Show Notes: Monte Walker: Broadcasting, Business & Building the Future Episode 133 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

Episode Overview Join Seth Winterhalter and Monte Walker, City Administrator of Howe, Texas, for a fascinating journey through municipal leadership from a uniquely multi-dimensional perspective. From his 30-year career as a sports broadcaster to owning the local newspaper and now leading his hometown's administration, Monte shares invaluable insights on community connection, cultural transformation, and preparing for transformative growth.

Key Takeaways

• The advantage of deep community roots in municipal leadership
• How diverse private sector experience enhances public service
• Strategies for managing cultural transformation during staff transitions
• Balancing small-town character with inevitable growth
• The importance of long-term infrastructure decisions in shaping a city's future
• Building trust through transparent communication and community engagement

Career Highlights Discussed

• Multi-generational family history in Howe dating back to 1895
• 30+ years as a high school sports broadcaster
• Former owner of local newspaper publication
• Economic Development Director experience
• Leadership through critical infrastructure decisions
• Managing cultural transformation as City Administrator

Leadership Insights

• Leveraging communication skills from broadcasting in municipal leadership
• Building trust through consistent community presence and engagement
• Balancing transparency with professional boundaries
• The importance of cultural fit in building an effective municipal team
• Making decisions with 75-year impact while maintaining current operations

Key Projects Discussed

• Wastewater treatment planning for future growth
• Historical church building restoration project
• Cultural transformation within city staff
• Managing infrastructure emergencies in extreme weather
• Preparing for population growth from 3,700 to 10,000

Resources Mentioned

• The Leader's Lens Newsletter: Subscribe for Free
• Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC): Learn More Here
• Visit www.haltingwinter.com for more resources

Connect With Seth Winterhalter

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
• Website: www.HaltingWinter.com

MLDC Launch Week The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) launched last week, on January 6th, and to celebrate, we're giving podcast listeners 20% off an annual subscription during the month of January. Visit the link below and use the coupon code "PODCAST" when you checkout today! --> JOIN HERE