Top Influencers in Local Government

Every year ELGL asks our members to nominate outstanding public servants for the Top Influencers in Local Government list.

The recognition honors people who make a difference in their communities and the larger local gov network, and who demonstrate ELGL values of joy, creativity, connection, dependability, and equity through their work and public activities.

In celebration of Public Service Recognition Week, we're announcing 101 honorees for 2024 — 100 humans and one dog. We're fortunate to have every region of the United States represented among the influencers, and their local gov professions range from administration to communications to IT to parks and rec to public safety.

To kick us off, our list includes 10 people whose service to local government goes above and beyond.

Top 10

Fire Marshal | City of Redlands, CA |

Nearly 33% of Redlands, CA, is in the wildland urban interface area, and wildfire represents one of the community’s largest public safety priorities. In early 2023, Vince Anderson proposed a citywide initiative to enhance the community’s wildfire protection program. Vince’s proactive communication approach with property owners in the defensible wildfire safety space program increased levels of voluntary compliance. Technology also forms a cornerstone of Vince's wildfire safety contributions. He arranged for the department to be one of the first municipalities to participate in the ALERTCalifornia wildfire detection camera program.

Equity Policy Adviser | City of Boulder, CO

Throughout her career, Ana Silvia Avendaño-Curiel has demonstrated a relentless commitment to centering historically excluded communities throughout her work to advance equity. Ana Silvia co-facilitates the city’s team of Community Connectors-in-Residence, stipend-based community leaders who partner with the city to build trust with historically excluded communities and who address barriers to community engagement, advance racial equity, design community-initiated programming, and elevate the issues and input of community members. Ana Silvia also co-designed the process to effectively seek input from communities in city decision-making.

Budget and Performance Manager | City of Brighton, CO |

Kayla Barber-Perrotta’s expertise and influence go far beyond the City of Brighton, CO, where she serves as budget and performance manager. Her character, drive, and enthusiasm shine through in her commitment to helping team members grow and fulfill their potential. Kayla is also a regular contributor to ELGL’s Morning Buzz blog, where she shares insights on municipal budgeting, performance management, and life in local government. A believer in the power of thank-you notes, Kayla is described as the kind of coworker you wish worked on your team.

Partner | Ancel Glink |

Dan Bolin has worked alongside local government professionals to navigate legal issues as a partner at Ancel Glink. In a legal career dedicated to local government, he’s become a trusted adviser on everything from elections to land use. Dan is also a local gov superfan who serves as a host for ELGL’s GovLove and Ancel Glink’s Quorum Forum podcasts, where he leads conversations with professionals working in and around city hall and shares stories from every corner of local government.

County Clerk/Register of Deeds | Genesee County, MI |

Domonique Clemons is known for innovation, reliability, inclusivity, and fairness. Under Domonique’s leadership, Genesee County has witnessed transformative projects such as the extensive blight elimination plan and the redevelopment of Buick City, alongside the achievement of a balanced budget. Throughout his tenure, Domonique has spearheaded initiatives to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion, including establishing the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commission. He has championed crime prevention strategies emphasizing community policing, facilitated the acquisition of a new county administration building, and ensured the equitable allocation of funds from the American Rescue Plan Act.

Assistant City Manager & Community Development Director | City of Rolling Meadows, IL

Glen Cole's influence is felt throughout Illinois as he continues to identify ways to connect people and provide top-notch education opportunities to new and experienced public servants. Described as “quietly contemplative,” he is insightful, professional, and always trying his best to benefit the people around him. His growing leadership has been integral in the expansion of improved networking across our national and state professional organizations. He takes his responsibilities seriously and is a champion of local government.

Assistant Neighborhood Services Director | City of Fort Worth, TX |

As the assistant neighborhood services director at the City of Fort Worth, TX, Amy Connolly is helping to build stronger communities. The department she serves is responsible for housing assistance and homebuyer assistance programs, neighborhood improvement strategies, and more. Amy is a champion for increased housing and housing affordability who advocates for stronger communities in Fort Worth and statewide. Amy is also quick to celebrate the successes of others in the profession and local government overall, share new opportunities, and connect professionals in community development.

Management Analyst | City of Indio, CA |

Andres Coronel has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to serving the community. He brings a sense of joy to his work, approaching every task with enthusiasm and optimism. Andres has been a driving force in addressing police recruitment shortfalls with his cutting-edge design and overall marketing to his own age demographic. He consistently delivers results with integrity and professionalism, earning the trust and respect of peers and constituents. His work as a Municipal Management Association of Southern California member demonstrates his dedication to advancing best practices and fostering professional development within the field of municipal management.

Assistant City Manager | City of Rancho Cucamonga, CA |

Elisa Cox's impact as a mentor and leader in the public sector is undeniable. As a mentor, she fosters growth and development. Her support of the City of Rancho Cucamonga’s innovative and creative business practices as a public agency exemplifies her creative thinking. Elisa’s impact transcends the boundaries of her organization, as she generously shares her expertise and insights with colleagues and peers. She goes above and beyond to support and uplift others, creating a sense of community and camaraderie.

Secretary of Communications and Public Engagement | City of St. Louis, MO |

Faced with the task of allocating the $250 million Rams settlement fund, Yusuf Daneshyar knew the importance of reaching every resident, despite limited resources. His approach was to ensure every voice was heard and valued, reflecting a commitment to interaction and data-driven decision-making. His philosophy that "if you're going to ask people to participate, there really needs to be follow-through" underscores a profound understanding of public service — not just soliciting opinions but acting on them to demonstrate their value in driving change. Under Yusuf's leadership, St. Louis has not only shaped its strategy for the settlement fund but also laid the groundwork for a more inclusive, responsive, and trusted city government.

