, absentee voting and naked ballots, and when we can expect final election results. David reveals what keeps him up at night during this unique election year, and shares how impressed he is by the enthusiasm and integrity of those who help run elections in Minnesota. Sign up for weekly emails with election updates from David Maeda, and find election results at www.mnvotes.org. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Partner Podcast: Center of Everywhere with Dave Unmacht Oct 09, 2020

We wanted to share with our listeners this Center of Everywhere podcast episode from our partners at the Center for Rural Policy and Development and featuring our own Dave Unmacht, executive director of the League of Minnesota Cities. Dave discusses the challenges and opportunities facing Minnesota’s small cities, how uncertainty will be the defining characteristic of the next five years, and why getting involved in local government may just be the best thing you ever do in life. Podcast Transcript (pdf)

Protecting the Mental Health of First Responders Oct 02, 2020

Community first responders are repeatedly exposed to trauma, and that trauma can take its toll. Dan Willis, retired police captain and author of Bulletproof Spirit, talks with us about proactive wellness strategies for first responders. He explains the cultural shift needed to emphasize emotional survival as well as physical survival, and how promoting a heart-centered approach to work can help keep those in public safety motivated, inspired, and connected to the true nobility of what it means to be a first responder. Episode Transcript (pdf)

We’ve Got You Covered Sep 18, 2020

Dan Greensweig, administrator of the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust, shares some interesting takes on how the Trust partners with cities on managing risk and solving problems. Dan explains how preventing claims is just as important as providing coverage protection, and talks about Trust efforts to help cities deal with some of the bigger challenges and issues they are facing these days. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Two Mayors Talk City Budgets Sep 04, 2020

It’s that time again — budget season is here, and this year there’s the added twist of factoring in the impacts of a global pandemic. Carver Mayor Courtney Johnson and Bloomington Mayor Tim Busse share the challenges their cities face as they make difficult decisions on spending and city services. Hear about the importance of transparency and educating others on the budgeting process, and how tenacity and creative approaches are helping these mayors tackle complex budget issues this year. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Women in City Government Aug 21, 2020

As we celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the signing of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote, we talk with three city leaders about the opportunities, challenges, and impact of women in city government today. Maplewood Assistant City Manager Michael Sable, Sartell City Administrator Anna Gruber, and Richfield Mayor Maria Regan Gonzalez share their experiences and insights on the importance of listening to understand, making space for others, and mentoring to encourage the next generation of women city leaders. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Bridging Social Capital Across Multicultural Communities Aug 07, 2020

Mahnomen City Administrator Mitchell Berg shares the results of his doctoral research on tribal and municipal relations. Even if your city doesn’t have the opportunity to work with a tribal nation, his findings on the trust, purposeful engagement, and skills needed to build intergovernmental collaborations can be applied to strengthen relationships with partners of any background. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Everything’s Better with Better Broadband Jul 24, 2020

Access to reliable, high-speed internet is vital to the economic success of a community — a big reason why Minnesota has a goal of border-to-border broadband by 2026. But building a broadband infrastructure in a community takes more than technical know-how. Blandin Foundation’s Bernadine Joselyn, director of public policy & engagement, and Bill Coleman, community broadband coach, talk about how technology is just a small piece of the broadband puzzle and how hope, tenacity (gird your loins!), and local leadership are the key ingredients to bringing border-to-border broadband services to cities. Episode Transcript (pdf)

Finding Silver Linings: Brainerd’s Reopening Story Jul 10, 2020

Brainerd City Administrator Jennifer Bergman and Human Resources Director Kris Schubert share the unique challenges their city faced (including a fire at City Hall) while working to reopen the city during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hear how their preparedness plan, a priority on safety, pride in their city, and ability to find the positives during a crisis helped them get their City Hall up and running again.

Episode Transcript (pdf)

Jump-Starting Main Street Jun 26, 2020

Discover how the City of Watertown created its own economic stimulus package to help Main Street businesses and residents weather the COVID-19 pandemic. Watertown Mayor Steve Washburn shares how partnerships, innovative thinking, and quick work got $96,000 worth of “Chamber Checks” into residents’ hands to help boost the local economy and morale in the community.

Episode Transcript (pdf)

A Conversation With U.S. Representatives Craig and Stauber Jun 09, 2020

Hear from two members of Minnesota’s congressional delegation as we talk with Rep. Angie Craig (2nd Congressional District) and Rep. Pete Stauber (8th Congressional District). They share their opinions about direct federal aid to cities responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, and what the role of federal government should be as we look toward meaningful change to address the racial injustices in our country.

