Today’s Morning Buzz is by Jackie Wehmeyer, Senior Director of Strategy and Intergovernmental Affairs for the City of Parkland, Florida and proud Secretary of ELGL’s Board of Directors
Connect with Jackie on LinkedIn.
What I’m excited about: The ELGL Mug Exchange – I can’t wait to add to my collection!
What I’m baking tonight: Double Chocolate Peppermint Brownie cookies for our annual City Hall department ornament hanging and cookie sharing event.
What I’m watching: Pluribus on Apple TV. After all she’s been through, can someone please get Carol her Sprouts?
Today is Dec 1 and millions of children woke up this morning looking for one thing and one thing only: their Elf on the Shelf. Where is he? What did he do overnight? All I know, from experience, is that harried parents all over the world are rushing around to ensure that *&#@$! elf moved.
What if we all had a Local Gov Elf on the Shelf. Where would he go? What would he do? More interestingly, what would he see? The only way we’d know is if he took lots of Shelfies (insert audible groan here).
Let’s imagine it… Our elf is named Govvie. What would Govvie the Elf report back to Santa about the world of local government?
First, Govvie would land on the rafters in the Commission Chambers, eyes wide as he witnesses the miracle of local government decision-making in action. He would watch as one motion leads to a discussion, that discussion turns into a debate, and before anyone knows it, our residents are taking their three minutes each to weigh in on ivory vs. eggshell for the City Hall restroom tile. Govvie chuckles at how Santa’s elves could probably settle this in a jiffy over a cup of hot cocoa.
Next, Govvie might land at our community’s latest project, such as a new park. He’d be amazed by how much work goes into any project, whether it’s the complexities of planning and zoning, the challenges of budget constraints, or a commitment to environmental stewardship. And yes, Govvie is pleased to see plenty of open space and playgrounds for the good boys and girls! Govvie thinks to himself, “If only elves were in charge! We would just wish upon a star and boom—parks everywhere!”
Govvie would also, if he landed anywhere in a local government office or workspace, see employees enjoying their contributions, laughing a bit, and having fun – some more than others (and perhaps on HR’s naughty list). No, Govvie, give Frank another chance before you draft a letter to Santa about those copies!
Finally, Govvie might also land in a special municipal place like the library, where his frantic scribbling notes to Santa would happily include kudos to Madeleine for the patience she gave a senior learning to navigate social media, or a special note for Thomas on the historical program he received an ovation for from the mothers’ group.
In his journeys, Govvie the Elf would be reminded of the resilience and dedication of public servants, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support their communities.
He appreciates the often-unseen efforts of those working diligently to enhance their communities. And I’m pretty sure he’d regale Santa with tales of laughter and nonsense, as every day in local government is somehow sprinkled with just a little bit of elf dust. And who knows? Perhaps Govvie, with his playful reminders, could inspire a new generation of young people to take an interest in local governance, ensuring that the spirit of service continues to thrive long after the holiday season has passed.
Perhaps, after all, local government employees are the real elves, dedicated to working their magic behind the scenes for our residents, just like Santa’s helpers. Here’s to celebrating the fantastic elves among us, not just during the holidays, but all year long!