City Manager/Chief Executive Officer | City of Henderson, NV |

Through Richard Derrick’s leadership, the City of Henderson has achieved a 93% score for citizen satisfaction with quality of life, the highest in the nation for mid-to-large sized cities participating in the survey. Richard has built a culture of inclusivity, safety, trust, and cooperation at the city by supporting the creation of a Diversity Equity and Inclusion Coalition. Richard also championed the city’s participation in the National Municipal Equality Index assessment that evaluates cities based on non-discrimination laws, municipal services, and leadership on LGBTQ equality. During Richard’s tenure, the City of Henderson has improved from a 56 to a perfect score.

Management Analyst | Salt Lake City Corporation, UT |

Rachel Dexheimer goes out of her way to bring her creative mind to the projects that are sent her way. She can take difficult concepts and put them into an easily digestible medium for any audience. Rachel demonstrates leadership by routinely going above and beyond to create templates, graphics packages, and other resources to support a program, event, or presentation People go to Rachel for her expertise, creative abilities, and because she can get the work done in a high quality, efficient way. She also makes every day fun and creates an environment where colleagues can learn something new from her on a regular basis.

Police Captain | City of South Bend, IN |

Capt. Kyle Dombrowski is a familiar face to many in the South Bend, IN, community. Kyle oversees the South Bend Police Department’s Strategic Focus Unit, which works to reduce gang and gun violence. In a long career with the department, Kyle has built strong community relationships and promoted public safety throughout the community. He’s also been instrumental in updating and streamlining the agency’s hiring processes to recruit additional officers and make the process more straightforward for applicants.

County Judge | Ector County, TX |

Dustin Fawcett is changing how local government operates into a more dynamic organization that can be more efficient in providing the services the community needs and enhancing the working environment for public officials. By starting a program called Coffee with the Judge, Dustin brings together directors and elected officials to discuss the status of major projects, wins, and things that they are looking forward to. He also holds regular employee town halls where employees discuss concerns and share ideas they would like to see implemented. The county is also improving external communications through social media, as well as going into the community to meet residents and listen to concerns.

County Executive Officer | Imperial County, CA |

Miguel Figueroa's career embodies dedication, innovation, and leadership in local government. Throughout his tenure, Miguel has been a driving force behind significant advancements in local infrastructure, economic development, and community services. His ability to navigate complex challenges, from budget constraints to public health crises, speaks volumes about his leadership qualities. Recognizing the importance of community involvement, he has pioneered initiatives that leverage technology and social media to enhance communication between government and constituents, increasing public participation in government decisions and strengthening trust in local institutions.

City Manager | City of Battle Creek, MI |

Rebecca Fleury is a leader, inspiration, and role model, especially for women in local government. Rebecca is the longest-serving city manager in Battle Creek, MI, where her approach to leadership is rooted in loyalty, genuineness, and leading by example. She embraces family time, time off, and a hybrid work environment when it makes sense for the employee and the organization. Rebecca is visible, present, and always listening, both in the city organization and in the community. And she is at the table with sleeves rolled when obstacles and challenges need addressing.

Assistant Chief Operational Support | City of Scottsdale, AZ |

Helen Gándara has demonstrated a lifetime dedication to improving her community and the local government network she serves. Throughout her tenure, Helen has consistently demonstrated a passion for serving her community and advocating for equitable practices. Working with the City of Scottsdale and within the community, she has made connections utilizing creative arts and education for Hispanic heritage events, celebrations, and International Women of Color Day. She consistently tries to bridge the gap between local government and residents by fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.

Deputy City Administrator | City of Clemson, SC |

Allison Gantte has been a leader in local government since she became South Carolina’s youngest municipal manager at age 23. Now the deputy city administrator in Clemson, SC, Allison has a passion for community development that shines through her work. Since arriving in Clemson, she has secured more than $5 million in grant funding, targeting projects in low- to moderate-income areas. Allison’s commitment to public service is evident through her role as an adjunct political science instructor at Spartanburg Methodist College, where she inspires young adults and promotes awareness of local government opportunities.

Chief Innovation Officer | City of Boston, MA |

As chief innovation officer, Santiago “Santi” Garces not only leads the City of Boston’s Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), he is also shaping the national conversation around the use of AI in the public sector. Under his leadership, the city became among the first nationwide to develop guidelines around the use of generative AI. Santi envisions the responsible use of AI is only one step in a larger transformation in which the city can use data and technology to address digital equity and make local government more convenient, effective, and responsive for residents.

Deputy City Manager | City of Maricopa, AZ |

Micah Gaudet has become a thought leader on AI use in the public sector and its applications to event planning, finance, grants, management, and policing. He created the only ChatGPT/AI course specifically designed for public sector employees, presented at municipal conferences to share applications for AI local government, established a networking group for public servants interested in AI, and wrote a book on AI. Micah is enthusiastic and willing to share with others who want to learn more about artificial intelligence by discussing his philosophy with other leaders and professionals.

Police Captain | City of Virginia Beach, VA |

Capt. William Gervin’s career in law enforcement is defined by commitment to leadership, education, and equity. His leadership roles enhanced operational efficiency and fostered a culture of continuous learning and improvement. As a certified personal development coach and an instructor for both Leadership in Police Organizations and Fair and Impartial Policing, William has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of law enforcement professionals. His contributions extend beyond his professional duties, enriching the local government network and advocating for evidence-based policies that benefit all community members.