#WeGotThis Series: Mark Ruff Apr 17, 2020

In this episode of the #WeGotThis Series on pandemic response, Minneapolis Interim City Coordinator Mark Ruff, a public finance expert, shares his thoughts on basic actions cities can take now to help weather economic uncertainty, where cities can find opportunity in a down market, and what financial changes will most impact cities. He also offers advice for communicating with the public about city finances (be honest, be direct, be bold), and reminds us that cities are forever — we have lived through crises in the past and will continue to thrive when this one is over. Get more information and resources regarding COVID-19 from the League at www.lmc.org/covid19.

#WeGotThis Series: Mike Goldstein Apr 13, 2020

In this episode of the #WeGotThis Series on pandemic response, Plymouth Police Chief and Director of Public Safety Mike Goldstein shares how his city’s emergency management planning prepared them for the pandemic (including a stockpile of PPEs), and how creative scheduling and staffing plans help to ensure the safety of their officers. He also discusses the challenge of providing the level of service they take pride in while shifting away from direct interactions, and the encouragement he gets during these daunting times from seeing others pause and re-evaluate what’s important to them. Get more information and resources regarding COVID-19 from the League at www.lmc.org/covid19.

#WeGotThis Series: Jenny Max Apr 09, 2020

In this episode of the #WeGotThis Series on pandemic response, Nisswa City Administrator Jenny Max discusses the steps her city has taken to keep things running and the positive relationships they’ve forged with other entities as they work together to do what’s right and keep everyone safe. She also shares her concerns for the local tourism economy and the challenges of moving everyone forward as a team. Get more information and resources regarding COVID-19 from the League at www.lmc.org/covid19.

#WeGotThis Series: Tracy Bertram Apr 06, 2020

In this episode of the #WeGotThis Series on pandemic response, we talk with Becker Mayor Tracy Bertram, whose city dealt with a large fire just prior to the current COVID-19 crisis. Hear how that first incident helped to build the leadership team and trust that are so crucial today. She also shares how she makes decisions (including the toughest decision she’s made so far), what lessons the city has learned, and how impressed she is with the positivity of the people in her community and their willingness to do what’s needed to make things better for everyone. Get more information and resources regarding COVID-19 from the League at www.lmc.org/covid19.

#WeGotThis Series: Andrea Lauer Apr 03, 2020

In this episode of the #WeGotThis Series on pandemic response, Royalton Mayor Andrea Lauer shares the impact the COVID-19 crisis has had on her community and what it’s like to lead a city in times like these. Hear about the challenges of using technology for meetings (sound familiar?), her concerns about the safety of city staff and the survival of local businesses, and how the actions of the wonderful people in her city bring her hope and assurance that they’ll get through this together. Get more information and resources regarding COVID-19 from the League at www.lmc.org/covid19.

#WeGotThis Series: David Unmacht Mar 25, 2020

Minnesota cities are facing the challenge of pandemic response, but working together, #WeGotThis! In this first episode of the #WeGotThis Series, we talk with League of Minnesota Cities Executive Director David Unmacht about how the League has responded during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shares advice he has for city leaders (be human!), what he has learned, what has surprised him, and what gives him hope during these rapidly changing times. Get more information and resources regarding COVID-19 from the League at www.lmc.org/covid19.

2020 Session Preview: Legislative Short Takes with Daniel Lightfoot Feb 07, 2020

Prep for the 2020 legislative session with this episode — one of five in a special series with League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) staff covering the top issues affecting cities at the Capitol this year. In this episode, IGR Representative Daniel Lightfoot discusses resources and tools for affordable and workforce housing; city authority for land use planning, zoning, and assessing fees associated with residential development; and funding for reliable broadband access and infrastructure. Check out the other episodes in this legislative session preview series, reach out to League IGR staff with questions, and be sure to register for the League’s 2020 Legislative Conference on March 18-19.

2020 Session Preview: Legislative Short Takes with Gary Carlson Feb 07, 2020

Prep for the 2020 legislative session with this episode — one of five in a special series with League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) staff covering the top issues affecting cities at the Capitol this year. In this episode, IGR Director Gary Carlson shares what’s on his radar for this session, including the process to impose a local sales tax; streamlining of the sales tax exemption for public project construction materials; local government aid; employer aid restoration for the Public Employee Retirement Association; and workers’ compensation regarding post-traumatic stress disorder. Check out the other episodes in this legislative session preview series, reach out to League IGR staff with questions, and be sure to register for the League’s 2020 Legislative Conference on March 18-19.

