Reimagining Local Government: Insights from Scholarship Recipient, Jamie Achterberg, MPA, on the ICMA LGR Conference
From left to right: Tanya Spiegel, Alex Fung, Jamie Achterberg, Elisa Cox, Donesia Gause, Pat Martel, Alejandro Castillo
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to attend the ICMA Local Government Reimagined Conference in Denver as a scholarship recipient. The experience provided valuable insights, inspiring connections, and innovative strategies. Denver’s vibrant setting offered the perfect backdrop for collaboration and fresh thinking.
Connection & Development
The conference reinforced the power of collaboration in driving innovation and problem-solving in local government. Engaging with like-minded professionals highlighted how shared ideas and partnerships lead to lasting change. Meaningful discussions on governance and innovation underscored that progress in the public sector doesn’t happen in isolation – it thrives on collective learning and cooperation.
Reimagining Efficiency & the Employee Experience
Learning about technology and best practices from other agencies revealed new ways to improve service delivery and streamline operations. The session “Elevating the Employee Experience” reinforced the importance of workplace culture, engagement, and well-being, reaffirming that a motivated workforce leads to stronger public service outcomes. Another insightful session, “Embracing GIS and AI to Reshape Economic Development in Local Government”, demonstrated how artificial intelligence can improve efficiency and decision-making. Seeing real-world AI applications in municipal operations challenged me to rethink how technology can optimize workflows and enhance service delivery.
Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone
Beyond the sessions, this conference pushed me outside my comfort zone. As an introvert newly appointed to a managerial role, stepping into a space filled with passionate local government professionals and executives encouraged me to engage in discussions and expand my network. This experience helped me embrace a more extroverted approach – actively networking, participating in discussions, and broadening my perspective. These interactions reinforced that collaboration is key to innovation in public service.
Final Thoughts
I left Denver energized and excited to apply these new insights within the City of Bakersfield. From enhancing employee engagement to leveraging AI and strengthening mentorship opportunities, the lessons learned here will help shape a more effective and forward-thinking local government.
Thank you to ICMA and the scholarship committee for this opportunity. I look forward to implementing these ideas and continuing to grow as a public service professional.