Assistant City Manager | City of Lone Tree, CO |

As a new assistant city manager in 2021, Austin Good transformed departments in need of clear vision and stable leadership into efficient, creative, and productive units that play critical roles in the organization’s success. He has also improved employee engagement by establishing outcome-driven employee organizations. Through his stewardship of the City of Lone Tree Youth Commission, he has orchestrated hands-on initiatives and service projects that inspire young people to contribute to their community. His dedication extends to mentoring emerging leaders in the public sector, which underscores his commitment to nurturing talent and fostering excellence in governance.

Transportation and Long-Range Planner | Village of Hoffman Estates, IL |

Phil Green’s commitment to local government goes beyond the purely professional. Phil has created and novel community building projects — urban planning-themed murder mystery night, anyone? — and exemplifies what it means to be a passionate community member. During his time as village planner in Woodridge, IL, Phil pioneered and marketed the village’s Restaurant Week and chaired the Complete Count Committee to ensure high response to the 2020 Census. As a transportation and long-range planner in Hoffman Estates, IL, Phil works on Hoffman in Motion, an initiative that focuses on community involvement to expand transportation options, enhance connections, and improve transportation access in underserved areas.

Recovery and Equity in Contracting Officer | City of Long Beach, CA |

During the pandemic, Augusta Gudeman quickly pivoted into an emergency assignment to coordinate purchasing efforts to support the response. As Long Beach began to recover, Augusta was tapped to lead the effort. Using an equity lens, she recognized that city spending of $300 million in recovery funds was an opportunity to reach more local, women, and BIPOC-owned businesses. She led the Extreme Procurement Makeover process in partnership with the Harvard Government Performance Lab, which has led to significant results in investing in those groups. She also managed the procurement and implementation of the city’s procurement system, LB Buys, and worked to make the change to a more transparent, equitable, and accessible system. Augusta continues to mentor others, including new cohorts of management assistant fellows.

Performance and Process Analyst | City of Bellevue, WA |

Yuri Hattersley’s work to support justice-impacted individuals is building momentum to address a societal challenge. Known as Promised Pathways, the initiative works to help justice-impacted individuals find employment in the public sector to create a stronger local government workforce. Yuri’s ability to advance positive change is also apparent in their role at the City of Bellevue, WA, where they support performance measurement, process improvement, strategic planning, and diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging efforts.

Community Risk Reduction Manager | Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, OR

Kim Haughn is a dogged warrior for community members whose voices are less heard and whose value is less seen. Her innovative, holistic approach shows how a steady, reliable public safety service can be proactive in reducing harm and risk for vulnerable populations. Kim brings together leaders and influencers from across the spectrum to shape impactful programs that serve the intended audience and also integrate process improvements. She breaks down the walls of bureaucracy and politics to start dialogue. Her influence has informed collaborative national studies on homelessness and empowered landlords to improve safety and accountability. With her diplomatic approach, Kim has a knack for putting key issues at the forefront and helping people understand how their perspectives and ideas can be shaped into workable solutions.

Director, Municipal Services | MRB Group |

Matt Horn possesses a gift for making local government fun. The director of municipal services for MRB Group and a former city manager, Matt has a knack for using metaphors from sports or pop culture to make a point about topics as diverse as economic development or board/manager relations. As a municipal operations expert, former city manager, and contributor to ELGL’s Morning Buzz blog, Matt frequently shares thoughtful, and often irreverent, takes on the issues facing local governments and public servants.

Communications Director | Calhoun County, MI |

Lucy Hough is a top-tier communicator, navigating the needs of county government and ensuring Calhoun County, MI, can engage across cities, townships, villages, and everywhere in between. Lucy is a consistent, calm, and thoughtful presence who always offers help to county departments. She worked in critical roles to promote early voting for the first time in the county, a Broadband Task Force working to bring internet access to all our neighbors, and a county website redesign so neighbors countywide can better learn and engage with county government, thanks to Lucy.

Program Director, Straayer Center for Public Service Leadership | Colorado State University |

Through teaching, mentoring, and facilitating internship opportunities at local, state, and federal levels, Sam Houghteling instills in students the values essential for effective public service. Sam plays a crucial role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow and fostering a culture of civic responsibility and public service excellence. As the Program Director for the Straayer Center for Public Service Leadership, Sam’s impact extends beyond the classroom through the organization of numerous events that engage diverse audiences of students, faculty, and community members. These events not only showcase the University's faculty's work but also foster dialogue and collaboration, contributing to a culture of civic engagement and awareness.

IT Finance Manager | City of Scottsdale, AZ |

Jennifer Jensen spearheads the process improvement team at the City of Scottsdale, AZ, fostering a culture of continuous optimization. Her leadership in streamlining workflows and maximizing efficiency has demonstrably enhanced the city’s effectiveness. In addition, her deep understanding of local government operations combined with her innovative spirit make her an asset. With a remarkable 30 years of public service, Jennifer does not just identify issues, she champions innovative solutions. Her willingness to share best practices and collaborate with peers across the city exemplifies collaborative spirit.

City Clerk | City of Montebello, CA |

As the youngest elected city clerk in the history of Montebello, CA, Christopher Jimenez focuses on getting young people more engaged with government. He’s hosted voter registration drives at schools and helped students pre-register to vote. He’s working to establish a young leaders in government program to give students firsthand experience in local government through internship opportunities. A believer of "bringing government to the residents' backyard," Christopher established Conchas and Coffee, a monthly event where residents get to hear from federal, state, county, and local representatives in a casual environment.

Assistant City/County Manager | Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, GA |

Niki Jones is committed to making a difference by building capacity in departments and supporting staff in their work and professional development. His background in economic development, planning, and housing has helped Athens-Clarke County build a strong foundation in those areas. He believes in the importance of strategic planning and worked hard to ensure that homelessness and affordable housing plans were developed and approved to help inform the use of American Rescue Plan Act funds. Niki is a strong communicator and relationship builder who has developed meaningful relationships in the community with residents and key partners.