2020 Session Preview: Legislative Short Takes with Anne Finn Feb 07, 2020

Prep for the 2020 legislative session with this episode — one of five in a special series with League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) staff covering the top issues affecting cities at the Capitol this year. In this episode, IGR Assistant Director Anne Finn explains the process around the bonding bill — which will include projects like transportation and water infrastructure — and also provides a preview on city street funding issues. Check out the other episodes in this legislative session preview series, reach out to League IGR staff with questions, and be sure to register for the League’s 2020 Legislative Conference on March 18-19.

2020 Session Preview: Legislative Short Takes with Gary Carlson and Anne Finn Feb 07, 2020

Prep for the 2020 legislative session with this episode — one of five in a special series with League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) staff covering the top issues affecting cities at the Capitol this year. In this episode, IGR Director Gary Carlson and Assistant Director Anne Finn share updates on elections and data collection; paid family leave and earned sick time for employees; massage therapist licensure and background checks; how the state biennium works; and the regulation, zoning, and taxation of adult-use cannabis. Check out the other episodes in this legislative session preview series, reach out to League IGR staff with questions, and be sure to register for the League’s 2020 Legislative Conference on March 18-19.

2020 Session Preview: Legislative Short Takes with Irene Kao Feb 07, 2020

Prep for the 2020 legislative session with this episode — one of five in a special series with League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) staff covering the top issues affecting cities at the Capitol this year. In this episode, IGR Counsel Irene Kao dives into the topics of street improvement fees and the need for legislation that supports residential development while protecting the interests of current taxpayers. She also provides an update on the League’s #BuildItRight campaign opposing legislative action that would limit local control of planning and zoning decisions and development-related fees. Check out the other episodes in this legislative session preview series, reach out to League IGR staff with questions, and be sure to register for the League’s 2020 Legislative Conference on March 18-19.

Joys and Challenges of Our First Year in Office Jan 17, 2020

How did your first year go as an elected city official, what did you learn, and what advice would you give others? We check in with two elected officials as they wrap up their first year in office. Warren Mayor Mara Hanel and Oak Park Heights Councilmember Carly Johnson share what they found rewarding, challenging, and surprising this past year, and offer advice to the newbies out there as they start on their new adventure in public service.

Go Big So Minnesotans Can Go Home Jan 03, 2020

Housing is a critical infrastructure issue in cities across Minnesota, and it intersects with many other basic needs and services. One of the partners working to solve this complex problem is Minnesota Housing Assistant Commissioner for Policy and Community Development Ryan Baumtrog. His agency’s goal is for everyone in Minnesota to have a safe, affordable home in the community of their choice, and he discusses the programs and tools his agency offers to cities to help achieve that goal. (Read about Minnesota Housing 2019 Funding Selections.) Also joining the conversation is League of Minnesota Cities Intergovernmental Relations Representative Daniel Lightfoot. He shares what the League will be advocating for during the 2020 legislative session regarding housing needs for cities. (Check out this League-compiled list of 25 City Tools for Housing Affordability and Developer Assistance.)

The Ballet of the Snow Plows Dec 20, 2019

We live in a winter wonderland in Minnesota, which is great until you need to drive in it. In this episode, we talk about a crucial city service — snow plowing and clearance — and the policies that cities enact to keep us safe on the roads. Hear from two cities that are taking a leading approach to snow maintenance: Shoreview’s Public Works Director Mark Maloney; and Duluth’s Chief Administrative Officer Noah Schuchman, and Director of Public Works and Utilities Jim Benning. They share how environmental impact, budgets, and resident feedback are important considerations for snow removal policies. They also discuss how they are using technology to make their processes smarter and safer.

2020 Census: Why a Complete Count Matters Dec 06, 2019

Is your city ready for the 2020 census? Minnesota State Demographer Susan Brower explains why the census is so important and how it’s used at the local level (including the distribution of billions of dollars in funding). Brower also discusses ways your city can promote the census, especially to those who may feel uneasy about participating. More information, tools, and resources about the 2020 census are available at www.mn.gov/2020census.

Mental Health Crises and How Police Respond Nov 22, 2019

Across Minnesota, police are responding to an increasing number of calls for those who may be experiencing a mental health crisis. We talk with Crystal Police Chief Stephanie Revering to find out what this means for police departments, the types of training needed to respond appropriately, the importance of partnerships across agencies, and how city officials can understand and support this work.

