PCC Local Time

• APMM SERIES: Navigating the Status of the Profession: Insights from Tom Fountaine, David Kratzer Jr and George Needles

  In this episode of our APMM series, we dive into the evolving world of local government leadership. I'm thrilled to be joined by three distinguished guests: Tom Fountaine, George Needles, and Dave Kratzer. Together, they bring decades of experience and deep insight into the challenges and opportunities shaping municipal management today.In our conversation, we cover:• The growing complexity of public expectations and the rise of instant communication in the digital age.• Navigating governance challenges, from polarization to the need for greater professionalization in local government.• The competition for talent and what it means for the future of the profession.• And finally the need to Advocate for statutory protections and employment agreements to ensure stability and address leadership volatility.Whether you’re a municipal manager, elected official, or someone curious about the dynamics of local governance, this episode offers valuable insights on leadership, adaptability, and the profession’s future.APMM AND GUEST INFOAPMM Website (Upcoming Executive Conference Info)APMM LinkedIN**Tom FountaineDavid Kratzer JrGeorge NeedlesSHOW NOTESDuration of Employment Agreements (Starting: [00:00:00])"The limitation in the statute that doesn't allow local municipalities to make their own decisions about that issue is not a good statute...those decisions should be made by local governing bodies." - TomIncreased Interaction with Elected Officials (Starting: [00:03:00])"I probably spend more time today working directly with elected officials, communicating with elected officials, attending meetings with elected officials...than I did when I started in this career." - TomImpact of Polarization and Social Media (Starting: [00:04:00])"The polarization of the world has really made this work much different than it used to be 20 or 30 years ago." - TomEvolving Public Expectations (Starting: [00:07:00])"People consume communication so many different ways now that there is an expectation that we can deliver in their way that they can consume and we can deliver that very quickly." - GeorgeFaster Information Flow (Starting: [00:09:00])"With quicker access to information...it puts more importance on making sure that those charged with governance, the elected officials, are aware of that information before it becomes generally available." - DaveThe Competition for Talent (Starting: [00:12:00])"Competition for talent...is not only a function of competition within the sector but also other opportunities that may present for those that have functioned well in this position." - DaveStandardization Challenges in Pennsylvania Governance (Starting: [00:16:00])"We operate under codes, right? But we're not highly standardized...No two [local governments] are similar." - GeorgeGovernance Fragmentation and Managerial...

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• Adaptive Thinking and Leadership in Policing with Lou Hayes Jr. and Gary Wong

  Today we explore how adaptive thinking, emotional intelligence, and innovative frameworks like the OODA loop and Cynefin transform problem-solving are impacting policing. Lou Hayes Jr., a detective sergeant, and complexity facilitator Gary Wong share insights on navigating uncertainty, fostering trust, and rethinking traditional approaches to leadership. Perfect for leaders, law enforcement professionals, and anyone tackling complex challenges.Nancy Hess, Host of PCC Local TimeGUEST INFOLou Hayes , Jr. (LinkedIn)The Illinois Model Gary Wong (LinkedIn) Welcome to My BrainIDEAS/ RESOURCES MENTIONS IN SHOW:John Boyds OODA Loop Dr. Gary Klein's work on recognition, prime decision makingA Leader’s Framework for Decisionmaking (HBR Article co-authored by Dave Snowden)KEY IDEAS/QUOTES[00:09:00] Adaptive Thinking in PolicingLou emphasizes the need for adaptive thinking in policing, focusing on reframing problems, understanding complex dynamics, and utilizing frameworks like the OODA loop to navigate evolving situations.Quotes:Lou: "In policing, you rarely encounter situations that fit into neat, predefined boxes. You need tools and frameworks that adapt in real-time to the chaos around you."Gary: "The transition from seeing things as 'either-or' to 'both-and' opens up creative, novel solutions that weren't initially apparent."[00:18:00]The Role of Storytelling and Emotional IntelligenceStorytelling and emotional intelligence are highlighted as critical tools for decision-making, team building, and understanding diverse perspectives in policing.Quotes:Lou: "Storytelling builds a bank of experiences we can draw from, helping us navigate new and complex situations with confidence."Gary: "Emotional intelligence isn't just about managing emotions but also about fostering environments where diverse perspectives come together effectively."[00:33:00]The Intersection of Policy and ComplexityLou and Gary discuss the limitations of rigid, policy-driven approaches in addressing complex policing scenarios. They advocate for more flexible policies that acknowledge and adapt to complexity.Quotes:Lou: "Policies need to balance structure with flexibility, allowing officers to navigate both ordered and chaotic situations effectively."Gary: "The challenge isn't micromanagement; it's misapplied micromanagement in contexts where creativity and flexibility are required."