Economic Development Project Manager | City of Mesa, AZ |

Kelley Keffer has dedicated 20 years of service to helping small business owners succeed. In her role at the City of Mesa, she worked to sustain the city’s small business community through the pandemic. She also led the initiative to bring major projects downtown and worked with entrepreneurs to activate spaces. From innovation labs to shared community spaces for creative professionals, Kelley is a key reason why the community is successful, unique and thriving. Beyond her professional role, she raises chickens and during the peak of the egg shortage, she gave away eggs to the community.

Village Manager | Village of Glencoe, IL |

Phil Kiraly has quickly become a recognized name in public service and a sought-after person to work for, thanks to his support for colleagues and others in local government. Phil is always willing to share his authentic story: how his father influenced his decision to enter local government, his advocacy for diabetes awareness, and the positive impact his family has on him. He recently rolled out a new segment called Office Hours that highlights info about Glencoe. As the incoming Illinois City/County Management Association president, Phil is poised to continue making a positive impact on the profession.

Creative Design and Brand Specialist | City of Milwaukee, WI |

Christina Klose has made a tremendous impact using her graphic design skills during her 23-year career at the City of Milwaukee, where she collaborates with colleagues to help residents connect with resources, strives for process improvements, and offers support and guidance to colleagues. She is responsible for implementing innovative approaches related to graphic design, creative content, brand awareness, and inclusive, diverse messaging to reach residents and target audiences. She also manages, leads, and facilitates the city’s social media collaborators group to share resources, knowledge, and best practices for unified digital communication.

Public Safety Public Information Officer | Town of Queen Creek, AZ |

Jennifer Lamis has been part of the Town of Queen Creek team for many years, supporting various departments before becoming the public information officer for the town’s public safety departments. A few months into her new role, the Queen Creek Police Department received its first homicide case, which received local and national attention. Working with the police chief and law enforcement team to provide timely and thoughtful information, she became the spokesperson for the case, ensuring officers were represented fairly, and that the victim, his family, friends, and the community were treated with respect.

City Clerk/Administrative Services Manager | City of Little Rock, AR

Susan Langley is described as a dynamo. In a 21-year local government career, she has served many roles and is now the administrative services manager and city clerk for the City of Little Rock, AR. During her tenure, she oversaw the construction of a new police headquarters, remained active in professional organizations, and was named School Volunteer of the Year by the local public school district. Susan has also been a mentor to several other female staff members through the years and was a trusted advisor to the city manager. She is a leader inside the organization and in the community, stepping up to volunteer for numerous causes and organizations.

Assistant Town Manager | Town of Snowmass Village, CO |

The enthusiasm Greg LeBlanc brings to local government is almost palpable. As the assistant town manager in Snowmass Village, CO, He understands the unique challenges of public administration and community engagement in a resort community. Greg is a sought-after leader who colleagues and peers at other organizations turn to for advice. Greg is also a contributor to ELGL’s Morning Buzz blog, where he addresses the issues facing public servants with wisdom, candor and, maybe most importantly, humor.

Parks Marketing Communications Supervisor | City of Wentzville, MO |

Hannah Logsdon’s journey in public service began in the aquatics field, and her transition to a parks marketing communications supervisor role demonstrates her adaptability, dependability, and willingness to embrace new challenges. Hannah is skilled at navigating diverse viewpoints from both internal and external audiences. Thanks to her adept communication skills and empathetic approach, she fosters connections essential for her department's success. She seeks new and imaginative ways to connect with residents and bring joy to the community. By leveraging social media platforms, she effectively communicates the value that Wentzville Parks and Rec brings to the community, fostering a sense of pride and appreciation among residents.

County Manager | Seneca County, NY |

In his inaugural role as a professional local government manager, Kyle Lovell is focused on the success of his team and the communities he serves. Kyle is a champion of creative, innovative solutions to longstanding community challenges. Faced with disjointed, aging water and sewer systems across many jurisdictions, he facilitated the launch of a county water and sewer authority to provide a strategic look at how water and sewer support community health and economic development. Kyle also facilitated the creation of a local development corporation focused on the revitalization of several challenging properties, including a former state detention center.

Social Media Coordinator | Fenton Township, MI |

Monica McAlister is the first person to hold her role in Fenton Township, MI, and she knows the importance of good communication in local government. She works hard, and stays connected, which makes her a tremendous resource in her community, in Michigan, and in the entire industry. She connects in national social media, local government, and communications networks; in state networks; and on her personal social media. Monica is always willing to trade work and personal stories with her, and trade feedback with other communicators. She is also dedicated to professional development and has completed a multitude of FEMA courses and certifications. With this and other education, she keeps emergency management front of mind in her community.

Chief Information Officer | City of Deerfield Beach, FL |

Ron McKenzie not only empowers and mentors his team at the City of Deerfield Beach, FL; he also mentors other IT professionals across South Florida. His mentorship has led to four IT professionals becoming chief information officers with other municipalities. Ron also recognized the impact of cyberattacks on local governments nationwide, which led to many local IT leaders identifying the inability of their IT professionals having the skills and/or certifications to combat these attacks. He spearheaded a partnership to equip 12 IT professionals from seven local municipalities to successfully champion a new certification. He understands the importance of cybersecurity and feels a sense of responsibility in helping his city and others be safer and secure by safeguarding the infrastructure and public services.

