Listening is one of my goals for the League Board of Directors during my term as president. Why? Bill Nye said it best: “Everyone you will ever meet knows something you don’t.”
The League just finished holding eight regional meetings. We started this journey in September in Thief River Falls and ended in November in Minnetonka (a suburb of Hopkins!). We met with over 200 city officials across the state. We introduced ourselves, and then it was time to listen to what attendees had to say.
Listening to mayors and council members was by far the highlight of this year’s regional meetings for me. I was stunned by how much you all care about your communities, how much you love your communities, and some of the challenging “day jobs” you do besides holding office.
In addition, the energy level and the amount of volunteering that city officials are doing every day is amazing. If asked why you take on so much, the common response is, “If we don’t do it, who will?”
Welcome, newly elected officials
In preparation for 2020 the League is gearing up for the Elected Leaders Institute programs in January and February. I’m looking forward to meeting with this year’s class of newly elected officials. That’s where we as a member organization can really make a big impact. It’s an opportunity to let these new officeholders know, “Hey, you’re not alone!” The League and other city officials can help you out.I’m also looking forward to the Legislative Conference in March. So much work goes into the policy development process each summer, and the Legislative Conference and meeting with our state legislators is a chance to see that process come full circle.
These events are just a couple of the ways you can get involved with the LMC, learn from others, and network.
As 2019 draws to a close, I would like to thank all of you for your service to your cities, in all its forms, and give a special shout out to the 19 board members for their extra service providing expertise and time to the LMC organization.
I hope in 2020 that you stay involved, share your stories, and communicate effectively by introducing yourself — and then being a great listener.
Season’s greetings and happy 2020.
Mike Mornson
LMC Board President
City Manager of Hopkins
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| Season's greetings and happy new year from the League Board of Directors. |
Photo credit goes to LMC staffer Eric Haugen