Explore every episode of the podcast City Manager Unfiltered
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| James Freed and ICMA issue multiple statements about lawsuit | Ep. 71 | 18 Sep 2024 | 00:50:37 | |
Things are heating up in the battle between Port Huron City Manager James Freed and the ICMA over the last two weeks. The two-year saga began in June 2022 when the ICMA publicly censured Freed and stripped him of his credential. Freed countered with a lawsuit alleging the ICMA engaged in a conspiracy to defame him. On September 5, 2024, Freed sent out an email along with a 21-page court filing. See link in the show notes. On Friday the 6th, the ICMA issued its first public statement on the lawsuit mentioning James Freed by name and referencing yours truly indirectly. On Monday the 9th, Freed and the ICMA once again made public statements. Freed addressed his employees at an annual luncheon and spoke about the lawsuit and upcoming trial. His remarks were about 20 minutes long and have been included in this podcast. Additionally, the ICMA's director of advocacy pubished an article on its website. Jason Grant argued that public censures were not punitive and defended the organization. However, the final paragraph signaled to me thta the organization is preparing to settle with Freed while trying to save face. SHOW NOTES: James Freed Court Filing and Public Statements: ICMA Public Statements & Court Filing
Additional Information about James Freed vs ICMA AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Ep. 70 | Surviving Sexual & Domestic Abuse with Audree Guzman | 11 Sep 2024 | 01:02:03 | |
Audree Guzman refused to become a statistic and has courageously battled through childhood sexual molestation and domestic abuse as a young woman. We discuss her battles along with other struggles encompassing eating disordes and mental health issues. This is very powerful episode but listener discretion is strongly advised. SHOW NOTES: Here is the LinkedIn page for Audree Guzman For more information about James Freed's anti-defamation lawsuit against the ICMA, I have created a reference page that will serve as a Wikipedia page of sorts. It can be found here: https://citymanagernews.com/james-freed-vs-icma/ AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Audio Recording: ICMA Staff Supports AAME | Ep. 61 | 10 Jul 2024 | 00:34:33 | |
A confidential source sent me an audio recording of ICMA West Coast Regional Director Pat Martel discussing the American Association of Municipal Executives. This discussion took place two weeks ago at the Oregon City/Count Management Association conference.. In this audio clip, Martel states that the ICMA is very much aware of the AAME, that it supports the AAME mission, and that it is perfectly acceptable for ICMA members to join AAME and other organizations. In this episode, I talk about how many ICMA members who are supportive of my efforts have expressed an unwillingness to join the AAME. They state they fear retaliation. And I urge the ICMA executive board to make a public statement attesting to the fact that members will not be targeted if they do join the AAME. SHOW NOTES: If you want to join the American Association of Municipal Executives and becoming a founding member, register today at: https://community.aame.org/. Deadline to become a founding member is July 15. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Ep. 60 | ICMA CEO Marc Ott "Retires" & Freed Gets a Trial Date | 03 Jul 2024 | 00:40:13 | |
Last week the big news story was the announcement by the ICMA that CEO Marc Ott was retiring to spend more time with family. We also learned that Port Huron City Manager James Freed was given a trial date for his defamation lawsuit against the ICMA. Coincidence? These two stories are inextricably linked and are the topic of this week's podcast episode. SHOW NOTES: In this podcast I mentioned that Caribou, Maine City Manager Penny Thompson is a founding member of the American Association of Municipal Executives and that she is looking for an assistant city manager. You can find the job description here: https://www.cariboumaine.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ACM-for-Planning-and-Economic-Development.pdf If you want to join the American Association of Municipal Executives and becoming a founding member, register today at: https://community.aame.org/. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Marilyn Rivers Just Wanted Her Good Name Back | Ep. 59 | 26 Jun 2024 | 01:00:54 | |
Marilyn Rivers had a stellar career and an impeccable reputation having served for nearly 20 years as the Director of Risk and Safety for the New York city of Saratoga Springs. About 18-months away from this 20-year mark where she would be eligible for her pension, a newly elected commissioner set his sights on her to settle an "old score" from fifteen years ago. Rivers wanted to do this podcast because she never had a chance to defend herself, her record, or address the toxic behavior of this commissioner during the entire ordeal. She told me that she needed to do the podcast because she wanted her "voice" and her good name back. This is slated to be Part 1 of a multi-part series. Stay tuned for the next episode when Marilyn will reveal tips, tricks, and tactics to reduce your insurance costs and make you look like a star for your governing body or your city manager. SHOW NOTES: Here is a link to Marilyn Rivers' consulting firm: Rivers Risk Consulting, LLC. The company's LinkedIn page can be found here and this is a link to her personal LinkedIn Page If you want to join the American Association of Municipal Executives and becoming a founding member, register today at: https://community.aame.org/. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| The Case for Terminating ICMA CEO Marc Ott | Ep. 58 | 21 Jun 2024 | 00:59:37 | |
ICMA CEO Marc Ott has presided over an organization that is dysfunctional, lacks accountability, and produces mediocre work product. His permissive and absentee approach to managing employees allowed ethics staffers to prosecute a personal and political vendetta against Port Huron City Manager James Freed -- a stain that will be forever left upon his legacy. Combined with an international development emphasis that has lacked focus and failed to deliver results, it has been Ott's shepherding of the organization towards the promotion of a leftist political ideology that has alienated many members who simply desire to be in a non-partisan, apolitical organization that will help them become better public sector executives. For these reasons and more, it is time for the ICMA executive board to terminate Ott and begin the process of repairing the damage done during his tenure. SHOW NOTES: Here is the court ordered motion to compel issued against members of the ICMA executive board. Here is the most recent ruling by the judge highlighting the stall tactics used by the ICMA in its case against Freed. If you want to join the American Association of Municipal Executives and become a founding member, register today at: https://community.aame.org/. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Scott Jorgensen Rebukes the Oregon City/County Management Association | Ep. 57 | 19 Jun 2024 | 01:09:03 | |
Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen is no fan of the Oregon City/County Management Association (OCCMA). A few years ago, he was the subject of an anonymous ethics complaint without any clear explanation of his alleged offense. About a year later, Jorgensen learned that another city manager had accused him of leaking his listserv comments. The evidence was a conversation between this city manager and one of his elected officials the city manager had surreptitiously recorded. Jorgensen maintains that he did not leak the listserv comments and even if he did, he vehemently rejects the notion that those comments are not public records since the city manager used his official city email address. Moreover, Jorgensen was disgusted by the fact that the OCCMA ethics committee knew that the conversation was recorded without the consent of the elected official and did nothing about it. Jorgensen has some strong opinions about the OCCMA, the value of his membership not only to himself but the taxpayers, and how other city managers conducted themselves during the pandemic. He is a fascinating person with a very unique background having worked in politics as an official staff to state legislators in the Oregon capital, to being a journalist, an author, and a guitarist in a rock band. Don't miss this episode where the guest is as unfiltered as the host! SHOW NOTES: W. Scott Jorgensen's LinkedIn page You can catch his band, Robots Building Robots, on Spotify where you can listen to their album "Dysphoria." Jorgensen has four books he has written listed on Amazon. You can view them here. In the episode, I discussed Ferris, TX city manager Brooks Williams' book "Rising to Serve." If you want to join the American Association of Municipal Executives and becoming a founding member, register today at: https://community.aame.org/. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Why is Ed Meece excited about the AAME? | Ep. 56 | 12 Jun 2024 | 01:01:26 | |
We continue our conversation with Polson, Montana city manager Ed Meece in Part 2 of our interview series. In this episode, Ed talks about: ✅ a new state association for Montana city managers that is not affiliated with the ICMA, ✅ a conversation he had with ICMA CEO Marc Ott and Ray Baray, his chief of staff, and ✅ why he is so excited about the new American Association of Municipal Executives
SHOW NOTES: Ed Meece's LinkedIn page AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Why did Ed Meece cancel his ICMA membership after 25 years? | Ep. 55 | 05 Jun 2024 | 01:14:03 | |
In 2015, city manager Ed Meece did something he never thought he would do. He canceled his International City/County Management Association membership twenty-five years after joining the organization. What happened? Meece explains his reasoning in Part 1 of this two-part series. SHOW NOTES: Ed Meece's LinkedIn page AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Baker Tilly Bombshell in Amarillo City Manager Search | Ep. 54 | 29 May 2024 | 00:40:47 | |
Baker Tilly has been bad -- again. Recently, yours truly dropped a bombshell about Baker Tilly when he appeared as a guest on the Making Sense with Michael J. talk show in Amarillo, Texas. We discussed the Amarillo city manager recruitment and the consulting contract Baker Tilly landed to help review their charter. Host Michael Stevens graciously allowed me to replay the interview on the podcast. Since the interview aired on May 20th, sources have been feeding me additional information about Baker Tilly and its recruitments. Stay tuned for more coverage in the near future -- especially after I get my public information requests. If you have any information worth sharing -- please get in touch with me so I can expose them. SHOW NOTES: Michael J. Stevens is the host of the "Making Sense with Michael J" show on KGNC AM 710 and 97.5 FM radio in Amarillo. You can listen to their live stream here. You can find Michael on LinkedIn here. The American Association of Municipal Executives is located at AAME.org. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Private vs. Public Sector Executive Compensation with Daniel Reilly | Ep. 53 | 22 May 2024 | 01:19:54 | |
Public sector executives need to steal some pages out of the private sector executive playbook when it comes to compensation, benefits, and negotiating contracts. Attorney Daniel Reilly has extensive experience in negotiating private and public sector executive contracts. Licensed to practice law in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, we discuss industry norms, tactics, and practices that should be co-opted by city and county managers to secure stronger contracts that will protect them and their families. This is a "must listen" interview with many gems of wisdom and golden nuggets for executives and aspiring executives to ponder and consider. Moreover, public sector recruiters and local elected officials should also pay attention as I once again highlight the on-going paradigm shift in public administration. No other local government podcast provides this type of valuable and thought provoking content. If you enjoyed it -- please take a moment to hit the "follow/subscribe" button and also leave a rating and review on Apple and Spotify. SHOW NOTES: Daniel Reilly is a business attorney who specializes in executive compensation. Here is a link to his law firm, Reilly Legal, and his LinkedIn page. The American Association of Municipal Executives is located at AAME.org. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| ICMA's Rigged Executive Board Elections with Graham Mitchell | Ep. 52 | 15 May 2024 | 00:55:32 | |