Director of Parks and Recreation | City of Allen, TX |

Kate Meacham is a staunch advocate for the importance of parks and recreation in fostering healthy, vibrant communities. She championed initiatives aimed at securing funding, promoting access to recreational opportunities for all demographics, and raising awareness about the significant role that parks and recreation play in promoting physical activity, social cohesion, and environmental stewardship. Kate is also active in mentorship programs, frequently presents at professional conferences, and served as adjunct faculty at University of North Texas. After the tragic May 6, 2023, mass shooting at the Allen Premium Outlets took the lives of eight people, Kate was a leader in activating assistance and resources. Kate leads with a purpose; she is creative, innovative, and forward thinking.

Town Administrator | Town of Collierville, TN |

Molly Mehner's passion for community development, coupled with her strategic acumen and collaborative spirit, have left a lasting impact on the communities she’s served. Molly has consistently demonstrated her capacity to effect positive change on a significant scale, and her commitment to fostering vibrant, sustainable communities is a thread that runs through her entire career. Molly's recent transition to the Town of Collierville, TN, shows her unwavering commitment to serving communities and fostering sustainable growth. Her enthusiasm for preserving the unique character and quality of life in Collierville, while strategically planning for future growth, exemplifies her visionary leadership and dedication to community stewardship.

Director of Procurement Planning and Support Services | City of Boston, MA |

Laura Melle has a way of bringing positive energy to get colleagues excited about boring, complicated, and bureaucratic issues. She relishes taking on overlooked or insurmountable problems — especially as they relate to procurement reform and innovation. In Chicago and now Boston, Laura has taken on procurement challenges across technology, real estate, and transportation. While procurement conversations can induce eye rolls, Laura sees it as her job to get others excited about it, because better procurement means saved time, saved money, and better services for residents. Her infectious optimism about government procurement and process improvement is the energy we all need in our city halls.

Planning and Economic Development Director | City of Claremont, NH

Nancy Merrill has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for residents of Claremont, NH, for decades. A former mill town, Claremont’s economic base was significantly depleted during the post-industrial era. The work that Nancy and her team have done over the years to transform the community in an intentional way reflects Nancy’s visionary, passionate, and supportive leadership. Her role is tough and often thankless, yet she brims with excitement about helping to solve the city's complex problems.

Senior Advisor to the Mayor and Executive Director of Citizen Services | City of Buffalo, NY |

Oswaldo Mestre lives by the motto, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Oswaldo developed the 311 Call & Resolution Center and is responsible for staff who coordinate services and programs aimed to educate, engage, and empower residents, including the Citizen’s Participation Academy, Urban Fellows program, Community Crime Prevention Initiative, and mire. What Oswaldo and his department do brings joy to the community and enhances the quality of life. Oswaldo empowers his staff to not only create new programs but also to revamp existing programs and include strategies that focus on addressing connection, creating equity, and addressing the social determinants of health within the community.

Deputy City Council Administrator | City of Colorado Springs, CO |

Michael Montgomery is always willing to serve, whether it’s serving the community or serving a slice of pizza. (Many folks also know him by his alter ego: Pizza Mike, a pizza aficionado and aspiring pizzaiolo.) As the deputy city council administrator for the City of Colorado Springs, CO, Mike is willing to offer advice or assistance to colleagues who need a hand or a sounding board. Mike also serves as producer for ELGL’s GovLove Podcast, helping to share stories from other public servants with a wider audience

Posthumous Recognition

City Manager | City of Little Rock, AR

Bruce Moore, the longest-serving city manager in the history of Little Rock, AR, unexpectedly passed away in October 2023. Bruce hired many people in his time in Little Rock, but more importantly, he mentored even more. He was known for stopping to ask how a city employee was doing or if there was anything he could help them with. Under Bruce, the city started its first employee recognition program in 2004, which turned into a yearly highlight for staff. He also helped lead the team to bring the Clinton Presidential Library to Little Rock and honored the Little Rock Nine by making sure that the 40th, 50th, 60th, and 65th anniversaries of their integration of Little Rock Central High School in 1957 was marked and acknowledged locally, nationally, and internationally.

Contracts and Development Manager | City of Tampa, FL |

Bailey Morris is a strong advocate for the City of Tampa, FL, and the Tampa Convention Center. She is the point person for all of the center’s partner companies, including food and beverage, audio visual, and security. Bailey has been a positive force by organizing Employee Appreciation Day celebrations for staff and regularly disbursing handwritten notes with detailed compliments when a team member excels. Bailey has also shown creativity in launching Hospitality Academy, a program that matches participants with other city departments associated with the convention center to help them increase their knowledge of how the center functions and get them involved in the decision-making process.

Assistant City Manager | City of Elgin, IL |

Karina Nava is known as a dedicated and caring colleague. She gives all of herself to every project she embarks upon whether it’s website updates or strategies to address homelessness. Karina can always be depended on to bring joy and light to the room and be a voice of reason and thoughtfulness. As a part of the diversity, equity, and inclusion committee for the City of Elgin, IL, she brings her perspective and humility to the table. As the assistant city manager, she exemplifies leadership and collaboration. As a friend, she shows unwavering support and dependability.

Former City Councilor | City of Everett, MA |

Vivian Nguyen's tenure as the youngest councilor during her term (which ended in January 2024) and the first Asian American woman elected in her city speaks volumes about her trailblazing spirit. Vivian's advocacy for underrepresented communities, particularly non-English speakers, has been essential in ensuring their access to and knowledge of city resources. What sets Vivian apart is her proactive approach to problem-solving. When confronted with challenges, she doesn't hesitate to take decisive action. Whether personally mailing out thousands of surveys to ensure every voice is included or leading initiatives to bridge gaps in community representation, Vivian leads by example.

