PCC Local Time

How many of us feel overwhelmed by the amount of information coming at us about AI today? One of my best thought partners on the topic of AI is Joe Mench, Assistant Manager at Muhlenberg Township in Berks County Pennsylvania. He is truly boots on the ground at the local government level and this conversation is a starting point for thinking about AI today in our organizations.We delve into the practical applications of AI for local governments, discussing both the opportunities and challenges. Joe Mench shares his insights on how AI can enhance municipal operations, from improving customer service to predictive analytics for public safety. The conversation highlights the importance of ethical use, transparency, and developing internal policies to guide AI's responsible implementation. The episode also touches on the future of AI in areas such as public works and organizational learning, stressing the need for clear guidelines and cautious optimism. It’s a must-listen for local government leaders interested in leveraging AI to improve services while being mindful of ethical considerations and community trust.Sign up for the PCC Local Time Newsletter HERE Connect with Joe Mench on LinkedInMuhlenberg Township, Berks County, PennsylvaniaTIMESTAMPS[00:00:00] Introduction to AI Tools and OptimismJoe encourages trying out AI tools before forming an opinion. He emphasizes that AI is a powerful tool that’s not as intimidating or omnipotent as some perceive.[00:09:53] Practical Use Cases of AI in Local GovernmentDiscussion on AI applications such as customer service improvements, predictive analytics for infrastructure, and operational efficiencies (e.g., waste management, public safety).[00:13:07] AI in Law Enforcement for Body Cam AnalysisThe use of AI to review body cam footage for good policing practices, improving morale by highlighting positive behavior, and potentially identifying areas for officer development.[00:16:21] AI as a Tool for Organizational LearningAI's potential to build internal knowledge libraries for custom learning and professional development within local governments.[00:18:38] The Concept of AI as an Executive AssistantHow AI can act like an executive assistant, offering data-driven suggestions to facilitate decision-making, while still requiring human validation for accuracy.[00:20:07] Building AI Chatbots for Resident InteractionDevelopment of AI chatbots to provide better and more responsive service to residents, moving beyond keyword recognition to more natural, interactive conversations.[00:28:38] Vendor Accountability and Policy DevelopmentKey considerations when implementing AI solutions, such as asking vendors critical questions about data security and transparency, as well as forming responsible AI policies.[00:39:00] Addressing Ethical Considerations and TransparencyConversations about ethical implications, such as ensuring fairness, addressing the digital divide, and maintaining transparency with citizens on data usage.[00:46:39] AI’s Role in Public Works and InfrastructureAI applications in monitoring and planning infrastructure needs (e.g., road maintenance, leaf collection), optimizing operational efficiency in public works.

Have you ever thought about capturing your ideas in a book, a TED Talk, or maybe a blog? Perhaps you have a story to tell, expertise to share, or ideas that pile up but never quite come together in a cohesive way. If this sounds like you, stay tuned.In this episode, Emily Crookston explains why even experienced writers might hire a ghostwriter. She shares how ghostwriting is not just about putting words on paper; it’s about collaboration, shaping ideas, and helping clients clearly communicate their expertise. Whether you’re thinking about writing a book, creating LinkedIn content, or simply sharing your knowledge in any format, this episode will show you how a ghostwriter can bring your ideas to life and make the process less overwhelming.Sign up for the PCC Local Time Newsletter HERE BIOEmily Crookston is a best-selling business book ghostwriter, author, and developmental editor. She specializes in helping entrepreneurs and consultants build their businesses by writing a book that sells. As the Owner of The Pocket PhD, she and her team create and execute pre-launch strategies for self-published business book authors to align your thought leadership content, increase your sphere of influence, and prime your audience for the book. Her first book, Unwritten: The Thought Leader’s Guide to Not Overthinking Your Business Book, launches on October 1, 2024.Emily is also a former philosophy professor, speaker, and podcast guest. When she’s not writing intensely, she’s most likely practicing yoga intensely. She lives for desserts topped with *real* whipped cream.Find Emily on LinkedIN Check out Emily's book, UNWRITTENTIMESTAMPS[00:03:33] Why Hire a Ghostwriter?[00:04:10] The Role of a Ghostwriter in Shaping Ideas[00:06:00] Collaborative Writing and Developmental Editing[00:06:47] The Importance of Audience and Translation of Expertise[00:07:14] The Process of Ghostwriting[00:09:21] Publishing Options and Self-Publishing[00:18:33] The Rising Role of Books in Professional Branding[00:19:48] Writing for Different Formats[00:27:42] Why Some People Struggle with Writing[00:29:19] Final Tips on the Writing Process