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• Coaxing Out Potential: Coaching Teams and Leaders with Yaron Prywes

  In this episode, I sit down with Yaron Prywes, a coaching psychologist, executive coach, and educator whose career has been dedicated to helping leaders and teams reach their full potential. We explore the transformative power of coaching—how it builds trust, unlocks self-awareness, and helps leaders navigate challenges in both public and private sectors. From resolving conflicts to fostering accountability, Yaron shares practical tools and stories that illustrate the impact of coaching. Whether you're a leader or a team member, this conversation offers valuable insights into how coaching can create meaningful change.BIOYaron Prywes is a coaching psychologist, executive coach, and educator known for his innovative, visual approach to coaching. His work on visual action plans has been published in The Philosophy of Coaching: An International Journal, and he is currently authoring The Visual Coaching Handbook, which features a collection of creative, field-tested techniques. Yaron has led research on the outcomes of coaching and leadership development initiatives and previously taught Executive Coaching at Columbia University, where he supervised new coaches as they worked with live clients for the first time.CONNECTLINKEDINSHOWNOTES[00:00:00] Introduction and BackgroundNancy introduces Yaron, sharing the story of how they met and his dedication to coaching.[00:03:21] Yaron’s First Experience with CoachingYaron recounts his first encounter with a career coach and how it set him on his path to coaching.[00:04:53] Sports Coaching and Workplace CoachingThe parallels between sports coaching and executive coaching, focusing on performance adjustments.[00:06:50] Whole-Person CoachingYaron explains the importance of seeing clients as whole individuals and how personal and professional challenges intersect.[00:08:37] Common Scenarios for Coaching in OrganizationsTypical contexts in which coaching is introduced, particularly in public sector organizations.[00:09:24] Case Study: Hard-Charging LeaderA story about coaching a CFO with black-and-white thinking and the importance of diplomacy.[00:12:40] Team Workshops Using the NBI ToolYaron describes the Neethling Brain Instrument (NBI) and how it helps teams understand communication styles.[00:17:54] 360-Degree Feedback for LeadersThe value of 360 feedback in developing leaders and creating self-awareness.[00:22:40] Building Agency and Accountability in TeamsCoaching to empower teams to take ownership of challenges and build accountability.[00:29:33] Dealing with Workplace ConflictA case study on resolving conflict in a utilities department through coaching and team-building exercises.[00:32:55] Transformative Conversations and TrustHow sharing personal highs and lows can transform team dynamics and build trust.[00:36:44] Leadership’s Role in Creating Safe SpacesThe importance of leaders creating safe environments to surface and address issues before they escalate.[00:39:32] The Structure of a Coaching EngagementYaron outlines the typical phases of coaching: discovery, planning, and execution.[00:42:19] Coaching as a Hero’s...

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• APMM Series: The Life and Times of Larry Comunale