Unhappy with the current direction of the International City/County Management Association, El Cajon City Manager Graham Mitchell decided to get involved and run for a seat on the executive board. In previous years when he only saw one name on the ballot for each seat -- he assumed it was due to apathy. Little did he know that the ICMA establishment created a process whereby they hand-selected the nominee who was all but guaranteed to win because voters would not have another name on the ballot to vote for. In this episode, we discuss his experience running for the board and his efforts to change the way ICMA conducts elections in the future. SHOW NOTES: Graham Mitchell's LinkedIn page The Midwest Rotation Agreement LinkedIn post discussing the ICMA's violation of the Midwest Rotation Agreement can be found here and a screenshot of it can be found here. The American Association of Municipal Executives is located at AAME.org. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| The Trials & Tribulations of your First Gig with Audree Guzman | Ep. 69 | 04 Sep 2024 | 00:35:16 | |
Audree Guzman was hired into her first city administrator gig at the beginning of the COVID pandemic. Less than a year later, she would be forced to deal with another historic event that rocked her community. In this episode, Audree and I discuss the trials and tribulations she faced down in her first city administrator gig in small town Kansas. We also discuss the impact a mentor had on her and what impact, if any, her being a Latina in a predominantly white state has had on her career. Originally planned to be a single episode interview, Audree and I ended up spending considerable time discussing the impacts of child and domestic abuse on our lives. This segment of the conversation will be released next week in part two of the series. SHOW NOTES: Here is the LinkedIn page for Audree Guzman AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| No Fluff! Real Culture Change in Durango with Jose Madrigal | Ep. 51 | 08 May 2024 | 01:21:58 | |
A lot of people self-proclaim themselves to be "change agents" or transformational leaders who have changed their department or organization's culture. But a lot of this is fluffy, self-promotion meant to stroke the ego. How many public sector executives have actual, quantifiable data to support these claims? Durango, Colorado city manager Jose Madrigal is a truly transformative leader and he has the "receipts" to prove it. We discuss his professional journey and his choice to become a first-time city manager in a new state. We learn how he was influenced by his dear mentor and how that manifested itself in Durango. We also examine the benefits an improved culture and the importance good relationships with the local media can have on recruitment. SHOW NOTES: Jose Madrigal's LinkedIn page The American Association of Municipal Executives is located at AAME.org. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Ep. 50 | Introducing the American Association of Municipal Executives | 01 May 2024 | 01:06:43 | |
Over the last 18 months I have highlighted the plight of city managers and other public sector executives. I have talked about the pervasive sense of loneliness and isolation that is oftentimes overwhelming. I have lamented the lack of advocacy for managers who watch helplessly as the reputation and career they have spent decades building is sullied and damaged. When I have criticized the ICMA for sitting on its hands and not coming to the defense of managers, I am chastised by loyalists who steadfastly maintain that it is not the organization's job to defend managers. Well -- public sector executives deserve to have an organization that will advocate on their behalf, take proactive steps to protect their reputations and careers, and fight for better compensation and benefits in a profession that has become extremely volatile, risky, and hyperscrutinized. To that end, Micah Gaudet and I are launching the American Association of Municipal Executives. We are going to build a community that supports, develops, and advocates on behalf of city managers and public sector executives. We invite you to join us as we embark on this journey to build an organization that will transform public administration in America. You have a truly unique "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity to get in on the ground floor of something that will be historically significant for our profession. Go to AAME.org and sign up today to become a Founding Member! SHOW NOTES: The American Association of Municipal Executives is located at AAME.org. In this episode, Micah Gaudet referred to Daniel Rosemond's book "Death of the Public Servant." Micah Gaudet's LinkedIn page Daniel Rosemond's LinkedIn page AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Do public comment decorum rules violate the First Amendment with CJ Grisham | Ep. 49 | 24 Apr 2024 | 01:36:05 | |
Texas attorney CJ Grisham and his client, Jason Followell, were removed from an Aransas Pass city council meeting under the threat of arrest after they both used profane language and violated the rules of decorum during a public comment period. Since that January incident, Grisham has filed a lawsuit (see link below in the show notes) on behalf of Followell and the Aransas Pass police chief has charged both Grisham and Followell with disrupting the meeting. In this episode, Grisham and I discuss the First Amendment, the validity of rules of decorum, and whether it is legal for public speakers to be ejected from council meetings for using profane language. Listener discretion is advised as the language in this podcast is not suitable for children or the workplace. This episode is sponsored by CityManagerNews.com SHOW NOTES: CJ Grisham is an attorney in the state of Texas handling First and Second Amendment cases. You can find him on the following platforms: YouTube: Texas 2A Attorney Here is a link to the lawsuit filed by CJ Grisham on behalf of his client, Jason Followell. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Deconstructing Taylour Tedder's Groundbreaking Contract with Bradley Ford | Ep. 48 | 17 Apr 2024 | 01:12:25 | |
Taylour Tedder's groundbreaking contract in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware was the talk of the city management community last week. His contract features a $750,000 home loan that is completely forgivable after 7 years of service. Bradley Ford, the city manager for Waco, Texas, sat down with me to review and critique this amazing contract. Ford, the foremost expert when it comes to public sector executive compensation, recently formed his own niche consulting business called City Compensation. We take a deep dive into a contract that will have reverberations throughout the profession in this fascinating and informative episode. This episode is sponsored by CityManagerNews.com SHOW NOTES: Bradley Ford (LinkedIn Profile) City Compensation website and LinkedIn page Taylour Tedder's Contract AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Troy Body: Toughest City Manager Job in the Country? | Ep. 47 | 10 Apr 2024 | 00:51:37 | |
