Local Government Insights

In Episode 36 of Local Government Insights, we explore the integration of AI in public administration with three leading voices—Micah Gaudet, Dylan Hayden, and Robert Hiett. Each guest shares unique insights from their books on leveraging AI to modernize government operations, improve efficiency, and enhance citizen services.

This episode provides practical strategies for local government leaders to harness the power of AI and drive innovation in their communities.

In this episode, we explore California's ever-evolving Utility User Tax (UUT) landscape. Experts Amy Jenkins, President of Precision Advocacy, Keith DeMartini, Finance Director of Santa Barbara, and Ben Fay, Senior Partner at JarvisFay, discuss legislative updates, legal challenges, and strategies to modernize UUT ordinances. With insights on how cities like Santa Barbara are using audits and digital tools to boost revenue, it's essential listening for city leaders and policymakers focused on financial security.

In this episode, we talk with Michael Huling, Clark County, NV, Sr. County Planner and author of “The Need for Strategic Economic Diversification.” Michael explains why cities should diversify their economies to protect against downturns, comparing it to diversifying investments. We look at past examples of economic monocultures, like the Rust Belt, and highlight cities like Las Vegas and Pittsburgh that successfully turned their economies around.

This week on our podcast, we delve into the evolving landscape of short-term rentals (STRs). We'll discuss the challenges and opportunities these changes present for community leaders, offering strategies and tools for effective STR regulation to ensure a balance between economic benefits and community wellbeing. Join us for expert insights tailored for investors, property owners, and local stakeholders looking to navigate the complexities of STR policies.

In this episode, we explore how Generative AI and ChatGPT can revolutionize local government functions, featuring insights and real-world examples. Our special guests, Vidhu Shekhar, Microsoft Interim SLG Business Strategy Leader, and Micah Gaudet, Deputy City Manager of Maricopa, AZ, join us for an engaging discussion and live demonstration. We delve into key topics, including the automation of document generation for efficiency and personalization, leveraging AI for data analysis and visualization, providing step-by-step guidance on grant applications with ChatGPT, and examining various applications of Generative AI, including Virtual Emergency Operations Centers and Staffing Models.

In today’s episode, we explored the evolving landscape of modern governance and its relationship with technology. We addressed the unique challenges faced by Jury Administrators in the digital age, examined New Mexico's innovative vision for its jury system, and explored cutting-edge technological innovations that are reshaping jury management.

Our guest, Adrianna Harris, the New Mexico Statewide Jury Program Manager from the New Mexico State Court, discussed the numerous benefits these advancements bring to both the courts and the public while highlighting valuable lessons from New Mexico's experience in adapting to this tech-powered transformation.

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence in state and local government operations and services. Our guest, Vidhu Shekhar, a seasoned executive in technology and strategy with a focus on public sector digital transformation, shares insights from his book, "Generative Artificial Intelligence Use Cases in State & Local Governments."

Tune in as we discuss how AI is reshaping state and local government. Gain groundbreaking insights, understand the challenges, and discover the boundless opportunities AI brings to the public sector.

Looking to modernize your government leadership and better connect with your community? In this episode, we explore the world of podcasts for local governments with special guest Ramiro Adeva, Assistant City Manager for Agoura Hills, CA. Ramiro shares how his lively podcast series has captured the attention and hearts of his community, and provides tips and tricks for local governments looking to create their own successful podcast. Don't miss out on this must-have communication tool for state and local governments!

In this episode host Brennan Middleton speaks with Tim Casey, a veteran City Manager and author of the book “The Mayor Married Who?, A look at the lighter side of a 40 year career in City Management." Tim shares his experiences and insights on local government, offers strategic advice for those aspiring to become City Managers.

The discussion covers a range of topics including Tim's motivation for writing the book, his experiences as an intern in Manhattan Beach, and his advice for aspiring City Managers. Tim also touches on the ICMA's Range Rider program and the common problems cities have been facing in recent years.

Opinion research is a powerful tool often overlooked outside of elections. Learn how opinion research can help form policy decisions in this short podcast featuring Adam Probolsky, an opinion researcher who has worked with local governments across the nation.