Last week, local leaders from across the country came together for a 90-minute virtual conversation about the words we use, the values we hold, and the challenges we face. Mayors, council members, and civic officials shared candid insights—not just about policy, but about how everyday language now feels risky, and how they stay grounded in community service. Here’s what they shared.

Empathy isn’t just a personal trait—it can be a process. When communities create space for difficult conversations, real change is possible.

We often think of leadership as taking charge, making decisions, and standing firm. But Kris Amundson—former Virginia State Legislator and former Fairfax County School Board Member and Chair—reminds us of something essential: leadership is about listening, adapting, and adding voices to the conversation.

Local leaders nationwide are navigating economic stress, political shifts, and growing community division. In Social Prosperity Partners’ most recent Local Leadership Chat, mayors, council members, school board representatives, and other civic leaders shared challenges and strategies for strengthening governance and public trust.

Mayor Skip Henderson of Columbus, Georgia, shares how restoring the Chattahoochee River didn’t just revitalize a natural resource—it sparked a lasting cycle of growth, investment, and civic pride.

Collaboration isn’t easy, especially when communities have different priorities and perspectives. Yet in Northern Virginia, 13 independent municipalities have found a way to work together toward shared goals—without mandates or central authority.

When governing boards face complex challenges, it’s common to seek outside expertise. The go-to solution is often to hire a consultant—someone to analyze the situation and deliver recommendations. While consultants can provide valuable insights, the real question is: Is a consultant what your community needs right now?

I had the pleasure of hosting our latest Local Leadership Chat, where local leaders from across the country gathered on Zoom to discuss the challenges and opportunities of civic communication in a rapidly evolving media environment. The conversation was lively, insightful, and filled with practical advice for navigating the complexities of public engagement.

Former Mayor Ginny Dickey of Fountain Hills, Arizona, gives an unflinching account of how local politics took a dark turn. Having lost her 2024 reelection bid, Mayor Dickey reflects on the rise of vicious, unprincipled attacks—tactics that had nothing to do with policy or leadership and everything to do with fueling anger and spreading division.

It’s common to hear a mayor speak about high ideals or how their town bridges its history with its future. But Mayor Vincent is anything but common. When he talks about “decency, fortitude, and community” in Farmville, you quickly discover the profound influence of his father, a fallen U.S. Army officer. His father’s service and sacrifice embody the power of leading not with force, but with quiet strength and unwavering dedication to others—a painful yet timeless lesson in leadership from which we can all learn.

In every community, leadership is about more than making decisions—it’s about bringing people together to address complex challenges and discover shared opportunities. True leadership doesn’t shy away from conflict or disagreement; it embraces them as essential parts of growth and progress. But turning those moments into something productive takes more than good intentions. It requires thoughtful processes, clear communication, and the courage to have difficult conversations.

Vivian Leyva, Public Information Officer for Riley County, Kansas, reflects on the pros and cons of social media and how it reaffirms the critical importance of human connection in local government leadership and communication.

Mary Hines and Jay Fisette, co-directors of the Regional Elected Leaders Initiative (RELI) at George Mason University, draw on their decades of leadership experience to share powerful insights on breaking barriers and building trust.

Derek Ferland, County Manager of Sullivan County, New Hampshire, shares his journey from military service to municipal leadership. He shares how “mission, people, and process” are at the heart of his approach.