Change my mind: Troy Body has the toughest city manager job in the country! The Hopkinsville, Kentucky manager also has one of the most unique backgrounds in the profession. Oh! By the way -- he is the only black manager in the state. You are going to enjoy this interview as we learn more about why he transitioned into local government and his thoughts on accountability and delivering results at the local level. SHOW NOTES: Troy Body (LinkedIn Profile) AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Locking Horns Against an Entrenched Police Chief with Theo Melancon | Ep. 46 | 03 Apr 2024 | 01:15:47 | |
Going to battle against your public safety deparment heads can be extremely perilous for a city manager, especially when you have a politically connected and entrenched police chief. City Manager Theo Melancon was tasked with doing an operational assessment of the police departmenty by his council. In Part 2 of my interview series, Theo outlines the process and approach he took to carryout the wishes of his governing body while also being mindful of the political and professional ramifications if he botched it and opened the door for the police chief to outflank him. You can catch Part 1 of the interview here: Episode 45: Surviving a Domestic Violence Arrest SHOW NOTES: During the interview, Theo mentioned the interview with former Topeka, Kansas city manager, Stephen Wade. You can listen to that episode here: Episode 11: Suicidal City Manager Addresses Mental Health Struggle Theo Melancon (LinkedIn Profile) AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Surviving a Domestic Violence Arrest with Theo Melancon | Ep. 45 | 27 Mar 2024 | 01:27:08 | |
City manager Theo Melancon was arrested on a domestic violence charge in January 2022. Unfortunately for him, his predecessor also made controversial headlines surrounding a domestic incident. In this powerful episode, Melancon gives us a play-by-play recounting of the events that upended his life and nearly ended his career. We talk about his communication with his elected officials, handling the social media firestorm, and examine how his peers responded and interacted with him once the story broke. This interview has been broken into two parts. The planned original discussion about Melancon's battle with his powerful police chief will be presented in the second installment. SHOW NOTES: Theo Melancon (LinkedIn Profile) AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Recruiter Series: Michael Boese of Clear Career Professionals | Ep. 44 | 20 Mar 2024 | 01:03:46 | |
This is the first installment in my upcoming series of interviews with public sector executive recruiters and recruitment firms. In this interview with Michael Boese of Clear Carer Professionals, we discuss his firm's "candidate focus" approach that emphasizes consistent and timely communication with prospective candidates. Near the end of the interview, Boese answers a question posed by a city manager about the importance of ICMA-CM designations and how much they impact the governing body's decision when evaluating candidates. SHOW NOTES: Here are the links to:
AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Promoting Black Managers, Mentorship, & Self-Advocacy with Kevin Richardson | Ep. 43 | 13 Mar 2024 | 01:11:39 | |
Public Works Administrator Kevin Richardson messaged me about a year ago seeking career advice. This inquiry was the genesis of a new friendship and eventual "title change" designed to better reflect the role and responsibilities assigned to him at the City of Rock Hill in South Carolina. In this episode, we illustrate the benefits of self-advocacy and discuss the importance of mentorship, especially in the context of promoting minorities up the ranks of senior leadership in the public sector. We also touch on the taboo topic of race and our different perspectives. SHOW NOTES: In this episode, Kevin mentioned the book written by Saginaw (TX) City Manager Gabe Reaume. It is called "Strangers & Angels". Here is the link to Kevin's LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-richardson-leadership/ AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | |||
| 8 Reasons Why Your Cover Letter Sucks | Ep.42 | 06 Mar 2024 | 00:24:46 | |
The typical cover letter sucks. It literally hurts to read them they are so bad. But, don't fall for the "fried ice cream" peddled by the private sector recruiters who argue that cover letters are no longer necessary. That is not true. Every public sector executive competing for a position needs to have a cover letter and this is one of the easiest places elite candidates can differentiate themselves from their competition. Write a great cover letter that captures the reader's attention and you are going to stand out from the crowd. However, you can't write a kick-ass cover letter if you are committing one of these 8 deadly sins. SHOW NOTES: Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL) is accepting nominations for their Top 100 Local Government Influencers list. I would encourage you to nominate Micah Gaudet and Benjamin Effinger using this Google form or at this URL: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdSZXZtVm3s6a3Tv-uixuWVxrhoq29-weAj6AWGLp0CieKv7Q/viewform
Micah and Ben have been guests of the podcast and you can catch their interviews here: Ep. 24: Unlocking Veteran Benefits for Employers & Family Members with Benjamin Effinger Ep. 14: The Only ChatGPT Course Designed for Public Sector Professionals with Micah Ep. 07: ChatGPT: Skeptic to Believer in 30 Minutes with John Weidl & Micah Gaudet Ep. 04: Micah Gaudet: Level Up & Use ChatGPT in the Public Sector Today
If you want to post a senior or executive level job in my weekly newsletter for $100, please email me at: citymanagerunfiltered | at | gmail | dot | com. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Keyboard Warriors & Social Media Terrorists with Sam Toles | Ep. 68 | 28 Aug 2024 | 01:07:14 | |
In Part 2 of my interview with Sam Toles of CiviSocial, we discuss keyboard warriors and social media terrorists. I offer up my distinction between the two and urge elected officials to exercise more discernment when evaluating online attacks. We discuss the outsized impact of the minority, whether they are truly engaged and participating in the process, and how spineless elected officials can send demoralizing signals and messages to their staff. Sam also shares a secret tip he uses to differentiate himself from the competition when competing for jobs. If you are a public sector executive or aspire to become one, you should definitely listen for this little nugget in the first half of the episode. SHOW NOTES: If you are interested in hiring Sam Toles & CiviSocial for social media consulting, you can save 10% between now and December 31st by simply telling him that you are a City Manager Unfiltered listener. CiviSocial website and LinkedIn page Sam Toles' LinkedIn page AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Female Trailblazer's Faith Gets Her Thru Hard Times with Charlotte Colley | Ep. 41 | 28 Feb 2024 | 01:03:12 | |
