From Julia D. Novak’s “My Mount Rushmore” keynote panel at the 2025 ICMA Annual Conference come timeless insights that are essential for today’s local government leaders.

In the opening keynote address of the 2025 ICMA Annual Conference, Arthur Brooks offers a roadmap to help local government heal a divided nation.

ICMA Annual Conference keynote speaker, Arthur C. Brooks reveals how local government leaders can move from incivility and polarization to progress.

Share your expertise with local government leaders! Submit a session proposal by November 7.

Compare the relevance of lessons learned in Williamsburg in the 1770s with what is happening in our communities today.

With the erosion of trust in local government — and the nasty side effects that brings with it — it’s incumbent upon us to be intentional with our efforts in reversing the trend.

The local government management profession is on the front lines of protecting the values of democracy every day, and for over 100 years, ICMA’s members have answered this call.

The effects are real and they’re dangerous—to employee well-being, to public trust, and to the long-term health of our communities.

In a deeply polarized country, it’s up to local government to help us shift from a mindset of cynicism and division to one of collaboration and openness.