Collaboration in Scott County Nov 08, 2019

SCALE, the Scott County Association for Leadership & Efficiency, is helping local governments forge innovative ways to collaborate. Learn how this collaboration leads to providing superior service while making the most of limited resources. SCALE members Janet Williams, mayor of Savage, and Jon Ulrich, Scott County commissioner, share their thoughts on the benefits of multi-jurisdictional cooperation. They’ll discuss the successes they’ve seen and how SCALE can serve as a model to help build relationships, partnerships, and trust among local governments in your region.

How We Lead Starts with Who We Are Oct 25, 2019

What does leadership in race equity look like in other organizations and what does it take to be a leader in this area? In this episode, Damon Shoholm, director of the James P. Shannon Leadership Institute and Amherst H. Wilder Foundation takes a broad look at race equity and what this work means for leaders across many sectors in Minnesota. Damon shares his thoughts on the importance of examining your beliefs and why you hold them. He also discusses the need to make changes to the systems and structures that cause disparities in order to change the outcomes.

Greater Minnesota Cities: We Can Lead in Achieving Race Equity Oct 11, 2019

When we talk about race equity in city government, we’re talking about city services, policies, and practices that work for everyone in a community, regardless of their race. Cities — even smaller ones and/or those in Greater Minnesota — have an opportunity to lead in this work. Hear Gordon Goodwin, Midwest region project manager with the Government Alliance on Race and Equity, discuss his recent work with a cohort of Minnesota cities. The group has worked on using race equity analysis to begin to address unintentional biases in everyday practices. Willmar Mayor Marv Calvin, a participant in the cohort, shares examples of his city’s race equity efforts and lessons he’s learned as Willmar strives to be a welcoming community for all.

My Word Is My Bond: Award-Winning Mayor Shares Sage Advice Sep 27, 2019

Mayor Jerry Faust’s long career in public service for the City of St. Anthony Village has taught him a lot about how best to govern his city. The recipient of the League of Minnesota Cities 2019 C.C. Ludwig Award, Jerry talks about some of the challenges he’s faced and how integrity, strategic goals, and willingness to listen are key to successfully serving as an elected city official. (Check out St. Anthony Village’s Strategic Plans, and read more about Jerry Faust in the League’s Minnesota Cities magazine.)

Engineering City Success Sep 13, 2019

When Steve Bot became St. Michael city administrator in 2012, he was assigned the goal of expanding the number of lanes on I-94 near his community. Winner of the League of Minnesota Cities 2019 James F. Miller Leadership Award, Steve shares how collaboration with city staff, elected officials, and key partners helped to make what seemed like an impossible goal a reality. Hear how this city leader approaches major challenges by focusing on the “what” and not the “how” to keep projects moving forward.

Do Well by Doing Good: Thoughts on a 40+-Year Career in City Government Aug 16, 2019

If you’ve been involved in Minnesota city government in the last several decades, you’ve likely heard of or met Kevin Frazell, director of member services at the League of Minnesota Cities. As Kevin prepares to retire after a 40+-year career, he reflects on his experiences working with city officials and offers his thoughts on the leadership skills that can help elected officials succeed.

Your Stories Make a Difference at the Capitol Aug 02, 2019

More than 150 city officials are volunteering this summer to help shape the League of Minnesota Cities’ legislative agenda for the next year by participating in the League’s legislative policy committees. Hear first-hand from two of those committee members about their experiences in helping to develop policies that can have a state-wide impact. Spring Lake Park City Administrator Dan Buchholtz and Blaine City Clerk Cathy Sorensen share their stories about policies they helped to craft and the legislative outcomes for their cities, and how you can use your city experience to make a difference at the Capitol.

LMC Year in Review With David Unmacht Jul 19, 2019

Just as resident engagement is the “holy grail” of city services, member outreach and engagement is key to the League of Minnesota Cities’ ability to provide the most relevant resources to Minnesota cities. League Executive Director David Unmacht reflects on the past year and how member feedback has helped to spotlight major areas of focus for member services. Host and LMC Education Manager Adriana Temali-Smith talks with Dave about those top priorities, as well as his thoughts on the League’s recent Annual Conference in Duluth.

What I Learned Over 100 Cups of Coffee Jun 21, 2019

Duluth Councilmember Noah Hobbs wanted to get feedback from his constituents in a different way. So, he set a goal to have 100 cups of coffee with residents! Listen in as host Adriana Temali-Smith talks with Councilmember Hobbs about the lessons he learned through this experience. He’ll also offer a few tips to other elected officials who might be interested in embarking on a similar type of resident engagement journey.