Organizational Development Officer | Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, GA |

Through mentorship, guidance, and care, Dr. Patrice Nyatuame cultivates a culture of growth and excellence within her organization. She invests significant time and effort into nurturing the talents and skills of their team members, empowering them to reach their full potential and developing new leaders. In addition to her leadership qualities, Patrice is deeply dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in her community. She actively seeks out opportunities to address systemic barriers and champion initiatives that promote fairness and justice for all residents.

Research Coordinator, Budget and Risk Management | Tarrant County, TX |

Colleagues say every day working with Rand Bridget Otten is a joy because she brings joy, passion, and fun to Tarrant County, TX. She knows what it takes to get it all done — even the weird, amorphous stuff. Rand is consistently one of those people who colleagues count on. Question about ARPA? Call Rand. Question about process? Call Rand. Question about what am I doing with my life? Call Rand. She has worked not only in local government, but also in the nonprofit sector leading a foundation, and she brings those skills to local government. Rand is also an incredibly kind, thoughtful, empathetic human — and one of those folks that makes you want to be a kind, thoughtful, empathetic human, too.

Director of Local Government Services | Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) |

As the director of local government services for the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), Lauren Palmer supports public servants across nine counties and two states in the Kansas City region. Lauren is someone who peers in the region and across the nation can turn to for advice and encouragement. Lauren is also a co-host of ELGL’s GovLove Podcast and City Hall Selfie Day superfan. MARC staff covered a lot of ground to visit nine counties and 119 cities during the 2023 City Hall Selfie celebration.

City Manager | City of Concord, NC |

Since taking over as the city manager of Concord, NC, in 2018, Lloyd Payne has made 40 changes in response to employee concerns. The changes include increased pay, insurance, leave, and benefits; additional programs for employee wellness; expanded employee recognition; increased the city's capacity to address diversity, equity, and inclusion; strengthened opportunities for advancement; more programming and benefits around mental health; and employee engagement initiatives. Lloyd exemplifies people-centered, servant leadership. He will be the first to tell employees that he is an ordinary Joe and that anyone can come talk to him.

Main Street Director | City of Hahira, GA |

Jennifer Price’s ability to adapt to changes and face adversity is integral to the success and stability of the City of Hahira, GA, downtown program. Hard work and difficulty do not deter her from reaching her goals. She will climb that mountain Jennifer’s dynamic leadership skills and magnetic personality contribute to her willingness to go above and beyond across the community, as a team player. During her tenure with the city, she earned recognition for the city’s downtown and implemented numerous improvements, including new trees and banners, addition of a fountain and a veterans memorial, and a successful adopt-a-bench program.

Communications and Media Relations Manager | City of Overland Park, KS |

Meg Ralph is one of those unicorns who is a master at her own job but is also driven to lend her talents and time to the betterment of the entire Kansas City region. In addition to her role at the City of Overland Park, KS, she is the co-chair of the Regional Association of Public Information Officers, a Mid-America Regional Council committee that brings together public-sector PIOs to network, learn, and collaborate. Meg walks the walk when it comes to working across jurisdictional boundaries. Whether it's helping out another PIO, sharing a resource for RAPIO, or facilitating a hot-topic discussion, Meg works every day to ensure the region is a great place for everyone to call home.

Town Administrator | Town of Easton, MA |

Connor Read proves it is possible to be compassionate, empathetic, driven, fierce, collaborative, and innovative at the same time. During a time when people are shying away from serving in municipal government, Connor leans in and forges ahead with projects and initiatives. He successfully led the process to secure community support and funding for a $150 million police, fire, and public works building project; formed a diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility advisory group; and prioritized housing to ensure residential development meets the community's current and future needs. Connor truly believes in making the community more equitable and accessible to everyone.

Director of Parks and Recreation | City of Boulder, CO |

Ali Rhodes is committed to ensuring everyone has equal access to the benefits of parks and recreation. As the director of parks and recreation for the City of Boulder, CO, her leadership has been instrumental in the success of numerous initiatives, including the development of new parks, the expansion of recreation programs, and the implementation of sustainability practices. Throughout her career, Ali has fostered a passion for creating vibrant and welcoming parks and recreational spaces for the Boulder community. Ali has a proven track record of building strong relationships with diverse groups, including community members, government officials, and nonprofit organizations.

Executive in Residence | University of Missouri-Kansas City |

In 30 years at the City of Kansas City, MO, Earnest Rouse developed a reputation as a role model for aspiring city managers. After ending his career as the acting city manager, Earnest joined the core faculty of the MPA program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. In this role, he teaches local government to aspiring local government leaders. Additionally, Earnest plays an important role as a role model for young Black men interested in local government. Through his career he’s left a positive impact on Kansas City and on future city leaders.

County Manager | Clark County, NV

Despite serving as county manager for one of the largest counties in the United States, Kevin Schiller remains down-to-earth and committed to connection with all Clark County, NV, employees. Kevin is dedicated to employee engagement, onboarding new employees, and fostering the spirit of collaboration across all 38 county departments. He previously served as the deputy county manager over human services, and his keen focus on affordable housing in Clark County is shown through his strong advocacy for the creation of the Clark County Community Housing Fund.

Independent Data Craftsman | Raman Shah Data Science |

Raman Shah is gifted at bringing clarity to complex systems by skillfully asking questions and sharing complicated concepts in plain language so clients can better understand the process. In his work he focuses on local governments, nonprofits, and other mission-driven organizations. He clearly enjoys helping clients to achieve success and expand their ability to serve others. As a contributor to ELGL’s Morning Buzz blog, Raman demystifies data science for public servants.

