Over the next two and a half years, these communities will receive a significant infusion of resources to bolster local leadership and advance programs and priorities that will enable all residents in their community to climb the economic ladder. Under the umbrella of economic mobility, local governments expect to tackle a variety of issues that are top priority in their communities, from housing affordability and workforce development to access to quality education and childcare, all of which enable residents to thrive. 

Local efforts will be championed by their to-be-hired special assistants: senior-level leaders dedicated full time to coordinating EMO activities across departments and external partners. This talent investment program is an important milestone toward building capacity and scaling up this work across the country. It is made possible through support from the Gates Foundation.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to move the needle on local priorities over the next two plus years,” said ICMA CEO/Executive Director Julia D. Novak. “We look forward to seeing how local governments across the country use these funds to develop innovative solutions that address significant issues in their communities.”

In the coming months, each host community will lead its own process to recruit and hire a special assistant. ICMA will share information about these opportunities and how to apply as specific postings are finalized. In the meantime, interested individuals are encouraged to fill out a general interest form.