We develop leaders, organizations, and partnerships with clients who are working toward a more just world.

Good morning,

This month, our team kicked off engagement for the Metropolitan Council’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Public Charging Needs Analysis. We’re connecting with carshare providers, housing partners, and neighborhood associations to learn how renters and other people without home-based EV chargers experience the charging network, to identify where public chargers are most needed.

Already, a clear theme is emerging: people want public systems that are accessible, efficient, and adapted to community context. We are glad to be a small part of the effort to do this with the EV charging network.

Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday,

Allison

What We’re Reading

Here’s a roundup of new research and insights on government and public service.

Advancing Equity in Capital Investment Decision-Making

• The Minnesota Department of Transportation recently published a new research study conducted by the University of Minnesota on best practices to incorporate equity in transportation investment decision-making.

We Analyzed 5,718 Local Government Strategic Plans; Here’s What We Found

• This Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL) blog post highlights findings from an analysis of 5,718 local government strategic, including: 1) When governments track more metrics, they tend to take on fewer projects; 2) The more metrics governments track, the less likely they are to meet goals; 3) Governments with simpler plans or fewer elements tend to be more successful at meeting their goals.

Undergraduate Attitudes toward Careers in Public Service

• MissionSquare Research Institute released a study surveying undergraduate students about public sector careers. Students recognized benefits such as work–life balance and meaningful work, but also raised concerns about working in a bureaucracy and the current political environment.

Opportunities to Lead + Learn

The Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL) Board of Directors is seeking to fill an open seat through June 2027. This is a great opportunity for current members looking to deepen their involvement in a national community of local government changemakers. Apply online by December 10.

Nominations are open for the annual WTS Minnesota Recognition awards. These awards recognize outstanding individuals, projects, and employers in Minnesota’s transportation industry. Submit nominations online by December 21.

Jobs for Herocrats

Minnesota Management and Budget is hiring a Director of Workforce Strategy to oversee recruitment and career development for employees in the executive branch of state government. Apply online by December 12.

Washington County in Oregon is hiring a Housing and Community Development Specialist who will administer the HOME Investment Partnership Program, which funds affordable housing developments. Apply online by December 14.

Give a Herocrat the Spotlight

Know a state or local government employee who’s building relationships and making an impact in their community? Nominate them to be highlighted on our website, newsletter, and social media!

Angie DeLille, Director of Tribal and Urban Indian Relations at the Minnesota Department of Human Services, is working to broaden how the state engages both Tribal Nations and Native people living in urban areas. She’s also helping connect government systems with Native healing practices so DHS can better serve Native communities across Minnesota. Read her full story below!