How to get your council to say YES! Using Data

About the webinar

A stable and positive relationship between a local government manager and their council is crucial to the success of any city, town, county, or village. The dynamics of this relationship can significantly impact how effectively a community is governed and how well the needs of residents are met. A key component in fostering this relationship is the use of good data—both qualitative and quantitative—to inform the decision-making process.

Good data can provide a clear, objective foundation upon which decisions are made, helping to ensure that the council is well-informed, that residents are equally represented, and that resources are prioritized and utilized in a strategic and thoughtful manner. When local government managers use data effectively, they are better equipped to communicate the rationale behind their decisions, leading to greater trust and collaboration with their council members.

In this insightful webinar, ICMA, Zencity, and local government leaders from the Midwest come together to share their experiences, successes, and challenges in getting their council on board with strategic decisions. The discussion will cover practical approaches to using data to build a stronger relationship between local government managers and their councils, ensuring that both the immediate and long-term needs of the community are addressed effectively.

Whether you are a seasoned local government manager or new to the role, this webinar offers valuable insights into the art of data-driven decision-making and the importance of maintaining a positive working relationship with your council. By attending, you’ll gain actionable strategies that can help you navigate the complexities of local governance and lead your community to greater success.

Key Topics

What data tools are available to improve the relationship between council and managers	How data can be useful for making decisions that serve the broader needs of the community
Ways you can still hear from residents who aren’t emailing and calling their council members regularly	Overcoming challenges with analyzing and understanding “big data”

Speakers:

Decker P. Ploehn

City Administrator

Bettendorf, IA

Jon D. Kindseth

Deputy City Manager

Decatur, IL

Eyal Feder-Levy

CEO & Co-Founder

Zencity