On multiple occasions, Charlotte Colley has been the "first female" and trailblazed her away across a 20 year career in the public sector. Being the first female manager can be incredibly challenging and she has experienced some tough days. In this episode we talk about her public sector executive journey and how her faith in Jesus Christ has given her the strength to endure and persevere. And we talk about how her career has detoured into consulting and whether or not she sees herself re-entering the profession and becoming a city or county manager once again. SHOW NOTES: In this episode, Charlotte talked about the following:
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| Ep. 40 | The Impending Collapse of Fire/EMS Service in America with Tim Nowak | 21 Feb 2024 | 01:19:52 | |
Consultant and resident expert Tim Nowak argues that there is an impending collapse of fire/EMS services in America and that there must be a paradigm shift in our thinking with respect to how these vital services are funded. In this episode, we talk about the causes of the crisis, what it is going to take to fix it, and engage in other general subject matter related topics that have gnawed at me over the years. For example, do we really need 24-hour shifts and wouldn't taxpayers save money if we moved to 12-hour shifts and stopped paying firefighters while they are sleeping? This is a must listen episode and I encourage you to share it with each member of your governing body. SHOW NOTES: Tim Nowak works as a consultant for the Public Consulting Group and you can locate him on LinkedIn where he has an impressive platform and engaged audience. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| John Bariou Wants to Recall Entire City Council Over Strong Mayor | Ep. 39 | 17 Feb 2024 | 00:22:12 | |
SHOUT OUT SATURDAY (SOS): San Angelo resident John Bariou wants to recall the entire city council because they have violated the charter and undermined the council-manager form of government. The central Texas community of 100,000 people will get an opportunity to "vote the bums out" in just a few short months if Bariou gets his way. He believes the mayor has violated the charter, run roughshod over the city manager, and injected herself into areas of responsibility that rest with the city manager. Because of a quirk in the city charter, Bariou only needs to gather a shockingly low number of signatures for many of the councilmembers. In fact, as little as 47 signatures for one elected official who represents more than 15,000 residents. Bariou makes his pitch for the recall on this special episode of the podcast where I use my platform to spotlight interesting local government stories across the country and personal passion projects of public sector employees. SHOW NOTES: You can find John Bariou and his recall effort on Facebook at the San Angelo Citizens for a Law Abiding City Council page.
If you would like to be featured on a future "Shout Out Saturday" episode, please drop me an email at: citymanagerunfiltered |at| gmail |dot| com. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Use My Simple Hack to Customize Your Resume for Specific Jobs | Ep. 38 | 14 Feb 2024 | 00:19:41 | |
It is easy to send a custom resume that is specifically tailored to the job you are applying for if you follow my simple hack. Don't sell yourself short and send the same resume to every job. Differentiate yourself and demonstrate how you are the solution to their problem by using my system. When you build a results oriented, custom resume that illustrates how you are the perfect fit for the job, you are going to get more offers and be able to negotiate a higher salary. SHOW NOTES: Fill out this form to nominate Micah Gaudet to be an ELGL Top 100 Local Government Influencer. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| If At First You Don't Succeed, Try Again with Jordan Cook | Ep. 37 | 07 Feb 2024 | 01:03:40 | |
Jordan Cook didn't even get an interview the first time he tried to land a city administrator gig in Nevada, Iowa. But, on the second go around he not only got an interview -- he got the job. In this episode we discuss perseverance, mental toughness, and talk about the state of public sector executive recruiting. We also extoll the virtues of the Midwest and talk about how aspiring city managers can turbocharge their career trajectory by exploring small town options. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Did Aransas Pass Expose Itself to Public Comment First Amendment Lawsuit? | Ep. 36 | 31 Jan 2024 | 00:30:49 | |
The Aransas Pass police department recently removed two public speakers from council chambers after they hurled numerous vulgarities and profane language at members of the governing body and city staff. Did they violate the First Amendment rights of these individuals and expose the taxpayers to a lawsuit? One of the men booted from the meeting is a civil rights attorney who claims the city did violate his rights and the rights of his clients. I have contacted this attorney and plan to have him on a future episode of the podcast to discuss this issue in more detail. If you would like to ask a specific question of this attorney, please use my SpeakPipe app to record your message and I will play it on the air. Go to this link to record your question. What would you have done if these two individuals spoke like this during your public meeting? SHOW NOTES: Here is a link to the new YouTube channel for the City Manager Unfiltered podcast. Please subscribe to the channel today. You can also view the YouTube videos associated with this podcast episode here: AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Sticking Up for Stanley Hawthorne in College Park, GA | Ep. 35 | 24 Jan 2024 | 00:34:04 | |
City manager Stanley Hawthorne was wrongfully fired with cause by just two members of his governing body. It was amateur night in Georgia on January 16, 2024 when Councilman Joe Carn rushed through this vote over the objections of Mayor Bianca Motley Broom. In this episode, I breakdown the tape and show how these unprofessional councilmembers voted to silence Hawthorne and prevent him from speaking during his termination. I also reveal how childish they were when none of them accepted the gavel from Mayor Broom so that she could make a public statement from the dais. Tune into the end to find out if Mr. Hawthorne is vindicated. Hint: This story has a happy ending. SHOW NOTES: In this episode I discussed Stanley Hawthorne's "Resignation & Release Agreement." You can view the YouTube video I made about Hawthorne's termination here. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Why are ICMA Exec. Board Members Dodging FOIA Requests? | Ep. 34 | 17 Jan 2024 | 00:39:18 | |