  Larry Comunale is a seasoned municipal manager whose career has spanned decades of challenges, growth, and impact. In this episode, Larry reflects on his journey from rigid labor negotiations to fostering trust-based relationships and community cohesion. He shares invaluable insights into navigating relationships with elected officials, building transparent budgeting processes, and addressing the evolving needs of diverse communities. From his practical strategies for productive conversations to his reflections on the role of community in public health, Larry's stories are both inspiring and thought-provoking. Join us as we explore the enduring lessons of leadership in local government through Larry’s eyes.Learn more about Larry's career from the Villanova University website HERE [Excerpt below]Larry Comunale completed a 42-year career in municipal management in 2016 when he retired as the Township Manager of Lower Gwynedd Township in April of 2016. During his career, he was the manager in three municipalities: East Stroudsburg Borough; Newtown Township (Delaware County); and Lower Gwynedd Township. Larry has been an Adjunct Faculty member in Villanova’s MPA Program since 2004 and is also an Adjunct Faculty member at Delaware Valley University in the Master of Public Policy (MPP) Program. He has served as Executive Director of the Montgomery County Association of Township Officials (MCATO). Larry is a past President of the Pennsylvania Municipal Managers Association and received the President’s Leadership Award from the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS) in 2006. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a Master’s of Public Administration degree from Penn State University.MORE INFORMATION ABOUT APMMConnect with Association for Pennsylvania Municpal Management on LinkedInSign up for the PCC Local Time Newsletter HERE EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS[00:00:00] Introduction to Larry Comunale and His CareerOverview of Larry's career, his leadership roles, and his approach to municipal management.[00:01:10] Early Career Challenges in Municipal ManagementLarry discusses transitioning from an engineer-focused management style to a generalist approach that emphasized human relations and labor relations.[00:05:00] Evolving Perspectives on Labor RelationsLarry reflects on his confrontational approach to union negotiations early in his career and how he shifted toward a more conciliatory and trust-based strategy.[00:10:44] Transparency and Accessibility in BudgetingLarry emphasizes the importance of creating understandable budgets and using them as tools for community engagement.[00:15:30] Navigating Relationships with Elected OfficialsInsights on maintaining open communication while setting boundaries between board members and municipal staff.[00:22:00] Recruitment and Retention Challenges in Local GovernmentDiscussion on the shrinking pool of qualified candidates and the complexities of relocating for municipal roles.[00:30:00] Community Cohesion and the Manager’s...

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• APMM SERIES: As the Board Turns: Lessons in Board Transitions and Leadership with Scott Hutt and Sara Gibson

  Board transitions can bring about hand wringing or a promise of welcome change, they may feel like a small shift or a seismic one. But at root, there are fundamental lessons to be learned if you, as the executive leader or manager, are going through one for the first time.On today's show, we welcome Sara Gibson, Borough Manager at Camp Hill Borough, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and Scott Hutt, Assistant Manager of Hatfield Township in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. Though the size and structure of the governments they manage differ, they both bring a wealth of knowledge about the core elements of effective onboarding. Today we talk about the importance of patience and open communication, a structured onboarding process that also encourages mentorship and an ongoing need to balance change while preserving the core values of local government.We hope you enjoy!SHOW NOTESFollow Sara Gibson on LinkedInSara Gibson has served as Manager of Camp Hill Borough for the past three years, driving progress on strategic initiatives like pedestrian connectivity, zoning updates, sewage and stormwater planning, and downtown development. Under her leadership, the Borough adopted a Climate Action Plan in 2023 through the DEP Local Climate Action program. Sara has championed environmental efforts, including the innovative StormFest public outreach event and the establishment of a Sustainability Committee. Camp Hill also participates in Bee City USA, Tree City USA, Bird Town Pennsylvania, and SolSmart programs, with Sara and her team securing grants and technical assistance to bolster these initiatives.Follow Scott Hutt on LinkedInFollow APMM on LinkedInMORE INFORMATION ABOUT APMMSign up for the PCC Local Time Newsletter to receive updates about the community and this podcast HERE EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS[00:01:10] Importance of Board Transitions in Shaping Organizational LifeSara reflects on her first experiences with board transitions and the challenges of being a professional manager.[00:05:07] Onboarding New Board MembersScott shares his first experience with onboarding and the importance of structured, effective processes.[00:06:21] Structuring the Onboarding ProcessDetailed explanation of onboarding approaches, including educational seminars with consultants and department heads.[00:07:45] Building Personal Connections with Board MembersSara emphasizes the significance of developing personal connections and understanding board members' backgrounds.[00:10:44] Quality Interactions Between Board Members and StaffDiscussion on fostering trust and ensuring productive interactions through community events and informal gatherings.[00:12:45] Setting Boundaries and Roles for Effective GovernanceScott elaborates on defining roles and staying in lanes for efficient operations and collaboration.[00:17:30] Community Events and Relationship BuildingSara and Scott discuss the role of community events in creating stronger bonds among board members, staff, and the public.[00:23:00] Navigating Difficult Transitions and ConflictsNancy and Scott explore managing transitions

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