Deputy City Administrator | City of Issaquah, WA |

As deputy city administrator at the City of Issaquah, WA, Andrea Snyder wears many hats, something her colleagues commemorated with a gift to commemorate five years in the role: a plaque featuring seven tiny hats, each one representing a role she had served. Andrea’s versatility is drawn from experience in local and regional government, across a variety of fields and communities. Andrea not only accepts new opportunities and challenges; instead, she dives in and seeks to learn from others and collaborate to reach a solution. Andrea knows how to ask the right questions to understand a single issue from multiple angles, and she is a gifted listener who excels at building personal connections.

Budget and Finance Manager | City of Scottsdale, AZ |

Marcus Steele is a leader committed to serving his communities, uplifting the history of Hispanic public service professionals, and advocating for equity. At the Scottsdale, AZ, Police Department, Marcus has experience leading teams in budget and finance, grant management, capital improvement programs, and process improvement. Beyond his expertise in municipal budget and finance, Marcus shows a passion for public service in dedicating his time to others in local government through his work with the Local Government Hispanic Network, where he has helped membership grow nearly three-fold since becoming the vice president for membership.

Bureau Manager, Project Management | City of Long Beach, CA |

Marilyn Surakus stands out for the empathy she shows her employees, her ability to bring people together for a common goal, and her expertise in managing multi-million-dollar capital improvement projects. She has contributed to the ever-changing physical landscape of Long Beach, CA, in a positive and meaningful way. From leading stormwater management projects to overseeing a new city hall location to overseeing projects that will provide immediate housing to vulnerable residents, Marilyn works hard every single day (yes, even on weekends) to ensure her projects are conducted effectively, stay within budget, and most importantly serve the greater community.

City Administrator | City of Pleasant Hill, MO |

Shelby Teufel is a caring and relational city administrator who peers say gives her heart and soul to the community of Pleasant Hill, MO. Shelby also brings a depth of knowledge, high level of technical expertise, and a strategic perspective to the role. She worked with the city council to put together a multi-issue bond initiative and clever education campaign for critical community projects. The city also has a leading role in the execution of the Cass County Fair, and Shelby goes above and beyond each year to make the event a success.

Director of Community and Economic Development | City of Fullerton, CA |

Thanks to Sunayana Thomas’s leadership, the City of Fullerton, CA, is far more prepared for the future and is able to serve its residents better. She takes time to check in with staff, creates safe spaces with distance between executives and staff to prevent political impacts, and advocates for employees’ best interests. Her leadership turned a department with a 30% vacancy to less than 5% in just two years. In addition, she has successfully brought projects to fruition that support our underserved community members, bolster economic growth, and create long-term improvements for all.

Transportation and Public Works Senior CPO/Deputy AD | City of Fort Worth, TX |

Teanna Thompson excels in building and nurturing relationships, both within the government and with the community. Her ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds allows her to understand and address the unique needs of the community effectively and address systemic inequities. Teanna's initiatives prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. Her leadership in the public sector has not only demonstrated competence but has also left an indelible mark on the community she serves. In her role, she works to ensure all employees are treated fairly. In her community, she serves on a nonprofit board where she assists the displaced women of Fort Worth.

Special Events Coordinator | City of Geneva, NY |

No task is too small or large for Liz Toner, as she tackles them all with the same purpose to make the world a bit better for all. Liz is thoughtful and compassionate and serves the public by bringing those qualities to every project. She cares deeply about the City of Geneva, NY, its residents, and its visitors. She brings joy by thinking through all the small details from having SNAP benefits at the farmers market, to making sure visitors know how to get around town, to staying a little later to pick up trash in the parking lot that everyone drives by.

President and Chief Executive Officer | aLocal |

Dr. Eric Trevan epitomizes the essence of a visionary and transformational leader, demonstrating unwavering commitment to fostering public policy, economic development, and nurturing ties with Native economies. As an advocate for public policy and economic development, Eric Trevan is changing the way economic decisions are made. By working to integrate technology with community growth, Eric’s approach to economic and community development is rooted in social equity and empowerment. With his experience in steering economic analytics through aLocal Solutions, he has redefined how economic decisions are made by incorporating data equity, data sovereignty, good data, and data diplomacy to empower local and Native economies. His academic endeavors as a tenure track professor at California State University San Marcos, and his role at the California Indian Culture and Sovereignty Center, further demonstrate his commitment to education and research in public administration and tribal governance.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator | City of Chandler, AZ |

As the diversity, equity, and inclusion coordinator at the City of Chandler, AZ, Adrianna Tušek Erickson has been pivotal in creating a joyful and inclusive workplace and community. Through events and programs, she has highlighted the richness of diversity, creating a sense of belonging among employees and community members. By facilitating conversations on difficult topics and creating safe spaces where diverse voices are not only heard but truly valued, she has enhanced interpersonal relationships and built bridges across cultural divides, creating a deeper sense of community in Chandler. In her dedication to DEI, Adrianna has proven to be a dependable leader, always ready to listen, learn, and act.

Deputy Director for Transit Operations, Traffic Safety, Finance, and Performance | Gwinnett County, GA |

Gwinnett County, GA, is among the most diverse counties in the Southeast, and Natasha Tyler is a visionary, inspiring leader working to transform transit in a community that needs more transportation options while incorporating innovative practices into her work. With a career spanning more than 15 years in transit administration, operations, and safety, Natasha is a joyful, effective leader in the county government's efforts to expand and revolutionize its transit system.

City Manager | City of Independence, MO |

Zach Walker, city manager of Independence, MO, is regarded as a positive and influential leader. Zach leads in a transparent way by staying accessible to the leadership team and city staff. Through challenges, he is working to set the city on a path for future success and growth through sustainable financial management while improving services for residents. Zach also shares his knowledge and expertise through leadership roles through local, regional, and national organizations.