A disgruntled ICMA spouse is submitting public information requests across the country and ICMA executive board members are stonewalling and blocking these requests. Why? In this episode we talk about the increasing levels of scrutiny the ICMA is facing as a result of my podcast and LinkedIn posting. And we also highight various executive board members across the country who are refusing the respond to these FOIA requests or requiring multi-thousand dollar payments in order to gather the information. SHOW NOTES: In this episode I talked about my new donation/supporter link. If you are interested in supporting the podcast with a one time or monthly recurring donation, please visit this link. I also introduced my new YouTube channel. Please subscribe today. I spoke about Micah Gaudet's ChatGPT course and how it is without question the best value for those wanting to level up. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Disgruntled ICMA Spouse, Crappy Salaries & 2023 Year In Review | Ep. 33 | 10 Jan 2024 | 00:52:29 | |
A disgruntled spouse of an ICMA member emailed me in December to express their frustration with staff salaries and the luxurious international travel junkets enjoyed by organizational executives and the executive board members. A city manager vents to me about the crappy salary listed in a job recruitment brochure. And I take a look back at my LinkedIn and podcast stats for 2023 and compare my performance against that of the ICMA and Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL). SHOW NOTES: In this episode I introduced a new donation/supporter link. If you are interested in supporting the podcast with a one time or monthly recurring donation, please visit this link. Link to the City Manager Unfiltered podcast press release inviting Pacific Grove (CA) Councilman Luke Coletti to come on the podcast. Daniel Rosemond is the author of "Death of the Public Servant". Link to top 10 podcast episodes in 2023. Link to top LinkedIn posts in 2023.
AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Threats of Violence Forces Cancellation of City Manager Interview | Ep. 32 | 03 Jan 2024 | 01:01:14 | |
Former Fort Meade City Manager Jan Bagnall declined to be interviewed for the second part of our interview series after receiving multiple threats since our first interview aired on December 13th, or Episode 29. On New Year's Day, I received an email from a stranger named Greg King. I would later learn that he was the campaign manager for Jaret Williams, who one his Fort Meade commission race in November. I was unsure how to proceed and a little concerned based on some of the things Bagnall had shared. However, I was uncomfortable putting just one-side of the story out there without giving the "other side" equal time to make their case. So, I decided to respond to King's inquiry and we discussed the situation in Fort Meade on the phone. I recorded the call and feature it in this episode of the podcast. We also discussed the impending arrival of Pat Oman, the incoming city manager who was recently hired by the governing body without he input and consideration of Mr. Williams.
SHOW NOTES: In the introduction, I mentioned Mark Moses book: The Municipal Financial Crisis. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Your City is Doing Social Media Wrong with Sam Toles | Ep. 67 | 21 Aug 2024 | 01:14:09 | |
Sam Toles is a social media expert having worked for large entertainment companies like Bleacher Report, MGM, and Warner Music, as well as Vimeo. He was also served as an elected councilmember for the California community of Cathedral City. He is passionate about social media and the public sector, but believes that most communities across the country are doing social media wrong. That is why he launched his new firm, CiviSocial. In this two part series we are going to discuss why communities are failing, how they can silence the haters, create passionate boosters, and what platforms are trending up and down when it comes to reach and influence. He also thinks communities that hire consultants to run their social media platforms are wasting their money. In Part 2, we are going to dive into a discussion about how elected officials get spun up by negative comments on social media and what can be done to minimize their overreaction to the trolls. We will also announce a special promotional offer for listeners of the podcast in Part 2. SHOW NOTES: CiviSocial website and LinkedIn page Sam Toles' LinkedIn page AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Live Like You Were Dying with Nick Kittle | Ep. 31 | 27 Dec 2023 | 01:06:16 | |
Nick Kittle is a nationally recognized leader in the field of public sector innovation and author of the book, Sustainovation. At the age of 35, Nick suffered a major health scare and it would become a catalytic moment in his quest to find personal purpose and fulfillment. He would go on to ask himself the following question: "What pays my soul?" We explore a wide array of topics in this deeply personal and introspective conversation with relevant and applicable lessons for public sector managers seeking to build a more innovative department or organization. SHOW NOTES: Nick Kittle is the author of "Sustainovation: Building sustainable innovation in government, one wildly creative idea at a time." He is an accomplished public speaker and you can find additional information at his website: Sustainovation.us. You are also invited to reach out and contact him for professional advice and consultation on his LinkedIn page. YouTube video link for Tim McGraw's "Live Like You Were Dying" AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Ep. 30 | Daniel Rosemond Updates Us on Wrongful Termination Lawsuit | 20 Dec 2023 | 00:52:35 | |
Former Hallandale Beach city manager Daniel Rosemond checks-in to update us on his wrongful termination lawsuit. The author of the "Death of the Public Servant" won a massive multi-million dollar judgment and we discussed his story from termination to jury awarded verdict to the appeal filed by the Florida beach community. Rosemond recently received news from the court that the city's appeal hearing date has been set. We talk about the upcoming appeal hearing, the support he has received from fellow city managers since appearing on the show, his affordable housing consulting business, and other associated topics. You can catch the previous episodes as follows:
SHOW NOTES: Daniel Rosemond is the author of "Death of the Public Servant" and CEO of the East to West Development Corporation. You are invited to reach out and contact him for professional advice and consultation on affordable housing initiatives and to support him by purchasing his book. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Becoming a City’s First Ever City Manager with Amanda Mack | Ep. 28 | 06 Dec 2023 | 01:07:30 | |
When Amanda Mack was tapped to lead the City of Watertown, South Dakota, she didn't just become their first ever female city manager. She became their first ever city manager. And the manner in which Watertown maneuvered through this process created the foundation for a successful conversion and fruitful marriage between Mack, the governing body, and the community. The multi-year process culminated in the selection of Mack and though she has enjoyed her experience, there have been some incredible challenges necessitating hard work, passion, and grace. We talk about her experiences and discuss some of the challenges and opportunities that a new manager faces when they become the first executive to lead the organization. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
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| Setting and Enforcing Governing Body Boundaries with John Weidl | Ep. 27 | 29 Nov 2023 | 01:05:03 | |
Wisconsin City Manager John Weidl's boundaries were crossed by members of his governing body while out on paternity leave. This led him to start searching for another position where he was ultimately named as a finalist for a manager position in a neighboring community. However, he withdrew from the recruitment and opted to continue serving as the city manager for the City of Whitewater. We talk about the importance of setting and enforcing boundaries and why he decided to stick it out and work with his governing body to build a stronger, healthier relationship with them in this powerful episode.
AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| The 36-hour workweek with Jamie Gwynn | Ep. 26 | 22 Nov 2023 | 01:16:44 | |
Jamie Gwynn is an innovative leader on the cutting edge of the alternative work schedule debate. He needed to get creative if he was going to be competitive in this tight labor market, especially as he was forced to compete against the high wages offered by local governments in the Philadelphia metroplex. We examine the New Hanover Township manager's implementation of a 36-hour workweek in a small, but rapidly growing community with a governing body entirely comprised of Republicans. Coming out of the COVID pandemic, alternative work schedules are a popular topic. And Gwynn may be the very first in the nation to implement such a schedule. He is passionate about this subject and encourages other managers to reach out to him with any questions. I have included a link to his LinkedIn profile below. SHOW NOTES: Jamie Gwynn's LinkedIn Profile AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Baker Tilly Gets Embarrassed in Deltona, Florida | Ep. 25 | 15 Nov 2023 | 00:15:40 | |
Baker Tilly "shot its shot" in Deltona, Florida and came up with an air ball. Not only did they lose out to Colin Baenzinger & Associates, some no-name shop outscored them in the final results tally. But wait until you hear what a couple of the governing body members say on the record. Yikes! Listen to find out what involvement I had in this recruitment. I am confident that I had some influence on the final outcome. Baker Tilly should be on your "no-fly" list if you are a city manager or a member of a governing body evaluating recruitment firms.
AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Unlocking Veteran Benefits for Employers & Family Members with Benjamin Effinger | Ep. 24 | 08 Nov 2023 | 01:04:15 | |
Benjamin Effinger is a military veteran who transitioned over to the public sector and has quickly become a rising star who has built a reputation as a dynamic problem solver, grinder, and compassionate friend. Effinger currently serves as an Operations Chief overseeing cash management functions in the Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector's Office. In this episode, we discuss the benefits of hiring veterans and unpack the various veterans benefits available to veterans, their family members, and potential employers. We also learn that Benjamin and his wife pursued doctorate degrees at the same time while maintaining full-time positions and raising a family. Outside of these responsibilities and obligations, Effinger is passionate about male mental health issues and has assumed a leadership and ambassador role for the Heare Brotherhood -- an organization dedicated to building brotherhood and community where men are seen, heard, and loved. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Using Creative Financial Incentives to Lure High Quality City Manager Candidates | Ep. 23 | 01 Nov 2023 | 00:37:27 | |
Mortgage rates have skyrocketed and homeownership is often a liability for city managers given our short life spans and transient nature. Combined with residency requirements and rampant inflation, it can be extremely expensive for city managers to relocate for a new opportunity. In this episode I discuss some inventive ways local governments can get creative to lure city managers to dump their sub-3% mortgage rates and relocate to a community in an environment where interest rates exceed 8%. SHOW NOTES: In this episode, I referenced my guest appearance with the Northeast Government Executives Council (NEGEC). You can watch my interview replay here. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Badass Biker Chick Meets Kick-ass Council with Sara McGuffin | Ep. 22 | 25 Oct 2023 | 01:34:21 | |
A few years back, and only a couple of years into her first town manager gig, Sara McGuffin suffered an accident that nearly ended her life, nevermind her career. In this episode we recount McGuffin's horrific experience and her recovery. We also acknowledge the loyalty and wonderful support provided by the Town of Amherst (VA) mayor and council. In an age where personal and professional relationships are increasingly disposable, McGuffin's story proves that there are still many who are committed to "doing the right thing." Now, what if I told you that McGuffin was permanently disabled as a result of this accident? Know this -- that accident did not rob her of her faith in God, her fellow man, or steal away her infectious optimism and all-around badassery! McGuffin marks the first interview of a female manager on the City Manager Unfiltered podcast. And she does not disappoint. You will not want to miss this one! AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Baker Tilly Hides Dirty Secret from Hutchinson City Manager Candidates | Ep. 21 | 18 Oct 2023 | 00:35:14 | |