I’ll Drink to That! Turning Wastewater (and Beer) Into Energy Jun 07, 2019

When you flush your toilet or run water down the drain, where does it go? Well, in most cases it ends up at your municipal wastewater treatment facility, where it is cleaned and returned for the public’s use. But what if you could take the byproducts from that wastewater—and add other byproducts like expired beer or brewing residue—and turn it into energy? Tune in as Pat Shea and Tracy Hodel of St. Cloud talk about how they are doing just that with their city’s state-of-the-art, award-winning Nutrient, Energy, and Water Recovery Facility. And your host, LMC Education Manager Adriana Temali-Smith, will find out what beer has to do with it.

Legislative Check-In: End of Regular Session May 22, 2019

Gov. Walz and legislative leaders announced the framework of a two-year budget agreement that would require a short special session in the coming week or so. Tune in as LMC lobbyists Gary Carlson and Ann Lindstrom give an update of where things stand 12 hours after the official end of the regular legislative session. Your hosts for this episode are LMC Education Manager Adriana Temali-Smith and LMC Deputy Director Luke Fischer.

Inspiring the Next Generation of City Leaders May 10, 2019

Young people are the city leaders of the future—but how can we recruit and retain them for city careers? Tune in to this episode to find out what cities have done to encourage young people to get involved with city government. Waconia City Administrator Susan Arntz and former Oakdale and North St. Paul City Manager Craig Waldron, professor at Hamline University, talk about their experiences encouraging the next generation of city leaders. Slayton City Administrator-Clerk-Treasurer Josh Malchow and LMC Education Manager Adriana Temali-Smith are your hosts for this episode.

Staff-Council Relationships: Understanding Roles & Developing Collective Wisdom Apr 26, 2019

A good working relationship between a city’s staff and council will help ensure the success of the city. In this episode, Mayor Rita Albrecht and City Manager Nate Mathews of Bemidji talk about how the roles of elected city officials and city staff can complement one another and help build a collective wisdom. Your host for this episode is LMC Education Manager Adriana Temali-Smith.

Legislative Check-In: How Are Cities Faring at the Capitol? Apr 19, 2019

With about a month left in the 2019 legislative session, what kind of outcomes can cities expect? Tune in as LMC lobbyists Gary Carlson and Ann Lindstrom give an update of Capitol happenings and discuss bills that could impact cities. Your hosts for this episode are LMC Education Manager Adriana Temali-Smith and LMC Deputy Director Luke Fischer.

Tips for Building Council Collaboration, Part II Apr 12, 2019

Join City Speak Host Adriana Temali-Smith, LMC education manager, for a conversation with Clint Gridley, city administrator of Woodbury about how to acclimate new councilmembers and mayors to their roles as elected city officials.

Get a copy of the City of Woodbury’s City Council Orientation Menu to see what they are doing by clicking on the PDF icon.

Tips for Building Council Collaboration, Part 1 Mar 29, 2019

Everyone can learn to interact more productively, whether you’ve been a mayor or councilmember for two decades or two months. During this episode, LMCIT Collaboration & Mediation Services Manager Pam Whitmore will join hosts Ed Cadman and Phil Trebatoski to share insights on how elected officials can avoid negative responses and proactively work together to model good governance and discourse.

Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Public Finance Mar 15, 2019

Whether you are a new councilmember, mayor, or city clerk, managing a city budget is a big responsibility and comes with a lot to learn. In this episode, we hear from Merrill King, finance director for the City of Minnetonka, to discuss tips for successful budget planning and creating a dialogue about city finances with the public, no matter how large or small your city.

You’re Elected, Now What? Mar 01, 2019

Winning an election is a huge accomplishment. Now, there is much to learn about your new role as a mayor or councilmember. Tune in as League of Minnesota Cities Executive Director David Unmacht and Edina City Councilmember and LMC Board member Kevin Staunton join podcast hosts Phil Trebatoski and Adriana Temali-Smith to offer some tips and guidance. They discuss interpersonal skills, setting expectations, agreeing to disagree, and ways to stay connected to residents once you are elected into local office.

What’s Ahead for Cities in the 2019 Legislative Session? Feb 06, 2019

Two of the League’s lobbyists, Gary Carlson, Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) Director, and Ann Lindstrom, IGR Representative, join podcast hosts Ed Cadman and Phil Trebatoski to discuss what might be around the corner for cities this coming legislative session. They discuss the League’s legislative priorities for cities, a new governor, new House leadership, and other new dynamics at the Capitol. Learn context about the political climate at the Capitol and tips for communicating with new legislators.

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