In this episode, we explore the multi-faceted career of Crandall Jones, a seasoned City Manager. His is not a predictable story, but one with many twists and turns. Crandall opens up about the challenges that impacted his big decisions. Crandall is currently the Chief Administrative Officer at Upper Darby Township in Delaware County Pennsylvania. He previously served as CAO in Norristown, Pennsylvania in Montgomery County. In addition to serving as an adjunct at Villanova University, he serves on the Board of the APPM.This episode is particularly valuable for those considering a career in city management or a new opportunity in the field of local government.The APMM series highlights the many layers and aspects of local government work. Be sure to check out the links to APMM and visit us at the upcoming ICMA conference in Pittsburgh!SHOW NOTESFollow Crandall Jones 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 TIMESTAMPS[00:00:00] Introduction and Crandall’s BackgroundNancy introduces Crandall and the focus of the episode on his career in city management.[00:01:51] The Unique Arc of a City Management CareerCrandall discusses how each city management career is unique and shaped by personal choices and challenges.[00:04:00] Early Inspiration in Political ScienceCrandall shares how a high school political science course sparked his interest in local government.[00:07:01] Lessons from Savannah: The Importance of PlanningCrandall reflects on his time in Savannah, where he learned the value of big-picture thinking and community engagement.[00:13:15] Transition to City ManagementCrandall talks about his move from economic development to city management and the challenges he faced.[00:19:38] The Role of MentorshipCrandall emphasizes the importance of mentorship in his career and how it helped shape his path in city management.[00:26:10] Navigating Race-related IssuesCrandall discusses his experiences managing in diverse communities and the challenges of navigating race-related issues.[00:34:09] The Importance of Building Strong TeamsCrandall shares insights on the importance of team building and leadership in local government.[00:43:12] Strategic Planning and Community HealthDiscussion on the need for strategic planning in addressing long-term community health and infrastructure issues.[00:52:03] Making Career TransitionsCrandall reflects on his decision to transition to new opportunities and the factors that influence such...

In this episode of the PCC Local Time Podcast, we explore the evolving landscape of fire services with Rick Kane, the Manager of Manheim Township and a former Fire Chief. Rick offers unique insights into the critical transition from volunteer to career fire departments, focusing on the importance of strategic planning, leadership, and effective communication. Many municipal managers will tell you this is one of the greatest challenges facing local government today. Rick gives us an excellent understanding of why that is and how municipalities can respond.This episode has tons of takeaways for fire service professionals, municipal managers, elected officials, and people like you and me who depend on fire services!SHOWNOTES:Manheim Township, Lancaster County, PennsylvaniaFollow APMM on LinkedInMORE INFORMATION ABOUT APMMSign up for the PCC Local Time Newsletter HERE TIMESTAMPS:[00:00:00] Introduction and OverviewIntroduction to the episode and Rick Kane’s background.[00:01:33] Historical Context of Volunteer Fire ServicesRick discusses the historical context of volunteer fire services and their deep-rooted independence.[00:04:00] Transition from Volunteer to Career Fire ServiceChallenges and considerations when transitioning from a volunteer to a career fire service.[00:09:40] Importance of Communication Between Municipal Managers and Fire ChiefsRick emphasizes the need for open communication between municipal managers and fire chiefs.[00:15:20] Financial Implications of Fire Service TransitionsDiscussion on the financial costs associated with transitioning to a career fire service and maintaining it.[00:21:00] Establishing Benchmarks and StandardsThe role of benchmarks and standards in fire services, including NFPA standards and ISO ratings.[00:26:10] The Strategic Planning ProcessRick shares insights on the strategic planning process for merging volunteer departments into a municipal fire service.[00:31:00] The Role of Leadership in Fire ServicesHow leadership plays a critical role in managing the transition and maintaining service quality.[00:37:10] The Future of Fire ServicesRick discusses the future challenges and opportunities in fire services.[00:46:50] Moving from Fire Chief to Municipal ManagerRick reflects on his transition from fire chief to municipal manager and the lessons learned.