January 24, 2023

Make People Happy vs. Make Good Public Policy

What do you say to a Mayor who says,"It's not my job to make people happy..."

While facilitating the breakout session of a municipal league conference recently, a Mayor rose to challenge her peers. She said, “It’s not my job to make people happy. It’s my job to make good public policy.”


I wish someone had recorded the ensuing conversation because it’s rare to hear elected officials speak so candidly about their various approaches to the essential accountability of their positions.


So, what would YOU have contributed to that conversation? Do you see making people happy and making good public policy as being mutually exclusive objectives? How might you advise others to find balance between those role?


Let’s have that dialogue together!


I’m hosting a free and friendly chat via Zoom next Monday January 30 (at 2pm EDT/11am PST) and YOU are invited to join a nationwide gathering of:

  • Elected leaders
  • Appointed leaders
  • Municipal staff (at every level)
  • and anyone else who is interested - to join us.


Let’s inspire each other to think more deeply about this important question.


Space is limited to 40 participants. [Event has passed].


I look forward to your participation.


Wayne Handley, Interim City Manager of Buena Vista, Virginia.

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