October 23, 2024

Mayor Joe LaRussa, Farmington, MI


Otis White on your Day 1 priorities  on the Community Catalyst Podcast.
Mayor Joe LaRussa is on the Community Catalysts podcast with Matt Lehrman.

Mayor Joe LaRussa

 Farmington, Michigan

“Engineering a Stronger Community” 


In this week’s episode of the Community Catalyst podcast, I´m excited to share the compelling journey of Mayor Joe LaRussa from Farmington, Michigan. With an engineering background, Mayor LaRussa tackles local challenges with an eye toward efficiency and clear strategic outcomes.


His journey to leadership started as a concerned Dad who rallied his neighbors to breathe new life into a neglected park, turning it into a vibrant family hub for everyone to enjoy. Now he’s focused on initiatives for sustainable growth and modern infrastructure that aim to help Farmington thrive for years to come. His “tough but fair” leadership style, along with his dedication to community engagement, creative thinking, and persistence, are reshaping the city.


Politics, the adage goes, is the art of the possible.  But Mayor LaRussa shows that building a stronger, more connected community can also be about intention, design, and diligence.




Listen on Apple, Spotify, and all podcast platforms.


To share a story from your own leadership journey, APPLY HERE to become a guest.

LISTEN HERE


ABOUT THE PODCAST:  Local leaders everywhere are innovating ways to engage their communities, foster collaboration, and achieve significant goals. “Community Catalysts” brings you the inside story of mayors, council members, city managers, nonprofit CEOs, and other changemakers from a variety of backgrounds. Produced by Social Prosperity Partners and hosted by Matt Lehrman, the podcast offers a weekly dose of inspiration and practical advice for leaders committed to inclusive decision-making and excellence in governance.


Connect with Matt:


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