Budget Manager | City of Rocky Mount, NC |

As the budget manager for the City of Rocky Mount, NC, Keyana Walston is active in raising awareness of the budget process within the organization and throughout the community. Keyana is someone who never says no to a challenge or opportunity to have a positive impact on her community. Beyond city hall, she serves on the North Carolina Local Government Budget Association board, where she works to engage with students interested in local government careers to help build the pipeline of the next local government leaders in the state.

Senior Director of Strategy and Intergovernmental Affairs | City of Parkland, FL |

Jackie Wehmeyer is a Jackie of all trades who is willing to take on new opportunities in local government. In her role as the senior director of strategy and intergovernmental affairs for the City of Parkland, FL, she relies on her HR expertise to inform decisions related to employee needs, collaboration, mentorship, and succession planning. As a contributor to ELGL’s Morning Buzz blog, Jackie is eager to encourage other public servants and share insights about life in local gov.

Communications Manager | City of Orem, UT |

Pete Wolfley is the government employee everyone wishes they could work with, and his love for Orem, UT, is apparent in his work. Pete came up with the idea to create a city mascot, Mero the Mammoth, based on a wooly mammoth skeleton once unearthed in Orem. Pete often wears the mascot costume himself, becoming the city's ambassador at community events. In addition to Mero, Pete built the city website and manages newsletters and social media. He increased transparency for the city's government by creating a transparency portal on the website and broadcasting city council meetings. Pete’s joy is contagious, and his creativity has helped launch new city traditions.

Public Safety Manager | Gaston County, NC |

Vincent Wong has a unique ability to bring people together, especially in difficult situations. In his role as public safety manager for Gaston County, NC, Vincent has worked tirelessly to pull all public safety agencies in the community together to work toward a common goal. He also used his talents to bring together several nonprofits and community organizations to create the first Hope Fest event aimed at providing no-barrier services to Gaston County’s unhoused population. Vincent’s role is difficult, but he brings joy to everyone he works with and is well-known in the community as a leader.

Management Associate | City of Scottsdale, AZ |

Stephanie Zamora's current role as management associate to the city manager in Scottsdale, AZ, positions her at the heart of local decision-making, where her work directly impacts the lives of residents. Stephanie leads the city’s organization strategic plan, where her passion for equitable public policy shines in outreach efforts to include residents and business owners to develop forward-thinking sound ordinances. Her previous experience as a public information officer for the Town of Guadalupe, AZ, demonstrates her commitment to serving communities and ensuring the public is informed. As a 2023 Gabe Zimmerman Emerging Leader, Stephanie stands out as a public servant who is committed to improving civic health and community connection.

Dog Influencer |

Harper Shea is not a local government employee or elected official, but her paws-itive impact is undeniable. A dachshund with no shortage of personality, Harper is a four-legged ambassador who knows all the best dog-friendly spots in Bentonville and Northwest Arkansas. Harper Shea’s human, Baylea Birchfield, created a network of dog-lovers interested in tracking down Bentonville's dog-friendly eating establishments. Bon appétit! Harper is something of a local gov aficionado who has participated in City Hall Selfie Day for three years. Her next endeavor may focus more on public policy. (Paw-licy?) Now, Harper and Baylea are even working with Bentonville’s mayor to create dog-friendly policies within the city.

Top Influencers in Local Government recognizes outstanding professionals who work in the public sector and adjacent or related fields.

The honor, previously called the Traeger Award, was named after "Parks and Recreation" character Chris Traeger, city manager for the fictional City of Pawnee, IN.

Over the years ELGL has updated the award to better reflect our community and include a deeper cross-section of public servants. What remains unchanged is our commitment to recognizing the incredible people who serve towns, cities, counties, and districts.

Eligibility

Nominees must work in the public sector and adjacent or related fields. The honor is a peer recognition, so self-nominations are not accepted. Current ELGL board members and recent Top 10 honorees are not eligible for the award.

Top Influencers in Local Government

Every year ELGL asks our members to nominate outstanding public servants for the Top Influencers in Local Government list.

Top 10

Top 90

Vince Anderson

Scott Attaway

Ana Silvia Avendaño-Curiel

Kayla Barber-Perrotta

Dan Bolin

Zoila Cassanova

Intashan Chowdury

Domonique Clemons

Glen Cole

Amy Connolly

Andres Coronel

Elisa Cox

Yusuf Daneshyar

Richard Derrick

Rachel Dexheimer

Kyle Dombrowski

Dustin Fawcett

Miguel Figueroa

Rebecca Fleury

Joanna Francescut

Trey Fuccillo

Helen Gandara

Allison Gantte

Santiago "Santi" Garces

Micah Gaudet

William Gervin

Austin Good

Phil Green

Augusta Gudeman

Yuri Hattersley

Kim Haughn

Matt Horn

Lucy Hough

Sam Houghteling

Breanna Hurt

Jennifer Jensen

Christopher Jimenez

Brett Johnson

Niki Jones

Kelley Keffer

Phil Kiraly

Christina Klose

Jennifer Lamis

Susan Langley

Greg LeBlanc

Hannah Logsdon

Kyle Lovell

Eric Marsh

Monica McAlister

Ron McKenzie

Kate Meacham

Molly Mehner

Laura Melle

Nancy Merrill

Oswaldo Mestre

Deb Mohlenhoff

Michael Montgomery

Bruce Moore

Bailey Morris

Karina Nava

Vivian Nguyen

Patrice Nyatuame

Rand Bridget Otten

Lauren Palmer

Lloyd Payne

Jennifer Price

Meg Ralph

Connor Read

Ashley Reichert

Ali Rhodes

Earnest Rouse

Kevin Schiller

Raman Shah

Andrea Snyder

Marcus Steele

Marilyn Surakus