Reports out of Hutchinson, Kansas are that the city council is not happy with the quality of city manager candidates produced by Baker Tilly. On top of that, Baker Tilly is hiding a secret about this position and not informing the candidates it has recruited thus far. This episode of the podcast will once again illustrate the point that Baker Tilly cannot be trusted by city manager candidates to treat them with respect or to inform them of material facts so that these public sector executives can make educated decisions for themselves and their families AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| How do we attract more women and minorities to the profession with Amy Farkas | Ep. 66 | 14 Aug 2024 | 01:05:51 | |
Patton Township Manager Amy Farkas is passionate about recruiting more women and minorities into the profession of city and county management. In this episode, we talk about the importance of "telling a better story" to attract these candidates. We also discuss her unique approach to dealing with the stresses of the job through her hobby and what benefits she has been able to transfer over into her professional life as a result. SHOW NOTES: Amy Farkas' LinkedIn page AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Ep. 20 | No Regrets for Forced Out First-Time City Manager with Michael Rogers | 11 Oct 2023 | 01:22:16 | |
Michael Rogers' career arc was impressive having become a well-respected public sector executive in some of the largest organizations in the nation. He had finally reached his goal of becoming a city manager -- and he was killing it. He received glowing remarks and a salary increase in his first annual review. But an election in the City of Tracy, Calif., brought changes to the council composition and within five months he was forced out. Rogers has no regrets about taking the position, but he does reflect back on what he would have done differently in this insightful discussion. He owns his mistakes while minimizing his unfortunate treatment and de-emphasizing the Machiavellian "palace intrigue" that led to his ouster.
AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| The Sound of ICMA Silence | Ep. 19 | 04 Oct 2023 | 00:34:05 | |
The fallout from the James Freed interview is reverberating throughout the city management ecosystem. Hundreds of city managers were talking about the situation during this week's annual ICMA conference in Austin. The story received front page coverage in the Sunday edition of the Port Huron Times Herald. City managers across the nation are furious that an orchestrated campaign to ruin Freed's career and reputation was perpetrated by the ICMA ethics staff. They are incensed by the notion that obvious conflicts of interest were not mitigated by ICMA CEO Marc Ott and that he allowed Martha Perego and Jessica Cowles to circumvent the established processes as set forth by the organization's rules of procedure. And they are appalled that executive board members would call a peer a "douchebag" and talk about "punching him in the face" in private text messages. But the overwhelming feedback that I have heard the most over the last several days is anger and frustation over the fact that the ICMA has refused to comment or address the issue publicly. This episode of the City Manager Unfiltered podcast is sponsored by Pivot Group Municipal Services. If you need to fill a vacant department head position or need to find a key staff position, you owe it to yourself and taxpayers to get a free quote. Pivot Group Municipal Services have a reputation for providing quality work at very reasonable prices. AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| James Freed vs ICMA: Recording of an Assassination Attempt | Ep. 18 | 29 Sep 2023 | 00:43:55 | |
Port Huron City Manager James Freed had never been the subject of an ethics complaint. That is until he raised concerns about the social media activities of Martha Perego, the "ethics guru" at the International City/County Management Association.
When he got a call from Perego's subordinate, Jessica Cowles, just a few weeks later, his "Spidey-sense" tingled. He asked to call her back so he could record the conversation.
He would soon find out that Cowles was attempting to investigate him for violating the ICMA Code of Ethics.
In this episode, we listen in on the conversation as the ICMA ethics team attempts to weaponize the organization's Code of Ethics and its enforcement.
SHOW NOTES:
James Freed Letter to Martha Perego ICMA CEO Marc Ott letter to Freed Announcing Discipline of Perego ICMA Rules of Procedure (February 2019 Edition)
AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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| James Freed vs ICMA: An Orchestrated Campaign to Kill a City Manager’s Career | Ep. 17 | 27 Sep 2023 | 01:47:51 | |
James Freed sent a polite, professional letter to the ICMA ethics director in 2018. Little did he know that that letter would haunt him for the next five years as rogue staff members from the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA) would wage a campaign to ruin his career, destroy his professional reputation, and deprive him of his ability to feed for his wife and children. Freed noticed that Martha Perego, the ICMA ethics guru, used the organization's twitter handle @ICMAethics to engage in anti-Republican and anti-conservative political activity. He simply asked her to change her handle or to refrain from such activity. Freed, an ICMA member since he was in college, cherished the organization and valued its mission statement which prohibited partisan political activity -- something Perego, the "ethics guru", knew all too well. The retaliation was immediate and sustained. Eventually, Perego and her subordinate, Jessica Cowles, would manufacture a case against him ultimately leading to his public censure and the stripping of his certified manager credential. He fought back and filed an anti-defamation lawsuit. This is his shocking story. SHOW NOTES: James Freed Letter to Martha Perego ICMA CEO Marc Ott letter to Freed Announcing Discipline of Perego Port Huron City Council Letter Rebuking the ICMA James Freed Response to ICMA Censure
AAME JOB BOARD: The American Association of Municipal Executives has a free job board exclusively focused on executive and senior level local government recruitments. To post a job, go to: https://jobs.aame.org/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST:
City Manager Unfiltered YouTube Page - Subscribe Today! Note: Page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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