Town Manager | Town of Plainfield, CT | 
Michael Paulhus is a forward-thinking local government leader who is breaking down barriers between municipalities and the communities they serve. His work is rooted in a simple but powerful mission: make government more transparent, accessible, and engaging.
By embracing social media — and occasionally letting Gen Z write the script — Michael is willing to use humor to make local government more approachable, relatable, and relevant.
Michael has leveraged digital platforms to foster transparency and connection. One of his standout initiatives is the Manager’s Minute series — a weekly video update that delivers key information with a mix of clarity, humor, and authenticity. By making government accessible and engaging, he has strengthened public trust and civic participation.
Beyond his work at town hall, Michael is known for his generosity in sharing lessons learned with peers in the public sector. He’s a passionate advocate for modern, people-centered governance — and a reminder that transparency and a little creativity can go a long way toward strengthening community relationships.